Arajet

Discover the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean with Arajet, a dynamic ultra-low-cost carrier transforming air travel across the Americas. Based in the Dominican Republic, this airline has rapidly established itself as a bridge connecting North, Central, and South America with affordable fares and modern efficiency. With a mission to democratize the skies, Arajet invites travelers to explore new horizons, offering a seamless and budget-friendly gateway to the pristine beaches and cultural riches of the region.

A New Era of Caribbean Connectivity

Arajet prides itself on operating one of the youngest and most eco-efficient fleets in the region, consisting exclusively of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. These state-of-the-art planes are designed to reduce fuel consumption and noise, ensuring a greener and quieter journey for passengers. The airline's strategic location allows it to serve as a vital connecting point for travelers moving between major cities in the Americas.

Expanding Horizons

From its Dominican bases, the airline offers an impressive network of routes. Travelers can fly directly to South American metropolises like Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and Bogota. For those heading north, the carrier provides convenient links to Toronto, Chicago, and New York City (via EWR). The network also spans key leisure and business hubs such as Cancun, Medellín, and Lima.

Commitment to Value and Safety

Safety and reliability are at the core of Arajet's operations. By adhering to rigorous international safety standards and utilizing advanced aviation technology, the airline ensures peace of mind for every passenger. Combined with its "warm Dominican hospitality" and competitive pricing, Arajet is an excellent choice for tourists seeking to maximize their travel budget without compromising on the quality of their flight experience.

Contacting Arajet in the United Arab Emirates

For travelers based in the United Arab Emirates, it is important to know that Arajet primarily operates within the Americas and the Caribbean region. Currently, the airline does not maintain a local office, airport counter, or a dedicated customer service phone line in the UAE. Passengers located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or elsewhere in the region should utilize the airline's international digital channels or contact their main support center in the Dominican Republic for assistance.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, bookings, and support, please visit the official website. This is the primary portal for managing reservations and accessing current travel information.

• Website: www.arajet.com

Contact Information

Since local support is not available in the UAE, please use the following international contact details. Be aware that international calling rates may apply, and support is generally provided in Spanish and English.

• Customer Service (International/Main): +1 829 947 6338 (Dominican Republic)
• Email Support: hablemos@arajet.com
• Ticket Booking: Available directly via the official website
• Online Help Center: Accessible through the "Contact Us" section on their website for submitting queries.

Social Media

Arajet is active on various social media platforms. These channels are often useful for finding the latest updates and can sometimes be used to ask general questions via direct message:

• Instagram: @arajetairlines
• Facebook: Arajet
• X (Twitter): @ArajetAirlines
• LinkedIn: Arajet

Local Offices

There are currently no local ticket offices for Arajet in the United Arab Emirates. All administrative matters are handled through their headquarters in the Caribbean.

• Headquarters Address: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Emergency & Support Hours

The main contact center generally operates during business hours relative to the Dominican Republic time zone (GMT-4). If you require urgent assistance regarding a booking while in the UAE, it is recommended to use the online "Manage Booking" tool on their website or contact the airline via social media for potentially faster initial responses outside of their standard phone support hours.

Baggage Policy Overview

As an ultra-low-cost carrier, Arajet operates with an unbundled fare model. This means that base ticket prices often cover just the seat, giving you the flexibility to pay only for the luggage you need. Understanding the specific weight and size limits is crucial to avoiding unexpected fees at the airport, as policies are strictly enforced to ensure efficient turnaround times at their Punta Cana hub and other destinations.

Carry-On Baggage

Arajet’s cabin baggage policy differentiates between a personal item (included) and a standard carry-on (often an extra fee). It is essential to measure your bags before you fly, as the airline checks dimensions carefully.

• Personal Item (Included): Every passenger is entitled to one small personal item free of charge. This must fit under the seat in front of you. Common examples include a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack.
  • Dimensions: Maximum 40 x 25 x 20 cm (15 x 9 x 7 inches).
  • Weight Note: While there is often no strict weight cap for this item, it must be light enough for you to handle easily and must fit completely within the sizer.
• Standard Carry-On (Fee/Bundle): A larger cabin bag to be stored in the overhead bin is generally not included in the basic fare (Smart) and must be purchased separately or acquired through a higher fare bundle (like Comfort or Extra).
  • Dimensions: Maximum 56 x 46 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 inches).
  • Weight Limit: Maximum 12 kg (26 lbs).

