Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines is a breath of fresh air for travellers who appreciate simplicity, savings, and the absence of the stress typically associated with large, overcrowded airports. This American budget airline has made it its mission to bring the joy back to flying by connecting small and convenient regional airports with popular holiday destinations. A journey with Avelo feels like a visit to old friends: they offer fair fares, straightforward service, and strive to get you to your destination on time and in comfort.

History and Philosophy of the Company

Although the Avelo Airlines brand appeared on the horizon relatively recently — the first flight under this name took place in April 2021 — the carrier's roots go back to 1987, when Casino Express Airlines (later Xtra Airways) was founded. The relaunch under the leadership of experienced executive Andrew Levy turned the airline into the first major new carrier in the USA in the last 15 years. Avelo's core value is the "Soul of Service" philosophy, which implies a friendly attitude towards every passenger and a desire to make air travel accessible to everyone.

Flight Geography

Avelo's strategy involves using so-called "secondary" airports located close to major cities but devoid of their endless queues. The main hub is the cosy airport of New Haven in Connecticut. From here, tourists can easily reach the sunny resorts of Florida, such as Fort Lauderdale, famous for its theme parks Orlando, or the beachside Tampa.

The route network also actively covers other regions. For example, flights operate from New Castle airport to exotic San Juan in Puerto Rico. For travellers wishing to visit North Carolina, Raleigh is a convenient destination. The schedule also includes flights connecting important transport hubs, such as Atlanta and Nashville, with regional centres.

Fleet and Safety

The company's fleet consists of reliable and time-tested Boeing 737 aircraft (modifications -700 and -800). These are the "workhorses" of global aviation, known for their safety and efficiency on medium-haul routes. Like any American carrier, Avelo Airlines is strictly regulated by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which guarantees compliance with the highest standards of flight safety and aircraft maintenance.

Service Features

As a low-cost carrier, Avelo offers low base fares, allowing passengers to pay only for what they truly need. This means that seat selection, priority boarding, and baggage allowance (including carry-on luggage placed in the overhead bin) are usually paid for separately. However, the company prides itself on having no hidden fees and offering flexibility in changing bookings, making holiday planning less risky.

Contacting Avelo Airlines is quite simple: the company adheres to a philosophy of openness and tries to stay connected with its passengers. Most issues can be resolved online or via the convenient mobile app, but if you require live communication, the support team is always ready to help.

Official Website

All current information, booking management, and online chat are available on the airline's official portal: www.aveloair.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: aveloair.com
• Customer Support (USA): +1 (346) 616-9500 (daily from 06:00 to 24:00 US Eastern Time).
• Ticket Booking: +1 (346) 616-9500
• Email for General Inquiries: support@aveloair.com
• Mobile App: "Avelo Airlines" (available on App Store and Google Play) — the fastest way to check in and manage your flight.

Social Media

It is convenient to follow news, sales, and schedule changes through the carrier's official accounts:

• Facebook: Avelo Air
• Twitter / X: @aveloair
• Instagram: @aveloair

Local Offices and Representatives

As a budget airline, Avelo does not have a network of city sales offices. You can meet company representatives directly at departure airports.

• Airport Counters: Located in departure terminals and usually open 2 hours before flight departure.
• Base Hub: Service and information counters are always available at New Haven (Tweed New Haven Airport), which is the carrier's main base.
• Head Office: 12 Greenway Plaza, Suite 400, Houston, TX 77046, USA (for official correspondence only).

Support

The telephone support line does not operate around the clock (usually from 05:00 to 23:00 US Central Time). In case of emergency situations outside working hours, it is recommended to use the feedback forms on the website or the chat function in the mobile app.

Please note: Contact details and operating hours may change. We recommend checking the current information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Baggage rules are perhaps the most important aspect of preparing for a flight with Avelo Airlines. Like most budget carriers (low-cost airlines), the company offers low ticket prices because baggage transport services are not included in the base fare. To ensure your journey through the hub in New Haven or to any other destination goes smoothly and without extra costs, study these regulations carefully.

Carry-on Baggage: Free and Paid

Avelo's policy regarding items in the aircraft cabin strictly divides items into "personal items" and full-sized "carry-on baggage". This is a key point for saving money.

