CitizenPlane

CitizenPlane is a forward-thinking travel technology company and virtual carrier that is reshaping how travelers access affordable flights. Founded in Paris, the company operates under the IATA code 1L but distinguishes itself from traditional airlines by not owning a physical fleet. Instead, CitizenPlane aggregates unsold seats from over 80 partner airlines and tour operators, unlocking "distressed inventory" that would otherwise fly empty. This unique model allows the airline to offer exclusive, discounted tickets on a variety of routes, particularly connecting holiday destinations in Egypt and unique connections through Central Asia.

By acting as a bridge between travelers and carriers with excess capacity, CitizenPlane provides a seamless booking experience for routes that are often difficult to find on standard booking sites. From its busy hub in Hurghada, the airline facilitates direct connections to major European cities and beyond. Whether you are looking for a sunny getaway or a smart transit option, CitizenPlane maximizes efficiency to bring competitive fares to the market.

Key Airline Data:

Why Fly with CitizenPlane?

Exclusive Access to Leisure Routes
CitizenPlane specializes in connecting popular vacation spots with major European hubs. Travelers can easily find direct flights connecting Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh with cities like Vilnius, Copenhagen, and Katowice. The network also includes connections to Marsa Alam and Las Palmas, offering diverse options for sun-seekers.

Smart Connections and Value
Beyond typical holiday routes, CitizenPlane offers unique intercontinental links, such as flights between Ashgabat and Bangkok, or connections from London and Milan to Central Asia. By utilizing empty seats on established carriers, passengers enjoy full-service standards at competitive prices.

German Connectivity
The airline has a strong presence in the German market, linking Hurghada with key cities including Frankfurt am Main, Munich, Stuttgart, and Hamburg. This extensive network ensures that travelers have flexible and frequent options for their return journeys from the Red Sea.

Safety and Standards
While CitizenPlane is a virtual carrier, safety remains a priority through its partnerships. All flights are operated by fully certified and regulated airlines that adhere to strict international safety standards. Passengers fly on aircraft managed by established operators, ensuring a safe and reliable journey regardless of the specific metal they fly on.

Contacting CitizenPlane in the United Arab Emirates

CitizenPlane operates as a digital-first virtual carrier, meaning it does not maintain physical ticket counters or local call centers in the United Arab Emirates. Instead of traditional infrastructure, the company focuses on a streamlined online experience. While the airline does not operate direct flights from the Emirates, its network is extensive elsewhere, specializing in connecting Egypt—specifically hubs like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh—with major cities across Europe, such as Vilnius and Copenhagen.

For assistance, passengers are encouraged to use the official website or the verified contact email. The support team operates centrally to handle inquiries regarding bookings, baggage, and flight changes efficiently, regardless of where the passenger is located.

Official Contact Channels

• Official Website: https://www.citizenplane.com
• Email Support: contact@citizenplane.com (Primary channel for all inquiries)
• Customer Service: Support is available exclusively online; there is no local phone number for the United Arab Emirates.
• Ticket Booking: All reservations must be made via the official website or partner travel platforms.

Social Media & Updates

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/citizenplane
• Other Platforms: Please check the footer of the official website for the most up-to-date social media links.

Office Locations

• United Arab Emirates: There are no local offices or walk-in service desks in the UAE.
• Headquarters: 32 rue de Paradis, 75010 Paris, France.

Emergency & Priority Support

While there is no 24/7 telephone hotline, the support team is equipped to handle urgent requests via email. For time-sensitive matters, such as immediate check-in issues, please email contact@citizenplane.com and include your booking reference number in the subject line for priority handling.

CitizenPlane Baggage Policy

As CitizenPlane operates as a virtual carrier and aggregator of unsold inventory, its baggage policies differ slightly from traditional airlines. Instead of a single, universal standard, the specific baggage allowance for your trip is determined by the operating carrier—the airline actually flying the aircraft. Whether you are traveling on a holiday route to Hurghada or a connecting flight to Vilnius, it is crucial to check the specific details listed on your e-ticket or booking confirmation email, as these will contain the precise weight and dimension limits for your journey.

Despite the variability, most flights booked through CitizenPlane follow standard international regulations for leisure and charter travel. Below is a comprehensive guide to what you can generally expect and how to prepare for your trip.

