ASKY

ASKY stands as a prominent symbol of West African connectivity, established to bridge the gap in regional air travel and foster economic integration across the continent. Operating from its strategic hub in Lome, the airline has successfully created a dense network that links capital cities in West and Central Africa to the wider world. With a strong emphasis on punctuality and service quality, ASKY has transformed the travel experience in the region, making multi-country itineraries smoother and more reliable. Its success is built on a unique pan-African vision, supported by a strategic partnership with industry giant Ethiopian Airlines.

As a vital player in African aviation, ASKY offers distinct advantages and features that cater to both business and leisure travelers navigating the continent.

Strategic Network and Connectivity
The airline's primary mission is to facilitate movement within Africa. Its schedule is carefully designed to offer short transit times at its hub in Lome, effectively connecting major cities such as Dakar, Accra, and Lagos with the rest of the region. This "hub and spoke" model allows travelers to reach destinations like Ouagadougou, Bamako, and Brazzaville with remarkable efficiency.

Modern Fleet and Safety
ASKY operates a modern fleet consisting primarily of Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft and Bombardier Dash 8 Q400s. The airline benefits significantly from its management contract and strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, which provides technical support, maintenance, and crew training. This collaboration ensures that ASKY adheres to international safety standards and operational excellence.

Passenger Experience and Awards
The carrier is known for its hospitality and has received recognition for its role in African commerce, including awards for being the "Best Short Haul Carrier in West Africa." Passengers can expect a comfortable journey with a choice of Business and Economy classes on most flights. The airline continues to expand its reach, recently adding flights to destinations as far as Nairobi and Johannesburg, further solidifying its status as a key connector for the continent.

Contacting ASKY in the United Arab Emirates

As ASKY primarily operates within West and Central Africa, the airline does not currently maintain a dedicated local office or call center in the United Arab Emirates. For travelers located in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates, the most effective way to manage bookings or make inquiries is by contacting the airline's global headquarters in Lome, Togo, or by utilizing their digital platforms.

Official Website

For the most direct service, including ticket booking, flight status updates, and reservation management, travelers are encouraged to visit the official website:

• Official Website: www.flyasky.com

Contact Information

Since local contact numbers in the UAE are unavailable, please refer to the international contact details for the Global Head Office. International calling rates may apply.

• Global Call Center (24/7): +228 22 23 05 05
• Ticket Booking & Reservations: +228 22 23 05 00
• Email Support: headoffice@flyasky.com
• Mobile App: "ASKY Airlines" – Available on the App Store and Google Play

Social Media

The airline is active on major social media platforms and often responds to passenger inquiries through direct messages. You can find them by searching for their official handles:

• Facebook: ASKY Airlines
• X (Twitter): @ASKY_Airlines
• Instagram: @flyasky
• LinkedIn: ASKY Airlines

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

Currently, there is no direct ASKY Airlines office in the United Arab Emirates. However, as ASKY is a strategic partner of Ethiopian Airlines, travelers may attempt to contact Ethiopian Airlines offices in Dubai or Abu Dhabi for general guidance. Please note that while they are partners, the partner airline may not be able to resolve all specific booking issues related to ASKY flights.

Emergency & After-Hours Support

For urgent matters, such as changes to travel plans occurring within 24 hours of departure, it is recommended to contact the Global Call Center directly.

• Emergency / 24h Support: +228 22 23 05 05

Baggage Information

Traveling with ASKY comes with the distinct advantage of one of the most generous baggage policies in West and Central Africa. Whether you are flying for business, visiting family, or connecting through the hub in Lome, the airline ensures you can bring what you need without the stress of strict weight limits. Understanding the specific allowances for your ticket class will help ensure a smooth check-in experience.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers are entitled to bring hand luggage into the cabin. This allowance is designed to keep essential items, valuables, and travel documents close at hand during your flight.

