Aero Dili

Aero Dili is the national flag carrier of Timor-Leste, marking a significant milestone in the country's aviation history as its first airline to operate international commercial jet services. Headquartered in the capital city of Dili, the airline was established to improve connectivity for the nation, bridging the gap between East Timor and key regional hubs in Southeast Asia. With a focus on safety, reliability, and genuine Timorese hospitality, Aero Dili has rapidly evolved from a small domestic operator into a symbol of national pride, offering travelers a comfortable and direct gateway to this unique destination.

Choosing Aero Dili offers several distinct advantages for travelers planning a visit to Timor-Leste or the surrounding region:

• Pioneering Connectivity: As the first Timor-Leste-based carrier to own and operate jet aircraft, Aero Dili provides vital links between Dili and major international transit points like Denpasar (Bali) and Singapore. This direct connectivity makes accessing the unspoiled beauty of East Timor easier than ever before.
• Modern Comfort: The airline has upgraded its operations to include Airbus A320 family aircraft, ensuring a smoother, faster, and more comfortable journey compared to smaller regional turboprops often found in the area.
• Local Hospitality: Flying with Aero Dili serves as a warm introduction to the culture of Timor-Leste. Passengers can expect friendly service that reflects the welcoming nature of the Timorese people, starting their cultural experience the moment they step on board.
• Commitment to Safety: The airline adheres to rigorous international safety standards and employs experienced crews, prioritizing the well-being of passengers on both domestic hops and longer international routes.

Contacting Aero Dili from the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, Aero Dili primarily manages inquiries and bookings through its international digital channels and customer support team based in Timor-Leste. As the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the UAE or maintain a local branch in the region, the most efficient way to arrange travel or request assistance is via their official website or mobile application.

Official Website

Passengers can access flight schedules, manage reservations, and check in online through the airline's official portal:

• www.aerodili.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.aerodili.com
• Customer Service (International): +670 7888 8444 (Main HQ line)
• Email: contact@aerodili.com
• Mobile App: "Aero Dili" (Available for download on Google Play and Apple App Store)

Note: When calling the customer service number from the UAE, international calling rates will apply. English is widely spoken by the support staff.

Social Media

For the latest updates, news, and community interaction, you can follow the airline on their official social media platforms:

• Facebook: Aero Dili
• Instagram: @aerodili

Local Offices

United Arab Emirates:

Currently, there are no local ticket offices or airport counters for Aero Dili in the United Arab Emirates. All ground services are handled directly at the airline's operating hubs.

Headquarters (Timor-Leste):

• Address: Timor Plaza, CBD 3, Dili, Timor-Leste

Customer Support

Support is available during standard business hours in Timor-Leste (GMT+9). For urgent matters regarding existing bookings, it is recommended to use the email support channel or the "Manage Booking" feature on the website.

Traveling with Aero Dili is designed to be convenient, with baggage policies that cater to both short hops and longer international journeys. Whether you are flying for business or heading to the pristine beaches of Timor-Leste, understanding the baggage allowances ensures a smooth check-in process at Dili or international airports.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Passengers traveling on Aero Dili flights are entitled to a complimentary cabin baggage allowance. This allows you to keep essential items close at hand during your flight.

• Weight Limit: Economy Class passengers are generally allowed 7 kg of carry-on luggage.
• Dimensions: Bags must fit comfortably in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
• Personal Item: In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers may typically bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera case.

Checked Baggage Limits

Aero Dili offers generous checked baggage allowances included in the ticket price for most fare classes, particularly on international routes connecting Dili with Denpasar and Singapore.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance typically starts at 20 kg. However, this can vary based on specific fare conditions or promotional tickets, so checking your booking confirmation is recommended.
• Weight Distribution: For the safety of baggage handlers, a single piece of luggage should generally not exceed 32 kg. If you have more weight, it must be split into separate bags.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance permitted by your fare class, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees are typically calculated per kilogram and are charged at the airport during check-in. To avoid unexpected costs, it is highly recommended to weigh your bags before arriving at the airport or to purchase extra allowance in advance if the option is available.

Special Baggage Items

Travelers wishing to transport special items such as sports equipment or musical instruments should be aware of specific handling rules:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as surfboards—essential for many visitors to the region—diving gear, or bicycles can generally be transported. These items may count towards your total weight allowance or incur a separate handling fee depending on their size and weight.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can often be carried on board if they fit within the cabin dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or, in some cases, may require booking an extra seat for transport in the cabin.

