Freebird Airlines

Freebird Airlines is more than just an air carrier; these are reliable wings connecting Europe with the sunny coast of Turkey. Since its foundation, the company has established itself as a symbol of the start of a long-awaited holiday, offering passengers a comfortable flight to popular resorts. The bright logo on the aircraft tail has become a recognisable sign of quality for thousands of tourists choosing a holiday in the Mediterranean every year.

History and Flight Geography

The company was founded in 2000 as a subsidiary of Gözen Holding, which possesses many years of experience in the aviation industry. Freebird Airlines specialises in charter transport, ensuring a stable flow of tourists between Europe and Turkey. Special attention is paid to the German market: regular flights connect Turkish resorts with cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf and Hanover. Flights are also actively operated from the German capital — Berlin.

Fleet and Safety

The airline's air fleet consists of time-tested Airbus A320 family liners. These aircraft are ideally suited for medium-haul flights, providing an optimal combination of comfort and efficiency. Safety is the top priority for Freebird Airlines. The company became the first charter airline in Turkey to receive the ISO 9001:2000 certificate, and also successfully passed the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registration, which confirms compliance with high international operational safety standards.

Values and Service

The company's mission is to provide safe, reliable, and pleasant air transport services that exceed customer expectations. Freebird crews are known for their friendliness and professionalism, creating an atmosphere of hospitality on board. Thanks to punctuality and quality service, the airline has repeatedly received recognition in the industry and the trust of major tour operators.

How to Contact Freebird Airlines

To resolve issues related to flights, baggage, or changes to bookings, the airline offers several communication channels. Charter flight passengers are also advised to stay in touch with their tour operator, as many organisational matters are handled specifically through them. However, Freebird Airlines is open to direct dialogue and provides support through modern digital platforms and a contact centre.

Official Website

All current information, schedules, and carriage rules can be found on the carrier's official portal: www.freebirdairlines.com.

Main Contacts

• Support Service and Head Office: +90 (212) 663 77 77 (international call to Turkey).
• Fax: +90 (212) 663 23 53.
• Email for General Inquiries: info@freebirdairlines.com
• Customer Relations: customerrelations@freebirdairlines.com
• Mobile App: "Freebird" — available for download on the App Store and Google Play. Allows you to manage bookings and complete check-in.

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where it publishes news and special offers. You can try contacting representatives via direct messages on the following platforms:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• X (Twitter)

Offices and Representatives

As Freebird Airlines is a Turkish company, its key offices are located in Turkey. International support is provided primarily remotely or through representatives at departure airports.

• Headquarters (Istanbul): Yeşilköy Mah. Atatürk Cad. No:12/1, D:34149, Bakırköy, Istanbul.
• Base Airport (Antalya): The company's offices are located in the terminals of Antalya Airport, where the carrier's main fleet is based.

Please note: Contact details and service operating hours may change. We recommend checking the current information in the "Contact Us" section on the airline's official website before contacting them.

Freebird Airlines Baggage Allowance Rules

Preparing baggage is an important stage of any journey. Since Freebird Airlines specialises in charter transport, baggage allowances may vary depending on the conditions of your tour operator and the specific fare. Nevertheless, there are general airline standards that are worth considering when packing for your holiday.

Carry-on Baggage: Essentials with You

On Freebird Airlines flights, passengers are generally permitted to take one piece of carry-on baggage into the cabin. This allows you to keep valuables, documents, and necessities with you during the flight, for example, from the city of Hanover to the sea coast.

• Weight: The standard limit is up to 8 kg.
• Dimensions: The size of the bag or suitcase must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
• Additional items: In addition to the main item, it is permitted to carry a small handbag, a briefcase with a laptop, or a bag from Duty Free, provided this does not contradict the rules of the specific departure airport.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances for items checked in at the counter depend on the destination and ticket type. If you are flying to the city of Antalya on a package tour, information about the baggage allowance is always indicated on your itinerary receipt.