• Economy Class: Passengers are allowed 1 piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7 kg.
• Business Class: Passengers can enjoy a higher allowance of 1 piece weighing up to 10 kg.
• Dimensions: The maximum size for carry-on bags is typically 55 x 40 x 25 cm.
• Personal Item: In addition to your main carry-on, you may bring one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera bag, provided it fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Allowance

ASKY operates on a "piece concept" for checked luggage, offering significant capacity for travelers. This is particularly beneficial for passengers on routes connecting major cities like Lagos or Accra.

Important Note: The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) for any checked bag should not exceed 158 cm. ASKY Club members (Silver, Gold, and Black tiers) may be eligible for additional baggage allowances depending on their membership status.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance in weight or number of pieces, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees are typically calculated based on the route and the type of excess.

• Overweight Bags: Bags weighing more than the standard allowance (23 kg for Economy) but less than 32 kg will usually incur a surcharge. Bags over 32 kg are generally not accepted as checked luggage and may need to be sent as cargo.
• Extra Pieces: You can check in additional bags beyond your 2-piece allowance for a fee.
• Payment: Excess baggage fees are typically paid at the airport check-in counter. It is recommended to arrive early if you anticipate needing this service.

Special Items: Sports Equipment & Instruments

ASKY allows passengers to transport special items, though specific rules apply to ensure safety and space availability.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, bicycles, and diving gear can often be carried as part of your checked baggage allowance. However, if they exceed the standard size or weight limits, special handling fees may apply. Bicycles must generally have handlebars fixed sideways and pedals removed for transport.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments may be carried in the cabin if they fit within the carry-on dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or, in some cases, may require purchasing an extra seat (contact the airline well in advance for this arrangement).

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For the safety of all passengers and crew, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. Please review this list carefully before packing.

• Prohibited Everywhere: Explosives, fireworks, flammable liquids (such as petrol or lighter fuel), and corrosive substances.
• Prohibited in Cabin (Must Check-in): Sharp objects (knives, scissors, box cutters), tools, and sporting goods like baseball bats.
• Restricted Items: Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are not permitted in checked bags due to fire safety regulations.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To make your journey with ASKY as comfortable as possible, consider these helpful packing tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the 23 kg (Economy) or 32 kg (Business) limit to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
• Label Everything: Attach a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address to every checked bag. It is also wise to place a contact card inside the bag.
• Valuables in Cabin: Always pack medication, jewelry, cash, laptops, and important documents in your carry-on bag. Never put these items in checked luggage.
• Secure Fragile Items: If you are transporting fragile goods, perhaps from a shopping trip in Dakar or Abidjan, ensure they are well-cushioned in a hard-shell suitcase to prevent damage during handling.

Pet Travel Policy

ASKY understands that pets are cherished family members and strives to make their journey as safe and comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or taking a long vacation, the airline permits the transport of domesticated dogs and cats on most of its flights, subject to specific regulations ensuring animal welfare and passenger safety. Travelers are encouraged to book their pet's ticket well in advance, as space for animals is limited on each aircraft.

Transport Options

Depending on the size and weight of your animal, there are three distinct ways to transport your pet across the ASKY network, from the hub in Lome to destinations across the continent.

• Carrier Dimensions: The pet must be kept in a soft-sided, leak-proof carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.
• Weight Limit: The total weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed the airline's specific cabin allowance. It is essential to confirm the current weight restrictions with the airline prior to travel.
• Allowed Pets: Generally restricted to small dogs and cats that can fit comfortably in the carrier.
• Limit: Only one pet container is permitted per passenger.
• Conduct: The animal must remain inside the carrier for the entire duration of the flight and must not cause a disturbance to other passengers.

• Container Requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved hard-shell crate (fiberglass or rigid plastic) with proper ventilation on at least three sides and a secure metal door.
• Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Weight Limits: Animals exceeding the cabin weight limit must travel in the hold. Heavier pets may be subject to additional cargo regulations.
• Temperature: For safety, pets may not be accepted if extreme temperatures are forecast at departure, transit, or arrival airports.

• Requirement: This option is mandatory for very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or species other than dogs and cats.
• Booking: These arrangements must be made through the ASKY Cargo department separately from your passenger ticket.
• Special Handling: Provides specialized care and tracking for animals that cannot travel as checked baggage.

