Corsair

Corsair is a distinguished French airline that specializes in connecting travelers to some of the world’s most beautiful tropical destinations. With a history dating back to 1981, it has established itself as a leader in the long-haul leisure market, primarily serving the French Overseas Territories, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. Operating from its main base in Paris (Orly), Corsair combines French elegance with a modern flight experience, ensuring that your vacation begins the moment you step on board. Whether you are visiting family or seeking a sunny escape, this airline provides a comfortable and reliable link to exotic shores.

Traveling with Corsair

Corsair creates a unique travel experience designed specifically for long-distance journeys. The airline has significantly upgraded its operations with a focus on passenger comfort and environmental responsibility. Here are the key advantages of flying with Corsair:

• Modern and Eco-Friendly Fleet: The airline operates a renewed fleet consisting entirely of Airbus A330neo aircraft. These modern planes are quieter and more fuel-efficient, offering a smoother ride while reducing the carbon footprint of your journey.
• Exotic Route Network: Corsair is a specialist in flights to sunny destinations. It offers frequent connections to the French Caribbean, including Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe and Fort-de-France in Martinique. For those heading to the Indian Ocean, the airline provides key routes to Saint-Denis in Reunion Island, Port Louis in Mauritius, and Mamoudzou in Mayotte.
• African Connections: The airline also serves major cities in West Africa, maintaining strong links with Abidjan, Bamako, and Cotonou. It is also a popular choice for travelers flying to Antananarivo in Madagascar.
• Regional Accessibility: While Paris is the main hub, Corsair also facilitates travel from other major French cities. Travelers can find convenient departures from Marseille, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Nantes to select overseas destinations.
• Three Classes of Service: To cater to different budgets and needs, the cabins are divided into Business, Premium, and Economy classes. Passengers can enjoy ergonomic seating, inflight entertainment systems with a wide range of movies, and meals inspired by French culinary traditions.

Contacting Corsair in the United Arab Emirates

As Corsair primarily specializes in flights between France, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Africa, the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the United Arab Emirates or maintain a dedicated local branch in the country. Travelers in the UAE needing assistance with bookings or existing reservations are advised to use the airline's digital channels or contact the international customer service center in France.

Official Website

• Official Website: www.flycorsair.com (Available in English and French)

Contact Information

Since there is no local call center in the UAE, please use the international contact details below. Be aware that international calling rates may apply.

• International Customer Service: +33 1 70 39 22 10
• Operating Hours: Daily from 07:00 to 00:00 (Paris Time). Please consider the time difference (UAE is typically 2-3 hours ahead of France).
• Online Support: The most efficient way to resolve issues is often through the "Help & Contact" section on the official website, which features a Chatbot and contact forms for specific inquiries (claims, booking modifications, etc.).
• Mobile App: Manage your booking on the go with the Corsair app, available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

Social Media Connections

For quick updates or simple queries, you can reach out to Corsair via their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: Corsair International
• X (Twitter): @Corsair
• Instagram: @corsairinternational

Local Offices

• United Arab Emirates: There are currently no ticketing offices or airport counters for Corsair in the UAE. All administrative and booking tasks should be handled online or via the international phone line.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Preparing for your flight with Corsair begins with understanding what you can bring on board. The airline is known for strictly enforcing cabin baggage limits to ensure comfort and safety for all passengers. Regardless of your destination, whether you are flying from Paris or Lyon, you are permitted one piece of cabin luggage and one personal accessory, such as a handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag.

The maximum dimensions for your main carry-on bag are generally 55 x 40 x 20 cm. The weight allowance depends on your travel class:

• Economy Class: The combined weight of your cabin bag and accessory must not exceed 12 kg.
• Premium and Business Class: You enjoy a more generous allowance, with a combined maximum weight of 18 kg.

