AZAL

AZAL, also known as Azerbaijan Airlines, serves as the prestigious flag carrier of the "Land of Fire," bridging the gap between East and West with distinct style and efficiency. Operating from its ultra-modern hub in Baku, the airline has established itself as a symbol of Azerbaijani hospitality, blending traditional warmth with contemporary aviation standards. With a focus on connecting travelers to the rich cultural heritage of the Caucasus region and beyond, AZAL offers a sophisticated travel experience that appeals to both business and leisure passengers.

Since its establishment as an independent carrier in 1992, AZAL has undergone significant modernization to become a leading airline in the CIS region. The company's primary mission is to provide safe, reliable, and comfortable air transportation while promoting Azerbaijan as a global tourism destination. A key advantage for travelers is the airline's strategic base at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which is frequently recognized for its stunning architecture and efficiency, allowing for smooth transfers between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

The airline operates a varied and modern fleet designed to suit different route lengths and passenger needs. This includes advanced aircraft such as the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner for long-haul flights, as well as Airbus A320 and A319 models for short and medium distances. AZAL places a high premium on safety and maintenance, adhering to strict international regulations and maintaining a strong safety record as an IATA member holding the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification.

Passengers flying with AZAL often praise the onboard experience, particularly the catering, which features a blend of international cuisine and authentic Azerbaijani flavors. The airline has received recognition for its service quality, including a 4-Star Airline rating from Skytrax. Whether connecting from major hubs like Dubai or flying direct to Europe, AZAL strives to ensure that the journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Contacting AZAL in the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) maintains a strong local presence to assist with flight reservations, ticket changes, and travel inquiries. Whether you are planning a trip from Dubai to the airline's hub in Baku or need assistance with an existing booking, the airline offers multiple channels for direct communication, including dedicated local offices in Dubai.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, online check-in, and ticket purchases, visit the official airline website. The site offers a user-friendly interface for managing your travel plans.

• Official Website: https://www.azal.az/

Key Contact Information

Passengers in the UAE can reach out to the airline's local representatives through the following dedicated channels:

• Customer Service (Dubai Office): +971 4 295 6860
• Airport Office Support: +971 4 224 5555
• Ticket Booking & Enquiries: +971 4 295 7114
• Local Email Support: dubai@azal.az
• General Call Center Email: callcenter@azal.az
• Mobile App: "AZAL - Book Flight Ticket" (Available on the App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

Stay connected with the airline for the latest news, offers, and updates through their official social media platforms:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter (X)
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

If you prefer in-person assistance, AZAL operates physical offices in Dubai where staff can help with ticketing and travel arrangements.

Dubai City Office:
Ground Floor, Al Hamdan Building
Abu Baker Al Siddique Road (near Deira Clocktower)
Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai Airport Office:
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Terminal 1, Departure Area
Office No. 1036

24/7 Customer Support

While local office hours may vary, the airline's general call center in Baku provides 24/7 assistance for urgent matters. Travelers can contact the main headquarters if local lines are busy or outside of business hours.

• Headquarters Call Center (24/7): +994 12 598 88 80

Please note that contact details and office hours may change. We recommend visiting the official website or calling ahead to confirm availability before visiting a local office.

Baggage Policy

Preparing for your journey with AZAL involves understanding the baggage allowances to ensure a smooth check-in process. Whether you are flying from Dubai for a business meeting or heading to Baku for a vacation, the airline offers generous baggage options tailored to different fare classes. Familiarizing yourself with these rules helps avoid unexpected fees and ensures that your essentials travel safely with you.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Azerbaijan Airlines permits passengers to bring cabin baggage on board, designed to keep important documents, electronics, and personal items close at hand. The allowance depends on your class of service:

• Economy Class: Passengers are typically allowed one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 10 kg. The sum of three dimensions (length, width, height) must not exceed 118 cm (e.g., 55x40x23 cm).
• Business Class: Travelers in premium cabins often enjoy an increased allowance, usually permitted to carry two pieces of hand luggage, each weighing up to 10 kg, with the same dimension restrictions.
• Personal Items: In addition to the standard carry-on, passengers may bring small personal items such as a handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, or camera bag, provided they fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Limits

AZAL operates on a "piece concept" for most of its routes, meaning your allowance is determined by the number of bags and their weight. Always check your specific ticket conditions, as "Budget" fares may not include checked baggage.

