French Bee

French Bee stands out as France's first smart-cost airline dedicated entirely to long-haul flights, redefining the way travelers explore distant shores. Operating a thoroughly modern fleet, this carrier focuses on connecting Paris with exotic island getaways and major North American cities at competitive prices. By offering a customized travel experience where passengers pay only for the services they desire, French Bee makes dream vacations to places like Saint-Denis, San Francisco, and Papeete more accessible than ever.

A Modern and Efficient Fleet
One of French Bee's primary advantages is its fleet, which consists exclusively of Airbus A350 XWB aircraft. These state-of-the-art planes are designed for passenger comfort, featuring mood lighting, larger windows, and quieter engines compared to older generation aircraft. The cabin pressure is optimized to reduce fatigue, ensuring travelers arrive at their destination feeling refreshed.

The "Smart Cost" Philosophy
The airline operates on a "pick and choose" model, allowing passengers to tailor their journey to their budget. Travelers can select from different fare tiers—ranging from a basic seat-only option to packages that include checked luggage and meals. This flexibility is perfect for tourists who want to save money on airfare to spend more on experiences in destinations like New York City or Saint-Denis.

Onboard Experience and Connectivity
Despite its low-cost model, French Bee provides essential comforts for long-haul travel. The airline offers inflight entertainment on individual touchscreens and was the first French airline to obtain the 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating. Additionally, passengers can purchase Wi-Fi packages (iBlue) to stay connected with friends and family while flying over the Atlantic or Indian Ocean.

Contacting French Bee in the United Arab Emirates

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates should be aware that French Bee does not currently maintain a local office or operate direct flights to the region. For all inquiries, bookings, and support, passengers are advised to use the airline's digital channels or international contact numbers, keeping in mind that international call rates will apply when dialing support centers abroad.

Official Website

For the most direct access to flight management, bookings, and support services, visit the global English version of the official website:

https://www.frenchbee.com/en

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.frenchbee.com/en
• Online Support (Recommended): The Contact Form on the official website is the primary channel for inquiries from the UAE, ensuring requests are routed to the appropriate support team.
• Customer Service (English): +1 833-376-7158 (USA Toll-Free line; international calling rates apply from UAE)
• Headquarters Support (France): +33 825 205 205 (French & English; international rates apply)
• Ticket Booking: +1 833-376-7158
• Mobile App: Available on major platforms, allowing passengers to book flights, manage reservations, and access boarding passes directly from their smartphones.

Social Media

For quick updates or alternative support queries, you can reach out via French Bee's official social media profiles:

• Facebook: French Bee
• Instagram: @frenchbee
• X (Twitter): @flyfrenchbee
• LinkedIn: French bee

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• Dubai / Abu Dhabi: French Bee does not currently have a local ticket office or airport desk in the United Arab Emirates.
• Nearest Hub: All operations are centralized through the main hub in Paris (Orly Airport).

Support Availability

• Operating Hours (France): Daily from 07:00 AM to 08:00 PM (Paris Time).
• Operating Hours (USA Line): Monday to Saturday from 07:00 AM to 10:00 PM (CST).
• Online Help Center: The "Help Center" on the website is available 24/7 for finding answers to common questions and submitting requests.

Baggage Allowance and Policies

Understanding the baggage policy is essential when flying with French Bee, especially given its "smart-cost" model where services are tailored to your specific fare class. Whether you are heading to Paris for a city break or embarking on a long-haul adventure to Saint-Denis, knowing the limits beforehand can save you time and money at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage

French Bee allows passengers to bring carry-on luggage, but the rules are strictly enforced to ensure a smooth boarding process. Generally, every passenger is entitled to one piece of hand luggage and one small personal item.

• Hand Luggage: Maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm (including wheels and handles).
• Personal Item: A handbag, laptop bag, or briefcase with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the hand luggage and the personal item must not exceed 12 kg (approximately 26 lbs).

It is highly recommended to weigh your cabin bags before arriving at the airport, as items exceeding the weight or size limits will need to be checked in and may incur a fee.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends entirely on the fare type you selected during booking. Since French Bee offers a modular fare structure, you can choose to pay only for what you need.

• Basic Fare: This is the most economical option and does not include any checked baggage. Bags must be purchased separately.
• Smart Fare: Includes one checked bag with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Premium Fare: Includes two checked bags, each with a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs).

The standard maximum dimension for any checked bag is 158 cm (length + width + height). If you are traveling to destinations like San Francisco or Papeete and plan to shop, consider upgrading your baggage allowance in advance.

