Caspian Airlines

Wind Jet (IATA code: IV) is a name that has left a notable mark on the history of European civil aviation. Founded as an Italian budget airline, it was based on the sunny island of Sicily and for many years provided affordable flights, linking Italy with dozens of cities across Europe. The company's history began in 2003, and during its existence, it managed to establish itself as a significant player in the low-cost carrier market, offering passengers a combination of economy and Italian hospitality.

The airline's mission was to democratise air travel, making journeys accessible to a wide audience. The main emphasis was placed on punctuality and safety, ensured by the operation of a reliable fleet consisting primarily of the Airbus family aircraft. Although the classic history of Wind Jet as a Sicilian carrier has concluded, the IV code continues to be associated with active routes in the European skies, particularly on directions connecting Central Europe with the Balkans.

Key Characteristics and Fleet

The airline's fleet was historically formed of modern Airbus A319 and Airbus A320 liners. These aircraft were chosen for their efficiency on medium-haul routes and passenger comfort. In its operations, the company always adhered to strict European safety standards, which allowed it to successfully compete with major carriers.

Flight Geography and Popular Routes

Today, flights operating under the IV code connect major European transport hubs with the Balkan region. Special attention is paid to routes from Germany and Switzerland. Passengers most frequently choose flights from cities such as Stuttgart and Dusseldorf, which are the absolute leaders in terms of departure frequency.

A significant portion of flights is also operated from Swiss airports: from Zurich and Geneva. For travellers from Bavaria, Munich remains a convenient option with regular departures. The flight map also covers other important German cities: aircraft fly from Munster, historic Nuremberg, and the port city of Hamburg.

Among other destinations, flights from Cologne, Memmingen, and Hanover are worth noting. The flight geography extends beyond Germany as well: flights are operated from Luxembourg City, the German capital Berlin, as well as from Scandinavian cities — the Swedish Gothenburg and Stockholm. Occasional but important flights connect the network with Dortmund, the Slovenian capital Ljubljana, and the Finnish Helsinki.

Contacts and Passenger Support

It is important to note that the airline Wind Jet (IV) officially ceased its operational activities in August 2012. Consequently, the carrier's classic support service, its official offices, and direct communication channels are currently not functioning.

Nevertheless, the IATA code IV continues to be actively used in booking systems to designate charter flights. These routes connect major European cities, such as Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, and Zurich, with the current hub of the route network — the city of Prishtina. The actual operation of flights is ensured by partner operators, so service enquiries should be addressed to them.

Official Resources

The historical website of the airline (www.volawindjet.it) is currently inactive. Passengers are strongly advised not to search for the old web resource, but to manage their booking through the website of the agent or tour operator who issued the ticket.

Contact Details

Since Wind Jet's own call centres are closed, please use the following channels to resolve issues regarding current flights with the IV code:

• Official Website: Unavailable.
• Support and Booking: Contact exclusively the agency or aggregator where the ticket was purchased (for example, ticket sales services for Balkan destinations).
• Email: The airline's direct email is not serviced.
• Mobile App: None. To track flight status, use the departure airport's applications.

Social Media

The airline's official pages on social networks have not been updated since 2012 and are not a channel for communication with passengers.

Airport Representation

Wind Jet's own offices are closed. In case of questions immediately before departure (check-in, baggage), passengers should contact:

• The staff of the handling company (service organisation) in the check-in zone of your flight.
• The check-in counters, which usually open 2–3 hours before the flight to Prishtina departs.

Expert Tip: As direct contacts for the carrier are absent, the most reliable way to communicate remains the hotline of the service through which you bought the ticket. Save their phone number or contacts in messaging apps before your trip — they are the ones obliged to inform you of any schedule changes.

Baggage Rules

When planning a trip on flights under the Wind Jet (IV) code, it is important to carefully review the baggage allowance. Since the IV code is currently often used for charter transport and flights operated by partners, the rules may vary depending on the specific fare and the tour operator's conditions. However, there are general standards to keep in mind to avoid unnecessary expenses at the airport.

Understanding these rules is particularly relevant for passengers travelling to popular destinations such as Prishtina. Compliance with weight and size restrictions ensures that your check-in proceeds quickly and without stress.

Hand Luggage: Essentials On Board

The policy regarding hand luggage on flights with the IV code usually follows classic European low-cost standards. The main goal is to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers on board.

• Number of pieces: Generally, a passenger is allowed to bring one piece of hand luggage into the cabin.
• Weight: The standard limit is from 5 to 8 kg. It is recommended not to exceed this limit, as checks at boarding gates can be strict.
• Dimensions: The usual permissible dimensions for a bag or suitcase are 55x40x20 cm, including wheels and handles.

