Air Caraibes

Air Caraibes serves as a premier aviation bridge between the French Caribbean and mainland Europe, embodying the warmth and vibrancy of the islands it calls home. Established to provide robust connectivity across the French West Indies, the airline has evolved into a significant transatlantic carrier, renowned for its friendly service and distinctive Creole flair. Travelers choose this airline not only for its efficient routes to Paris but also for the seamless island-hopping experience it offers within the Caribbean arch.

Modern Fleet and Comfort
Air Caraibes operates a mixed fleet tailored to its specific route network. For long-haul transatlantic flights, the airline utilizes modern Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 XWB aircraft, as well as Airbus A330s. These planes are designed for passenger comfort with quieter cabins, mood lighting, and advanced entertainment systems. For shorter regional hops between islands, the fleet includes agile ATR 72-600 turboprops, perfect for quick and scenic connections.

Extensive Regional Connectivity
The airline excels in connecting the islands of the Caribbean. It offers frequent and reliable shuttles between its base and neighboring destinations such as Fort-de-France and Gustavia. This dense regional network allows tourists to easily explore multiple islands in one trip, moving seamlessly between French overseas territories and other popular spots like Philipsburg.

Distinctive Service and Safety
Flying with Air Caraibes offers a taste of the destination before arrival. The cabin crew is known for their hospitality, and the onboard service often features touches of Caribbean cuisine and culture. As a French airline, it adheres to the strict safety regulations and maintenance standards of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), ensuring a high level of safety and reliability for all passengers.

Contacting Air Caraibes in the United Arab Emirates
Air Caraibes (TX) primarily operates between France and the Caribbean and does not currently have a local office or direct flight operations in the United Arab Emirates. Travelers in the UAE needing assistance with reservations, ticket changes, or baggage inquiries should contact the airline's international customer service headquarters in the French West Indies or France. Most services can be managed directly through their official website or mobile app.

Official Website
For the most direct access to booking and management services, visit the official English-language website:
https://en.aircaraibes.com

Contact Information

• Customer Service (International): +590 5 90 82 47 47 (Headquarters/International Support)
• Reservations (France): +33 1 47 83 88 18 (International access to Paris Call Center)
• Email: reservation@aircaraibes.com
• Mobile App: "Air Caraïbes" available on the App Store and Google Play

Social Media Connections

Stay updated and contact the support team via social media:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aircaraibes
• X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/aircaraibes
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aircaraibes
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/aircaraibes

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

• Abu Dhabi & Dubai: Currently, there are no physical Air Caraibes ticketing offices or airport counters in the UAE. Please use the online or international phone contacts listed above.

Support Hours

When calling from the UAE, please be aware of the time difference. Support is generally available during the following hours:

• Paris Time (CET): Monday to Saturday 08:00 – 22:00, Sunday 09:00 – 21:00.
• Guadeloupe Time (AST): Monday to Saturday 07:00 – 19:00, Sunday 06:00 – 15:00.

For travelers planning their journey with Air Caraibes, understanding the baggage policy is key to a smooth trip. The airline’s allowances vary significantly depending on whether you are flying across the Atlantic (e.g., to Paris) or hopping between islands on the regional network (e.g., between Fort-de-France and Castries).

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers are entitled to carry-on luggage. While the weight allowance is quite generous across the entire fleet, the allowable dimensions depend on the aircraft type due to cabin storage limitations.

• Transatlantic Flights (Airbus fleet): You are allowed one cabin bag weighing up to 12 kg (26 lbs). The maximum size for your main carry-on is usually 55 x 40 x 20 cm (21 x 16 x 8 inches).
• Regional Flights (ATR fleet): On island-hopping routes, the weight allowance is also 12 kg (26 lbs). However, strict dimension limits apply because the overhead bins are smaller. Your bag must typically not exceed 45 x 35 x 20 cm (18 x 14 x 8 inches).

Personal Accessory: In addition to your main carry-on, you may bring one small personal item such as a handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag. This item should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Limits by Class

Your checked baggage allowance is determined by your travel class and the fare family you have booked.