• Standard Allowance: Usually varies from 20 to 32 kg per passenger.
• Baggage Pooling: If a family or group of friends is travelling together, the airline often permits pooling baggage weight, however, the weight of a single suitcase must under no circumstances exceed 32 kg in accordance with international occupational safety rules for handlers.
• For Infants: Children under 2 years old (infants) are usually entitled to a baggage allowance of 10 kg, as well as the free carriage of a collapsible pushchair.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your suitcase exceeds the established limit, you will have to pay for each extra kilogram at the airport before departure. Rates depend on the flight zone. For example, on flights from cities such as Munich or Frankfurt am Main, the cost of excess weight is fixed in Euros. We recommend weighing your baggage at home to avoid unforeseen expenses at the check-in counter.

Sports Equipment and Special Items

Turkey is a popular destination for active holidays, so Freebird Airlines is accommodating regarding the transport of sports equipment, but requires prior approval.

• Golf: Since Antalya is a renowned golf destination, the carriage of the first set of golf equipment is often free or carried out at a concessional rate (needs to be clarified when booking).
• Bicycles, Diving, Surfing: The carriage of such equipment is paid for separately. Equipment must be securely packed to prevent damage.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin (within carry-on dimensions). For large instruments, such as a cello, purchasing a separate seat in the cabin may be required.

Restrictions and Prohibited Items

Strict rules exist regarding the contents of your bags for flight safety. On flights connecting Europe (for example, Stuttgart or Hamburg) with Turkey, international security standards apply.

• Prohibited in Carry-on: Sharp objects (scissors, knives), imitation weapons, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml.
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Lithium batteries and power banks (these can only be carried in carry-on baggage!), explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases.

Tips for Effective Packing

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, use these simple recommendations:

1. Always check the baggage allowance on your electronic ticket — it takes priority over general information.
2. Always put valuables, money, documents, medication, and electronics (laptops, cameras) in carry-on baggage. The airline is not responsible for their safety in checked baggage.
3. Make your suitcase recognisable: tie a bright ribbon or use a cover. This will help you find it quickly on the carousel at the arrival airport.
4. If you are departing from a major hub, for example, from the city of Berlin, arrive at the airport in advance to calmly resolve possible issues with excess weight or oversized cargo.

Travelling with Animals on Freebird Airlines Flights

Freebird Airlines understands that pets are an important part of the family, so the airline provides the opportunity for a comfortable flight for your cats and dogs. Whether you are planning a long holiday in the city of Antalya or returning home, your four-legged friend can travel with you subject to certain conditions and prior booking.

Transport Options

In the Aircraft Cabin (PETC)

This option is suitable for small animals that can stay near their owner throughout the flight, for example, travelling from the city of Cologne to southern resorts.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum dimensions of the container or soft bag must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
• Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier is limited to 8 kg.
• Permitted Animals: Only cats and dogs are admitted for carriage in the cabin (as well as birds on some flights, clarification required).
• Requirements: The animal must fit freely in the carrier, stand up, and turn around. The head must not protrude outside.
• Placement: The carrier is placed under the seat of the passenger sitting in front.

In the Baggage Hold (AVIH)

If your pet weighs more than 8 kg, it will travel in a special heated and ventilated section of the baggage hold.

• Container: A rigid cage complying with IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards is required.
• Safety: The cage must lock securely, have ventilation openings, and a waterproof bottom.
• Comfort: The dimensions of the container must allow the animal to stand at full height, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Preparation: Containers for water and food must be secured inside.

Cargo Transport

For very large animals or in the absence of an accompanying passenger, transport is arranged through the cargo terminal.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds the permissible limits for baggage or the breed requires special conditions.
• Procedure: Booking is carried out through the Freebird Cargo department.
• Features: Requires the processing of a cargo waybill and compliance with customs formalities.

Necessary Documents

When checking in for a flight, especially an international one (for example, departure from the city of Dusseldorf), staff will check the document package.

• International veterinary passport.
• Health certificate issued by a veterinarian shortly before departure.
• Valid vaccination against rabies (done no less than 21 days before departure and not expired).
• Identification microchip (mandatory for entry into EU countries and Turkey).
• Rabies antibody titre results (may be required for entry into the EU from certain countries).

Cost of Services

The transport of animals is not included in the free baggage allowance and is always paid for additionally as excess baggage or at a special rate.

• In the Cabin: A fixed fee (usually lower than for the baggage hold).
• In Baggage: The cost depends on the total weight (animal + cage) and the flight destination.
• Payment: Usually made at the check-in counter at the airport in the currency of the departure country (for example, Euros when departing from the city of Hanover).