Note: It is advisable to contact Aero Dili customer support at least 48 hours before departure to declare oversized or special items to ensure space availability.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers and crew, strict regulations apply to what can be packed:

• Prohibited in Hold and Cabin: Explosives, flammable gases, oxidizers, and toxic substances are strictly forbidden.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must only be packed in carry-on luggage. They are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to fire safety regulations.
• Liquids (International Flights): For international sectors, liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on baggage must be in containers of 100ml or less and must fit within a single transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To ensure a hassle-free journey with Aero Dili, consider these packing tips:

• Label Your Bags: Use distinctive tags with your name and current contact details to help identify your luggage on the carousel.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-on: Keep valuable items, medication, and important travel documents in your hand luggage.
• Secure Fragile Items: If you must check fragile items, ensure they are heavily cushioned and wrapped, although carrying them in the cabin is always safer if size permits.

Flying with four-legged companions to or from unique destinations like Timor-Leste requires careful planning and strict adherence to regulations. Aero Dili acknowledges that pets are part of the family; however, due to international aviation safety standards and stringent biosecurity laws, the transport of animals is highly regulated. Travelers must be aware that policies differ significantly based on the route, particularly for flights connecting Dili with strictly regulated hubs like Singapore and Denpasar.

Primary Transport Method: Manifest Cargo

For most international journeys operated by Aero Dili, specifically those entering or leaving Singapore and Indonesia, pets are typically required to travel as Manifest Cargo rather than as checked baggage or in the cabin. This requirement is driven by government biosecurity regulations rather than airline policy alone.

• Regulatory Compliance: Countries with strict rabies control and biosecurity measures, such as Singapore and Timor-Leste, often mandate that animals arrive via the cargo terminal to undergo immediate veterinary inspection and clearance.
• Booking Process: Traveling as cargo involves a separate booking procedure handled through the airline’s cargo department or a specialized pet shipping agent. It requires a Master Air Waybill (MAWB).
• Safety and Care: While separated from passengers, pets traveling as cargo are placed in a temperature-controlled and pressurized section of the aircraft hold, ensuring their safety throughout the flight.

Restricted Options: In Cabin and Checked Baggage

Travelers should be aware that bringing pets in the passenger cabin or as accompanying checked baggage is extremely limited and rarely available on international sectors.

• Cabin Restrictions: Transporting pets in the cabin is generally not permitted on international flights to or from Dili due to quarantine laws. Exceptions are rare and strictly limited to recognized service animals with full documentation, subject to prior airline approval.
• Checked Baggage: The option to check a pet in at the passenger terminal (traveling as excess baggage) is often restricted. If allowed, it typically applies only to specific non-restricted routes or domestic operations, and rigid container requirements must be met.
• Prior Approval: You must never assume these options are available. Always confirm directly with Aero Dili before purchasing a ticket.

Required Documentation

To ensure successful transport, regardless of the method, you must provide comprehensive documentation. Missing paperwork will result in travel denial.

• Import/Export Permits: Valid import permits from the destination country (e.g., issued by the Ministry of Agriculture in Timor-Leste or NParks in Singapore) are mandatory.
• Veterinary Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian shortly before travel, confirming the animal is fit to fly and free from contagious diseases.
• Vaccination Records: Up-to-date vaccination booklets, specifically proving a valid rabies vaccination administered within the required timeframe relative to the flight date.
• Titer Tests: Some destinations may require a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) report.

Crate and Preparation Guidelines

Whether traveling as cargo or checked baggage (where permitted), pets must be housed in a secure container that meets IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR).

• Container Standards: The crate must be a rigid, leak-proof container (fiberglass or hard plastic) with a secure metal locking mechanism. Soft-sided carriers are generally not accepted for the hold.
• Sizing: The crate must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in a natural position.
• Preparation: It is recommended to acclimatize your pet to the crate weeks in advance to reduce stress. Ensure the crate is equipped with a secured water dish that can be filled from the outside.

Restrictions and Limitations

Certain restrictions apply to ensure the safety of the animal and the flight operation.

• Breed Restrictions: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds of dogs and cats—such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats—are frequently restricted or prohibited from flying in the hold due to their susceptibility to respiratory issues at high altitudes.
• Health and Behavior: Animals that appear sedated, aggressive, or in poor health may be refused carriage by the airline or ground handling staff.
• Age Limits: Puppies and kittens must generally be weaned and meet the minimum age requirements set by the destination country's import laws (often older than 12-16 weeks).

Critical Step: Due to the complexity of biosecurity laws in Southeast Asia and limited aircraft capacity for live animals, you must contact Aero Dili customer service or their cargo division at least several weeks before your planned trip. Do not finalize travel plans until you have received written confirmation that your pet can be accommodated on your specific flight dates.