• Personal Item — Free. Each passenger is entitled to bring one item on board, which must fit under the seat in front of you. This can be a small handbag, briefcase, laptop backpack, or a shopping bag. Dimensions must not exceed 35 x 22 x 24 cm (14" x 9" x 9.5").
• Overhead Carry-On — Paid. A bag or suitcase that you plan to place in the overhead luggage bin is paid for separately. Its size must not exceed 56 x 35 x 22 cm (22" x 14" x 9").

Important: If your free "personal item" does not fit into the sizer or under the seat, you will have to pay for it as full-sized carry-on baggage, and this fee will be significantly higher at the airport than online.

Checked Baggage

All baggage that you hand over at the check-in counter is subject to a fee. Avelo Airlines does not include free baggage allowance in its standard fares. The cost depends on when you add baggage to your booking (it is cheapest when purchasing the ticket).

• Weight: A standard piece of baggage must not exceed 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 157 cm (62 inches).

Excess Baggage Fees

If your suitcase is heavier or larger than the established limits, be prepared for additional fees. Excess weight is charged according to a tiered system:

• Excess weight from 23 to 31 kg (51-70 lbs): A noticeable surcharge applies.
• Excess weight over 32 kg (71+ lbs): Such suitcases are not accepted for carriage. You will have to repack things into another bag.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Avelo is accommodating towards its passengers' hobbies but requires compliance with packing rules.

• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (violin, ukulele) can be taken into the cabin as paid carry-on baggage if they fit in the overhead bin. Large instruments (cello, guitar) are checked in as baggage in hard cases.
• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, skis, snowboards, and fishing gear are accepted as a standard piece of checked baggage. Bicycles and surfboards are considered oversized cargo and require a special surcharge. Please note that electric transport devices (hoverboards, scooters) with lithium batteries are often prohibited for carriage.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety purposes, strict restrictions apply, complying with TSA (US Transportation Security Administration) standards.

• In Carry-on: Sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (3.4 oz) are prohibited. All liquids must be packed in a single transparent bag.
• In Checked Baggage: It is strictly forbidden to check in loose lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes (vapes), and portable chargers (Power Banks) — they must be in carry-on baggage only.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To avoid overpaying and to travel comfortably, follow simple rules:

1. Pay in advance: Adding baggage or carry-on during booking on the website is always cheaper than adding them later or paying at the airport.
2. Use a backpack: A soft backpack is easier to squeeze under the seat than a rigid bag, guaranteeing its passage as a free "personal item".
3. Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving for the airport. An extra 1-2 kg can cost you a significant amount at the check-in counter.
4. Dress in layers: It is better to wear your bulkiest items (jackets, heavy boots) to free up space in your suitcase.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Avelo Airlines happily welcomes small household pets on board its aircraft. The airline understands that pets are family members, so it tries to make their journey as comfortable as possible. However, as a budget carrier, the company has strict limitations: priority is given to safety and cabin space, so travellers should prepare carefully for the flight.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

This is the only available method for transporting pets on Avelo Airlines flights (with the exception of service dogs). Your pet will remain with you throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: A hard container must not exceed 36 x 23 x 24 cm (14" x 9" x 9.5"). Soft carriers may be slightly larger if they are compressible and fit under the seat.
• Weight: There is no strict weight limit, but the animal must fit comfortably in the carrier and be able to stand up and turn around.
• Permitted Animals: Domestic cats and dogs only.
• Limit per Passenger: No more than one carrier per client is allowed (up to two puppies or kittens of the same breed/litter may be in one carrier if they are not cramped).
• Placement: The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you and remain there for the entire flight.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

It is important to know that Avelo Airlines does not accept pets for transport in the aircraft's cargo hold.

• This service is unavailable on any of the company's aircraft types.
• If your pet is too large for transport in the cabin, unfortunately, you will have to choose another airline for its transport.

As Cargo

The airline does not carry out commercial cargo transport of live animals.

• Sending animals unaccompanied (Air Cargo) is not possible.
• All pets must travel only in the cabin together with their owner.

Necessary Documents

Although requirements are minimal for flights within the continental US, always have copies of documents with you.

• Veterinary Passport: With current data on the owner and pet.
• Vaccinations: Proof of rabies vaccination (relevant for all states).
• Health Certificate: Usually not required for domestic flights, but mandatory if you are flying to San Juan (Puerto Rico). The certificate must be issued no earlier than 30 days before departure.
• Specific State Requirements: Some states may have their own veterinary rules; we recommend checking them in advance.