• Economy Class (Soleil):
  • Basic Fare: No checked bags included. You travel light, but can add bags for a fee.
  • Smart & Flex Fares: Includes 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Premium Economy (Caraïbes): Enjoy a more generous allowance of 2 pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Business Class (Madras): Designed for maximum convenience, this class allows 2 pieces, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

Note: The maximum total dimension (Length + Width + Height) for any checked bag is 158 cm (62 inches). No single bag may weigh more than 32 kg due to safety regulations for baggage handlers.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you need to bring more than your standard allowance, you can purchase additional baggage.

• Extra Bags: Purchasing an additional bag online before your flight is typically cheaper than paying at the airport. Fees vary by route (Transatlantic vs. Regional).
• Overweight/Oversized: Bags that exceed the weight or size limits of your fare class will incur a surcharge. It is often more cost-effective to purchase an extra bag than to pay for a single overweight item.

Sports Equipment and Special Items

Air Caraibes welcomes active travelers heading to destinations like Pointe-à-Pitre for surfing or diving.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, diving gear, skis, and surfboards are generally considered special baggage.
• Golf & Ski: In some cases, golf and ski equipment may be treated as a standard bag if within weight limits, but policies can vary by fare.
• Surfboards & Bikes: These usually incur a fixed one-way fee and must be packed in protective cases.
• Reservation: You must notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to reserve space for large sports equipment, especially on smaller regional aircraft.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, certain items are restricted:

• Prohibited in Cabin: Sharp objects (knives, scissors), tools, blunt instruments, and liquids exceeding 100ml (unless in a clear 1L plastic bag).
• Prohibited in Checked Bags: Loose lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes (must be carried on your person), and flammable materials like lighter fuel or fireworks.
• Smart Bags: Luggage with non-removable lithium batteries is generally prohibited.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a luggage scale at home to ensure you stay within the 23 kg limit, avoiding stress at the check-in counter.
• Island Hopping: If your itinerary includes a connection to a smaller ATR plane (e.g., to Gustavia), ensure your carry-on meets the stricter 45 x 35 x 20 cm size limit, even if it falls within the 12 kg weight allowance.
• Label Everything: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email to every bag.
• Essentials in Carry-On: Always pack valuable items, medication, and travel documents in your hand luggage, never in your checked bags.

Traveling with a beloved pet requires careful planning, and Air Caraibes strives to make this experience as smooth as possible for furry companions. Whether you are flying between the Caribbean islands or crossing the Atlantic to Paris, the airline permits cats and dogs to travel in the cabin or the hold, provided specific safety and comfort regulations are met. It is essential to prepare well in advance, as space for animals is limited on each aircraft.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

• Carrier dimensions: The soft transport bag must not exceed 40 x 30 x 20 cm (16 x 12 x 8 inches) to fit comfortably under the seat.
• Maximum pet weight: The combined weight of the animal and its container must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
• Allowed pet types: Generally, only cats and small dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Breed restrictions: Animals must be at least 8 weeks old; certain snub-nosed breeds may face restrictions due to respiratory risks.
• Limit per passenger: Each passenger is typically allowed to bring only one animal in the cabin.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

• Container requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved rigid plastic crate ("shell" structure) locked with bolts, ensuring the animal can stand and turn around.
• Weight and size limits: Animals weighing between 8 kg and 75 kg (17 to 165 lbs) generally travel in the hold.
• Temperature restrictions: The hold is pressurized and heated, but travel may be restricted if extreme weather conditions pose a health risk at departure or arrival airports.
• Required documentation: The original health records and transport forms must be attached to the crate.