Tips for Flight Preparation

To reduce stress for your pet, start preparation in advance.

• Accustom the animal to the carrier or cage several weeks before the journey.
• Do not feed the pet heavily 4–6 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Place an absorbent pad (absorbent material) on the bottom of the cage.
• Put a familiar toy or an item with the owner's scent inside for reassurance.

Restrictions

There are strict prohibitions aimed at ensuring the safety of all passengers and the animals themselves.

• Dangerous Breeds: Fighting dog breeds (for example, Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosa) are not admitted for transport.
• Brachycephalic Breeds: Animals with a flattened muzzle (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may have breathing problems; their transport in the baggage hold is often prohibited or restricted.
• Pregnant Animals: Are usually not admitted for flight in the late stages of pregnancy.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs are carried free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided there are relevant certificates and a muzzle.

Important: The number of places for animals on board is limited. We strongly recommend requesting permission for pet transport immediately when booking the ticket and strictly contacting the Freebird Airlines call centre to confirm the service.

Loyalty Programme and Bonuses of Freebird Airlines

To date, Freebird Airlines (FH) functions primarily as a charter carrier, paying main attention to ensuring affordable fares and comfort for all passengers rather than complex accumulation schemes. Unlike major network airlines, Freebird Airlines does not currently support its own multi-level loyalty programme for individual travellers (like Miles & More), however, there are ways to benefit from flights.

Participation Levels and Privileges

Since the airline lacks a classic status gradation, the concept of "elite levels" does not apply here. All passengers are in equal conditions, however, the level of comfort can be enhanced individually:

• Basic Standard: Every passenger is guaranteed a standard set of services included in the charter fare.
• Individual Comfort: Instead of achieving "Gold" or "Platinum" status through flight time, passengers can purchase necessary privileges for a separate fee. This includes selecting seats with extra legroom, ordering special meals, or carrying additional baggage.

How to Accumulate Points and Bonuses

Although Freebird Airlines does not award direct miles for flights, experienced tourists use alternative methods to accumulate bonuses for travel on routes, for example, from the cities of Cologne or Dusseldorf:

• Tour Operator Loyalty Programmes: If the ticket is purchased as part of a tour package, points are often credited to the loyalty card of your tour operator or travel agency.
• Bank Cards (Travel Cards): Use credit or debit cards with a cashback function or miles accrual for any purchases in the "Travel" category. Payment for additional services on board or on the website can also bring bank bonuses.
• Ticket Aggregators: When buying tickets through major online platforms, many of them offer their own bonus points which can be used in the future.

How to Use Accumulated Benefits

Since the airline has no internal currency (miles), the "spending" of bonuses happens indirectly:

• Free Tickets: Using bank miles (accumulated through bank programmes) to compensate for the cost of an air ticket or tour to the city of Antalya.
• Discounts on Tours: Redeeming tour operator points to receive a discount on a package tour that includes a Freebird Airlines flight.

Participation in Aviation Alliances

Freebird Airlines is an independent private carrier and is not a member of global aviation alliances such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld. This means that:

• Loyalty cards of other airlines are not valid on FH flights.
• Alliance status privileges (for example, business lounge access) are not provided automatically unless the passenger pays for this service independently.

How to Stay Updated on Offers

Despite the absence of classic registration in a loyalty programme, passengers are recommended to:

• Subscribe to the Newsletter: On the airline's official website to be the first to know about seasonal sales and the opening of sales for regular flights (Flight Only).
• Follow Social Media: The airline often publishes special offers and news about popular routes, for example, to Hanover or Berlin.

Onboard Services and Service Classes of Freebird Airlines

Travelling with Freebird Airlines marks the beginning of your long-awaited holiday. The airline strives to make the flight as comfortable and affordable as possible, offering quality service on its routes between Europe and sunny Turkey. Regardless of whether you are flying a short distance or facing a longer flight, the crew will ensure your comfort.

Service Classes: Standard of Hospitality

Freebird Airlines adheres to a "single class" concept, offering passengers travel in Economy Class. Such a model is typical for charter carriers and allows for the optimisation of cabin space while maintaining affordable ticket costs.