• Economy Class: The standard allowance usually includes one piece of checked baggage weighing up to 23 kg.
• Comfort Club: Passengers in this category are often entitled to two pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg.
• Business Class: Guests flying Business Class generally receive a more generous allowance of two pieces, with a maximum weight of 32 kg per bag.
• VIP Club: For top-tier travelers, the allowance may extend to three pieces up to 32 kg each.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or piece limits specified on your ticket, excess baggage fees will apply. Charges vary depending on the route and the amount of excess weight. It is often more cost-effective to purchase additional baggage allowance online via the official AZAL website or mobile app before arriving at the airport, as rates at the check-in counter are typically higher.

Special Items

Traveling with non-standard items requires a bit of extra planning. AZAL accommodates various special baggage types under specific conditions:

• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, ski equipment, and bicycles can be transported. While one set of golf or ski equipment might be transported free of charge on certain routes (subject to airline confirmation), other sports gear usually counts towards your free baggage allowance or incurs a special fee.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments, such as cellos or guitars, may require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as special cargo. Always contact the airline at least 24 hours in advance to arrange transport for these items.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety is paramount, and strict rules apply to what can be packed. Do not pack the following in your checked or carry-on luggage:

• Explosives, fireworks, and flares.
• Flammable liquids and solids (e.g., lighter fuel, matches, paints).
• Corrosive substances like mercury or wet-cell batteries.
• Compressed gases and toxic substances.
• Lithium batteries should generally be in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your travel experience with AZAL as pleasant as possible, consider these packing tips:

• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to every piece of luggage. placing a copy of your itinerary inside the bag is also a smart move.
• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure your bags meet the weight limits, avoiding stress at the airport.
• Secure Fragile Items: Wrap breakables in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase for maximum protection.
• Keep Essentials Close: Always pack medication, travel documents, money, and valuable jewelry in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage.

Pet Travel Policy

AZAL understands that pets are part of the family, and the airline strives to make traveling with your furry companions as comfortable as possible. Whether you are flying from Dubai to the airline's home in Baku or onward to other destinations, Azerbaijan Airlines offers options for transporting cats, dogs, and small birds. It is essential to book this service well in advance, as there are limits on the number of animals allowed on each flight.

Transport Options

Depending on the size and weight of your animal, there are three primary ways to travel with your pet on AZAL flights:

Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin if they meet specific size and weight requirements.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must not exceed 55x40x23 cm to ensure it fits safely under the seat.
• Weight Limit: The total weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pets: Typically, cats, dogs, and small household birds are permitted.
• Placement: The container must be placed under the seat in front of you and remain closed throughout the flight.
• Limit: Generally, only two pets (if they are small and compatible) are allowed per container, or one container per passenger.

Animals that exceed the cabin weight limits but are still within standard baggage limits travel in a ventilated section of the cargo hold.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be in a sturdy, IATA-compliant hard-sided crate with proper ventilation and a secure lock.
• Weight Limits: This option is generally for pets weighing between 8 kg and 75 kg (including the crate).
• Safety: The cage must allow the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Conditions: Temperature restrictions may apply; if the weather at the departure or arrival airport is too hot or too cold, transport may be refused for the animal's safety.

For very large animals or specific circumstances, travel via the airline's cargo division is required.

• Requirement: Mandatory for animals/crates weighing over 75 kg.
• Unaccompanied Pets: Animals traveling without a passenger on the same flight must be shipped as cargo.
• Booking: This process requires separate arrangements through the cargo department and often involves different check-in locations.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth journey, you must provide comprehensive paperwork for your pet. Requirements may vary based on the destination country's regulations.

• Veterinary Passport: Must be up-to-date with all medical records.
• Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a state veterinarian typically within a few days before travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other routine shots.
• Microchip: Required for identification on most international routes.
• International Certificates: Specific import/export permits if required by the United Arab Emirates or Azerbaijan.

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and incurs a special service fee based on the weight and route.

• In-Cabin Fee: A fixed fee applies per direction (e.g., approximately 50-75 EUR/USD, depending on the route).
• Cargo Hold Fee: Prices are higher than cabin transport and may depend on the total weight or size of the crate.
• Note: Fees are subject to change and should be confirmed at the time of booking.

Preparation Tips

Proper preparation helps reduce stress for both you and your pet.

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their travel crate weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to avoid nausea; keep them hydrated.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat and a familiar item, like a small blanket or toy, inside the carrier.

Restrictions

Certain limitations apply to ensure safety and compliance with international aviation rules.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) cats and dogs, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats, are often restricted from the cargo hold due to breathing difficulties at high altitudes.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens generally must be at least 3-4 months old to travel (primarily due to vaccination timelines).
• Behavior: Aggressive animals or those emitting strong odors may be refused transport.
• Exceptions: Service dogs (e.g., guide dogs) usually travel for free in the cabin but require prior notification and specific documentation.