Checked Baggage Limits

Corsair operates on a "Piece Concept," meaning your allowance is defined by the number of bags and their weight. Policies may vary slightly based on your specific fare type (e.g., Eco Basic vs. Eco Flex), but the general guidelines for long-haul flights to destinations like Saint-Denis or Fort-de-France are as follows:

• Economy Class: Most standard fares include one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg. Note that "Eco Basic" fares may not include a checked bag, requiring you to purchase one separately.
• Premium Class: Passengers are typically allowed two checked bags. Depending on the route and specific fare, each bag can weigh either 23 kg or 32 kg.
• Business Class: This class offers the highest allowance, usually permitting two checked bags weighing up to 32 kg each.

For safety reasons, no single piece of luggage can weigh more than 32 kg. If a bag exceeds this limit, it must be repacked or sent as cargo.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to travel with more luggage than your allowance permits, you can purchase an additional baggage allowance. It is highly recommended to purchase excess baggage online via the Corsair website before your flight. Prepaid rates are significantly cheaper—often up to 30% less—than the fees charged at the airport counter on the day of departure.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Instruments

Corsair is accustomed to transporting vacationers with bulky leisure equipment. Policies for special items include:

• Sports Equipment: Items such as golf bags, surfboards, bicycles, and diving gear can be transported. In some cases, golf equipment may be transported free of charge up to a certain weight limit (often 20 kg), provided it is declared in advance. Other equipment usually incurs a fixed fee per leg.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit within the carry-on dimensions can be taken into the cabin as your hand luggage. Larger instruments require a dedicated seat booking or must be checked in as special hold luggage in a hard-shell case.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure a smooth security screening process, please adhere to international safety regulations:

• Liquids in Cabin: Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less and packed in a single, transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
• Batteries: Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your cabin luggage and never in checked bags due to fire safety regulations.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, flammable substances, sharp objects, and firearms are strictly prohibited in the cabin.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey to Port Louis or Pointe-à-Pitre as stress-free as possible, consider these tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a luggage scale at home to ensure you are within the limits. Corsair staff may weigh cabin bags at the gate.
• Label Everything: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to the outside and inside of every checked bag.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-on: Keep valuable items, medication, and travel documents in your hand luggage to avoid issues if your checked bags are delayed.
• Protect Fragile Items: Wrap souvenirs or delicate items in soft clothing and place them in the center of your checked bag for maximum cushioning.

Traveling with Pets on Corsair

Corsair understands that pets are part of the family and welcomes them on board most of its flights. Whether you are relocating or taking a long vacation, the airline provides options to transport your cat or dog safely, provided that all health and safety regulations are met and the service is booked at least 72 hours in advance.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the cabin if they remain in their carrier throughout the flight.

• Carrier dimensions: The sum of length + width + height must not exceed 115 cm (approx. 55 x 40 x 20 cm).
• Maximum weight: Up to 8 kg (including the animal and the carrier).
• Allowed pet types: Primarily cats and small dogs.
• Container type: Must be a flexible, approved travel bag that fits under the seat in front of you.
• Limit: One pet permitted per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Larger animals that exceed the cabin weight limit travel in the pressurized and temperature-controlled hold.

• Container requirements: Rigid plastic or fiberglass IATA-compliant crate with metal bolts (no wheels).
• Weight limits: Maximum weight of 50 kg (animal + crate).
• Size limits: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Temperature: Transport may be refused if extreme temperatures at departure or arrival pose a risk.
• Booking: Must be confirmed in advance as space in the hold is limited.

As Cargo (Fret)

Some situations require animals to be transported via Corsair's freight service rather than as checked baggage.

• When required: For animals and crates exceeding 50 kg, or for unaccompanied pets.
• Special requirements: Mandatory for certain destinations requiring specific import procedures.
• Booking procedure: Requires arrangement through the freight department or a specialized animal transport agent.