Carry-On Baggage Allowances

For most flights within the CitizenPlane network, passengers are entitled to bring at least one piece of carry-on luggage into the cabin. While the exact dimensions may vary by the operating partner, the following general rules typically apply:

• Weight Limit: Cabin bags usually have a weight limit between 5kg and 8kg.
• Dimensions: Standard maximum dimensions are often around 55 x 40 x 20 cm to ensure the bag fits in the overhead locker.
• Personal Item: On many carriers, you may also be allowed a small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

Important: If you are flying on a strictly low-cost partner or a specific promotional fare, carry-on allowances might be more restrictive. Always verify your specific allowance on your boarding pass before arriving at the airport to avoid gate fees.

Checked Baggage Limits

Since CitizenPlane specializes in "distressed inventory" and leisure routes—such as trips to Sharm El Sheikh or long-haul connections to Bangkok—checked baggage is frequently included in the ticket price, but this is not guaranteed for every fare class.

• Standard Economy: Common allowances for checked luggage on charter-style flights range from 15kg to 23kg per passenger.
• Piece Concept vs. Weight Concept: Some operating carriers may limit you by the number of bags (e.g., 1 piece up to 23kg), while others use a weight concept (e.g., total weight of 20kg distributed across multiple bags).
• Infants: Baggage allowances for infants traveling on a parent's lap vary significantly by the operating airline. Often, a stroller or car seat can be checked in for free, but a dedicated baggage allowance for the infant is not always included.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you plan to travel with more luggage than your allocated limit, be aware of the following:

• Pre-booking is Best: Purchasing extra weight at the airport is almost always more expensive than arranging it in advance. Since CitizenPlane is an intermediary, you may need to contact their support team or the operating airline directly to add bags before your flight.
• Airport Fees: Excess baggage fees charged at the check-in counter can be steep. Charges are typically calculated per kilogram or per additional piece.

Special Items (Sports Equipment & Instruments)

Traveling with golf clubs for a trip to Las Palmas or bringing musical instruments? Special baggage rules depend entirely on the operating carrier's cargo capacity and policies.

• Sports Equipment: Items like diving gear, surfboards, or bicycles usually incur a separate handling fee. You must declare these items in advance to ensure there is space in the hold.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments may be permitted in the cabin if they fit in the overhead bin. larger instruments will likely need to be checked as fragile baggage or may require purchasing an extra seat.
• Action Required: Contact CitizenPlane's customer support at least 48 hours before departure to inquire about the specific procedure for the airline operating your flight.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, all flights strictly adhere to international aviation security regulations. The following items are generally prohibited or restricted:

• Lithium Batteries & Power Banks: Must be packed in your carry-on baggage only. They are strictly forbidden in checked luggage due to fire risks.
• Liquids (Cabin): Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit comfortably in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag (maximum 1 liter capacity).
• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects (like knives or scissors) are prohibited in the cabin. Sharp objects must be securely packed in checked luggage.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Whether you are heading for a city break in Frankfurt am Main or a transit through Ashgabat, packing smart can save you time and money:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure you are within the limits of the operating carrier, as displayed on your CitizenPlane ticket.
• Label Your Bags: Clearly attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to the outside and inside of your checked luggage.
• Essentials in Carry-On: Always pack valuable items, medication, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage in case of delayed checked bags.
• Check the Weather: Routes like Katowice can be cold in winter, while Red Sea destinations remain warm. Layering is key if your journey involves different climate zones.

Pet Travel Rules with CitizenPlane

CitizenPlane understands that pets are part of the family, and many of the partner airlines within its network welcome four-legged companions on board. However, because CitizenPlane operates as a virtual carrier aggregating seats from various operators, pet travel policies are strictly determined by the specific airline operating your flight. Whether you are flying to Hurghada or Vilnius, it is essential to confirm the specific regulations of the operating carrier listed on your ticket before booking.

Transport Options

Most airlines in the network offer three primary ways to transport pets, depending on the animal's size and the route.

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets such as cats and small dogs are often permitted to travel in the cabin with their owners.

• Carrier Dimensions: Typically, the carrier must not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm (or 40 x 30 x 20 cm on stricter carriers) to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier usually must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Generally restricted to cats and dogs.
• Breed Restrictions: Aggressive breeds are prohibited; snub-nosed breeds may be restricted depending on the airline.
• Limit per Passenger: Usually one pet container per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Pets that exceed the cabin weight limits must travel in the ventilated cargo hold as checked baggage.