• Cabin Configuration: Airbus A320 aircraft have a 3-3 seat layout (three seats on the left and three on the right of the aisle).
• Absence of Business Class: There is no separate business class zone in Freebird Airlines aircraft. All passengers receive an equally high level of attention from flight attendants.
• Seat Selection: Despite the single class, passengers can enhance their comfort by booking seats in the front rows or at emergency exits (Exit Row) in advance, where more legroom is provided. This service is especially relevant on flights lasting more than 3 hours, for example, from the cities of Berlin or Hamburg.

Seats and Comfort

Aircraft cabins are equipped with modern ergonomic seats. The interior is designed in calm tones that promote relaxation. The seat upholstery is generally made of quality leather, which ensures hygiene and a neat appearance. The standard seat pitch (distance between rows) is about 74–76 cm, which complies with international standards for charter transport. Reclining backrests allow you to adopt a more comfortable position during the flight to the airline's hub — the city of Antalya.

Food and Beverages: Freebird Bistro

The approach to onboard catering at Freebird Airlines is flexible and depends on the conditions of your fare or tour operator.

• Paid Menu (Buy-on-Board): A "Bistro" system operates on most flights. Passengers are offered a varied menu including sandwiches, snacks, chocolate, as well as hot and cold beverages. Payment is made on board (usually Euros and credit cards are accepted).
• Included Meals: If your ticket is purchased as part of a specific tourist package, hot meals or light snacks may already be included in the price. It is worth clarifying this information with the tour operator before departure, for example, from the city of Dusseldorf or Frankfurt am Main.
• Special Meals: For passengers with dietary restrictions (vegetarian, diabetic, children's menu), a pre-order service is available. The request must be made no less than 48 hours before departure via the airline's website or your travel agent.

Entertainment and Communication

Individual multimedia screens in seatbacks are not provided on board Freebird Airlines aircraft. To avoid boredom on the way, travelling from the city of Cologne or Munich, we recommend preparing in advance:

• Gadgets: Take a tablet, smartphone, or e-book with downloaded films and music with you.
• Inflight Magazine: In the seat pocket, you will find the airline's branded magazine. It publishes interesting articles about travel, information about Duty Free goods (which can be purchased directly during the flight), and a route map.
• Wi-Fi: At the moment, broadband internet access is not provided on most aircraft, so this is an excellent time for a "digital detox" or reading a paper book.

Services for Passengers with Children

Family holidays are a key focus for Freebird. The crew is always ready to help parents travelling with little ones.

• Seat Belts: Special additional belts that attach to the adult's belt are issued for infants (under 2 years).
• Warming Food: Flight attendants will happily help warm up a bottle of baby food.
• Unaccompanied Minors (UMNR): The airline provides an escort service for children from 6 to 12 years old travelling without parents. Staff will take care of the child from the moment of check-in at the departure airport (for example, Hanover or Stuttgart) until handover to the meeting person at the destination.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Freebird Airlines strives to ensure equal opportunities for all travellers. If you or your loved ones require assistance (for example, a wheelchair), this must be reported when booking the ticket. Specially trained staff will assist with boarding and disembarking, and will also place mobility aids in the baggage hold. For maximum comfort, such passengers are usually provided with aisle seats.

Please note: The list of services and menu may change depending on the season and epidemiological situation. Current information can always be found on the carrier's official website before departure.

Popular Destinations of Freebird Airlines

The route network of Freebird Airlines is centred around its key hub — the city of Antalya, connecting the sunny resorts of Turkey with major European centres. The carrier actively operates flights to cities in Germany and neighbouring countries, ensuring a stable flow of tourists. Below are statistics on the airline's most in-demand routes over the last three weeks.

Useful Tips for Freebird Airlines Travellers

Planning a trip with Freebird Airlines (FH) can be simple and pleasant if you know a few nuances of how this airline works. Being a hybrid carrier combining charter and regular flights, the company has its own booking features. Here are a few recommendations that will help you save money and make your flight as comfortable as possible.

Best Time to Book

Since the main flight destination is sunny Antalya and other resorts in Turkey, seasonality plays a huge role in pricing. To get the most favourable fares, it is recommended to use the "Early Booking" strategy: buy tickets 3–5 months before departure, especially if you plan a holiday for peak months — July or August. In the winter period, flight prices are traditionally lower. If you are ready for spontaneous decisions, watch out for "last minute" offers 2–3 days before departure, when remaining seats on flights from Europe, for example, from cities like Cologne or Dusseldorf, are sold off.