Required Documentation

To ensure smooth entry at your destination, you must provide valid documents at check-in:

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date European pet passport or equivalent official document.
• Identification: The animal must be identified by an electronic microchip (tattoo accepted if applied before July 2011).
• Vaccinations: A valid anti-rabies vaccination is mandatory for all international travel.
• Health Certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian shortly before travel (typically within 5 days).
• Destination Specifics: Additional permits may be required for entry into islands like Reunion or Mauritius.

Service Costs

Fees for pet transport are not included in the baggage allowance and must be paid at the airport.

• In-cabin fee: Approximately €50 to €100 per leg, depending on the destination.
• Cargo hold fee: Approximately €100 to €200 per leg, varying by route and zone.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and should be verified during booking.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier familiarity: Let your pet get used to the crate or bag weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent nausea.
• Hydration: Offer water right up until departure, but empty the bowl for the flight itself.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat or a familiar blanket inside the carrier.
• No sedation: Do not sedate your pet unless specifically advised by a vet, as it can affect breathing at altitude.

Restrictions

• Brachycephalic breeds: Snub-nosed animals (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are strictly prohibited in the hold due to respiratory risks; they may fly in the cabin if under 8 kg.
• Prohibited breeds: Category 1 (attack dogs) are generally banned from transport.
• Category 2 dogs: Guard and defense dogs may face stricter transport rules or require freight service.
• Age restrictions: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 15 weeks old (due to rabies vaccine delays).

Important: Animal transport rules are strict and can change. We strongly recommend contacting Corsair's customer service directly to confirm eligibility and book your pet's ticket well in advance of your trip.

Le Club Corsair Loyalty Program

Le Club Corsair is the straightforward and generous loyalty program designed to reward frequent flyers of the airline. Unlike traditional mile-based systems, this program operates on a revenue-based model where members earn credits in Euros based on the price of their tickets, which can be used to discount future travel. It is an ideal scheme for travelers visiting the French Overseas Territories, Africa, and the Indian Ocean, offering tangible savings and exclusive perks from the very first flight.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four status levels, each offering progressively higher rewards and improving the travel experience:

• Club: The entry-level tier offering instant credit accumulation on every eligible flight.
• Silver: Reached after spending a set amount, unlocking priority check-in and higher earning rates.
• Gold: Grants access to airport lounges, an additional piece of checked baggage, and priority luggage delivery.
• Platinum: The elite tier offering the highest earning percentage, free seat selection, and dedicated customer support lines.

Earning Credits

Members accumulate value in their loyalty pot ("cagnotte") rather than traditional miles, making the earning process transparent:

• Flights: Earn between 2% and 12% of the ticket price (excluding taxes) depending on your card status.
• High Fares: Premium and Business class tickets accumulate credits at a faster rate due to higher ticket values.
• Family Account: Multiple family members can pool their earnings into a single account to reach rewards faster.
• Partner Offers: Occasional promotions allow earning through select travel and retail partners.

Redeeming Credits

The accumulated credits act as cash that can be easily spent on travel expenses without complex award charts:

• Flight Discounts: Use your credits to pay for part or all of a Corsair flight ticket to any destination.
• Services: Apply your balance to purchase paid options such as extra baggage or seat selection.
• Flexibility: There are no blackout dates; if a seat is available for sale, you can use your credits to buy it.
• Taxes and Fees: Credits can often be used to cover the carrier-imposed surcharges on your booking.

Alliance Membership

Corsair is not a member of the major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). It operates independently, focusing on its own network and specific interline agreements to serve its niche markets effectively.

How to Join

Joining Le Club Corsair is free, simple, and open to all travelers. You can register directly on the official Corsair website by filling out a short form, and you will receive your digital membership card immediately to start earning on your next trip.

Service Classes

Corsair has tailored its cabin configurations to meet the diverse needs of long-haul travelers, particularly on its modern Airbus A330neo fleet. The airline offers three distinct classes of service, each designed to provide comfort and convenience for flights to destinations like Saint-Denis or Fort-de-France.