Checked Baggage

If you are planning a longer trip, you can purchase checked baggage allowances. Prices are significantly lower when booked online in advance compared to paying at the airport counter.

• Weight Allowance: The standard weight limit for a single checked bag is usually 20 kg (44 lbs) or 23 kg (50 lbs), depending on the specific fare bundle you choose during booking. Be sure to check your ticket confirmation for the exact allowance.
• Size Limit: The maximum total dimension (length + width + height) is generally 158 cm (62 inches).
• Excess Baggage: Bags weighing more than your allowance will incur per-kilogram or flat-rate overweight fees. The absolute maximum weight for any single piece of luggage is 32 kg (70 lbs); bags heavier than this will not be accepted for safety reasons.

Special Items: Sports & Musical Instruments

Arajet welcomes adventurers and musicians, but special equipment requires advance planning and additional fees.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf clubs, surfboards, fishing gear, and bicycles are categorized as special baggage. They must be properly packed in protective hard cases or bags. Please note that these items are subject to size limits (generally approx. 230 cm in length), so it is vital to verify the specific dimensions with the airline before arrival.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit within the personal item dimensions can be brought into the cabin. Larger instruments must be checked as special baggage or, in some cases, may require purchasing an extra seat if you wish to keep them in the cabin.
• Fees: Expect a fixed handling fee per item. It is highly recommended to add these to your booking online to secure the best rate.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, certain items are restricted. Please review your packing list against international aviation standards.

• Liquids in Cabin: Follow the standard 3-1-1 rule. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100ml (3.4 oz) or less and fit into a single clear, resealable plastic bag.
• Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage. They are strictly prohibited in checked baggage due to fire risks.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects (knives, box cutters) are forbidden in the cabin.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey with Arajet as smooth as possible, consider these travel tips:

• Book Baggage Early: The most expensive time to buy luggage allowance is at the airport gate. Save money by adding bags via the "Manage Booking" section on the website before you travel.
• Weigh at Home: Since the carry-on weight limit (12 kg) and checked limit (20-23 kg) are strictly monitored, use a portable luggage scale at home to avoid surprise fees.
• Soft-Shell vs. Hard-Shell: For carry-ons, a soft-shell backpack often fits easier into sizers than a rigid suitcase, provided you don't overstuff it.

Traveling with Pets on Arajet

Arajet recognizes that pets are beloved family members and welcomes small cats and dogs to travel with you in the aircraft cabin. The airline has established specific guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. It is important to note that Arajet does not transport pets in the cargo hold; therefore, only small animals that fit in a carrier under the seat are permitted to fly.

Important: Restrictions for United States Flights

If your travel itinerary involves the United States, strict regulations apply. Please be aware of the following limitations before booking your ticket to destinations such as New York City, Miami Beach, Boston, or Chicago.

• Pets and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): These are NOT permitted on any flights to or from the United States.
• Service Dogs: Fully trained service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities are accepted on US routes, provided all required documentation and DOT forms are submitted in advance.

In-Cabin Transport (Carry-on)

For routes excluding the USA, this is the sole method for transporting pets with Arajet. It is designed for small animals that can travel comfortably in a soft carrier stowed under the seat in front of you.

• Carrier Dimensions: The carrier must be a soft-sided bag with maximum dimensions of 40 x 25 x 20 cm to ensure it fits securely under the seat.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Allowed Pet Types: Only domestic dogs and cats are accepted.
• Limit per Passenger: Each passenger is limited to one pet carrier.
• Behavior: The animal must remain inside the carrier at all times and must not display aggressive behavior or emit foul odors.

Emotional Support Animals (Non-US Routes)

On flights that do not touch US soil—such as routes between Santo Domingo and Bogota or Cancun—Arajet may accept Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin.

• Documentation: You must provide valid medical documentation from a mental health professional supporting the need for the animal.
• Requirements: The animal must behave properly in public settings. Aggressive or disruptive animals will be denied boarding.
• Booking: You must notify the airline well in advance to ensure compliance with specific entry regulations of the destination country.

No Checked Baggage or Cargo Service

Unlike some legacy carriers, Arajet does not offer a service to transport pets in the aircraft hold as checked baggage or as air cargo.

• Size Limits: Since hold transport is unavailable, large dogs or animals that exceed the 10 kg cabin weight limit cannot travel on Arajet flights.
• Alternative: If you need to transport a larger animal, you will need to make arrangements with a dedicated pet shipping company or a different airline that offers cargo services.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process at the Punta Cana hub or any outstation, you must present physical copies of all necessary health documents.

