{
  "response": {
    "Key": "MDE-SFO",
    "orig": {
      "code": "MDE",
      "type": "airport",
      "city": "Medellín",
      "fullCity": "Medellín, Colombia",
      "airport": "Medellin Jose Maria Cordova"
    },
    "dest": {
      "code": "SFO",
      "type": "airport",
      "city": "San Francisco",
      "fullCity": "San Francisco, California",
      "airport": "San Francisco Intl Airport"
    },
    "faq": {
      "q0": {
        "question": "What is the typical flight duration from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "There are no nonstop flights from Medellín (MDE) to San Francisco (SFO). A typical one-stop connection, often via Miami (MIA), Panama City (PTY), or Bogotá (BOG), takes about 10 to 13 hours total travel time, depending on layover duration. Return flights from SFO to MDE are similar in overall duration, usually 10 to 13 hours."
      },
      "q2": {
        "question": "Are there visa requirements to travel from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "Yes, there are visa requirements for travel from Medellín to San Francisco. If you are a Colombian citizen, you must obtain a U.S. visa (such as a B-2 tourist visa) before travel, unless you hold a passport from a Visa Waiver Program country. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Colombia for tourism for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities should check both U.S. and Colombian entry requirements based on their citizenship."
      },
      "q3": {
        "question": "What are the ground transportation options in San Francisco?",
        "answer": "San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers several ground transportation options. BART rapid rail is the fastest and most-used public transit to downtown San Francisco, with a station in the International Terminal. Ride-share services like Lyft and Uber pick up on Level 5 of the Domestic Garage, while taxis are available at the center islands outside Arrivals. Rental cars are accessible via the AirTrain Blue Line to the consolidated Rental Car Center. Autonomous rides with Waymo are also available for select passengers, picking up at the Rental Car Center.",
        "toolsUsed": [],
        "references": [
          {
            "url": "https://flysfo.com/passengers/ground-transportation",
            "title": "Ground Transportation | San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "https://flysfo.com/themes/custom/blueskies/favicon.ico",
            "time_published": "2026-04-08T21:19:40Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://flysfo.com/de/node/10188",
            "title": "Ground Transportation | San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "https://flysfo.com/themes/custom/blueskies/favicon.ico",
            "time_published": "2026-04-08T21:19:40Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SFO",
            "title": "San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2026-04-27T05:13:36Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_International_Airport",
            "title": "San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-07-18T07:52:09Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.flysfo.com/pt-br",
            "title": "Home Page | San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2026-01-01T00:00:00Z"
          }
        ]
      },
      "q4": {
        "question": "When is the cheapest time to fly from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "The cheapest months to fly from Medellín to San Francisco are May, April, and September, with average fares around $610, $612, and $665. The most expensive months are December, March, and January, where average prices climb to $1,055, $844, and $811 respectively.",
        "methodology": "This 'good deal' estimate shows a representative best price for each departure date across roughly a 12-month window (about 3 months back and 9 months forward). It is built from real flight prices found by Priceline users searching this route, accumulated into a price history for each departure date. Rather than weighting all of that history equally, we apply exponential time decay so recent prices dominate — a price seen yesterday counts almost in full, one from about a month ago roughly a third, and prices from a few months back very little — giving a figure that tracks today's market instead of a stale long-run average. Clear price outliers are removed before any calculation, departure dates with no observations are filled in from nearby dates, and the resulting curve is lightly smoothed so it reads as a clean seasonal trend rather than day-to-day noise. For this route, fares for the requested travel direction were unavailable, so the pattern shown is derived from the reverse direction, which shares the same seasonal demand cycle.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "seasonal_prices"
