AJet

AJet, formerly known as AnadoluJet, has emerged as a dynamic force in the aviation industry, carrying the prestigious legacy of its parent company, Turkish Airlines, into a new era of accessible travel. Rebranded in 2024 to operate as a standalone low-cost carrier, AJet is dedicated to making air transport affordable while maintaining high standards of safety and comfort. With a mission to connect Anatolia to the world, the airline serves as a vital bridge for travelers, offering a modern and efficient flying experience that appeals to both leisure and business passengers.

AJet distinguishes itself through a combination of competitive pricing and a robust network that simplifies travel between the Middle East and Turkey. For passengers in the United Arab Emirates, the airline provides excellent connectivity with frequent flights. Travelers can fly directly from Dubai and Sharjah to the airline's bustling hub in Istanbul. Additionally, AJet offers convenient direct routes connecting Dubai to the Turkish capital, Ankara, facilitating easy access for tourism and commerce.

The airline operates a modern and eco-conscious fleet, primarily consisting of Boeing 737-800 and newer Airbus A320neo family aircraft. This fuel-efficient fleet underscores the company's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. By focusing on operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, AJet continues to expand its reach, ensuring that exploring the rich history and landscapes of Turkey is easier and more affordable than ever before.

Travelers wishing to get in touch with AJet have several convenient options to ensure a smooth journey. The airline prioritizes digital accessibility, allowing passengers to manage reservations, check flight status, and purchase additional services directly through its official website and user-friendly mobile app. These platforms are the primary resources for obtaining the most up-to-date travel information and accessing self-service tools.

For passengers in the United Arab Emirates requiring in-person assistance, the carrier maintains an operational presence at key departure points. Service desks and check-in counters are available at Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport. These facilities are typically staffed prior to scheduled departures to assist with check-in procedures, baggage drop-off, and immediate travel inquiries.

The airline's headquarters is located in Istanbul, which serves as the central command for its global network. For general inquiries, customer feedback, or post-flight support, travelers are encouraged to contact the global call center or connect with the customer care team via the airline's official social media channels.

Understanding the baggage policy is an essential step in planning your trip with AJet. Whether you are heading to a business meeting or a vacation, knowing your allowances for carry-on and checked luggage ensures a stress-free airport experience. The airline offers various fare packages, each designed to meet different travel needs, so it is important to review the specific details of your ticket before packing.

Carry-on Baggage

Passengers flying with AJet are generally entitled to a generous cabin baggage allowance. Typically, travelers can bring one piece of carry-on luggage weighing up to 8 kg with maximum dimensions of 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm. In addition to the main cabin bag, passengers are often permitted to bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop case, or camera bag, which must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Keeping essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in your carry-on is highly recommended.

Checked Baggage Allowance

Checked baggage allowances vary significantly depending on the fare class purchased and the specific route, such as flights from Dubai or Sharjah to Istanbul. Passengers should carefully check their ticket type:

• Basic Fares: Designed for light travelers, these economical options typically include only cabin baggage and do not come with a free checked baggage allowance.
• EcoJet and Flex Fares: These packages generally include a checked baggage allowance, often ranging from 20 kg to 30 kg, providing ample space for your essentials.

Since policies can differ for international and domestic connections, such as those continuing to Ankara, passengers should always verify the exact weight limits printed on their booking confirmation.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance provided by your ticket, excess baggage fees will apply. AJet charges for overweight or extra pieces based on a specific rate per kilogram or per bag. To save money and time at the airport, it is advisable to purchase additional baggage allowance online through the airline's official website or mobile app prior to your departure, as fees paid at the airport counter are often higher.

Special Baggage: Sports Equipment and Instruments

Traveling with special items requires a bit of extra planning.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf clubs, skiing gear, or bicycles can be transported, but they may be subject to special handling fees unless covered by a specific promotion. It is best to register these items in advance.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit within cabin baggage dimensions can be taken on board. Larger instruments may require purchasing an extra seat or must be transported as checked cargo in a hard-shell case to ensure their safety.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers, strict international aviation rules apply to baggage.