Business Class: Designed for maximum relaxation, the Business cabin features lie-flat seats that convert into a fully horizontal bed, ensuring a restful sleep on overnight journeys. On the newer aircraft, the 1-2-1 seating configuration guarantees direct aisle access for every passenger. Travelers in this class enjoy priority check-in, access to airport lounges, a dedicated cabin crew, and premium amenity kits containing skincare products and travel essentials.

Premium Class: Located in a quiet, dedicated section of the aircraft, the Premium cabin bridges the gap between Economy and Business. It offers wider seats with generous legroom, a footrest, and greater recline. Passengers benefit from priority boarding, an increased baggage allowance, and an upgraded dining experience served on real tableware. It is an excellent choice for those seeking extra comfort without the price tag of Business class.

Economy Class: Corsair’s Economy cabin is designed to offer value without compromising on essential comforts. The ergonomic seats feature adjustable headrests and personal entertainment screens. Passengers are provided with a blanket and pillow for the journey. The atmosphere is bright and modern, making it suitable for families and budget-conscious travelers heading to places like Abidjan or Pointe-à-Pitre.

In-Flight Dining

Reflecting its French heritage, Corsair places a strong emphasis on culinary quality. The airline collaborates with renowned chefs to create menus that blend French gastronomy with the flavors of its overseas destinations.

• Business Class Dining: Passengers enjoy a "Signature" menu featuring gourmet appetizers, a choice of hot main courses, cheese plates, and decadent desserts. A curated selection of fine wines and champagnes accompanies the meal.
• Standard Service: In Economy and Premium, a complimentary hot meal is served, typically including a starter, main dish, and dessert. A second snack or breakfast is provided before landing, depending on the flight duration.
• "Repas Prestige": For a special treat, Economy and Premium passengers can pre-order themed "Prestige Meals" (such as Italian, Seafood, or Gourmet) for an additional fee up to 48 hours before departure.
• Special Dietary Needs: Meals for specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.) can be requested in advance at no extra cost.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Boredom is not an option on Corsair flights. The airline equips every seat with a personal touch-screen entertainment system offering a wide variety of content.

• Movies and Music: The "Corsair Play" system features a library of recent Hollywood blockbusters, French cinema, TV series, documentaries, games, and music albums to suit all tastes.
• Wi-Fi Onboard: Keeping in touch is easy with the "Corsair On Sky" Wi-Fi service available on the A330neo fleet. Passengers can choose from four distinct packages, ranging from a simple text-messaging plan (often free or very low cost) to high-speed surf packages for browsing and streaming.
• In-Flight Magazine: A digital or physical copy of the airline's magazine offers travel inspiration and news about the carrier's network.

Family and Special Assistance

As a leading leisure airline, Corsair is particularly attentive to families and passengers with specific needs.

• Traveling with Children: Families receive priority boarding to settle in comfortably. On board, children are given special activity kits with games and coloring books. A dedicated kids' channel is available on the entertainment system, and special child-friendly meals can be booked in advance.
• Infants: Bassinets are available for babies weighing up to 10 kg, subject to availability and specific seat booking. These must be reserved well before the flight date.
• Reduced Mobility: Corsair provides comprehensive assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). From airport assistance to onboard support with specially designed wheelchairs, the airline ensures a safe and dignified travel experience. Requests for assistance should be made at least 48 hours prior to departure.

Corsair operates a specialized route network centered around its primary hub at Paris (Orly), focusing on connecting France with the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, and Africa. The airline facilitates travel to popular tropical destinations and major African cities, while also providing direct seasonal departures from regional French airports like Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lyon.

Planning a trip with Corsair (SS) can be a smooth experience with a few strategic steps. Since the airline specializes in long-haul leisure flights, particularly to sunny destinations, flight availability often correlates with holiday seasons. To secure the most competitive fares, especially for departures from their main hub in Paris, it is highly recommended to book your tickets several months in advance. This is particularly important if you plan to travel during school holidays or the peak winter season when routes to the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean are in high demand.