• Veterinary Passport: An official document identifying the pet and its owner.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate issued shortly before travel (timeframes vary by country, typically 10–30 days).
• Vaccinations: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, specifically rabies, administered at least 30 days prior to travel.
• International Permits: Specific sanitary permits required by the destination country (e.g., for entry into Medellín, Mexico City, or Lima).

Service Costs

Traveling with a pet incurs an additional fee which is not included in the base fare.

• Cabin Fee: Approximately $100 USD per segment. Prices are subject to change and may vary based on the point of sale.
• Payment: It is highly recommended to add this service during your online booking process, as availability is limited per flight.
• Non-Refundable: Pet travel fees are generally non-refundable.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet for the journey can significantly reduce stress for both you and your animal.

• Carrier Acclimatization: Ensure your pet is accustomed to the carrier weeks before the flight. The bag must have a waterproof bottom and ventilation mesh.
• Feeding: Avoid feeding your pet a large meal within 4 hours of departure to prevent motion sickness.
• Check Regulations: Always verify the specific veterinary entry requirements for your destination country (e.g., Buenos Aires or Toronto) to avoid quarantine issues upon arrival.

Note: We strongly recommend contacting Arajet directly or visiting their official website to verify the latest pet travel rules, especially regarding the specific forms required for Service Dogs and international health certificates.

Loyalty and Rewards: The Arajet Approach

Unlike traditional legacy airlines that rely on complex mile-accumulation schemes, Arajet simplifies the concept of loyalty. As an ultra-low-cost carrier, their primary "reward" to passengers is the consistent availability of affordable fares. Instead of a standard frequent flyer program with tiered status levels, the airline focuses on direct monetary value through a robust referral system and digital wallet options, ensuring that savings are immediate and transparent.

Referral Program: Earn While You Share

The most direct way to earn flight credits with Arajet is through their dedicated Referral Program. This initiative allows travelers to earn rewards in the form of vouchers, which can be applied toward future trips to destinations like Buenos Aires or Toronto.

• Sign-Up Bonus: New users who register for the program typically receive an initial voucher (often valued around $10-$30 USD, subject to current promotions) just for creating an account.
• Referral Rewards: When you share your unique referral link with friends or family, you earn additional credit (e.g., $30 USD) once they complete their first booking and travel.
• Usage: These accumulated credits are stored in your digital wallet and can be used to pay for tickets, baggage, or seat selection. Note that there is usually a cap on the total amount one can earn through referrals (currently set at a maximum of $150 USD per account), and credits have an expiration period, typically 12 months.

Arabonito: The Digital Travel Wallet

For frequent flyers and those looking to gift travel, Arajet offers Arabonito, a flexible digital voucher system. It functions as a pre-paid balance or gift card that allows you to lock in travel funds for yourself or others.

• Flexibility: Arabonito credits can be used to purchase any service on the website, including flights to major hubs like Bogota and Mexico City, as well as ancillary services like extra baggage.
• Transferability: Unlike some strict airline credits, Arabonito vouchers are designed to be easily used by the recipient, making them an excellent option for families or business travelers managing expenses.
• Validity: Vouchers generally remain valid for one year from the date of issuance, encouraging travelers to plan their next Caribbean getaway within a reasonable timeframe.

Subscriber Exclusives

Since Arajet does not use a "points" currency, the true value for loyal customers comes from staying connected. The airline is known for its aggressive flash sales—sometimes offering base fares as low as $1 USD (excluding taxes and fees). To take advantage of these offers, passengers are encouraged to:

• Subscribe to the Newsletter: Be the first to know about new routes to cities such as Santo Domingo or Miami Beach.
• Follow on Social Media: Promo codes and limited-time discounts are frequently announced on their official channels before appearing elsewhere.

In summary, while you won't collect miles for a free lounge upgrade, Arajet's loyalty strategy is designed to make your next flight to Punta Cana cheaper through direct referral credits and smart booking habits.

Service Classes and Cabin Comfort

Arajet operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier with a single-class cabin philosophy, designed to provide affordable travel without compromising on essential comforts. While the airline does not offer traditional Business or First Class tickets, it provides a tiered fare structure and unique seating options that allow passengers to customize their experience based on their budget and needs.