As cargo (for large animals)

• When this option is required: Very large animals exceeding the checked baggage weight limit (usually over 75 kg) or unaccompanied pets must fly as freight.
• Special requirements: This service is managed by a dedicated freight department and often requires a specialized heavy-duty crate.
• Booking procedure: You must contact Air Caraibes Cargo services well in advance to arrange logistics and customs clearance.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary passport: An up-to-date European Union pet passport or official veterinary booklet.
• Health certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian, typically dated within 5 days of departure.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid vaccinations, specifically anti-rabies, is mandatory.
• Identification: The animal must be identified via an electronic microchip or a clearly readable tattoo.
• International certificates: Specific import/export permits may be required for non-EU destinations like Punta Cana or Philipsburg.

Service Costs

• In-cabin fee: Approximately €50 to €75 per way, depending on whether the flight is regional or transatlantic.
• Cargo hold fee: Approximately €100 to €150 per way, varying by route and cage size.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on the specific destination and exchange rates.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Purchase the IATA-compliant crate weeks in advance to let your pet get accustomed to it.
• Feeding before flight: Avoid feeding your pet a large meal 4 to 6 hours before departure to prevent air sickness.
• Stress reduction: Place a familiar blanket or absorbent mat inside the crate; avoid sedation unless explicitly advised by a vet.
• Hydration: Ensure the crate has an accessible empty water dish that can be filled if needed during delays, but avoid spills.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 (guard/defense dogs) are generally prohibited or subject to strict cargo rules.
• Brachycephalic animals: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) are often banned from the cargo hold due to high respiratory risks.
• Prohibited animals: Rodents, reptiles, and other exotic species are typically not allowed in the cabin or hold as standard baggage.
• Exceptions: Recognized service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities usually travel free of charge in the cabin, provided notice is given.

Important: We strongly recommend contacting Air Caraibes directly at the time of booking to confirm current regulations, as rules for pet travel can change and specific quotas apply per flight.

Air Caraibes Loyalty Program: Préférence

Préférence is the frequent flyer program designed to reward travelers who choose Air Caraibes for their journeys between Europe and the Caribbean. Whether you are taking a long-haul flight to Paris or island-hopping to Gustavia, this program allows you to accumulate points that can be turned into exclusive travel privileges and rewards.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four distinct levels, with status determined by the number of Tier Miles earned or qualifying flight segments flown within a calendar year:

• Préférence (Blue): The entry-level tier where you start earning miles on your very first flight, offering access to member-only private sales.
• Silver: Achieved after frequent travel, this status unlocks benefits such as a dedicated check-in counter and bonus award miles on every flight.
• Gold: Designed for seasoned travelers, offering priority baggage handling, access to business lounges at select airports, and a higher mileage bonus.
• Diamant: The highest elite status, providing maximum luxury with complimentary upgrades when available, guaranteed seat availability, and the most generous baggage allowances.

Earning Miles

Members can accumulate miles in several ways to grow their balance faster:

• Flights: Earn miles based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased on all scheduled Air Caraibes routes.
• Partner Airlines: Accumulate miles when flying with sister airline French Bee or select code-share partners.
• Car Rentals: Earn points when booking vehicles with partners like Sixt after your flight.
• Extra Options: Purchasing additional services, such as seat selection or extra baggage, may also contribute to your miles balance.

Redeeming Miles

The points you earn can be exchanged for a variety of valuable rewards to enhance your travel experience:

• Award Tickets: Book one-way or round-trip flights to destinations like Pointe-à-Pitre or Fort-de-France using your miles.
• Upgrades: Treat yourself to more comfort by upgrading from Economy to Premium Economy or Business Class (Madras).
• Excess Baggage: Use miles to pay for extra luggage allowances if you plan to bring more than your standard limit.
• Services: Redeem miles for special services like priority access or unaccompanied minor fees.

Alliance and Partnerships

• Network Partners: While Air Caraibes is not a member of the major global alliances (such as Star Alliance or Oneworld), it maintains a strong partnership with French Bee, allowing for shared loyalty benefits.
• Train + Air: The airline collaborates with SNCF (French Railways) to offer seamless connections, where rail segments can often be part of your earning itinerary.