Cost of Services

Pet transport is not included in the ticket price and is paid for additionally. A spot for a pet must be booked in advance, as the number of places on board is limited (usually up to 8 carriers per flight).

• Transport in Cabin: Approximately $125 for each flight segment (one way).
• Payment: The fee is charged at booking (Pet Fare).
• Status: The carrier is considered an additional piece of carry-on luggage and does not replace your personal item or paid baggage.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Requirements: It must be leak-proof, have ventilation openings on three sides, and a secure lock. Soft-sided carriers are preferable as they are easier to place under the seat.
• Reducing Stress: Put a favourite toy or an item with the scent of home in the carrier. Accustom the animal to the bag a few days before departure.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but give a little water.
• Check-in: Arrive at New Haven airport or another departure point in advance. Check-in with animals often requires personal presence at the counter to check documents and the carrier.

Restrictions

• Age: The animal must be older than 8 weeks.
• Behaviour: The animal must behave calmly. Aggressive, excessively noisy, or foul-smelling animals may be denied boarding.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents (hamsters, rabbits), reptiles, birds, and large dog breeds are not accepted for transport.
• Exceptions: Fully trained Service Animals are transported free of charge and without a carrier, provided the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form is submitted. Emotional Support Animals (ESAN) are treated as regular pets.

Please note: The number of places for animals on each flight is strictly limited. We strongly recommend booking the service ("Add Pet") simultaneously with purchasing the ticket on the airline's website.

The Avelo PLUS loyalty programme is the embodiment of the airline's philosophy: simplicity, transparency, and real savings instead of complicated mile accumulation schemes. Avelo Airlines has abandoned traditional status levels requiring thousands of flight miles in favour of a clear paid subscription model that starts paying off from the very first trip.

Participation Levels and Privileges

Instead of a multi-step hierarchy (silver, gold, platinum), Avelo has a single premium status available to anyone for a fixed annual fee. This allows travellers to instantly access services that are available only to elite passengers at other airlines.

• Avelo PLUS Member: The main and only level of the programme.
  • Priority Boarding: Guaranteed right to board in the first group (Group 1), which allows you to stow carry-on luggage without haste.
  • Exclusive Fares: Access to special "Members-only" prices, which are lower than standard public fares.
  • Discounts on Additional Services: Special offers on seat selection and baggage allowance.

How to Accumulate Points and Bonuses

Avelo Airlines' reward system differs from classic mileage programmes. The main currency here is Avelo Travel Funds (funds on the account) and bank partner miles.

• Renewal Bonus: Every year upon renewing the Avelo PLUS subscription, members receive bonus funds (usually $50) to their Avelo Travel Funds account, which effectively compensates for the cost of participation.
• Capital One Credit Cards: Thanks to an exclusive partnership, holders of Capital One cards (Venture and VentureOne) receive privileges and accumulate bank miles for Avelo ticket purchases, which can then be used to offset travel expenses.
• Everyday Purchases: By using partner cards to pay for groceries, fuel, or restaurants, you accumulate universal bank miles applicable to Avelo flights.

How to Use What You Have Accumulated

• Paying for Flights: Avelo Travel Funds (including loyalty bonuses and compensations) can be used to pay for the full or partial cost of flight tickets on any route network flights, whether it's a flight to New Haven or sunny Florida.
• Covering Expenses (Statement Credit): If you pay for tickets with a Capital One card, accumulated miles allow you to "erase" the purchase cost from the card statement, making the flight effectively free.
• No Restrictions: Unlike classic programmes, there are no "blackout dates" for using funds from the account here — if there is a seat on the plane, you can pay for it with your funds.

Participation in Alliances

Avelo Airlines is an independent budget carrier and currently is not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). The company focuses on developing its own unique network of direct routes between regional US airports without resorting to codeshare agreements with major players.

How to Join the Programme

Becoming an Avelo PLUS member is as simple and quick as possible:

1. Go to the official airline website aveloair.com.
2. In the "Avelo PLUS" section, select the subscription purchase option.
3. Pay the annual fee (standard cost is about $49).
4. Privileges, such as priority boarding and access to special fares, are activated instantly and will be valid for 12 months.

Travelling with Avelo Airlines is an experience built on the principle of "less hassle — more experiences". The airline positions itself as an ultra-low-cost carrier, so the set of services on board is optimised for maximum savings. Here you will not find luxurious first-class cabins or three-course hot meals, but you will get exactly what you pay for: a safe, fast, and polite flight to your destination.