• Prohibited in Hold: Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes strictly must be carried in your cabin baggage and are not allowed in checked luggage.
• Liquids: In carry-on bags, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag.
• General Prohibitions: Flammable materials, explosives, and sharp objects (in the cabin) are strictly forbidden.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid unexpected fees and delays, weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport. Ensure that all old baggage tags are removed from your luggage to prevent routing errors. Labeling your bags with your name, phone number, and email address—both inside and outside—is a smart precaution. Finally, distribute weight evenly between your bags if you are traveling with multiple pieces to stay within the per-bag weight limits.

AJet understands that pets are cherished members of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or taking a long vacation, the airline permits cats, dogs, and small singing birds to travel on board, ensuring you don't have to leave your furry friends behind. Detailed planning and adherence to specific guidelines are essential to ensure a smooth check-in process and a safe flight for your companion.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

For small pets that can travel with you in the passenger cabin, specific limits apply to ensure safety and comfort.

• Carrier Dimensions: The cage or bag must not exceed 23 cm x 30 cm x 40 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the pet including the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Cats, dogs, and small singing birds (such as parakeets or canaries) are generally permitted.
• Capacity: There is a limit to the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight, so early booking is crucial.
• Placement: The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and the pet must remain inside throughout the flight.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Pets that exceed the size or weight limits for the cabin can travel safely in the ventilated cargo hold.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be in a hard-shell, leak-proof IATA-approved crate that allows them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Weight and Size: This option is for animals weighing more than 8 kg or those in carriers larger than cabin limits.
• Ventilation: The crate must have adequate ventilation on at least three sides.
• Security: The door must be lockable and secure to prevent accidental opening during transit.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

In certain circumstances, pets may need to be transported via the cargo department rather than as checked baggage.

• Requirement: This is typically required for very large animal crates or unaccompanied pets.
• Booking Procedure: These arrangements must be made through the airline's cargo division separately from your passenger ticket.
• Special Handling: Additional paperwork and earlier drop-off times usually apply.

Required Documentation

To travel internationally, such as on routes from Dubai or Sharjah to Istanbul, you must provide valid official documents.

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date identification document for the animal.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate issued shortly before travel confirming the pet is fit to fly.
• Vaccination Card: Proof of all required vaccinations, specifically rabies, administered within the required timeframe.
• Microchip: Electronic identification is mandatory for international travel to and from Turkey.
• Titer Test: A rabies antibody titration test may be required for entering Turkey or returning to the UAE.

Service Costs

Pet travel is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs an additional fee.

• In-Cabin Fee: A fixed fee is charged per cage, which varies based on the route (domestic vs. international).
• Cargo Hold Fee: Charges are typically calculated based on the total weight of the pet and the crate or as a fixed oversized baggage fee.
• Payment: Fees are usually paid at the airport during check-in.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet in advance can significantly reduce travel stress.

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their carrier or crate weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 to 6 hours before departure to prevent nausea.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad and a familiar item, like a blanket, inside the crate.
• Hydration: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated but avoid placing full water bowls that might spill in the crate.

Restrictions

For safety reasons, AJet applies strict restrictions on certain animals.

• Prohibited Breeds: Aggressive or dangerous dog breeds (e.g., Pitbull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro) are generally not accepted.
• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed cats and dogs (like Pugs or Persians) may be restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Age Limits: Puppies and kittens typically must be at least 3 months old to travel.
• Health Conditions: Pregnant animals or those in poor health may be denied boarding.
• Exceptions: Service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities are usually exempt from weight fees but require prior notification.

Important: Pet travel regulations and entry requirements for Turkey and the UAE are subject to change. We strongly recommend contacting AJet directly and consulting with your veterinarian well in advance of your trip to Ankara or Istanbul to ensure all requirements are met.