How to Join

Joining the Préférence program is free and simple. Travelers can sign up directly on the official Air Caraibes website by filling out a short enrollment form. Once registered, you will receive a digital membership card and can immediately begin earning miles on your next booking.

Flying with Air Caraibes is designed to be more than just a journey; it is an immersion into the warmth and hospitality of the West Indies from the moment you step on board. Whether you are crossing the Atlantic to Paris or taking a short inter-island flight to Fort-de-France, the airline offers a range of service classes tailored to different budgets and comfort needs, all characterized by a distinctive Creole touch.

Cabin Classes

On its long-haul transatlantic fleet (Airbus A350 and A330), Air Caraibes offers three distinct classes of service, while regional flights generally feature a single, comfortable cabin configuration.

Madras (Business Class)
Located at the front of the aircraft, the Madras cabin offers the highest level of luxury and privacy. Passengers enjoy 180° full-flat seats on the Airbus A350 fleet, ensuring a restful sleep on overnight journeys. The service includes priority check-in, access to airport lounges, and an increased baggage allowance. The cabin is designed with a shell structure for privacy, ample storage, and a large personal entertainment screen.

Caraïbes (Premium Economy)
Positioned as a bridge between economy and business, the Caraïbes class offers significantly more space and comfort. The seats are wider and feature a greater recline angle compared to the standard economy cabin, along with adjustable headrests and footrests. Passengers in this class also benefit from priority boarding and an upgraded meal service, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking extra relaxation on the way to Pointe-à-Pitre.

Soleil (Economy Class)
The Soleil class provides a competitive and comfortable travel option. The ergonomic seats are designed to maximize legroom, and passengers receive a complete meal service, a blanket, and a pillow for overnight flights. It is a popular choice for families and leisure travelers heading to holiday destinations like Punta Cana.

Dining and Beverages

Culinary excellence is a hallmark of the Air Caraibes experience. The airline prides itself on offering a fusion of French gastronomy and Caribbean spices. Depending on the time of day and flight duration, passengers are served hot meals, snacks, or breakfast.

• Menu: Business class passengers enjoy a gourmet menu designed by renowned chefs, while Economy and Premium Economy passengers receive tasty, generous trays featuring island-inspired dishes.
• Beverages: A selection of complimentary beverages is available, including soft drinks, juices, wines, and the airline's signature welcome drink—often a traditional planter's punch or fruit juice—setting the tropical mood early in the flight.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

To pass the time on long-haul routes, every seat on the Airbus fleet is equipped with an individual High Definition touch screen. The entertainment system, known as iZi, features a wide selection of international movies, TV series, music albums, and games suitable for all ages.
On the modern Airbus A350 aircraft, passengers can also access Wi-Fi connectivity. Various data packages are available for purchase, ranging from simple messaging plans to full internet surfing packages, allowing travelers to stay connected with friends and family on the ground.

Special Services

Air Caraibes is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers.

• Families and Children: The airline offers special meals for children (must be ordered 48 hours in advance) and provides bassinets for infants on long-haul flights, subject to availability. An "Unaccompanied Minor" (UM) service ensures that children traveling alone are supervised from departure until they are handed over to their guardian at the destination.
• Reduced Mobility: Passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility can request assistance services such as wheelchair transport and priority boarding. It is recommended to request these services at least 48 hours before departure to ensure a smooth experience at airports like Philipsburg.

Air Caraibes operates a focused and efficient network that primarily bridges Europe with the French West Indies, while also providing extensive regional connectivity within the Caribbean. With its main hub located at Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe, the airline serves as a vital link for travelers exploring the archipelago or crossing the Atlantic.

Transatlantic Routes from Paris
The backbone of the airline's long-haul operations is its connection between Paris (Orly Airport) and major overseas territories and international cities. Passengers can fly directly from the French capital to the sunny shores of Fort-de-France in Martinique and Cayenne in French Guiana. The airline also provides direct access to Philipsburg on the Dutch side of Saint Martin. Beyond the Caribbean, the network extends to the Indian Ocean with flights to Saint-Denis on Reunion Island. The carrier also caters to North American travelers with routes connecting Paris to Montreal, as well as key United States destinations including New York City, Miami Beach, and the West Coast city of San Francisco. Holidaymakers looking for tropical getaways can also reach Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and Cancun in Mexico.