        ]
      },
      "q5": {
        "question": "How far in advance should I book tickets from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "For flights from Medellín to San Francisco, the optimal booking window is about 14 to 17 weeks before departure, with average fares around $719. Booking around 75 days out can yield the lowest price at $709, while last-minute tickets can cost over $800. For summer and holiday periods, aim for the earlier end of that window or even a bit further out to avoid higher fares.",
        "methodology": "This booking-window guidance is built from the same real flight prices found by Priceline users searching this route, re-grouped by how many days before departure each price was seen (from the departure day out to about 180 days ahead) across the route's price history. At each booking lead time we report the 25th-percentile price — the cheaper end of what travelers were quoted, rather than the rock-bottom minimum (which can be a fluke) or the average (which is pulled up by expensive last-minute fares). The buy-or-wait advice then applies a risk premium that grows as departure approaches, since seat availability shrinks and prices become less predictable; using that adjusted curve we flag windows where waiting is likely to save a meaningful amount (at least $20 or 5%) versus windows where booking now is the better call. Isolated single-day recommendations are filtered out, so the advice only reflects a window that holds for several days in a row. For this route, fares for the requested travel direction were unavailable, so the pattern shown is derived from the reverse direction, which shares the same seasonal demand cycle.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "booking_timing"
        ]
      },
      "q6": {
        "question": "Are overnight (red‑eye) flights available from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "No overnight (red‑eye) flights are scheduled from Medellín (MDE) to San Francisco (SFO) — neither nonstop nor connecting itineraries with a red‑eye long leg were found.",
        "methodology": "Red-eye flights are identified from scheduled local departure and arrival times in our flight-schedule database — built from published airline timetables and official schedule data, including U.S. Department of Transportation records for domestic routes — flagging services that depart late at night and arrive the following morning; for connecting itineraries the red-eye is based on the timing of the overnight long-haul leg.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "redeye_flights"
        ]
      },
      "q8": {
        "question": "If I need a connection, what are common layover cities between Medellín and San Francisco?",
        "answer": "Common layover cities include Miami, Houston, Panama City and Mexico City. Miami offers extensive connections and a single stop, while Houston provides efficient transfers. Panama City and Mexico City serve as key Latin American hubs with visa-free transit for many travelers, keeping total travel time competitive."
      },
      "q9": {
        "question": "How reliable are on‑time departures on this route from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "On-time reliability is moderate, as afternoon departures can encounter delays. Morning flights, particularly those operated by Copa Airlines via Panama City, tend to depart closer to schedule."
      },
      "q10": {
        "question": "Which months have the best weather for traveling to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "September to November offers the warmest, sunniest weather and fewer tourists than summer."
      },
      "q11": {
        "question": "What documents should I bring with me to the airport when flying from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "Bring a passport valid for at least six months beyond your stay, a valid U.S. visa or ESTA authorization, proof of onward or return travel, a payment method for baggage, and any required vaccination certificates."
      },
      "q12": {
        "question": "Which airport should I use in San Francisco?",
        "answer": "San Francisco International is the primary airport, located 13 miles south of downtown with direct BART rail access. Oakland International across the bay offers budget carriers like Southwest and is closer to East Bay destinations. San Jose International serves Silicon Valley and is convenient for South Bay business travelers."