Required Documentation

To avoid delays at airports like Accra or Lagos, ensure you have the following documents ready in original format:

• Veterinary Passport: A current record identifying the pet and owner.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate issued shortly before travel, confirming the animal is fit to fly.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other routine shots as required by the destination country.
• International Permits: Import/export permits or transit papers required by the specific countries in your itinerary.

Service Costs

Transporting a pet is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs an additional fee. Charges are subject to change but generally follow these guidelines:

• In-cabin fee: A fixed fee applies per direction, which varies depending on the travel zone.
• Cargo hold fee: Calculated based on the combined weight of the animal and the crate, or charged according to excess baggage rates.
• Route Variance: Fees may be adjusted for longer international routes or those involving partner airlines.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet beforehand can significantly reduce travel stress:

• Crate Training: Let your pet get used to the carrier or crate weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal several hours before departure to prevent nausea; avoid feeding right before flying.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is well-hydrated, and consider attaching a drip water bottle to the crate door.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat or a familiar blanket inside the crate.
• Stress Reduction: Consult your vet about natural calming aids; sedation is generally discouraged as it can affect breathing at altitude.

Restrictions

For safety reasons, ASKY enforces strict limitations on certain animals:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers) and cats (e.g., Persians) are often restricted or prohibited in the hold due to respiratory risks at high altitudes.
• Aggressive Animals: Breeds classified as dangerous or animals showing aggressive behavior will be refused carriage.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must meet minimum age requirements to travel.
• Exceptions: Service animals (guide dogs) may travel in the cabin free of charge, provided all documentation and training requirements are met.

Important: Pet travel regulations can change based on aircraft type and local laws. We strongly recommend contacting ASKY Airlines directly or visiting their local office at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm current rules, weight limits, and to reserve a spot for your pet.

Loyalty Program: ASKY Club

ASKY Club is the exclusive frequent flyer program designed to reward travelers who choose ASKY for their journeys across West and Central Africa and beyond. Whether you are a business professional commuting between Lagos and Lome or a leisure traveler exploring the continent, membership unlocks a world of privileges, making every flight more comfortable and rewarding.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The program is structured into four distinct levels, each offering progressively valuable benefits. Moving up the tiers is based on the number of status miles earned or flights taken within a calendar year.

• Brown (Entry Level): The welcoming tier for new members. Benefits include a generous welcome bonus of miles upon your first flight, priority on reservation waiting lists, and the ability to start accumulating miles immediately.
• Silver: Designed for frequent travelers. Members enjoy a mileage earning bonus on flights, priority check-in services, and a dedicated additional baggage allowance to ease your travel.
• Gold: A premium tier for dedicated flyers. Benefits include access to the VIP Lounge at the Lome hub, significantly higher mileage earning bonuses, priority boarding, and increased extra baggage allowances.
• Black (Elite): The highest level of recognition. Elite members receive the maximum mileage bonus, top-tier priority services, guaranteed seat availability on fully booked flights (under specific conditions), and the highest baggage privileges.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles with ASKY Club is straightforward and flexible, allowing you to reach your next reward faster.

• Flights: Earn miles on every eligible flight operated by ASKY Airlines. The amount earned depends on the distance flown and the booking class.
• Tier Bonuses: Silver, Gold, and Black members earn a percentage bonus on top of base miles, accelerating their account growth.
• Partner Flights: Thanks to the strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, members may be able to earn miles on select code-share flights, expanding the earning potential beyond the regional network.

Redeeming Your Miles

Your earned miles are a valuable currency that can be exchanged for a variety of travel rewards.

• Award Tickets: Redeem miles for free flights to any destination in the ASKY network, from Dakar to Johannesburg.
• Flight Upgrades: Use your miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class and enjoy premium comfort and service.
• Excess Baggage: Pay for extra luggage using your miles instead of cash, a perfect option for travelers with heavy shopping or equipment.