Loyalty Program

Aero Dili (8G) is a rapidly expanding airline focused on establishing strong connections between Dili and the world. As a relatively young international operator, the airline currently focuses on delivering high-quality service and competitive fares to all passengers rather than operating a traditional, complex mileage-based loyalty program. At this stage, customer loyalty is rewarded through immediate travel benefits, premium service options, and personalized hospitality rather than the accumulation of points.

Program Structure & Membership Tiers

Currently, Aero Dili does not utilize a standard tiered frequent flyer structure (such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum). Instead, "status" benefits are instantly granted based on the fare class purchased, ensuring that premium travelers receive priority treatment without needing to qualify over time. The service levels act as the current benefit tiers:

• Economy Class (Standard): The entry-level offering which includes generous baggage allowances and in-flight meals, exceeding the standard "low-cost" experience found in the region.
• Business Class (Elite Experience): Serves as the airline's top tier, offering immediate access to priority services. Benefits include exclusive lounge access in Denpasar and Singapore, increased baggage limits (up to 35kg + sports equipment), and priority check-in and boarding.

Earning Rewards

Since there is no mileage currency currently in place, the "earning" mechanism is simplified to direct value for the traveler:

• Flights: Passengers do not accrue miles per kilometer; instead, they benefit from transparent pricing that often includes perks like checked baggage and meals which other airlines might charge extra for.
• Partners: There are currently no co-branded credit cards or hotel partnerships for earning points.
• Corporate Travel: Businesses frequently traveling between Timor-Leste and Indonesia or Singapore can contact the airline directly for potential corporate arrangements or bulk travel management.

Redeeming Benefits

Without a miles bank, redemption is not applicable in the traditional sense. However, travelers can access "rewards" through:

• Instant Upgrades: Passengers may have the option to purchase upgrades to Business Class at the airport, subject to availability, to enjoy immediate luxury.
• Promotional Offers: Aero Dili frequently releases special fares for newsletter subscribers, effectively offering "reward" pricing to its engaged customer base.

Airline Alliance

Aero Dili operates as an independent national carrier and is not currently a member of any major global airline alliance (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld).

• Partnerships: The airline operates independently, using its own Airbus fleet to serve its core international routes.

How to Join & Stay Connected

While there is no membership number to apply for, frequent travelers are encouraged to register for a digital account on the airline's official website.

• Create an Account: Visit www.aerodili.com and sign up to manage bookings more easily.
• Newsletter: Subscribing to the email list is the best way to receive early alerts on flight deals and news about future loyalty program developments.

Onboard Experience and Fleet

Aero Dili prides itself on being a full-service airline, marking a shift from the region's typical low-cost carrier model. Operating a modern Airbus A320 aircraft, the airline connects travelers to Dili with a focus on comfort, reliability, and the warm hospitality characteristic of Timor-Leste. Whether flying on a short hop to Indonesia or a longer sector to Singapore, passengers can expect a travel experience designed to be smooth and welcoming.

Service Classes

The airline configures its jet aircraft to cater to both leisure and corporate travelers, offering two distinct cabins. Each class is tailored to provide specific amenities ensuring a pleasant journey across the Timor Sea.

• Business Class: Located at the front of the aircraft, the Business Class cabin offers enhanced privacy and comfort. Passengers traveling in this class enjoy wider seats with generous legroom, allowing for relaxation or work during the flight. Services include priority check-in, an increased baggage allowance, and access to airport lounges in Denpasar and Singapore. Onboard, business travelers are treated to premium meal services and personalized attention from the cabin crew.
• Economy Class: The Economy cabin is designed with modern ergonomic leather seats configured in a standard 3-3 layout. The airline emphasizes value, ensuring that even standard fares include essential comforts such as checked baggage and in-flight dining, which are often charged as extras by other carriers in the region.

In-Flight Dining

Aero Dili distinguishes itself by providing complimentary meal and beverage services on its international routes. Passengers can expect:

• Hot Meals: On longer sectors, such as the flight to Singapore, a hot meal is served. The menu typically features a mix of Asian and international cuisine, often highlighting local flavors.
• Refreshments: On shorter flights, such as the route to Bali, passengers are generally served light snacks and a selection of beverages, including coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks.
• Dietary Requirements: While standard options usually include Halal-friendly choices given the destinations served, passengers with specific medical or dietary restrictions are advised to contact the airline's customer service at least 48 hours prior to departure to request special meals.

Entertainment and Connectivity

As the airline operates narrow-body aircraft primarily on regional routes, the in-flight entertainment options are traditional. The aircraft is generally not equipped with individual seatback screens or Wi-Fi. Passengers are highly recommended to download their favorite movies, music, or e-books onto their personal devices before boarding. The calm atmosphere of the cabin provides a perfect opportunity to relax or enjoy the views of the distinctive island landscapes during approach and takeoff.

