Air Italy

Air Italy (formerly known as Meridiana) is an airline that, throughout its history, strove to embody Italian style and hospitality in the skies. The carrier focused on elegant service, quality dining, and passenger comfort, connecting regions and offering travellers a unique flight experience. Despite structural changes and rebranding, the company is remembered by many as a bright representative of European aviation with special attention to detail and tradition.

The airline's history began with the creation of Alisarda in 1963, aimed at developing tourism in Sardinia. Later, under the Meridiana brand and subsequently Air Italy, the carrier significantly expanded its geography. At various times, the company's fleet included modern liners such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 737, allowing it to serve both short and long-haul routes.

According to available data on the current route network, the key transport hub is Syktyvkar airport. Regular flights to local destinations are operated from this hub, ensuring vital transport accessibility in the region. The list of served cities includes Ust-Tsilma, Usinsk, and Vorkuta.

Among the company's merits, high safety standards confirmed by the IOSA certificate were always highlighted. The carrier's mission was to make every flight a small journey to Italy, offering exquisite beverages and dishes of national cuisine on board, which was repeatedly noted in positive passenger reviews.

Air Italy Contacts and Support

Since Air Italy officially ceased operations and flights in February 2020, opportunities for direct communication with airline representatives are significantly limited. Standard reservation and customer support services no longer function in the usual mode. The information below is for reference purposes to identify historical communication channels.

Official Website

The company's main web resource may only operate to display liquidation information or redirect to archive pages.

• Official Website: www.airitaly.com

Contact Details

Please note: telephone lines are disconnected, and new bookings are not accepted. For questions regarding old bookings, it is recommended to contact the point of purchase.

• Customer Support: Formerly +39 0789 52682 (line inactive)
• Ticket Booking: Unavailable
• Email: Direct email support has ceased
• Mobile App: Air Italy App (removed from App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

The airline's social media accounts are preserved as archives but are not updated or moderated by support staff:

• Facebook (AirItaly)
• Twitter / X (@air_italy_)
• Instagram (@airitaly_official)
• LinkedIn

Offices and Representatives

Own sales offices and headquarters are closed to visitors.

• Head Office (archive address): Olbia, Sardinia, Italy (Aeroporto Costa Smeralda).
• Airport Representatives: Air Italy check-in counters at international airports are closed. In the case of flights operated by code-share partners (if applicable), please contact the counters of the respective flight operator.

Baggage Rules

When planning a trip with Air Italy, it is important to familiarise yourself with baggage allowances in advance to avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport. The airline traditionally adhered to standards accepted in European aviation, offering passengers flexible conditions depending on the class of service and selected fare. Below are the basic rules to help you pack correctly.

Please note: as the company's operations have stopped, and flights may be operated by partners or through hub airports (e.g., the Syktyvkar hub), actual allowances may differ. We recommend always checking the information on your itinerary receipt.

Cabin Baggage

To ensure comfort and safety on board, strict restrictions apply to items you take with you into the cabin. Generally, passengers are permitted to carry:

• One bag weighing up to 8 kg. Maximum dimensions are usually 55x40x20 cm (including handles and wheels).
• A personal item of small size (ladies' handbag, laptop briefcase, or backpack) that can be placed under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the fare and booking class. The standard "Piece Concept" implies the following limits:

• Economy Class: Usually includes one piece of baggage weighing up to 23 kg. On "Light" fares, baggage may not be included in the price and is paid for separately.
• Business Class: Passengers can expect an increased allowance — typically two pieces of baggage weighing up to 32 kg each.

The sum of the three dimensions of each suitcase must not exceed 158 cm. Any excess in weight or dimensions incurs an additional fee according to excess baggage rates.

Special Baggage

If you plan to transport non-standard items, such as sports equipment (skis, snowboards, bicycles) or musical instruments, this must be reported to the airline in advance (preferably no later than 48 hours before departure).

• Small musical instruments can be taken into the cabin as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions.
• Large sports equipment is transported in the hold and may require additional payment if it falls outside the free allowance.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety reasons, there are items that are strictly prohibited for transport in both hand luggage and checked baggage:

• Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids, and gases.
• Caustic and corrosive substances.
• Lithium batteries (loose, not in a device) are prohibited in checked baggage; they should be taken in hand luggage.

In hand luggage, restrictions on liquids also apply: only in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre.