Economy Class (Standard)
The core of the Arajet experience is its modern Economy cabin on board the Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet. The standard configuration features a 3-3 layout with slimline leather seats. These seats are designed for efficiency but include modern touches like adjustable headrests and USB ports for charging devices. The seat pitch is approximately 30 inches, which is standard for low-cost carriers, offering sufficient legroom for short to medium-haul journeys connecting the Caribbean with North and South America.

Premium Seats ("Big Seats")
For travelers seeking extra comfort, Arajet offers a distinct "Premium" seating option in the first few rows of the aircraft. Unlike the standard rows, these seats are arranged in a 2-2 configuration, similar to domestic First Class found on US carriers. These seats feature significantly more width, extra legroom, and a deeper recline. They are available for purchase as a seat selection upgrade, offering a "Business Class" physical feel at a fraction of the price.

Fare Bundles

To keep base fares low, Arajet uses an "unbundled" pricing model where passengers pay only for the services they intend to use. When booking a flight to destinations like Punta Cana or Santo Domingo, travelers can choose from three main fare packages:

• Smart (Basic): The most affordable option, typically including only the seat and a small personal item (backpack or purse).
• Comfort: A mid-tier bundle that usually adds a checked bag, seat selection in standard rows, and flight change flexibility.
• Extra: The comprehensive package which generally includes a carry-on bag, a checked bag, premium seat selection (including the front rows if available), and priority boarding.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

Arajet embraces a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) culture. The aircraft are not equipped with seatback screens. Instead, the airline focuses on keeping passengers powered up and connected through their own electronics.

• USB Charging: Every seat, including standard economy, is equipped with USB power outlets, allowing you to keep your phone or tablet charged throughout the flight.
• Entertainment: Passengers are encouraged to download movies, music, and shows to their personal devices before boarding. While there is no onboard Wi-Fi for streaming, the airline often provides a digital magazine or local travel guides.

Dining: "El Colmadito" Menu

Complimentary meals and drinks are not included in the ticket price. Instead, Arajet offers a buy-on-board service known as "El Colmadito" (The Little Grocery Store). This menu reflects the airline's Dominican roots and offers a variety of items for purchase:

• Snacks: A selection of chips, nuts, and sweet treats, often featuring popular local Dominican brands.
• Beverages: The drink menu includes soft drinks, juices, water, and a selection of beers and spirits. Hot coffee and tea are also available.
• Sandwiches: On longer routes, such as flights to Buenos Aires or Toronto, fresh sandwiches and more substantial snack boxes may be available for purchase.

Payment for onboard items is typically cashless, so passengers should be prepared to pay with a credit or debit card.

Special Services

Arajet provides specific services to assist passengers with unique needs, ensuring a safe and accessible journey.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available for passengers who require it. It is mandatory to request this service at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure to guarantee availability.
• Unaccompanied Minors: Unlike some legacy carriers, Arajet generally does not accept unaccompanied minors. All children under the age of 16 must travel with an adult companion (aged 18 or older). It is crucial to verify this policy directly with the airline if you are planning travel for a minor.
• Traveling with Infants: Infants (under 2 years old) can travel on an adult's lap for a nominal fee. Parents are permitted to bring a diaper bag and a stroller, which is typically checked at the gate free of charge.

Connecting the Americas

Arajet has built a strategic network centered around its primary hub in Punta Cana, positioning the Dominican Republic as a vital link between North, Central, and South America. In addition to its main hub, the airline operates a significant schedule from the capital city of Santo Domingo. This dual-focus approach allows travelers to connect efficiently to a wide variety of international destinations across the continent.

South American Destinations

The airline maintains a strong presence in South America, offering direct flights to some of the region's most dynamic cities. From Punta Cana, passengers can travel to the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires and the bustling metropolis of Sao Paulo in Brazil. The network from the hub also extends to the historic coastal city of Lima in Peru, Cordoba in Argentina, and Bogota. Travelers flying from Santo Domingo have additional access to Colombia, with routes serving both Bogota and the "City of Eternal Spring," Medellín.

North American Gateways

For those heading north, Arajet provides essential links to major urban centers in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Routes from Punta Cana connect travelers to the popular vacation spot of Miami Beach, the vibrant city of Chicago, and Toronto. The airline also serves Mexico's capital, Mexico City, and the beaches of Cancun from its Punta Cana base. Service from Santo Domingo includes flights to New York City, the academic hub of Boston, Miami Beach, and Mexico City.