Important: Airline policies and country-specific entry rules (especially for the UAE) are subject to change. We strongly recommend contacting AZAL directly via their call center or visiting a local office in Dubai to confirm specific requirements for your travel dates.

Loyalty Program

AZAL Miles is the official frequent flyer program of Azerbaijan Airlines, designed to reward loyal passengers with exclusive privileges and travel benefits. Whether you are a business traveler commuting regularly between Dubai and Baku or a leisure tourist exploring the world, this program allows you to earn points on every journey to enhance your future travel experience.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four distinct membership levels, each offering progressively valuable rewards and services based on your travel frequency.

• Classic: The entry-level tier upon enrollment, allowing members to immediately start earning Travel and Status points.
• Silver: Offers additional perks such as priority check-in at dedicated counters and an extra baggage allowance.
• Gold: Provides premium benefits including access to business class lounges and priority boarding.
• Platinum: The highest tier, featuring maximum point bonuses, guaranteed seat availability, and the highest level of personalized service.

Earning Points

Members accumulate points primarily through flight activity, with the amount earned depending on the route and fare class purchased.

• Status Points: Earned on every eligible flight to help you upgrade your membership tier or maintain your current level.
• Travel Points: Accumulated based on the value of the base fare (in Euros) to be used for rewards.
• Flight Distance: Longer international routes generally yield higher point accumulations.
• Partner Services: Select non-airline partners may also offer opportunities to earn points on specific transactions.

Redeeming Points

The points you collect can be exchanged for a variety of valuable travel rewards to make your next trip more affordable or comfortable.

• Reward Tickets: Use Travel Points to cover the cost of flights to any destination within the airline's network.
• Service Class Upgrades: Redeem points to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class for a more luxurious journey.
• Date Changes: In some cases, points can be used to pay for penalties or fees associated with changing flight dates.
• Transferability: Members can often transfer points to family members or friends within the program rules.

Alliance Membership

Azerbaijan Airlines is not currently a member of the major global airline alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). However, it maintains strategic codeshare partnerships with various international carriers to extend its network reach, though earning AZAL Miles is primarily focused on flights operated by AZAL and its direct subsidiaries.

How to Join

Becoming a member of AZAL Miles is free, simple, and open to travelers aged 2 and above. You can register by filling out a form on the official AZAL website or by downloading the airline's mobile app. Once registered, you will receive a digital membership card and number to quote when booking flights to ensure your points are automatically credited.

Onboard Experience & Service Classes

Flying with AZAL offers a blend of traditional Azerbaijani hospitality and modern aviation comfort. Whether you are taking a short hop from Dubai to the airline's hub in Baku or connecting to further destinations, the airline is a full-service carrier that prides itself on providing a premium experience across all cabins. Passengers can expect attentive crew members, complimentary dining, and a range of amenities designed to make the journey relaxing.

Classes of Service

Azerbaijan Airlines operates a multi-class configuration on many of its aircraft, catering to different budgets and travel needs. While specific offerings depend on the aircraft type (e.g., Boeing 787 Dreamliner vs. Airbus A320), the commitment to passenger comfort remains constant.

• Economy Class: Designed for comfort and value, Economy seats feature ergonomic designs with adjustable headrests and ample legroom. On longer flights and wide-body aircraft, passengers enjoy personal entertainment screens. Even on shorter regional routes, the cabin is designed to provide a spacious feel.
• Comfort Club (Premium Economy): Available on select aircraft, this class bridges the gap between Economy and Business. Travelers enjoy extra legroom, a more exclusive cabin section, and enhanced baggage allowances, making it an excellent choice for those seeking additional space without the full business price tag.
• Business Class: Business travelers benefit from wide, plush leather seats with generous recline and increased pitch for privacy. On flagship aircraft like the Boeing 787, these seats often convert into fully flat beds. Passengers also receive priority check-in, lounge access, and a premium amenity kit to refresh during the flight.
• VIP Club: On specific long-haul aircraft, AZAL offers its most exclusive tier. The VIP Club features private suites with fully lie-flat beds, gourmet dining on demand, and the highest level of personalized service, comparable to First Class standards on other major carriers.

Dining and Beverages

One of the highlights of flying with AZAL is the catering service. Unlike many modern carriers that have switched to buy-on-board models for short flights, Azerbaijan Airlines continues to offer complimentary meals and beverages in all classes.

Economy Class Dining: Passengers are served hot meals or substantial snacks depending on the flight duration, accompanied by a selection of soft drinks, tea, and coffee. The menus often feature a mix of international dishes and local Azerbaijani favorites.

Premium Dining: Business and VIP Club passengers enjoy a gourmet culinary experience served on fine china. The menu includes a variety of appetizers, hot main courses, and decadent desserts, paired with a selection of premium wines, spirits, and soft drinks.