Packing Tips

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, use these simple recommendations:

• Weigh your luggage at home: This will help avoid unexpected surcharges for excess weight at the airport.
• Labelling: Be sure to attach a tag with your name and contacts to every suitcase. It is also useful to place a sheet with contact details inside the luggage.
• Valuables: Always carry money, documents, jewellery, and electronics only in hand luggage.
• Wrapping: Use protective covers or film to protect the suitcase from scratches and accidental opening.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Air Italy (formerly) treated passengers travelling with pets with special attention. The carrier strove to ensure the most comfortable and safe conditions for four-legged friends, understanding how important it is for owners not to be separated from their pets during the trip. Regardless of whether you are flying through the main hub Syktyvkar or to other destinations, it is important to arrange animal transport in advance, as the number of places on board is always limited.

Transport Options

Depending on the weight and size of your pet, the airline offers three main methods of transport. Each has its own strict safety standards.

This option is suitable for small cats and dogs that can comfortably fit under the seat in front.

• Carrier Dimensions: Maximum dimensions of a soft carrier bag should usually not exceed 40×30×24 cm so that it fits freely under the seat.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier must be no more than 8–10 kg (it is recommended to clarify the exact figure when booking).
• Permitted Animals: Most often, cats, dogs, and in some cases, songbirds are allowed.
• Comfort Requirements: The animal must be able to stand up to its full height and turn around inside the carrier.
• Limit: Usually, one carrier per passenger is permitted.

For animals that exceed hand luggage limits, transport in a special heated compartment of the aircraft is provided.

• Container Requirements: The cage must be rigid (plastic or fibreglass), comply with IATA standards, have a secure lock, and good ventilation on three sides.
• Size: The container must be spacious enough for the pet to stand without touching the ceiling and lie down in a natural position.
• Equipment: The bottom should be lined with absorbent material; fixed containers for water and food are mandatory.
• Weight Restrictions: The maximum weight of the container with the animal is usually up to 75 kg.

This method is used in special cases when standard options are not suitable.

• When Required: For transporting very large dogs, exotic animals, or if the animal is travelling without the owner.
• Special Requirements: Processing takes place through the airport cargo terminal, and additional waybills are required.
• Procedure: Booking is carried out through the cargo department (Air Italy Cargo) in advance.

Necessary Documents

Check-in for a flight with an animal will take longer due to documentation checks. You will need to prepare:

• Veterinary Passport: With details of the owner and a description of the animal.
• Vaccinations: Valid rabies vaccination (administered no earlier than a year and no later than 21 days before departure) and other age-appropriate vaccinations.
• Health Certificate: Veterinary certificate (Form No. 1 for domestic flights or an international certificate for travel abroad), confirming the clinical health of the pet.
• Microchip: Mandatory for international flights (the microchip must comply with ISO standards).

Cost of Services

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately according to special rates. Prices may vary:

• In the Cabin: Fixed fee (for example, from 40 to 70 EUR per flight segment).
• In the Hold: The cost depends on the weight of the cage and dimensions (usually from 80 to 150 EUR).
• Route Dependence: Fees on international flights may be higher than on domestic ones.

Preparation Tips

To ensure the flight passes with minimal stress for your pet:

• Acclimatisation: Start accustoming the animal to the carrier or cage a few weeks before departure by leaving it open at home.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Comfort: Put a favourite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage to calm the animal.
• Water: Provide access to water before the flight, but do not leave a full bowl in the cage so that water does not spill during transport.

Restrictions

The airline may refuse transport in the following cases:

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic dogs and cats (with flattened faces, e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often not permitted for transport in the hold due to the risk of breathing problems.
• Age: Animals younger than 3 months are not permitted to fly (before immunity is formed after the rabies vaccination).
• Condition: Pregnant females or sick animals may not be allowed on board without special permission from a veterinarian.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities are usually transported in the cabin free of charge and without a cage (muzzled and on a leash).

Important: Since air transport rules can change, and the company's operations have their own specifics, we strongly recommend contacting airline representatives or authorised agents directly before purchasing a ticket to clarify current requirements.

Loyalty Programme and Privileges

For its frequent flyers, Air Italy (formerly) offered participation in a branded loyalty programme (historically known as Meridiana Club or Fly-Pass). This reward system allowed travellers to accumulate points for every flight and exchange them for pleasant bonuses, making every trip not only comfortable but also rewarding.

The programme was designed to reward clients based on the frequency of their flights. The more you flew, the higher your status became and the wider the range of privileges.

• Basic: Assigned immediately after registration. Allowed members to start accumulating miles for completed flights and enjoy special newsletter offers.
• Silver: This status opened access to priority check-in (Business Class counters), additional baggage allowance, and bonus miles accrual on top of the standard fare.
• Gold: The elite level for the most active travellers. Included access to airport business lounges, priority boarding, free seat selection in the cabin, and guaranteed booking on busy flights.

