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SATENA (Servicio Aereo a Territorios Nacionales) is a Colombian government-owned airline operated by the Colombian Air Force. Founded on April 12, 1962, SATENA was created specifically to provide air connectivity to Colombia's most remote and underserved regions, including the Amazon rainforest, Pacific coast, and areas affected by conflict or lacking road infrastructure.

Unlike commercial airlines focused on profitability, SATENA operates as a social connectivity mission. The airline serves communities that would otherwise be completely isolated, flying to small airstrips and remote towns where no other carrier operates. This includes destinations in Amazonas, Choco, Guaviare, Putumayo, Vaupes, and Arauca, regions that depend entirely on SATENA for air transport.

As of late 2025, SATENA operates 172 domestic routes across 28 Colombian departments, plus one international connection. The airline maintains an average load factor of 85% and achieved 17% passenger growth in 2025, demonstrating strong demand for essential regional connectivity.

Carry-On Allowance

Personal Item (included on all fares):

• Dimensions: 8" x 6" x 4" (20 x 15 x 10 cm)
• Must fit under seat

Cabin Bag (included on all fares):

• Dimensions: 17" x 13" x 8" (43 x 34 x 20 cm)
• Weight limit: 5 kg (11 lbs)
• Note: Weight limits are strictly enforced, especially on smaller turboprop aircraft where weight distribution affects flight safety

Checked Baggage

Standard Allowance:

• 1 bag included in ticket price
• Maximum weight: 15 kg (33 lbs)
• Additional weight available for purchase up to 35 kg total

Route Type	Included	Max Weight	Extra Weight Fee
Domestic	1 bag	15 kg (33 lbs)	~COP 150,000 ($35 USD) for additional weight

Important Notes:

• Weight limits are strictly enforced due to small aircraft size
• Staff may weigh carry-ons at the gate
• Overweight bags may be held for the next flight on smaller routes

Special Items

SATENA serves many eco-tourism destinations. Travelers bringing outdoor and diving equipment should note:

Item	Policy	Notes
Diving equipment	Check with airline	Advance booking recommended
Camping gear	Standard baggage rules	Pack carefully for bush airstrips
Fishing equipment	Permitted	Check local regulations at destination

SATENA operates a single Economy class across its entire fleet. The experience is functional and utilitarian, reflecting the airline's focus on essential connectivity rather than premium service.

Economy Class:

• Seat configuration: 2-2 on ATR aircraft, 2-1 on ERJ-145
• Legroom: Standard for regional turboprops (30-31" pitch)
• Recline: Limited
• No seat selection on most routes

Entertainment:

• No in-flight entertainment system
• No WiFi
• Scenic views over Amazon, Andes, and Pacific coastline are the main attraction

Food & Beverage:

• Complimentary snacks and soft drinks on most flights
• No buy-on-board service
• Bring your own snacks for longer routes

Fleet: As of late 2025, SATENA operates 19 aircraft:

• ATR 72-600 (5 aircraft, 70 seats): Newer routes, larger communities
• ATR 42-500/600 (10 aircraft, 46 seats): Regional backbone
• Embraer ERJ-145 (2 aircraft, 50 seats): Longer routes
• Twin Otter (2 aircraft, ~19 seats): Remote strips, STOL capability

Cabin Experience: "With SATENA, you get something leaner and more utilitarian. But that's not at all a flaw, it's an airline that works with what's essential to take you safely to remote destinations."

Booking:

• Book directly on satena.com for best availability
• Popular routes to eco-tourism destinations (Nuqui, Bahia Solano) book up quickly
• Payment can be made with Colombian credit cards; international cards may have issues
• Consider calling the contact center if online booking fails

Packing:

• Pack light; weight limits are strictly enforced
• Bring essentials in carry-on in case checked bags are delayed
• Rain gear for Pacific coast destinations
• Layers for temperature changes between Bogota and jungle destinations

At the Airport:

• Arrive early at smaller airports
• Airport facilities in remote locations are very basic
• Food and water may not be available, bring your own
• Expect informal boarding processes at bush airstrips

Weather & Delays:

• Mountain fog and jungle rain cause frequent delays
• Build buffer time into travel plans
• Have a backup plan if connecting to international flights
• Afternoon flights more likely to face weather delays

Remote Destinations:

• Some destinations have no hotels; research before booking
• Cash is essential in remote areas; ATMs may not exist
• Cell phone coverage varies significantly
• SATENA may be the only way in or out

Scenic Routes:

• Window seats offer spectacular views
• Flights over the Amazon and Andes are memorable
• Pacific coast approaches are particularly scenic
• Photography enthusiasts should have cameras ready

Why Choose SATENA:

• Only airline serving many Colombian destinations
• Authentic travel experience
• Supporting essential connectivity for remote communities
• Affordable fares compared to charter alternatives
• Gateway to Colombia's most pristine natural areas