Special Services

Aero Dili is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. The airline provides a range of special services to assist passengers with unique needs:

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM): Wheelchair assistance is available from the check-in counter to the boarding gate and upon arrival. Passengers requiring this service must notify the airline at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance to ensure ground handling arrangements are in place.
• Families and Children: Families traveling with infants (under 2 years old) can carry necessary baby items such as a diaper bag and a collapsible stroller. The crew is trained to assist families to ensure they are seated together whenever possible.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant travelers are welcome on board up to 28 weeks of pregnancy without a medical certificate. Travel between 28 and 35 weeks requires a doctor's letter confirming fitness to fly, while travel is generally not permitted after 36 weeks for safety reasons.

Aero Dili operates a focused network from its primary hub in Dili, connecting Timor-Leste with essential international gateways. The airline currently serves key destinations in Indonesia and Singapore, facilitating vital travel links for both business and leisure passengers in the region.

Booking a flight with Aero Dili is the first step toward an exciting journey to Timor-Leste. As the carrier is based in Dili, it serves as a vital link for travelers exploring this unique region. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance. Securing your seats early not only guarantees availability but often provides access to more competitive fares compared to last-minute purchases.

For travelers looking to save on costs, flexibility with travel dates can be beneficial. Prices may vary depending on the season and demand, so checking different dates can uncover better deals. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or special offers that the airline may release. Subscribing to newsletters or following official social media channels is often the best way to stay informed about upcoming sales for routes connecting to Denpasar or Singapore.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of online check-in procedures if available. This service typically opens 24 to 48 hours before departure and allows you to confirm your presence on the flight without standing in long queues at the terminal. It is also the perfect time to verify your baggage allowance and ensure all travel documents are in order before heading to the airport.

Seat selection is another important aspect of a comfortable journey. Whether you prefer a window seat to enjoy the aerial views of the archipelago or an aisle seat for easier mobility, choosing your spot during the booking process or at check-in is highly recommended. Early selection gives you a better chance of securing your preferred location in the cabin.

Travel insurance is an essential consideration for any international trip. It provides financial protection against unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. having a comprehensive policy ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your travel experience with Aero Dili.

While specific mobile app features may vary, utilizing digital tools is highly recommended for modern travelers. If a dedicated app is available, it can be a convenient hub for managing your itinerary, receiving real-time flight status updates, and storing mobile boarding passes. In the absence of an app, ensuring your booking confirmation and documents are accessible on your mobile device helps keep your journey organized and stress-free.

Founding and Early Vision

Aero Dili was established in 2017 by Timorese entrepreneur Lourenço de Oliveira with a bold vision to "Build the Nation" through improved air connectivity. It commenced formal operations in 2018, marking a historic moment as the first airline in Timor-Leste to be granted an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) for civil domestic services. In its early years, the carrier focused on serving the internal needs of the country, operating a modest fleet of Cessna light aircraft to connect Dili with remote municipalities such as Suai and Oecusse, providing a vital lifeline for local communities and maritime surveillance support.

The Jet Era and International Expansion

A major turning point in the airline's history occurred in 2023, signaling its transformation from a domestic operator to an international flag carrier. Breaking away from the "virtual carrier" model—where it previously utilized wet-leased aircraft from other airlines—Aero Dili acquired its first own jet aircraft, an Airbus A320. This acquisition was a significant milestone for Timor-Leste's aviation industry, representing the first time a commercial jet was registered and based within the country. This development allowed the airline to operate independently and pursue its own international flight schedule.

Significant Route Launches

With its new capabilities, Aero Dili rapidly expanded its network to key regional hubs. On May 12, 2023, the airline launched its inaugural scheduled international flight to Denpasar (Bali), establishing a daily link that significantly boosted tourism and trade between Timor-Leste and Indonesia. Building on this success, the carrier further strengthened its regional footprint in February 2024 by inaugurating regular services to Singapore. These strategic routes have become the backbone of the airline's network, offering travelers consistent and direct access to major global transit points.

Fleet Evolution and Modern Developments

The evolution of Aero Dili's fleet reflects its rapid growth trajectory. Starting with single-engine Cessna 172 and 207 aircraft suited for short island hops, the airline successfully transitioned to operating complex jet machinery. The fleet expansion continued into 2025 with the introduction of an Airbus A319 to complement its existing A320, providing greater operational flexibility. Today, Aero Dili stands as a symbol of national progress, continuously modernizing its services to offer a safe, reliable, and distinctly Timorese travel experience.