Service Classes and Seat Configuration

Like most budget carriers, Avelo Airlines offers a single class of service — Economy. On board Boeing 737 aircraft, the seat layout is standard: 3 seats on the left and 3 on the right (3-3), separated by a single central aisle.

However, to increase the level of comfort, passengers are offered several categories of seats that can be selected for an additional fee:

• Seats with Extra Space (Extra Legroom): These seats are located in the front part of the cabin and at emergency exits. They offer increased distance between rows (seat pitch from 31 to 38 inches), allowing you to stretch your legs freely. This is an ideal choice for tall passengers.
• Standard Seats: The rest of the cabin. The seat pitch here is the standard 29 inches for low-cost carriers. The seats have a slim profile (slimline); they are ergonomic enough for short flights but have a limited recline angle (or are fixed), which is the norm for this segment.

Food and Drinks

In terms of catering, Avelo Airlines pleasantly surprises its clients, standing out from competitors. While many budget companies charge even for a glass of water, Avelo adheres to a more hospitable approach.

• Free Treats: On flights, passengers are offered a small bottle of water and a light snack (usually a biscuit or crackers) free of charge.
• Full Meals: Hot lunches, sandwiches, or fresh salads are not offered or sold on board. If you have a long flight ahead, for example, from the New Haven hub to Florida, we strongly recommend eating a substantial meal before departure or bringing food with you from the terminal.

Entertainment and Connectivity (Wi-Fi)

The philosophy of low prices implies opting out of expensive equipment. On board Avelo Airlines aircraft:

• No Wi-Fi: There is no internet access during the flight. This is a great opportunity to give yourself a "digital detox" or read a book.
• No Screens: There are no multimedia systems in the seatbacks.
• No Power Outlets: USB ports and sockets for charging gadgets are generally not provided.

Tip for tourists: Fully charge your smartphones and tablets in advance, bring a portable charger (Power Bank), and download films, music, or podcasts to your device before leaving home.

Special Services

Avelo Airlines strives to make the sky accessible to all categories of passengers and provides necessary services upon request.

• Passengers with Disabilities: The airline provides escort services and wheelchairs for movement around the airport, as well as assistance with boarding and disembarking. A request for these services must be made in advance through the support service or when booking a ticket.
• Travelling with Children: Families with children under 2 years old are allowed to carry the child on their lap for free. Strollers and child car seats can be checked in for free at the aircraft gangway (Gate Check) and retrieved immediately after landing.
• Unaccompanied Minors: It is important to know that Avelo Airlines does not provide an Unaccompanied Minor service. Children under 14 years old (inclusive) must fly accompanied by a passenger aged 15 years or older.

Avelo Airlines' route network focuses on connecting convenient regional airports with popular holiday destinations, bypassing congested major hubs. The heart of the flight programme is New Haven airport, from where most flights to Florida, North Carolina, and other states are operated. Below is a list of the airline's most frequent routes.

Travelling with a budget airline requires a special approach: a little planning can save you a significant amount and keep you free from stress. To ensure your flight with Avelo Airlines goes flawlessly, we have collected proven tips for you that will help you get the maximum benefit and comfort.

Best Time to Book

Like most low-cost carriers, Avelo's pricing is dynamic: as the plane fills up, prices rise. To catch the lowest fares, try to buy tickets at least 2–3 weeks before departure. If your plans are flexible, pay attention to flights in the middle of the week (Tuesday and Wednesday) — they are traditionally cheaper than Friday or Sunday flights. Use the "Low Fare Calendar" function on the carrier's website to immediately see the best dates of the month.

Hunting for Discounts and Promotions

Avelo Airlines regularly holds sales, offering discounts of up to 50% off the base fare via promo codes. To not miss such offers:

• Subscribe to the newsletter: This is the most reliable way to be the first to know about promotions. The subscription window is at the bottom of the official website's main page.
• Follow social media: Often unique promo codes are published on the airline's Instagram or Twitter for just 24 hours.
• Check introductory offers: When opening new routes (for example, from the New Haven hub to new cities), the company often sells tickets at symbolic prices in honour of the launch.

Online Check-in: Save Time

Check-in for the flight opens exactly 24 hours before departure. We strongly recommend completing it online via the website or mobile app. This will allow you to:

1. Avoid queues at airport counters.
2. Get your mobile boarding pass in advance.
3. Ensure all details are correct and your seat is secured.