In addition to the main bag, it is often permitted to take a small personal item: a handbag, a laptop in a thin sleeve, or an umbrella. Liquids must be packed in containers of no more than 100 ml and placed in a transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre.

Checked Baggage

Checked baggage allowances depend on the booking class. On many routes, for example, when departing from Germany (from cities such as Stuttgart or Dusseldorf), one piece of luggage may be included in the ticket price, however, on the cheapest promo fares, it may need to be paid for separately.

The standard weight for one piece of checked baggage is usually 15 kg or 20 kg. Pooling the baggage weight of passengers travelling together is not always permitted, so it is better to distribute items evenly. The maximum weight of a single suitcase must under no circumstances exceed 32 kg (an occupational health rule for loaders).

Excess Baggage and Special Items

If your suitcase exceeds the established weight limits, a fee is charged for each extra kilogram. Rates for excess weight at the airport are significantly higher than when paying in advance online. Therefore, if you are flying, for example, from Switzerland (say, from Zurich or Geneva) and carrying many purchases, it is more economical to purchase additional baggage in advance.

Special rules apply for transporting special equipment:

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, or bicycles require booking space in the cargo hold in advance and paying a special fee. This is particularly relevant for flights from Munich and other regions close to the Alps.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin (if they fit within the dimensions); large ones are checked as baggage or a separate seat in the cabin is purchased for them.
• Baby Strollers: Usually transported free of charge and handed over at the aircraft steps.

Prohibited Items

For safety purposes, it is strictly forbidden to carry explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and oxidisers in baggage and hand luggage. Lithium batteries (power banks) can be carried only in hand luggage; they cannot be placed in checked baggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your journey with Wind Jet (IV) goes smoothly, use these tips:

1. Weigh at home: Use luggage scales before leaving home. A difference of even 1 kg can cost you a significant sum at the airport.

2. Labelling: Be sure to attach a tag with your name, phone number, and flight number to your suitcase. This will help locate luggage faster in case of loss.

3. Valuables: Always take money, documents, jewellery, and fragile electronics with you into the cabin. The airline is not responsible for their safety in checked baggage.

Travelling with Pets

The airline understands that for many passengers, pets are full members of the family. Transporting animals on flights under the IV code is possible, but it requires careful preparation and strict adherence to regulations. Since many routes, for example, to the city of Prishtina, are operated by various partner operators, it is extremely important to coordinate the journey with your four-legged friend in advance, at the ticket booking stage.

Transport Options

In the Aircraft Cabin (Hand Luggage)

Small cats and dogs may travel with their owner in the cabin. This is the least stressful option for the animal, allowing you to monitor its condition throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container or soft bag must have dimensions not exceeding 40x30x20 cm to fit freely under the seat in front.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier is usually limited to 8 kg (on some routes — up to 10 kg).
• Permitted Animals: Cats and dogs only.
• Comfort Requirements: The pet must be able to stand up to its full height and turn around inside the container.
• Limit: The number of animals on board is strictly limited (often no more than 2–3 for the entire cabin), so booking is mandatory.

In the Cargo Hold

If your pet exceeds the weight standards for the cabin, it will fly in a special heated and pressurised compartment of the cargo hold. This is standard practice for medium and large breeds.

• Container Requirements: Only rigid plastic boxes certified by IATA (International Air Transport Association) are permitted.
• Safety: The cage must have a secure metal lock, ventilation openings, and a waterproof bottom covered with absorbent material.
• Restrictions: The maximum weight of the animal with the cage must not exceed 75 kg (this figure may vary).
• Documents: Copies of veterinary documents are often attached directly to the cage.

As Cargo

For very large dogs, exotic animals, or if the pet is flying unaccompanied by an owner, processing through the cargo terminal is used.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the container exceeds permissible norms for baggage or if the breed is prohibited for transport in passenger baggage.
• Special Requirements: Reinforced wooden or metal cages, special customs documentation processing.
• Booking: Carried out through the cargo department of the departure airport, for example, if you are sending an animal from the city of Zurich.

Necessary Documents

To be admitted to the flight, you will need to provide a full set of documents. Requirements may change depending on the country of departure and arrival, but the basic list includes:

• Veterinary Passport: International standard with health records.
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination, administered not earlier than one year and not later than 21 days before departure.
• Microchipping: A microchip of ISO 11784/11785 standard is mandatory for all international flights in Europe.
• Health Certificate: A certificate (Form No. 1 or Euro certificate) issued by a state veterinarian 3–5 days before the flight.