Loyalty Program

AJet does not operate a standalone loyalty scheme but instead participates in Miles&Smiles, the renowned frequent flyer program of its parent company, Turkish Airlines. This integration provides a significant advantage for travelers, allowing them to earn valuable miles on affordable AJet flights, which can then be utilized within the extensive global network of Turkish Airlines and its partners.

Earning Miles

Travelers flying with AJet can accumulate both "Miles" (spendable currency) and "Status Miles" (for tier progression) on their journeys. Whether you are flying from Dubai or Sharjah to Istanbul, or flying to Ankara, your travel activity counts.

• Flight Accrual: Miles are earned on scheduled AJet flights based on the ticket class and route. While international flights typically earn a percentage of the distance flown, domestic routes within Turkey usually earn fixed amounts.
• Star Alliance Network: As a Miles&Smiles member, you also earn miles when flying with Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance member carriers.
• Commercial Partners: You can boost your balance through a wide range of non-airline partners, including hotels, car rental agencies, and co-branded credit cards.

Redeeming Miles

It is important for members to understand the specific redemption limitations associated with AJet's low-cost model. Currently, miles cannot be redeemed for award tickets on AJet flights.

However, the miles you earn on AJet are fully fungible within the broader program. You can use your accumulated miles to book award flights or upgrade cabin classes solely on Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance partner airlines. This allows you to save money on your daily travel with AJet while saving up for premium experiences on the parent carrier.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The Miles&Smiles program features four status levels: Classic, Classic Plus, Elite, and Elite Plus. While higher tiers offer substantial privileges, passengers should be aware of how these apply to AJet.

• Limited Perks on AJet: Since AJet operates as a low-cost carrier, most elite benefits—such as extra baggage allowance, business class check-in, and priority boarding—apply only when flying with Turkish Airlines. These perks generally do not extend to AJet flights.
• Lounge Access: One notable exception for Elite and Elite Plus members is access to the domestic CIP Lounge at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, subject to current capacity and rules. Access for international flights or at other airports may be restricted or unavailable.
• Star Alliance Status: Your status level in Miles&Smiles corresponds to Star Alliance Silver or Gold status, granting you recognition and benefits across the global alliance network, though these again apply primarily to full-service flights rather than AJet's low-cost operations.

How to Join

Joining the program is free, immediate, and opens the door to rewarding travel:

• Online Registration: Create an account via the official Turkish Airlines or AJet website.
• Mobile App: Sign up instantly using the mobile application to receive a digital membership card.
• Claiming Missing Miles: If you recently flew but were not yet a member, you can often claim miles for flights taken up to 12 months prior to your enrollment date.

Service Classes

In line with its low-cost business model, AJet operates a single-class configuration known as Economy Class across its entire fleet. This streamlined approach allows the airline to offer competitive fares on popular routes, such as those from Dubai and Sharjah to Istanbul. While there are no separate Business or First Class cabins, passengers can tailor their experience by choosing different fare bundles, which may include perks like seat selection or extra baggage allowance.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The cabin interior is designed to maximize space and functionality. Whether flying on a Boeing 737-800 or an Airbus A320neo, passengers will find a standard 3-3 seating layout. The seats are typically upholstered in high-quality leather and feature an ergonomic design aimed at providing adequate comfort for short to medium-haul flights. Although legroom is standard for the economy sector, the slimline seat design helps preserve personal space. For those desiring extra legroom, specific seats near emergency exits or in the front rows can usually be reserved for an additional fee.

In-Flight Dining

AJet offers a "Buy-on-Board" dining concept tailored to modern travelers. The airline does not typically provide complimentary meals on its international or domestic flights. Instead, passengers can choose from the AJet Café menu, which features a variety of fresh sandwiches, sweet and savory snacks, and a selection of hot and cold beverages. Guests traveling to Ankara or other destinations are encouraged to review the menu located in the seat pocket. It is advisable to carry a credit or debit card, as electronic payment is the standard method on board.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep ticket prices low, the airline does not install seatback entertainment screens. Passengers are strongly advised to bring their own devices—such as smartphones, tablets, or laptops—pre-loaded with movies, music, or games to enjoy during the flight. While there is no traditional in-flight entertainment system (IFE), the views over the clouds and the airline's in-flight magazine provide alternative ways to pass the time.