• Container Requirements: Animals must travel in an IATA-approved rigid plastic or fiberglass crate with a secure locking mechanism.
• Weight and Size Limits: The maximum weight is often up to 75 kg (pet + crate), though this varies by aircraft type.
• Temperature Restrictions: Pets may be refused if the weather at the departure or arrival airport (e.g., extreme heat in Sharm El Sheikh) is deemed unsafe.
• Required Documentation: A signed declaration of indemnity and health forms are required at check-in.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For very large animals or unaccompanied pets, travel must be arranged through a cargo department.

• When Required: Mandatory for animals exceeding checked baggage weight limits or traveling to countries with strict import rules like the UK (e.g., flights to London).
• Special Requirements: Requires a sturdy, custom-sized crate and reinforced security handling.
• Booking Procedure: Must be arranged separately from your passenger ticket, often through a specialized freight forwarder.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth journey to destinations like Copenhagen or Katowice, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Veterinary Passport: An official EU Pet Passport or equivalent national document.
• Health Certificate: A clinical examination certificate issued by a vet, typically valid for 10 days before travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of a valid anti-rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel).
• International Certificates: Specific sanitary certificates required by the destination country for international flights.
• Microchip: The animal must be microchipped for identification (ISO 11784/11785 compliant).

Service Costs

Fees are charged per direction and depend on the operating airline and the route length.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €50 to €75 per flight segment.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €100 to €200 per flight segment, depending on crate size.
• Note: Prices are indicative and subject to the specific partner airline's tariff at the time of travel.

Preparation Tips

Proper preparation can reduce stress for your pet during the journey to Ashgabat or other long-haul destinations.

• Carrier Requirements: Ensure the crate allows the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure; do not feed them right before flying to avoid nausea.
• Hydration: Provide a small amount of water or ice cubes in the crate's dispenser.
• Stress Reduction: Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the carrier to comfort the animal; avoid sedatives unless prescribed by a vet.

Restrictions

Certain conditions may prevent your pet from flying.

• Prohibited Breeds: Many partners ban brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs) in the hold due to respiratory risks.
• Dangerous Animals: Breeds classified as fighting dogs or aggressive animals are strictly prohibited.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, and exotic animals are generally not accepted on passenger flights.
• Exceptions: Recognized Service Animals assisting passengers with disabilities usually travel free of charge in the cabin, provided they have valid training documentation.

Important: Since CitizenPlane utilizes various partner airlines, rules change frequently. You must contact the support team at contact@citizenplane.com or the operating carrier directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm your pet's reservation and specific requirements.

CitizenPlane Loyalty & Rewards Model

CitizenPlane operates with a distinct business model that differs from traditional legacy airlines. Instead of maintaining a complex, miles-based loyalty program, the company focuses on delivering immediate value to all travelers through its "distressed inventory" system. By aggregating unsold seats from partner airlines and offering them at significantly reduced rates, CitizenPlane provides an instant "reward" in the form of lower fares for every passenger, rather than deferred points for a select few.

Membership Tiers

Unlike standard airlines that segregate passengers into status levels, CitizenPlane applies a simplified, egalitarian approach to travel:

• Universal Access: There are no tiered memberships such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Every traveler has access to the same competitive pricing and inventory without needing to reach a flight quota.
• Instant Benefits: The primary benefit—exclusive access to discounted seats on routes like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh—is available from the very first booking.

Earning Miles and Points

Because CitizenPlane (IATA code 1L) acts as a virtual carrier reselling seats from other operators, earning miles functions differently:

• CitizenPlane Flights: Tickets issued directly under the 1L code generally do not earn miles in traditional frequent flyer programs due to their deeply discounted nature.
• Partner Airlines: In some rare cases, if the operating carrier (the airline actually flying the plane) has its own loyalty program, you may be able to claim miles retrospectively. However, this is subject to the specific fare class rules of that airline and is often restricted for charter-type tickets.
• Credit Cards: The best way to earn rewards on these flights is by booking with a travel-rewards credit card, allowing you to earn points per dollar spent on the ticket purchase itself.

Redeeming Rewards

The CitizenPlane platform is designed for direct purchasing rather than reward redemption:

• No Award Flights: You cannot redeem miles to book CitizenPlane seats. The inventory is sold strictly on a cash basis to ensure the lowest possible price for all users.
• Upgrades: Paid upgrades may be available during the booking process or at the airport depending on the operating carrier, but these cannot be secured with points.