Special Meals: The airline accommodates various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and diabetic options. Passengers requiring special meals, such as Muslim (Halal) or Kosher meals, should request them at least 24 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Amenities

To keep passengers entertained, AZAL provides a range of options depending on the aircraft.

• In-Flight Entertainment (IFE): On wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, seats are equipped with personal touch-screen monitors offering a library of the latest movies, TV shows, music, and games.
• Reading Materials: Passengers can enjoy the airline's inflight magazine, which features travel guides, cultural articles about Azerbaijan, and airline news.
• Power & Connectivity: Business and VIP cabins are generally equipped with power outlets and USB ports to keep devices charged.

Special Services

AZAL is dedicated to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering specialized services for those who need extra assistance.

• Families with Children: The airline provides special child meals (to be ordered in advance) and can arrange baby bassinets for infants on certain aircraft types. Priority boarding is often available for families with young children.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children traveling alone, the airline offers a supervised service where staff look after the young traveler from check-in until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance and special support are available at the airport and onboard. Passengers are encouraged to notify the airline at the time of booking to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place.

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) connects the United Arab Emirates to the Caucasus region through its modern hub in Baku. The airline offers frequent and reliable service, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers looking to explore the historic and cultural richness of Azerbaijan.

Start your journey with AZAL by planning ahead to secure the best options for your trip. Whether you are flying from Dubai to the airline's hub in Baku or connecting to other destinations, booking your tickets in advance is generally the best strategy. Aim to reserve your seats several weeks or even months prior to your departure date to find more competitive fares, as prices often tend to rise as the travel date approaches.

To catch the most attractive deals, keep an eye on the official website for seasonal promotions and special offers. Signing up for the airline's newsletter can also be a great way to receive alerts about price drops directly in your inbox. Being flexible with your travel dates—such as choosing to fly mid-week rather than on weekends—can sometimes result in significant savings on your airfare.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of online check-in services. This feature typically becomes available 24 to 48 hours before your scheduled flight, allowing you to confirm your details and obtain your boarding pass without waiting in long lines at the airport counters. It is also the perfect time to handle seat selection; choosing your seat early helps ensure you get your preferred spot, whether you enjoy a window view or need an aisle seat for easy access.

For a smoother travel experience, consider downloading the airline's mobile app. It is a handy tool for managing your booking, storing mobile boarding passes, and receiving real-time updates on your flight status. Additionally, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is always a wise decision to protect against unexpected changes, medical emergencies, or cancellations, ensuring peace of mind throughout your adventure.

History and Development

The story of AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) is deeply intertwined with the modern history of the nation itself. Following the country's restoration of independence, the airline was officially established in 1992, evolving from the regional division of the Soviet carrier Aeroflot. In those early years, the company faced the monumental task of transforming a local operator into an international flag carrier that would represent the independent state on the global stage. This period was marked by the establishment of new organizational structures and the initial steps toward building a network that connected Baku to the wider world.

One of the most significant milestones in the airline's development was the strategic decision to modernize its fleet. Moving away from the Soviet-era aircraft that characterized its early operations, AZAL began incorporating Western-made jets in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The introduction of Boeing 757s marked a turning point, allowing for longer ranges and greater efficiency. This modernization drive continued aggressively with the acquisition of Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft for regional routes, and eventually, the arrival of the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which symbolized the airline's entry into a new era of long-haul luxury and technological advancement.

As the fleet grew, so did the airline's route map. Leveraging the geographic advantage of its hub, the carrier positioned itself as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Significant route launches included direct connections to major European capitals like London, Paris, and Milan, as well as key cities in the Middle East and Asia. The expansion was not just about adding destinations but about creating a seamless transit hub at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, which itself underwent massive renovation and development to become one of the region's most architecturally distinct and efficient airports.

In recent years, the company has adapted to changing market dynamics through strategic restructuring. A notable development was the creation and subsequent reintegration of its low-cost subsidiary, Buta Airways. Launched to cater to budget-conscious travelers, Buta Airways operated successfully for several years before merging back into the main AZAL brand in late 2023. This consolidation allowed the airline to streamline its services, offering a unified experience that combines the affordability of budget fares with the reliability of a full-service carrier.

Today, Azerbaijan Airlines continues to focus on innovation and service quality. The carrier has embraced digital transformation, upgrading its booking systems and mobile platforms to enhance the passenger experience. With a commitment to maintaining high safety standards—evidenced by its IOSA certification—and a continuous focus on fleet renewal, AZAL stands as a modern aviation leader in the Caspian region, consistently working to expand its global footprint while maintaining the warmth of Azerbaijani hospitality.