Special Services

AJet is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for everyone. The airline provides dedicated services for passengers with specific requirements:

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available for navigation through the airport and boarding. It is essential to request this service at least 48 hours prior to departure to ensure availability.
• Families with Children: The airline welcomes families and provides infant seat belts for the little ones. While specific children's meals or entertainment packs are not standard, the cabin crew is trained to assist families in making the journey as comfortable as possible.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant travelers are accepted on board up to a certain week of pregnancy. A medical report may be required depending on the stage of pregnancy, so checking the latest regulations before flying is recommended.

AJet strengthens the air bridge between the United Arab Emirates and Turkey with a focused network of direct flights. Operating from its primary hub in Istanbul, the airline offers frequent and convenient connections for travelers departing from major UAE airports to key Turkish destinations.

Securing the best journey with AJet begins well before you arrive at the airport. Whether you are planning a trip from Dubai or Sharjah, booking your tickets in advance is the golden rule for securing the lowest fares. Prices for flights to popular destinations like Istanbul and Ankara generally tend to rise as the departure date approaches. To find the best deals, consider booking at least a few weeks ahead and try to be flexible with your dates; flying mid-week is often more economical than flying on weekends.

To stay updated on the latest promotions, it is highly recommended to subscribe to the airline's newsletter or follow their official social media channels. Discounts and special campaigns are frequently announced through these platforms, offering significant savings on your ticket. Additionally, downloading the AJet mobile app is a smart move. The app not only allows you to book flights seamlessly but also provides instant notifications about flash sales and exclusive app-only offers.

Streamlining your airport experience is easy with online check-in. This service typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure and allows you to select your seat and generate a mobile boarding pass. Utilizing the online check-in feature helps you avoid long queues at the airport counters, giving you more time to relax before your flight. If you have specific preferences, such as a window seat for the view or an aisle seat for easy access, make sure to select your seat as early as possible during the booking or check-in process.

Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance when booking your flight. While everyone hopes for a smooth journey, insurance provides a safety net against unexpected events, such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Review the policy details carefully to ensure it covers your specific needs, allowing you to travel with complete peace of mind.

The story of AJet began on April 23, 2008, under the well-known name AnadoluJet. Established as a sub-brand of the national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, its primary mission was to connect the Anatolian region with the rest of Turkey. Initially centered around its hub in Ankara, the airline was founded with the goal of democratizing air travel, making it more accessible and affordable for the general public. By streamlining services and focusing on domestic connectivity, it quickly became a vital link for local communities and businesses across the country.

As passenger demand grew, the airline embarked on a significant expansion strategy. It established a second major base at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, effectively capturing the bustling market on the city's Anatolian side. This strategic move allowed the carrier to broaden its horizons beyond domestic borders. In 2020, a major milestone was reached when the airline launched international flights from Sabiha Gökçen, connecting Turkey to key destinations across Europe and the Middle East, and transforming from a local operator into a significant regional player.

The most transformative period in the company's history occurred in 2024, with its rebranding and restructuring as AJet. To enhance competitiveness in the low-cost aviation sector, Turkish Airlines spun off the unit into a standalone subsidiary, AJet Air Transportation Inc. This evolution allowed the airline to obtain its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and operate with greater independence and agility. The transition was marked by a fresh corporate identity and a modern livery, symbolizing a new era of growth and innovation while retaining the high safety standards of its parent company.

Parallel to its organizational changes, the airline has consistently upgraded its fleet to meet modern aviation standards. While the backbone of its operations was built on the reliable Boeing 737-800, the carrier has actively integrated newer, more efficient aircraft types, including the Airbus A320neo family. These fleet modernizations reflect a commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency. Today, AJet continues to expand its network, offering vital direct connections from cities like Dubai and Sharjah, bridging the gap between the UAE and Turkey with a focus on value and reliability.