Boliviana de Aviación (BoA)

Boliviana de Aviación is Bolivia’s state-owned national airline, linking La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba with smaller cities and with South America, Miami and Madrid. It is the easiest way to cover Bolivia’s long distances. This guide covers power bank rules, check-in, altitude in La Paz and how it compares with LATAM and Copa.

Founded in 2007, it started flying in 2009 and is now Bolivia’s largest airline. It flies Boeing 737s, a Boeing 767 on long-haul routes and CRJ-200 regional jets.

Power Bank Rules on Boliviana de Aviación

New international (ICAO) rules apply from 27 March 2026:

• Each passenger can carry up to two power banks, in cabin baggage only, never in checked bags.
• Power banks cannot be charged on board, and you cannot use them to charge phones or other devices during the flight.
• Up to 100 Wh needs no approval; 100–160 Wh needs approval from the airline. Keep them within reach, not in the overhead bin.

Check-In in Bolivia

Online check-in is available before departure. Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights at Santa Cruz.

Families and Special Assistance

Infants under two travel on an adult’s lap, and pushchairs and car seats can usually be checked in free. Request wheelchairs and other special assistance at least 48 hours before the flight.

Flying to La Paz and the Altiplano

La Paz El Alto is one of the highest airports in the world:

• At about 4,000 m, altitude sickness is common, so take it easy on arrival.
• Uyuni, gateway to the salt flats, is reached on regional flights.
• Pack warm clothes, as nights on the Altiplano are cold.

How to Find Cheap Boliviana de Aviación Flights

• Compare fares to see which includes a checked bag.
• Book early for holidays such as Carnival.
• Fly to Uyuni instead of a long bus trip.
• Check the aircraft: carry-on limits depend on it.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see its fares next to LATAM Airlines, Copa Airlines and others.

Boliviana de Aviación vs LATAM Airlines vs Copa Airlines

Three airlines flying to Bolivia.

See our LATAM Airlines guide and Copa Airlines guide to compare.

Arriving in Santa Cruz

Viru Viru International Airport is about 15 km north of Santa Cruz. Micros (minibuses) and taxis run to the city centre in around 30 minutes.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is Boliviana de Aviación a Good Airline?

Yes, for travel within Bolivia. It has the best domestic network and fair fares, though schedules can change at short notice.

For more options, see our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against Turismocity on baggage and Aviacionline on the Santiago route. Rules change, so check the official website before you travel.