      },
      "q13": {
        "question": "How do I get to Medellin Jose Maria Cordova from the city center?",
        "answer": "From Medellín's city center, the most popular way to reach José María Córdova Airport is by shared shuttle or taxi, since there is no direct train or metro link. Shared shuttles depart regularly from San Diego Mall and take about 45 minutes, while taxis and ride‑share services offer a door‑to‑door trip in roughly the same time at a higher cost. Public buses are available but are slower and less comfortable, and driving yourself is possible though airport parking can be limited.",
        "toolsUsed": [],
        "references": [
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangor_Bus_and_Rail_Centre",
            "title": "Bangor Bus and Rail Centre",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-07-22T00:51:41Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Q72_(New_York_City_bus)",
            "title": "Q72 (New York City bus)",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-07-13T05:45:14Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AeroTrain_(Dulles_International_Airport)",
            "title": "AeroTrain (Dulles International Airport)",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-03-17T21:57:59Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MRT_Line_1_(Dhaka_Metro_Rail)",
            "title": "MRT Line 1 (Dhaka Metro Rail)",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-06-24T20:29:48Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila_Metro_Rail_Transit_System",
            "title": "Manila Metro Rail Transit System",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-05-13T06:25:48Z"
          }
        ]
      },
      "q14": {
        "question": "Are there hotels or sleeping facilities at San Francisco airport?",
        "answer": "San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has a Grand Hyatt hotel directly on airport property, connected to the terminals via the AirTrain and accessible without a shuttle. There are no capsule hotels or sleeping pods inside the terminals, but hourly nap rooms and showers are available in the International Terminal for travelers needing a quick rest. Several nearby hotels, including the San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront and The Westin San Francisco Airport, offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the terminals.",
        "toolsUsed": [],
        "references": [
          {
            "url": "https://www.sleepinginairports.net/guides/san-francisco-airport-guide.htm",
            "title": "San Francisco Airport Guide (SFO) - Sleeping in Airports",
            "favicon": "https://www.sleepinginairports.net/nitropack_static/oBWrHkPujHTPIaVWqdDSDhClXUyrYhhb/assets/images/optimized/rev-b853180/www.sleepinginairports.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cropped-sia-logo-180x180.png",
            "time_published": "2018-10-02T00:00:42Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sfobg-san-francisco-airport-marriott-waterfront/overview/?EM=DNM_SANFRANCISCOAIRPORTMARRIOTT.COM",
            "title": "SFO Airport Hotel | San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront",
            "time_published": "2025-02-19T00:00:00Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sfowi-the-westin-san-francisco-airport/overview/?scid=f2ae0541-1279-4f24-b197-a979c79310b0",
            "title": "The Westin San Francisco Airport (Official Site) - SFO Hotel",
            "time_published": "2025-02-19T00:00:00Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax?content_type=things_to_do&location=3&sort_by=random",
            "title": "Shop/Dine/Relax | San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2025-10-22T23:13:26Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax?content_type=All&gate_area=All&https://www.flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax?https://www_flysfo_com/passengers/shop-dine-relax?https://www_flysfo_com/passengers/shop-dine-relax?location=2&location=1659&security=All&service_tags=All&sort_by=random",
            "title": "Shop/Dine/Relax | San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2025-10-22T23:13:26Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "http://www.flysfo.com/de/node/14691",
            "title": "Press Releases | San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2025-07-09T15:54:20Z"
          }
        ]
      },
      "q15": {
        "question": "Are there currency exchange offices, prayer rooms and Wi‑Fi at San Francisco Intl Airport?",
        "answer": "San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers currency exchange services in the International Terminal, both pre- and post-security, through Travelex. There is a Reflection Room in the terminals that serves as a quiet space for prayer and meditation, though dedicated prayer rooms or chapels are not explicitly listed. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout all terminals, with no time limit.",
        "toolsUsed": [],
        "references": [
          {
            "url": "https://flysfo.com/passengers/shop-dine-relax",
            "title": "Shop/Dine/Relax | San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2026-03-12T16:15:43Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "http://www.flysfo.com/welcome-terminal-3",
            "title": "Welcome to Terminal 3 | San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "http://www.flysfo.com/themes/custom/blueskies/favicon.ico",