Service Costs

Animal transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is always paid for additionally. Rates depend on the route and weight:

• In the Cabin: A fixed fee per flight segment is charged (approximately from 50 Euros).
• In the Cargo Hold: The cost is calculated based on the weight and dimensions of the cage (usually from 80 to 150 Euros).
• At the Airport: Payment immediately before departure, for example, at a counter in the airport of Stuttgart, may be significantly higher than with advance online booking.

Preparation Tips

To ensure the flight goes peacefully, follow expert recommendations:

• Acclimatisation: Buy the carrier several weeks before the trip and let the animal get used to it in a home environment.
• Identification: Attach a tag with the animal's name and your phone number to the collar, and stick a label with your details on the cage.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Water: Ensure access to water, especially if a long wait lies ahead.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened faces (Pugs, Bulldogs, Pekingese, Persian cats) are at risk due to possible breathing problems and are often not accepted in the cargo hold.
• Aggressive Breeds: Fighting dogs may require special conditions or be completely prohibited from transport.
• Age: Animals younger than 3 months, not vaccinated against rabies, are not admitted for flight.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with visual or hearing impairments are transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided appropriate certificates and a muzzle are present.

Important: Since Wind Jet (IV) flights are often operated by partner airlines, we strongly recommend clarifying current animal transport rules and booking a place for your pet at least 48 hours before departure through the support service of the agent or tour operator from whom you purchased the ticket.

Loyalty Program

Historically, the airline Wind Jet (IV) adhered to the classic low-cost carrier model, placing main emphasis on ticket affordability rather than complex mileage accumulation schemes. Unlike traditional major airlines, Wind Jet did not have its own multi-level loyalty programme for frequent flyers. The main "bonus" for customers was considered to be the low cost of the flight, which allowed saving on trips to Prishtina and other European cities without the need to save points.

Membership Levels

Since the company did not support a classic bonus system, the familiar division into status levels did not exist. All passengers received the same set of services corresponding to the purchased fare.

• Base Level (Standard): A single status for all passengers. Included standard service and the ability to choose additional paid options (baggage, seat selection).
• Absence of Elite Statuses: Silver, Gold, or Platinum levels were not provided for by the company's business model.
• Wind Jet Platinum Line: It is worth noting that a separate brand for business aviation (air taxi) existed under a similar name, however, this was a separate service for renting private jets, not a status in a loyalty programme.

How to Earn Bonuses

During the carrier's active period, mechanisms for earning miles were absent. Passengers did not receive points for completed flights.

• For Flights: Mileage accrual for distance flown was not performed.
• Partners: The company did not have a wide network of partners (hotels, banks) for accumulating bonuses.
• Credit Cards: Specialised co-branded cards with Wind Jet mileage accrual were not issued.

How to Spend Bonuses

As an accumulation programme was absent, there was no opportunity to issue a reward ticket using points. All services, including class upgrades or additional baggage, were paid for exclusively with monetary funds according to the airline's rates.

Participation in Alliances

Wind Jet always positioned itself as an independent carrier.

• Alliance: The company was not part of any global aviation alliances, such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.
• Code-sharing: At different times, agreements existed with other carriers, but they concerned only the joint operation of flights, not mutual recognition of status privileges.

How to Join

To date, since the airline has ceased operational activities, joining any programmes under the Wind Jet brand is impossible. If you have purchased a ticket for a charter flight with the IV code, which is actually operated by another partner airline, we recommend clarifying bonus accrual rules directly with the actual carrier.

Travel Classes and Onboard Comfort

The airline Wind Jet (IATA code: IV) historically operated in the budget transport (low-cost) segment. This defines the set of services and the level of comfort that passengers can expect during the flight. The company's main priority is to transport travellers from point A to point B safely, punctually, and at an affordable price. Regardless of whether you are flying a short route or heading to the base airport Prishtina, the service will meet European economy class standards.

Available Service Classes

Like most budget airlines, Wind Jet offers a single economy class of service. On board Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft, there is no fixed division of the cabin into business and economy zones.

• Economy Class: This is the standard fare for all passengers. It includes the flight and one piece of hand luggage. Additional options, such as selecting a specific seat or extra checked baggage, can be added for a separate fee.
• Absence of Business Class: A separate premium cabin with wide seats is not provided. However, on some flights, the airline may offer "Flex" fares or similar, which include priority boarding and seating in the front rows of the aircraft.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The airline's fleet is equipped with seats in a standard 3+3 layout (three seats on the left and three on the right of the central aisle). This is a classic scheme for narrow-body Airbus family aircraft used on European routes.