Caribbean and Central America

Strengthening regional connectivity, the airline operates frequent flights to key destinations in Central America and the Caribbean. Both the Punta Cana and Santo Domingo bases offer connections to the historic port of San Juan in Puerto Rico. Furthermore, the route map from Santo Domingo includes flights to Guatemala City and Alajuela in Costa Rica.

Securing the best value for your journey with Arajet requires a bit of strategic planning. As a low-cost carrier, their pricing model often rewards travelers who book well in advance. To find the most attractive fares for popular routes, such as flights to Buenos Aires or New York City, it is recommended to purchase your tickets at least a few months before your intended departure date. Avoiding peak holiday seasons and choosing mid-week flights can also lead to significant savings.

To stay updated on the latest promotions and flash sales, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their official social media channels. They frequently offer special deals connecting their hubs in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo to various destinations across the Americas. Keeping your travel dates flexible allows you to take advantage of these limited-time offers when they arise.

Online check-in is a crucial step for a smooth experience. It is generally advisable to check in via the website or the mobile app 24 to 48 hours before your flight to avoid potential airport queues or additional fees. The mobile app is also a handy tool for managing your booking, purchasing extra services, and having your digital boarding pass readily available. Whether you are flying to Sao Paulo or Medellín, having your documents organized on your phone streamlines the process.

When it comes to comfort, seat selection is worth considering during the booking process. If you prefer extra legroom or need to ensure your group sits together on a flight to Cancun or Toronto, pre-selecting your seats is highly recommended, as standard tickets may assign seats randomly. Additionally, purchasing checked baggage allowance online in advance is usually cheaper than paying for it at the airport counter.

Finally, investing in comprehensive travel insurance is always a smart decision. It provides peace of mind against unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel delays. Given the nature of international travel, having adequate coverage ensures you are protected throughout your journey with Arajet.

Founding and Early Origins

The story of Arajet began well before its modern ultra-low-cost branding took to the skies. The airline was originally founded in 2014 under the name Dominican Wings, operating primarily as a charter carrier. In its early years, the company focused on providing charter flights for tour operators, connecting the Dominican Republic with various destinations in the Caribbean and the United States. However, seeing a gap in the market for affordable, scheduled air travel in the region, the company's leadership began a significant transformation process to evolve from a charter operator into a scheduled commercial airline.

Rebranding and Strategic Shift

A pivotal moment in the airline's history occurred in 2018 when it announced a transition to a low-cost business model under the name Flycana. This laid the groundwork for the modern carrier, but the final evolution took shape in 2021 with the emergence of the brand Arajet. Under the leadership of founder Victor Pacheco and with backing from significant international investors, the airline set out with a bold mission: to transform the Dominican Republic into a major continental hub connecting North, Central, and South America.

Official Launch and First Flights

Arajet officially commenced commercial operations in September 2022. The inaugural flight departed from Santo Domingo to Barranquilla, Colombia, marking a new era for Dominican aviation. Unlike traditional startups that grow slowly, Arajet launched with an aggressive expansion plan, rapidly adding destinations across Colombia, Mexico, and Central America within its first few months of operation. This rapid rollout was designed to immediately establish the carrier as a serious competitor in the Latin American market.

Fleet Evolution: The Boeing 737 MAX

From the outset, Arajet made a strategic decision to operate a unified fleet of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This modern, fuel-efficient aircraft was chosen for its ability to fly longer ranges—allowing the airline to reach destinations as far south as Buenos Aires and as far north as Toronto from its Caribbean base. The fleet has grown steadily since the launch, with the airline placing substantial orders to ensure capacity for future route expansion. The focus on a single aircraft type has allowed Arajet to streamline maintenance and training, a core tenet of the low-cost model.

Expansion of Hubs and Network

While the airline initially focused on Santo Domingo, it has significantly expanded its operational footprint. Recognizing the immense tourism potential of the eastern coast, Arajet has developed a robust network from Punta Cana. This dual-hub strategy allows the carrier to serve both business travelers in the capital and leisure travelers heading to world-famous resorts. The addition of Punta Cana as a key base has facilitated new routes to high-demand markets, including Miami Beach and Chicago.

Modern Developments

In a relatively short period, Arajet has achieved milestones that often take airlines decades. It has successfully launched long-haul narrowbody routes connecting deep South America with North America via a seamless stopover in the Dominican Republic. Today, the airline continues to innovate by refining its connections, aiming to replicate the "hub and spoke" success seen in other global regions, effectively bridging the gap between continents with affordable fares and modern service.