Remember: At the airport, check-in closes strictly 40 minutes before departure, so do not be late, even if you are flying without checked luggage.

Seat Selection Strategy

If it is not crucial for you where you sit, you can save money and let the system assign you a seat automatically for free during check-in. However, be prepared that:

• You may be assigned a middle seat.
• If you are flying as a couple or family, the system will most likely seat you in different parts of the plane.

If you want to be guaranteed to sit next to your companions, it is better to pay for seat selection in advance when purchasing the ticket. The earlier you do this, the more options you will have and the lower the service price may be.

Mobile App — Your Digital Assistant

The official Avelo Airlines app is a must-have for the modern tourist. With its help, you can not only store boarding passes but also promptly purchase additional baggage (which is always cheaper to do via the app than at the counter), as well as receive push notifications about boarding gate changes or flight delays.

Travel Insurance

Since the cheapest Avelo fares are non-refundable, we recommend taking out travel insurance. It will help refund funds in case of sudden illness, trip cancellation for a valid reason, or loss of luggage. A small surcharge for the policy will ensure your peace of mind, especially if you are planning a complex route with transfers or expensive accommodation.

The history of Avelo Airlines is a fascinating example of how a bold idea and competent management can change the air travel market even in the most difficult times. Although the name Avelo sounded in the sky quite recently, the company's foundation was laid decades ago, and its creation was a response to the real needs of passengers tired of the complexities of large hubs.

From Casinos to Regular Flights: Early Years

The carrier's roots go back to 1987, when Casino Express Airlines was founded. At that time, its main task was delivering guests to casinos in Elko, Nevada. It was a niche charter carrier that performed its narrow function for decades. In 2010, the company rebranded to Xtra Airways, switching to corporate and government charters. However, the real revolution began in 2018 when the airline was acquired by Andrew Levy — an experienced executive who previously held senior positions at United Airlines and Allegiant Travel Company.

Birth of the Avelo Brand

Andrew Levy saw a unique opportunity: there were many small, convenient airports in the USA that were ignored by major airlines. His vision was to create a low-cost carrier that would connect these points with direct flights. In April 2021, amidst the industry's recovery after the pandemic, the company was officially renamed Avelo Airlines. This marked the first launch of a new mainline airline in the USA in nearly 15 years.

First Takeoff and Two-Coast Strategy

On 28 April 2021, the first commercial flight under the new brand took place from Burbank (California). Initially, the company focused on the West Coast, but Avelo's ambitions extended to the whole country. Already in November 2021, the airline took a strategically important step by opening its first base on the East Coast — in the city of New Haven, Connecticut. This decision proved incredibly successful: Avelo breathed new life into the local Tweed New Haven Airport, offering residents of the region a convenient alternative to the congested airports of New York.

Route Network Expansion

Success in Connecticut allowed the company to scale quickly. In 2022 and 2023, Avelo continued aggressive expansion, opening new bases and routes. Important milestones included:

• Opening a base in Orlando: Orlando airport became a key point for tourist flows to Florida.
• Revival of Wilmington Airport: Avelo chose New Castle (Wilmington) airport as a base, returning commercial flights to the state of Delaware after a long break.
• Base in North Carolina: Raleigh (Raleigh-Durham) airport became another important hub connecting southern and northern network destinations.

Fleet Evolution

Since its launch, Avelo Airlines has banked on fleet unification, which is the gold standard for budget airlines. The carrier began flights with three Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Gradually, the fleet was replenished, and Boeing 737-700 models were added. Using a single type of aircraft allows the company to save significantly on maintenance and pilot training, which ultimately translates into low ticket prices for passengers. Today, the company's fleet continues to grow, supporting the opening of new destinations.

Innovation and Modern Approach

Unlike tech giants, Avelo's innovations lie in the realm of service and logistics. The company introduced the "Soul of Service" culture, prioritising human attitude and reliability. While the industry suffered from mass flight cancellations, Avelo established itself as one of the most punctual carriers in the USA. Using secondary airports, such as New Haven, allows for reduced aircraft taxiing and runway waiting times, making the journey faster and more pleasant.

Today, Avelo Airlines continues to develop, following its mission: to inspire travel by making it simpler and more affordable. From a small charter operator, the company has turned into a notable player in the American market, connecting over 40 cities and millions of passengers annually.