• Materials: Cabins are typically equipped with leather-upholstered seats, which is a signature feature of many Italian carriers.
• Seat Pitch: The distance between rows (pitch) is from 74 to 76 cm. This is standard for low-cost carriers, but for tall passengers, a long flight, for example, from the city of Hamburg or Munich, may seem snug. Seat backs usually have a minimal recline angle or are fixed.
• Tip: For greater comfort, it is recommended to book seats in the rows by the emergency exits (located over the wing) or in the first row, where legroom is significantly increased, in advance.

Food and Beverages

Wind Jet's service concept does not provide for free hot meals included in the base ticket price. A Buy on Board system operates on the aircraft.

• Menu: Flight attendants offer an assortment of fresh sandwiches, panini, snacks (crisps, chocolate, biscuits), and light bites.
• Beverages: Passengers can purchase hot drinks (coffee, tea), carbonated soft drinks, and juices. Given the brand's Italian roots, coffee on board is often noted by passengers as quite decent.
• Special Meals: The option to pre-order special dietary or religious meals is usually unavailable, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring permitted products with them in their hand luggage.

Entertainment Systems

Flights with the IV code do not feature multimedia screens built into seat backs or Wi-Fi access. To make time fly, passengers should prepare themselves:

• Reading: An inflight magazine is usually available in the seat pocket, telling about flight destinations, partners, and company news.
• Gadgets: It is recommended to download films, music, or e-books to your smartphones and tablets in advance. Do not forget to take a portable charger (Power Bank), as there may not be USB sockets in seats of the older configuration.

Special Services

The airline strives to make air travel accessible to all categories of citizens, providing necessary assistance and services upon request.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Assistance with boarding and disembarking (ambulift), as well as escorting at the airport, are provided free of charge. It is important to notify the agent or tour operator of the need for special service (PRM service) no later than 48 hours before departure so that departure and arrival airports have time to prepare equipment.
• Travelling with Children: Infants under 2 years travel on their parents' lap at a special reduced fare, secured with an additional seat belt. Standard seats are provided for older children. Flight attendants are always ready to help warm up baby food.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The service for transporting children (usually from 5 to 12 years old) without adult accompaniment is available on direct flights but requires mandatory preliminary processing, filling out legal forms, and payment of a service fee.

The route network of Wind Jet (IV) is currently centred around one key node. All main flights converge at the carrier's hub — the city of Prishtina, ensuring stable connections between Kosovo and major European metropolises, especially cities in Germany and Switzerland.

Booking and Flight Tips

Travelling on flights under the Wind Jet (IV) code today has its specificities, as these flights are effectively operated in a charter format or code-sharing with partners. To ensure your trip to the city of Prishtina or back goes as comfortably and smoothly as possible, we have prepared a number of practical recommendations that take into account the features of this carrier's operation in current conditions.

Best Time to Book

Since the IV route network is oriented towards high demand from the diaspora and tourists visiting the Balkans, prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the season.

• Plan Ahead: For flights during peak periods (summer holidays from July to August, as well as Christmas and New Year holidays), tickets are best purchased 2–3 months in advance. Destinations from Germany, for example, from cities like Munich or Dusseldorf, sell out very quickly.
• Off-Season: The most favourable fares can be found for departures in October–November or February–March. During this time, passenger traffic decreases, and agencies often offer tickets at reduced prices.

Finding Discounts and Promotions

As the official airline website is not functioning, classic promo code searches will not work here. Your saving strategy must be different:

• Monitor Aggregators: Use major flight search engines. Sometimes seats on IV charter flights are released for general sale at very attractive prices a few days before departure (so-called "last-minute tickets") if the operator needs to urgently fill the aircraft.
• Specialised Agencies: Often the best prices for flights to Kosovo are offered by local travel bureaus in departure cities (for example, in the city of Zurich or Stuttgart) specialising in the Balkan direction.

Check-in for the Flight

This is perhaps the most important point that distinguishes IV flights from regular carriers.

Online Check-in: In most cases, centralised online check-in (Web Check-in) for flights with the IV code is unavailable. You should not attempt to find a check-in form on the old airline website.

At the Airport: Expect to check in at the counter at the airport. We recommend arriving at least 2.5–3 hours before departure. Queues for flights to Prishtina can be long, especially if a wide-body aircraft or several flights in a row are departing.