Alliance Membership

CitizenPlane is not a member of the major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). Instead, it functions as a virtual aggregator, creating its own network by partnering with over 80 diverse carriers, including:

• Leisure Specialists: Charter airlines and tour operators flying to holiday destinations like Las Palmas.
• Regional Carriers: Airlines providing niche connections through hubs like Ashgabat.

How to Join

There is no registration process or membership fee required to enjoy the benefits of CitizenPlane:

• Immediate Access: Simply search for your desired route, such as Frankfurt am Main to the Red Sea, and book directly.
• Newsletter: To stay informed about the latest "distressed" deals and flash sales, travelers are encouraged to subscribe to the email newsletter on the official website.

Services and Classes on CitizenPlane Flights

Because CitizenPlane (IATA code 1L) operates as a virtual carrier aggregating unsold seats from a diverse network of over 80 partner airlines, the on-board experience can vary significantly depending on the specific operator of your flight. Whether you are booking a holiday connection to the Red Sea or a transit flight through Central Asia, the service standards—including seat pitch, catering, and entertainment—are determined by the airline actually flying the aircraft (the operating carrier). It is essential to review your specific booking details, as the amenities offered on a budget charter flight will differ from those on a scheduled legacy carrier.

Service Classes

Economy Class
The vast majority of tickets sold by CitizenPlane fall under the Economy Class category. These fares are designed to offer the best possible value, utilizing "distressed inventory" to fill empty seats. Passengers can generally expect:

• Standard Seating: A standard seat assignment is typically included or assigned at check-in.
• Value Focus: The primary goal is affordable transportation, making it an ideal choice for leisure travelers heading to destinations like Zurich or other European hubs.
• Baggage: As noted in the baggage policy, checked luggage is often included on leisure routes, but this is fare-dependent.

Business and Premium Classes
While CitizenPlane specializes in affordable economy travel, premium seats may occasionally be available if the operating carrier has unsold inventory in their Business cabin. However, this is rare. If available, these seats would provide the standard amenities of the operating airline, such as wider seats and priority boarding. Travelers should assume an Economy configuration unless their ticket explicitly states otherwise.

In-Flight Dining

Meal and beverage services are entirely dependent on the policy of the partner airline operating the route.

• Charter & Full-Service Partners: On many long-haul routes or specific charter flights (e.g., to vacation hotspots), a complimentary hot meal and beverages may be included in the ticket price.
• Low-Cost Carriers: If your flight is operated by a budget airline, catering is likely to be a "Buy-on-Board" service where snacks, sandwiches, and drinks must be purchased during the flight.
• Recommendation: It is always advisable to carry a credit card for onboard purchases and to bring water and snacks, especially if you have specific dietary requirements.

Entertainment and Connectivity

In-flight entertainment systems (IFE) vary by aircraft type and operator.

• Long-Haul Flights: On longer routes, such as those connecting through Asia, the operating aircraft may be equipped with personal seat-back screens offering movies and music.
• Short & Medium-Haul: For flights within Europe or to North Africa, seat-back screens are less common. Many modern carriers now offer streaming services to your personal device or no entertainment at all.
• Wi-Fi: In-flight Wi-Fi is not guaranteed and depends on the specific aircraft's capabilities. Passengers should plan to download content to their smartphones or tablets before departure.

Seat Comfort and Configuration

The physical layout of the cabin is dictated by the metal you fly on. Since CitizenPlane partners range from tour operator airlines to national flag carriers, seat configurations differ:

• Seat Pitch: Generally ranges from 28 to 32 inches (71–81 cm) in Economy Class.
• Recline: Standard reclining seats are found on most aircraft, though some short-haul budget carriers may have pre-reclined or fixed seats.

Special Services

Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM)
CitizenPlane and its partners are committed to ensuring accessible travel. Assistance services (such as wheelchair support) are available but must be requested in advance.

• How to Request: Contact CitizenPlane support immediately after booking to arrange assistance with the operating carrier.
• Timing: Requests should generally be made at least 48 hours before departure to ensure the airport ground handling team is prepared.

Unaccompanied Minors
Policies regarding children traveling alone are strict and vary by partner. Many low-cost and charter operators do not accept unaccompanied minors. You must verify this with the support team before purchasing a ticket for a child traveling without a guardian.