Strategic Partnership and Alliance

While ASKY Airlines is not a direct member of a global alliance, it holds a powerful strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, a member of the Star Alliance. This relationship provides seamless connectivity for passengers traveling from the United Arab Emirates and other global points.

• ShebaMiles Integration: Passengers who are members of Ethiopian Airlines' ShebaMiles program can also earn and redeem miles on ASKY-operated flights. This is particularly beneficial for UAE-based travelers who frequently fly with Ethiopian Airlines to Africa.

How to Join

Joining ASKY Club is free and simple. Travelers can enroll online through the official website or the ASKY mobile app. Alternatively, paper enrollment forms are often available at ASKY sales offices and airport check-in counters. New members are encouraged to add their membership number to their booking immediately to ensure their first flight bonus is credited.

In-Flight Experience and Service Classes

Flying with ASKY offers a blend of authentic West African hospitality and modern aviation standards. As a strategic partner of Ethiopian Airlines, the carrier ensures a reliable and comfortable experience across its network. Whether you are connecting through the hub in Lome for a business meeting or embarking on a regional adventure, the airline provides service options tailored to meet diverse passenger needs.

Service Classes

ASKY primarily operates a two-class configuration on its Boeing 737 and Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 fleet, designed to offer flexibility and comfort for both short hops and longer regional journeys.

• Business Class: Designed for travelers seeking exclusivity and convenience. Passengers in this cabin enjoy priority check-in and boarding, granting them a stress-free start to their journey. On board, the dedicated cabin features wider seats with generous recline and ample legroom, ensuring a relaxing flight. Business Class guests also receive premium attentive service from the crew, making it an ideal choice for professionals traveling between major hubs like Lagos or Accra.
• Economy Class: Offering value without compromising on safety or dignity, the Economy cabin provides a welcoming atmosphere. The seats are designed ergonomically to maximize comfort within the standard configuration. Passengers benefit from the airline's generous baggage allowance and friendly service, making it a popular choice for families and leisure travelers.

Dining and Beverages

One of the highlights of flying with ASKY is the complimentary onboard dining service, which sets it apart from many low-cost carriers in the region. The airline takes pride in offering a taste of the continent at 30,000 feet.

Depending on the duration of the flight and the time of day, passengers in both classes are served varied options:

• Hot Meals: On longer routes, such as those to Dakar or Johannesburg, passengers are treated to hot meals featuring a mix of African and international cuisine.
• Snacks and Refreshments: On shorter regional hops, a selection of savory snacks or sandwiches is provided.
• Beverages: A wide assortment of complimentary beverages is available, including soft drinks, juices, tea, and coffee. Business Class passengers can also enjoy a selection of wines and spirits to complement their meal.

Entertainment and Amenities

To keep passengers engaged during their flight, ASKY provides essential entertainment options suited for regional travel.

• In-Flight Magazine: The airline's bilingual magazine (usually in English and French) offers engaging articles on African culture, travel destinations, and business news, providing excellent reading material for the journey.
• Cabin Screens: On the Boeing 737 fleet, overhead screens typically display flight maps and entertainment programming to pass the time.
• Comfort: For longer flights, pillows and blankets are generally available upon request or standard in Business Class to ensure a cozy nap while cruising.

Special Services

ASKY is committed to making air travel accessible and safe for everyone. The airline offers a range of special services to assist passengers with specific requirements. These requests should ideally be made at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure.

• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): The airline provides a dedicated escort service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised and cared for from check-in until they are handed over to their guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance (WCHR) is available at all airports served by ASKY. The cabin crew is trained to assist passengers with disabilities to ensure their comfort and safety throughout the flight.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant women are welcome on board up to specific stages of pregnancy. It is essential to carry a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly if traveling close to the due date.
• Special Meals: Travelers with specific dietary requirements (medical or religious) can request special meals in advance to ensure their needs are met during the flight.

ASKY operates an extensive and strategically designed route network that spans across West and Central Africa, facilitating essential connections for business and leisure travelers alike. From its central hub in Lome, the airline efficiently links major capitals and economic centers, acting as a vital bridge within the continent. The network is structured to provide seamless connectivity, allowing passengers to travel between diverse destinations with minimal transit times.