Seat Selection

Due to the lack of online check-in, seat selection often happens directly at the counter:

• Arrive First: To sit next to family or friends, try to arrive at the start of check-in. Seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Paid Service: Some tour operators offer a pre-booking service for seats for an additional fee when selling the ticket. If a window or aisle seat is critical for you, clarify this possibility with the ticket seller.

Travel Insurance

Given the charter nature of the flights, we strongly recommend taking out extended travel insurance.

Ensure that your policy covers risks of flight delay or cancellation. Charter programmes are more sensitive to schedule changes than regular lines. Insurance will help compensate for expenses on food and accommodation if a departure, for example, from the city of Geneva, is postponed for a long time.

Mobile App and Flight Tracking

Wind Jet does not have its own mobile application. To manage booking and track flight status, use alternative tools:

• Airport Apps: Install the official application of the departure airport (e.g., Hamburg Airport or Berlin Brandenburg) and the arrival airport (Prishtina). They give the most accurate and timely information about departure times, check-in counter numbers, and boarding gates.
• CheckMyTrip and similar: Add your booking details to third-party travel apps to receive notifications about changes.

History and Development: From Sicilian Sun to Balkan Heights

The history of the airline Wind Jet (IV) is a unique example of brand transformation in the aviation industry. What began as an ambitious Italian startup has today evolved into an important element of the Balkan transport system. The company's path can be divided into two distinct eras: the period of the classic Italian low-cost carrier and the modern stage associated with charter transport through the hub in the city of Prishtina.

Foundation and Early Years

The company was founded in 2003 on the island of Sicily by entrepreneur Antonino Pulvirenti. The headquarters were located in Catania, at the foot of Mount Etna. The idea of creating the carrier arose against the backdrop of the crisis of the national giant Alitalia and the growing demand for affordable flights.

Wind Jet operated its first flight in June 2003, connecting Catania with Rome. The initial strategy was built on the low-cost model: eliminating unnecessary services in favour of a low ticket price. This allowed it to quickly gain popularity among Sicilians and tourists wishing to reach the sunny island inexpensively. In the early years, the company actively developed the domestic network, becoming one of the leading carriers in the south of Italy.

Expansion and Development Milestones

By the mid-2000s, Wind Jet moved beyond the domestic market. Active expansion into Europe began. Regular flights were launched to France, Spain, and, crucially for that time, dense air connections were established with Eastern Europe and Russia. The airline became a major carrier bringing Russian tourists to Sicilian resorts.

By 2008, passenger traffic reached almost 3 million people per year. Wind Jet established itself as a punctual and reliable carrier, successfully competing with major European brands. An important milestone was the introduction of an electronic booking system, which for the mid-2000s was an advanced solution for a regional airline.

Fleet Evolution

From the very beginning, Wind Jet bet on fleet unification, choosing reliable aircraft from the European concern Airbus. This decision allowed for significant savings on maintenance and pilot training.

• Airbus A320: The backbone of the fleet. Spacious liners with 180 seats were ideally suited for popular tourist routes.
• Airbus A319: Used for less busy destinations and airports with short runways.

By 2011, the fleet numbered more than 12 aircraft, decorated in a recognisable livery with orange elements symbolising energy and Sicilian heritage.

Transformation and New Life of Code IV

In August 2012, after failed merger negotiations with Alitalia and amidst financial difficulties, the Italian Wind Jet suspended its operations. It seemed the brand's history had concluded. However, in aviation, IATA codes rarely disappear without a trace.

Some time later, the code IV found a "second life", but in a different region. It began to be used to designate flights linking Europe with the Republic of Kosovo. The actual centre of operations moved to the international airport of the city of Prishtina. This transformation turned IV from a Sicilian carrier code into a symbol of an air bridge for the Balkan diaspora.

Modern Routes and Role in the Region

Today, flights operated under the historic IV code are of critical importance for connecting Kosovo with Central Europe. Unlike the regular model of the past, current activity more closely resembles a virtual airline or charter programme, where flights are operated by partners but sold and marketed under a single brand.

The modern route network differs radically from the Italian period. Instead of Rome and Palermo, key destinations have become cities in Germany and Switzerland, where large diasporas reside:

• Germany: Regular flights to Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, and Munich ensure a stable flow of passengers all year round.
• Switzerland: Routes to Zurich and Geneva are among the busiest in the schedule.
• Scandinavia: Geographic expansion has also touched the north, adding flights to Gothenburg and Stockholm.

Thus, the history of Wind Jet (IV) is a story of how an aviation brand can survive its original form and continue to serve passengers in a completely new capacity and region.