CitizenPlane offers a specialized route network that focuses on connecting travelers with popular vacation spots and unique transit hubs. With its primary operations centered around its hub in Hurghada, the airline provides essential links between the Red Sea resorts and major European cities, alongside distinct connections through Central Asia.

Securing the best fares with CitizenPlane often requires a slightly different approach than with traditional carriers. Since this airline aggregates unsold seats from various operators, inventory can change rapidly. To lock in the lowest prices, it is advisable to book as soon as you find a deal that matches your budget, rather than waiting for last-minute drops. This is particularly important for popular connections, such as the route from Hurghada to the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, where seats can sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.

Finding the best promotions often involves being flexible with your travel dates. Travelers willing to adjust their schedule by a few days can often discover significant savings on longer routes, such as the flight connecting Ashgabat and Bangkok. Keeping an eye on the airline's platform for seasonal offers is also a smart strategy, especially if you are planning a getaway from Copenhagen to the sunny resorts of Sharm El Sheikh.

To ensure a smooth journey, travelers should take advantage of online check-in whenever available. This service typically opens 24 to 48 hours before departure and allows you to bypass long queues at the airport. Checking in early is highly recommended for flights departing from major hubs like Frankfurt am Main or London, giving you more time to relax before boarding your flight to Ashgabat.

Seat selection is another aspect to consider during the booking process. While random allocation is often standard for basic fares, purchasing a specific seat in advance ensures you get the comfort you need. Whether you prefer a window seat to admire the views while flying from Katowice to Las Palmas or need extra legroom for a trip to Marsa Alam, making this choice early avoids disappointment.

Finally, always travel with comprehensive travel insurance. This provides peace of mind against unexpected changes or cancellations. Additionally, managing your booking through the airline's digital channels or keeping electronic copies of your documents is essential for a hassle-free experience, whether you are flying from Munich or Milan.

History and Development of CitizenPlane

CitizenPlane was established in 2017 in Paris, France, with a distinct vision to solve a longstanding inefficiency in the aviation industry: empty seats on charter flights. Founded by entrepreneurs who recognized that tour operators and charter airlines often flew with unsold inventory that was invisible to the general public, the company launched as a digital platform designed to aggregate these "distressed" seats and make them available to travelers at competitive prices. Unlike traditional airlines that started with a few aircraft, CitizenPlane began with lines of code and strategic partnerships.

A major milestone in the company's history was its evolution from a simple reseller into a fully recognized virtual carrier. By securing its own IATA designator code, 1L, CitizenPlane gained the ability to issue tickets directly and distribute its inventory through global reservation systems (GDS) and online travel agencies. This pivotal development allowed the company to bridge the gap between offline charter operators and the modern digital traveler, effectively turning seats that would have gone to waste into valuable travel opportunities.

The evolution of the CitizenPlane "fleet" reflects its innovative business model. The airline does not own or lease physical aircraft; instead, its virtual fleet is composed of planes from over 80 partner airlines. This asset-light approach has allowed the company to scale rapidly without the financial burden of maintaining hardware. The "fleet" effectively changes based on demand and partnership agreements, ranging from narrow-body jets for short hops to wide-body aircraft for longer intercontinental journeys.

Significant network expansion has been driven by identifying high-demand leisure markets and underserved transit routes. The establishment of a virtual hub in Hurghada marked a key phase in this growth, cementing the airline's presence in the Red Sea tourism sector. This strategic move facilitated frequent connections between Egypt and European cities, such as the popular routes linking Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with Vilnius and Copenhagen. Additionally, the airline expanded into Central Europe, launching robust links from Katowice to various sun destinations.

Beyond standard holiday routes, CitizenPlane has carved out a niche in unique long-haul connectivity. The introduction of flights through Ashgabat provided travelers with alternative gateways between Europe and Asia. Notable route launches include connections from London and Frankfurt am Main to Turkmenistan, as well as onward services to Bangkok. These routes demonstrated the company's ability to utilize capacity on legacy carriers to offer budget-friendly long-distance travel.

In recent years, CitizenPlane has focused on technological innovation to streamline its operations. The development of proprietary software allows for real-time inventory management, enabling the instant distribution of unsold seats from partners like Las Palmas-bound charters or scheduled flights from Milan. Today, the company continues to refine its platform, ensuring that the complex web of charter flights is as easy to book as any standard scheduled service.