Securing the best fares with ASKY often depends on timing. To maximize your chances of finding lower prices, it is advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Last-minute bookings can be significantly more expensive, especially during peak travel seasons or major regional holidays. If your travel dates are flexible, consider searching for flights mid-week, as departures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are frequently cheaper than weekends.

Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and special offers by subscribing to the airline's newsletter or checking their official website regularly. This is particularly useful if you are planning trips to popular destinations like Dakar or Accra. Utilizing flight comparison tools can also help you spot price drops and identify the most cost-effective connection times through their hub in Lome.

To ensure a smooth journey, take advantage of the online check-in feature. This service typically opens 24 to 48 hours before departure and allows you to confirm your flight, select your preferred seat, and obtain your boarding pass digitally. Checking in online not only secures your seat early but also saves you valuable time at the airport, allowing you to bypass long queues at the check-in counters.

When it comes to seat selection, booking early gives you the widest range of options. Whether you prefer a window seat to enjoy the view or an aisle seat for easier mobility, selecting your spot during the booking process or immediately when online check-in opens is recommended. For added convenience, consider downloading the airline's mobile app, which allows you to manage your booking, track flight status, and receive real-time notifications about your journey to cities like Lagos or Abidjan.

Finally, investing in comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for any international trip. A good policy covers unexpected events such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Having this protection ensures you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you are financially safeguarded against unforeseen disruptions to your itinerary.

History and Development

Founding a Regional Connector
Following the collapse of the transnational carrier Air Afrique in the early 2000s, West and Central Africa faced a severe connectivity crisis. In response to this void, ASKY was established in 2008 as a bold initiative to restore seamless regional travel and foster economic integration. The airline was founded through the collaborative efforts of regional institutions, including the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) and the West African Development Bank (BOAD), alongside private investors. Its name, an acronym for "African Sky," reflects its enduring mission to unify the continent's airspace and facilitate movement across borders.

Strategic Partnership with Ethiopian Airlines
A defining moment in the company's history was the formation of a strategic partnership with Ethiopian Airlines during its inception. Recognizing the complexities of the aviation industry, ASKY's founders secured the East African aviation giant as a strategic partner and significant shareholder. This collaboration was crucial, providing the new carrier with technical expertise, a management contract, and immediate access to a reliable fleet and maintenance standards. Capitalizing on this robust foundation, the airline commenced commercial operations in January 2010, establishing its operational base in Lome.

Early Expansion and Network Growth
The airline's initial strategy focused on linking neighboring capitals that had historically been difficult to travel between directly. By implementing a "hub-and-spoke" model, it efficiently connected cities such as Accra, Lagos, and Abidjan. This approach allowed passengers to transit seamlessly through Togo, drastically reducing travel times compared to previous options that often required connections outside the continent. Within a few years, the carrier had successfully reinstated vital air links across the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) zone.

Fleet Evolution
To support its growing network, the airline curated a modern and flexible fleet. Initially operating with leased aircraft, it transitioned to a mix of Bombardier Dash 8 Q400s for shorter, thinner routes and Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft for higher-demand sectors. This dual-fleet strategy allowed the carrier to operate profitably on diverse routes, from short hops to Cotonou to longer regional sectors. In recent years, the airline has continued to modernize, introducing newer generation aircraft to enhance fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.

Bridging the Continent
A significant milestone in the airline's expansion was the launch of long-haul regional flights to East and South Africa. By adding destinations like Nairobi and Johannesburg to its network, the carrier effectively bridged the gap between West Africa and the continent's other major economic hubs. These routes eliminated the need for circuitous travel through Europe for many passengers, solidifying the airline's position as a truly pan-African carrier.

Modern Developments
Today, ASKY stands as a testament to successful regional cooperation. It has carried millions of passengers and expanded its footprint to over 25 destinations, including key cities like Dakar and Brazzaville. The airline continues to innovate by refining its schedule to minimize transit times and increasing frequencies on popular routes, remaining dedicated to its founding promise of connecting Africa to the world.