• Flights: The main way to top up your balance was by flying with the airline. The number of miles awarded depended on flight distance and booking class. For example, miles were credited for flights via the Syktyvkar hub to popular destinations such as Ust-Tsilma, Usinsk, and Vorkuta.
• Partners: Points could be earned not only in the sky but also on the ground by using the services of programme partners: booking hotels, renting cars, or purchasing insurance.
• Daily Purchases: Using co-branded credit cards allowed members to earn miles for daily spending in supermarkets and shops.

• Award Tickets: The most popular way to use savings was to issue a completely free ticket (only taxes and fees were paid) for any flight in the route network.
• Class Upgrades: Passengers could use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class to enjoy enhanced comfort.
• Partner Services: In some cases, points could be exchanged for hotel stays or transport rental.

Air Italy was not a member of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). However, the company actively developed partnerships and code-share agreements with major international carriers (such as Qatar Airways and others), which allowed passengers to benefit from an expanded route network and through-baggage check-in.

During the airline's operational period, joining the club was free. It required filling out a simple form on the official website to receive an individual membership number, which was then quoted with every ticket booking.

Service Classes and Onboard Comfort

Travelling with Air Italy (during its period of active operations) was positioned not just as a flight, but as an immersion in the atmosphere of Italian hospitality even before arriving at the destination. The airline paid special attention to style, comfort, and gastronomic pleasures, striving to meet high European standards.

It is important to note that the cabin configuration and set of services could vary depending on the aircraft type and flight duration. On long-haul flights, passengers were offered a full range of entertainment and amenities, while on short regional routes (for example, departures from the Syktyvkar hub), the service was adapted to the short duration of the flight.

Business Class

The airline's premium service segment was designed for those who value exceptional comfort and privacy. Business Class passengers received access to the following privileges:

• Flat-bed Seats: On long-haul liners (Airbus A330), seats were installed that reclined into a fully flat bed, allowing for proper rest during night flights.
• Personal Space: Direct aisle access for every passenger (on certain aircraft types) and increased legroom.
• Welcome Service: A welcome signature drink immediately after boarding.
• Amenity Kits: Exclusive travel kits from famous Italian brands, including cosmetics and sleep accessories.

Economy Class

In Economy Class, Air Italy strove to ensure a decent level of comfort even on long journeys:

• Ergonomic Seats: Seats with adjustable headrests and sufficient pitch for comfortable leg positioning.
• Multimedia: Personal touch screens with an entertainment system on seat backs (on long-haul flights).
• Dining: Full hot meals and beverages were usually included in the ticket price.

Food and Beverages

The airline's gastronomic concept was built around the idea of a "Taste of Italy in the Sky". The menu was regularly updated and included dishes of national cuisine.

• Breakfasts and Lunches: Passengers were offered fresh pasta, traditional Italian appetisers, and desserts (such as tiramisu or gelato).
• Beverages: The selection included premium options from various regions of Italy, as well as authentic espresso served even in Economy Class.
• Special Meals: Upon prior request (usually 24-48 hours), dietary, vegetarian, children's, or religious meals (including Halal) could be ordered.

Entertainment and Connectivity (IFE)

To make time fly, modern entertainment systems were offered on board:

• Movies and Music: An extensive library of new releases, world cinema classics, music, and games.
• Wi-Fi: On many aircraft, internet connection via satellite was available, allowing passengers to stay in touch with loved ones or work right in the air (the service could be paid depending on the fare).
• In-flight Magazine: A branded publication with articles on travel, fashion, and culture.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers

Air Italy adhered to principles of inclusivity and care for every client, offering assistance to those who needed it:

• Passengers with Children: Child safety belts were provided on board, and bassinets could be ordered for infants on long-haul flights. The crew often offered colouring books or play sets to young travellers.
• Passengers with Disabilities: The airline provided full accompaniment — from check-in at the airport to boarding the plane. Special onboard wheelchairs were available for moving around the cabin. It was important to request this service in advance.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children travelling without parents, an escort service was available, guaranteeing the child's safety under the supervision of airline staff at all stages of the journey.

Route Network and Destinations

The route network of Air Italy (formerly) was formed with an emphasis on regional accessibility, where the base airport Syktyvkar acted as a key connecting link. The airline provided regular air connections to important northern settlements, offering passengers convenient connections and a reliable schedule for flights within the region.