            "time_published": "2026-05-08T21:34:33Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_International_Airport",
            "title": "San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "https://en.wikipedia.org/static/apple-touch/wikipedia.png",
            "time_published": "2026-07-18T07:52:09Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San%20Francisco%20International%20Airport",
            "title": "San Francisco International Airport",
            "time_published": "2026-04-28T21:12:40Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://flysfo.com/passengers/services-amenities",
            "title": "Services & Amenities | San Francisco International Airport",
            "favicon": "https://flysfo.com/themes/custom/blueskies/favicon.ico",
            "time_published": "2026-03-03T22:32:54Z"
          }
        ]
      },
      "q17": {
        "question": "What aircraft are typically used on flights from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "There is no nonstop service between Medellín (MDE) and San Francisco (SFO); all itineraries connect. The most common aircraft on the longer leg are Boeing 737-900s and 737 MAX variants (MAX 8 and MAX 9), typically connecting through Panama City (PTY) on Copa Airlines, or through Houston (IAH) and Miami (MIA) on United and American. On the shorter connecting legs, Boeing 737-800s, 737-900s, and Airbus A320-family aircraft are frequent, though the exact aircraft can vary by day and airline.",
        "methodology": "Aircraft types are taken from the equipment each operating carrier schedules on this route, drawn from published airline timetables and airline equipment schedules in our flight-schedule database. They describe typical scheduled aircraft and can vary with seasonal or day-of-week assignments and last-minute equipment swaps.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "route_aircraft"
        ]
      },
      "q20": {
        "question": "What are the best airport lounge options when departing from Medellín?",
        "answer": "At Medellín's José María Córdova International Airport (MDE), the Avianca Lounge Medellín is the main airline-branded lounge, available in the domestic terminal for Avianca business-class passengers and eligible elite status holders. There are also several independent lounges: The Lounge Medellin (domestic and international terminals) and the Harmony Lounge (domestic and international terminals), both accessible via Priority Pass or day pass; they offer complimentary drinks, Wi-Fi, and flight monitors. The Dream Box in the international terminal provides private sleep pods for a fee. Note that lounge hours and access can vary, so it's best to confirm before your flight.",
        "toolsUsed": [],
        "references": [
          {
            "url": "https://prioritypass.com/en-GB/lounges/colombia/jose-maria-cordova-international",
            "title": "José María Córdova International Airport MDE Lounges - MDE Airport Guide and lounges.  | Priority Pass",
            "time_published": "2024-11-05T00:00:00Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://my.prioritypass.com/zh-CN/lounges/colombia/jose-maria-cordova-international/mde1-the-lounge-medellin-nacional",
            "title": "The Lounge Medellin Nacional MDE AIRPORT 麦德林何塞·玛丽亚·科尔多瓦国际机场 (Medellin JM Cordova) | Priority Pass",
            "time_published": "2024-11-05T00:00:00Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://americanexpress.com/de-de/travel/lounges/the-platinum-card/MDE",
            "title": "American Express Lounges at José María Córdova International Airport | Amex DE",
            "favicon": "https://www.americanexpress.com/apple-touch-icon-152x152.png"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/travel/lounges/the-platinum-card/EOH/The-Lounge-Medellin-Regional-Domestic-Terminal-7hEGFyX5Z9/?inav=en_us_menu_travel_travel_services_airport_lounge_access_by_card",
            "title": "The Lounge Medellin Regional at Enrique Olaya Herrera Airport | Amex US",
            "time_published": "2026-05-01T00:00:00Z"
          },
          {
            "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jos%C3%A9%20Mar%C3%ADa%20C%C3%B3rdova%20International%20Airport",
            "title": "José María Córdova International Airport",
            "time_published": "2026-04-28T11:50:41Z"
          }
        ]
      },
      "q21": {
        "question": "What is the baggage allowance on this route from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "Baggage allowance on flights from Medellín to San Francisco depends on the airline and fare class. Basic economy tickets are restrictive and typically do not include a checked bag, while standard international economy fares often include one checked bag and a carry‑on. Premium cabins offer more generous allowances."
      },
      "q22": {
        "question": "What cabin and seat options are typical from Medellín to San Francisco?",
        "answer": "Flights from Medellín to San Francisco typically offer Economy and flat‑bed Business class; Premium Economy is available on select connecting itineraries, while First class is uncommon."
      },
      "q23": {
        "question": "Are same‑day changes or standby possible on this route?",
        "answer": "Policies differ by airline and fare; flexible and premium tickets usually allow same‑day changes or standby, while Basic Economy generally does not."
      }
    }
  }
}