Regional Caribbean Network
For those already in the Caribbean, Air Caraibes offers a dense "island-hopping" schedule. From its bases in Guadeloupe and Martinique, the airline operates frequent flights to Grand Case on the French side of Saint Martin and Gustavia on the exclusive island of Saint Barthélemy. Additionally, the airline services a connection between Philipsburg and Gustavia. The regional network strengthens ties with neighboring islands, including routes to Castries in Saint Lucia, Santo Domingo, and Port of Spain in Trinidad and Tobago.

Planning a journey with Air Caraibes can be the start of an exciting adventure, whether you are heading to the French Caribbean or crossing the Atlantic. To secure the best fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak holiday seasons. Travelers looking to visit popular destinations like Fort-de-France or the airline's main hub in Pointe-à-Pitre will often find that prices rise closer to the departure date.

To catch the best deals and promotions, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or setting up price alerts. Flexibility is key; flying mid-week rather than on weekends can sometimes result in significant savings. If you are exploring routes to cities such as Paris or Saint-Denis, checking prices on different days can help you stay within budget.

Online check-in is a convenient feature that typically opens 48 hours before your scheduled departure. Completing this process from your computer or smartphone allows you to avoid long lines at the airport and often lets you download your boarding pass directly. This is particularly useful for busy connections or when traveling with carry-on luggage only.

For a more comfortable flight, take advantage of the seat selection options. While some seats may be selected for free during check-in, paying a small fee in advance can guarantee a window seat or extra legroom, which is highly recommended for long-haul flights to New York City or Montreal. Using the official mobile app allows you to manage your booking, select seats, and receive real-time notifications about your flight status.

Finally, do not overlook the importance of travel insurance. It provides peace of mind by covering unexpected events such as flight cancellations or lost luggage. Ensuring you are protected allows you to relax and look forward to your trip, knowing that you are prepared for any changes to your itinerary.

History of Air Caraibes

Founding and Regional Unification
Air Caraibes was founded in 2000, emerging from the strategic merger of several local carriers: Air Guadeloupe, Air Martinique, Air Saint Barthélémy, and Air Saint Martin. This consolidation was driven by a desire to create a unified regional network that could better serve the French West Indies. Headquartered in Guadeloupe, the new airline focused on strengthening the links between islands, establishing its primary hub in Pointe-à-Pitre to facilitate smoother travel for both residents and visitors.

Transatlantic Breakthrough
In 2003, the airline marked a significant milestone by expanding its operations beyond regional flights to launch long-haul services to Paris. This move transformed Air Caraibes into a transatlantic carrier, providing a vital competitive alternative on routes between mainland France and its overseas territories. The expansion was supported by the airline's acquisition by Groupe Dubreuil, a family-owned French conglomerate, which provided the stability and investment capital needed for international growth.

Fleet Evolution
To support its diverse network, Air Caraibes developed a specialized fleet strategy. For short, scenic hops to destinations with challenging approaches like Gustavia, the airline relies on modern ATR turboprop aircraft. Conversely, its long-haul fleet has seen rapid modernization. After initially operating Airbus A330s, the airline became the first French operator to introduce the Airbus A350 XWB. These state-of-the-art aircraft have become the backbone of its transatlantic fleet, offering improved fuel efficiency and a quieter cabin experience.

Route Expansion and Innovation
In recent years, the airline has continued to broaden its map. Beyond its core Caribbean markets, it has extended its network to the Indian Ocean, serving Saint-Denis, and has tapped into the North American market with connections to New York City and Montreal. The carrier also facilitates travel to other popular vacation spots, including Punta Cana and Cancun, leveraging its partnership with sister airline French Bee to offer comprehensive travel solutions.