Colombian carrier Viva suspends operations and blames regulator

Viva Air has suspended operations and blamed the Colombian transport ministry over delays to a proposed merger with Avianca which Viva said would help it stay in business. “Viva regretfully announces the suspension of its operation, due to the delays in the timely definition of an alliance that would allow its integration with a stronger and larger airline group,” the low-cost carrier said in a statement, in English, which was posted on its website. The came after the regulator, known as Aerocivil and part of the transport ministry, said it had heard of interest from third parties, including LATAM and