Booking and Travel Tips

Planning a trip with Air Italy (formerly), especially considering the specifics of the route network through the Syktyvkar hub, requires attention to detail. To ensure your journey is as comfortable and cost-effective as possible, we have prepared several recommendations based on the features of regional and trunk flights.

Best Time to Book
To secure the most favourable fares, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. The optimal period is 3-5 weeks before the intended departure date. This is particularly relevant for popular northern destinations such as Usinsk and Vorkuta, where demand often exceeds supply, and the number of flights is limited. If you plan to fly during holidays or the vacation season, it is better to start searching 2-3 months ahead.

How to Find Discounts and Promotions
To not miss special offers:

• Subscribe to the airline's newsletter (if available) or follow updates on aggregator websites.
• Pay attention to seasonal sales, which are often held before the start of winter and summer schedules.
• Check for subsidised fares for certain categories of citizens (youth, pensioners), which are often found on regional routes to Ust-Tsilma and other remote cities.

Online Check-in
Using web check-in allows you to significantly save time at the airport. Usually, the service opens 24 hours and closes 2–3 hours before departure. You can choose your seat in the cabin in advance and receive your boarding pass via email. For passengers departing from small airports, this also guarantees a calm passage through pre-flight formalities.

Seat Selection Tips
Seat selection depends on your preferences and the aircraft type:

• For the best views of northern landscapes, taiga, and tundra, choose Window seats.
• If it is important for you to leave the plane quickly after landing, prefer seats in the front of the cabin (Aisle).
• On long flights, emergency exit seats provide extra legroom, but remember safety rules restricting the placement of children and elderly passengers there.

Travel Insurance
Given the changeable weather conditions in the flight regions (Komi and the Far North), it is strongly recommended to take out insurance covering risks of flight delay or cancellation. This will protect you from unforeseen expenses for hotels and meals in case of bad weather. It is also worth including a baggage insurance option.

Mobile App
If the airline supports a mobile app, install it in advance. It is your pocket assistant that will allow you to:

• Store boarding passes electronically.
• Receive prompt push notifications about gate changes or departure times.
• Quickly manage your booking, for example, purchase extra baggage or order meals.

History and Path of Development

The history of Air Italy is a fascinating chronicle of transformations, mergers, and ambitious attempts to create the ideal Italian carrier. The company's path began long before the appearance of the recognisable maroon-green logo, rooted in the era of the birth of elite tourism in the Mediterranean.

Foundation and Early Years: The Alisarda Era
It all started in March 1963 with the founding of the airline Alisarda. Prince Karim Aga Khan IV initiated its creation. The carrier's main goal at that stage was to ensure transport accessibility to the new luxury resort of Costa Smeralda in Sardinia. The first flights were operated on small aircraft from Olbia to Rome and Milan, connecting the island with the mainland and revealing the beauties of Sardinia to the international elite.

The Meridiana Era and Expansion
By the early 1990s, the company had outgrown the status of a regional charter. In 1991, the first major rebranding took place: Alisarda changed its name to Meridiana. During this period, the airline began actively developing the European market, positioning itself as a quality alternative to the national carrier. The fleet was replenished with DC-9 and later MD-80 jet aircraft, which became the company's "workhorses" for many years. Meridiana successfully survived the liberalisation of European skies, strengthening its positions on domestic Italian and international routes.

Mergers and the Birth of a New Brand
An important milestone in history was the acquisition in 2011 of a small charter airline that already bore the name Air Italy. Initially, the brands existed in parallel within the Meridiana fly holding. However, a key turning point occurred in 2017–2018 when the Qatari airline Qatar Airways became a strategic investor, purchasing 49% of the shares.

In February 2018, a full relaunch and rebranding were announced: Meridiana officially became Air Italy. An ambitious goal was proclaimed — to become Italy's main air carrier, displacing the struggling Alitalia. The hub at Olbia airport was preserved as a historical base, but Milan Malpensa airport became the main centre for international expansion.

Fleet Evolution and Route Network
With the arrival of investments, the company's fleet began to update rapidly. Outdated MD-80s were replaced by modern Boeing 737 MAX for medium-haul flights and wide-body Airbus A330-200 for long-haul flights. This allowed the launch of direct flights from Milan to New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Bangkok, offering passengers a high-class product.

Conclusion of Operations
Despite innovations in service and aggressive network expansion, the company faced difficult market conditions. In February 2020, shareholders decided on the voluntary liquidation of the airline. Despite the cessation of flights, Air Italy left a bright mark on aviation history as an example of a bold attempt to bring new standards of quality and style to the Italian skies.