To find the best deals, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or setting up price alerts for your desired route. Flexibility with your travel dates can also lead to significant savings. For instance, flying mid-week rather than on weekends to popular spots like Pointe-à-Pitre or Saint-Denis can sometimes result in lower ticket prices. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, which are often released ahead of major travel periods.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing online check-in. This service typically opens 72 hours before your scheduled departure time, allowing you to choose your seat and obtain your boarding pass from the comfort of your home. Completing this step online not only saves you time at the airport counters but also ensures you have all your travel documents ready before you arrive at the terminal.

Given that many Corsair flights cover long distances, such as the journey to Fort-de-France or Port Louis, seat selection is a crucial aspect of your booking. While standard seat selection may be available during check-in, travelers seeking extra legroom or a specific location in the cabin—such as window seats or those near the front—should consider reserving their seats during the initial booking process. Upgrading to premium seating options can also significantly enhance comfort on these extended journeys.

For a seamless travel management experience, download the Corsair mobile app. It serves as a handy travel companion where you can manage your booking, check flight status in real-time, and access your boarding pass digitally. Additionally, considering travel insurance is always a wise decision for international trips. Ensure your policy covers potential disruptions, medical emergencies, or baggage issues to travel with complete peace of mind.

Founding and Early Vision

The story of the airline began in 1981 when it was established as Corse Air International by the Rossi family. Initially, the carrier operated a modest fleet of Caravelle aircraft with a primary focus on serving the Mediterranean region. However, the company's trajectory changed dramatically in 1990 when it was acquired by Nouvelles Frontières, a major French tour operator. This acquisition marked a pivotal turning point, rebranding the carrier as Corsair and setting a new mission: to democratize long-haul air travel and make distant tropical holidays accessible to a broader audience.

The Jumbo Jet Era and Expansion

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Corsair became synonymous with the Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jet." These high-capacity aircraft were instrumental in the airline's strategy, allowing it to transport large numbers of vacationers to the French West Indies and the Indian Ocean at competitive prices. This period solidified the carrier's presence in key markets, establishing vital air bridges between Paris and overseas territories. The airline played a crucial role in developing tourism in regions like Guadeloupe and Martinique, connecting travelers to cities such as Pointe-à-Pitre and Fort-de-France.

Corporate Changes and Rebranding

In the early 2000s, the airline became part of the TUI Group, one of the world’s leading tourism organizations. To align with the parent company's branding strategy, the airline was renamed Corsairfly in 2005. During this era, the carrier focused on integrating with TUI's global network while maintaining its specialized routes. However, in 2012, the airline decided to assert a stronger, more independent identity. It dropped the "fly" suffix and rebranded as Corsair International, eventually simplifying back to just Corsair. This change signaled a strategic shift from being a purely charter-oriented operator to a scheduled airline offering higher standards of service and reliability.

Strategic Route Development

Over the decades, the airline has carefully curated its network to serve specific demand. While it remained loyal to its core markets in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean—flying frequently to Saint-Denis in Reunion Island—it also diversified its operations significantly. A major development was the expansion into West Africa, establishing regular connections to major economic hubs such as Abidjan and Bamako. This move allowed the airline to cater not only to leisure travelers but also to business passengers and those visiting friends and relatives.

Fleet Modernization and Recent Innovations

In recent years, Corsair has undergone a comprehensive transformation to meet modern environmental and comfort standards. A historic milestone was reached in 2020 when the airline bid farewell to its last Boeing 747, marking the end of an iconic era. The fleet renewal strategy focused on transitioning to an all-Airbus lineup, specifically the advanced Airbus A330neo. These new aircraft are designed to reduce fuel consumption and noise footprints significantly. Today, operating as an independent French company following its separation from TUI, the airline continues to innovate with upgraded cabins and a refined onboard experience.