How to Find Discounts and Promotions

Freebird Airlines periodically holds promotions timed to the start of the tourist season or holidays. To not miss out on benefits:

• Official Website: The most current prices for regular flights are always available directly on the carrier's portal.
• Tour Operators: Since a significant portion of seats on flights is purchased by tourism companies, it is sometimes more profitable to purchase a full package tour than a separate ticket. Compare offers when departing from major hubs such as Hanover or Frankfurt am Main.
• Newsletter: Subscribe to airline news via email to be the first to know about special fares.

Online Check-in: Save Time

To avoid queues at counters in the airport, we strongly recommend checking in online. Usually, it opens 24–48 hours before departure. This will allow you to select a seat in advance and print your boarding pass or save its mobile version. Please note that in some airports, for example in the city of Bucharest or Stuttgart, rules may require a paper version of the pass, so it is better to prepare it in advance.

Seat Selection on the Plane

Do not leave seat selection to the last moment. If you want to enjoy views of the coast during the landing approach or need Extra Legroom, book specific seats at the ticket purchase stage or during online check-in. The service may be paid, but comfort during a flight from the city of Berlin or Munich is worth it.

Freebird Mobile App

For passenger convenience, the airline has developed a functional mobile application. By installing it on your smartphone, you will be able to:

• Quickly buy tickets and manage current bookings.
• Complete check-in in a few clicks.
• Track flight status in real-time.
• Have quick access to all boarding passes.

Travel Insurance

Never neglect travel insurance. Freebird Airlines, like any international carrier, bears limited liability within the framework of conventions. A comprehensive insurance policy will cover medical expenses abroad, as well as compensate for costs in case of unforeseen trip cancellation or baggage issues, which is especially important when planning travel through busy airports such as Hamburg.

History and Development of Freebird Airlines

The history of Freebird Airlines is an example of how a deep understanding of the aviation industry and a commitment to quality can turn an ambitious project into one of the region's leading charter carriers. Over more than two decades of operation, the company has gone from a small startup to a respected player in the international tourist transport market.

Foundation and Early Years

The company was established in June 2000 as a subsidiary of Gözen Holding. This holding already had a solid reputation in the aviation services sector, dealing with representation, fuel supply, and ground handling since 1979. Creating its own airline became a logical step in business development. Freebird Airlines operated its first commercial flight on April 5, 2001, symbolically opening a new chapter in Turkish civil aviation. Initially, the fleet consisted of three McDonnell Douglas MD-83 aircraft, which provided the first charter chains between Europe and Turkey.

Fleet Evolution and Standardisation

An important stage in the carrier's development was the modernisation of the air fleet. Understanding the need to increase efficiency and passenger comfort, management made a strategic decision to switch to Airbus family aircraft. Gradually, old models were decommissioned, and today the fleet is based on reliable Airbus A320 liners. Fleet unification allowed for the optimisation of technical maintenance and crew training, which had a positive effect on flight regularity.

Expanding Horizons: Freebird Airlines Europe

Striving to strengthen its positions in the international arena, the company did not limit itself to Turkish jurisdiction. A significant milestone was the creation of the subsidiary airline Freebird Airlines Europe, registered in Malta. Obtaining a European Air Operator Certificate (AOC) opened new opportunities for operating flights within the European Union, allowing for a flexible response to demand and expanding the geography of presence beyond traditional routes.

Route Network Development

From the very beginning, the airline's main focus was delivering tourists to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Based in the city of Antalya, Freebird Airlines consistently increased flight frequency in key markets. Germany became one of the priority destinations: stable air bridges were established with cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf, Hanover and Berlin. The popularity of these routes is confirmed by long-term cooperation with leading European tour operators. In addition, the flight geography covered Eastern Europe, including flights from the city of Bucharest, and also expanded to southern Germany, connecting Turkey with the cities of Stuttgart and Munich.

Innovation and Quality Standards

Freebird Airlines has always strived to be a pioneer in corporate standards. It became the first charter airline in Turkey to receive the ISO 9001:2000 quality management system certificate in 2002. Subsequently, the company successfully implemented other international standards, including environmental management. Today, the carrier actively invests in digital technologies, developing its own software solutions for flight management and improving customer experience, which allows it to remain competitive in the dynamic world of aviation.