Excess and Additional Baggage

If your luggage exceeds the standard weight allowance of 23 kg, you will be charged an excess weight fee per bag. The maximum weight for any single piece of luggage is 32 kg (70 lbs); bags heavier than this will not be accepted. Passengers can also purchase additional baggage items online up to 48 hours before departure. Purchasing extra allowance online is significantly cheaper than paying the fees at the airport check-in counter.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Given that French Bee flies to prime outdoor destinations, many travelers wish to bring sports equipment. Items such as bicycles, golf bags, surfboards, and diving gear can be transported but are subject to specific rules:

• Fees: Sports equipment is generally not included in the standard baggage allowance and requires a special "Sports Equipment" fee.
• Packing: Equipment must be properly packed in protective cases to prevent damage.
• Booking: It is advisable to add these items to your booking as early as possible due to limited cargo space.

Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments may require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked in as special baggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, certain items are restricted. Lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes, and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked bags. Conversely, sharp objects, tools, and liquids exceeding 100ml must be packed in your checked luggage. Always check the official list of prohibited goods before packing to avoid confiscation at security.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To make your journey with French Bee as seamless as possible, consider these packing tips:

• Book Online: Always add extra bags or sports equipment via the website before you fly to secure the best rates.
• Check Dimensions: Ensure your carry-on fits the sizers; soft-shell bags are often easier to fit into overhead bins.
• Essentials in Cabin: Keep medications, travel documents, and valuables in your personal item so they are always accessible.
• Label Your Bags: Clearly attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked luggage.

Pet Travel Rules

French Bee welcomes cats and dogs on board its fleet, allowing passengers to travel with their furry companions to destinations like Paris and Saint-Denis. However, due to the long-haul nature of the flights, strict safety regulations and specific weight limits apply to ensure the well-being of all animals during the journey.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

• Carrier Dimensions: The bag must be flexible and waterproof, not exceeding 43 x 35 x 20 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the animal and the container must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
• Allowed Pet Types: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
• Age Requirements: Animals must be at least 8 weeks old (age requirements may vary by destination, e.g., for French Guiana).
• Limit per Passenger: Each passenger is allowed one pet in the cabin.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

• Container Requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved rigid plastic crate with a metal door held by bolts; wire or mesh cages are strictly prohibited.
• Weight Limits: This option is for animals weighing more than 8 kg, up to a maximum of 75 kg (animal + crate).
• Size Limits: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably; the maximum crate height is usually limited by the aircraft door size.
• Documentation: A waiver of responsibility must be signed at check-in.

As Cargo (Freight)

• Requirement: This method is mandatory for animals and crates exceeding the 75 kg weight limit or for species other than cats and dogs.
• Special Requirements: Transport is handled by French Bee Cargo, complying with specific freight regulations.
• Booking Procedure: You must contact the cargo department directly to arrange shipment, as this cannot be added to a standard passenger ticket.

Required Documentation

To avoid refusal at the airport, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Identification: The animal must be identified by an electronic microchip (or a clearly readable tattoo if applied before July 2011).
• Veterinary Passport: A valid EU pet passport or official veterinary documents required by the destination country.
• Vaccinations: Up-to-date vaccines are mandatory, specifically anti-rabies (validity periods vary between 21 days and one year).
• Health Certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian within 10 days prior to departure (requirements may vary by destination).

Service Costs

Fees are charged per leg of the journey and are subject to change:

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €50 to €100 depending on the destination.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €100 to €200 depending on the route.
• Note: Prices are fixed fees and are not included in the baggage allowance.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Familiarity: Let your pet spend time in the crate days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure; do not feed them right before flying to avoid nausea.
• Hydration: Ensure the animal is well-hydrated, and for hold travel, equip the crate with an empty water dish accessible from the outside.
• No Sedation: Veterinarians and IATA generally advise against sedating animals as it can affect their breathing at high altitudes.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds (Hold): Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) animals (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Persian cats) are often prohibited in the hold due to respiratory risks.
• Dangerous Dogs: Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 (guard/defense dogs) are generally prohibited from transport.
• Other Animals: Rodents, birds, and reptiles are typically not allowed in the cabin or checked baggage and must go via Cargo.
• Service Animals: Recognized guide dogs are usually accepted in the cabin free of charge with appropriate documentation.

Important: Travel regulations for pets can change depending on international laws and aircraft types. It is strongly recommended to contact French Bee customer service directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm your booking and verify current requirements.

Loyalty Program Overview

Introduction
Unlike traditional legacy carriers, French Bee does not currently operate a standard frequent flyer program or a mileage-based loyalty scheme. Instead, the airline adheres to a "Smart Cost" philosophy, prioritizing affordable, transparent fares for all passengers over complex reward systems. This approach ensures that travelers flying to destinations like Paris or New York City receive the best possible price upfront, rather than accruing points for future use.

Membership Tiers
As there is no frequent flyer program, French Bee does not have elite status levels (such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum). All passengers enjoy the same high standard of service on board the Airbus A350 fleet, regardless of how often they fly. However, travelers can customize their "status" for each specific trip by choosing one of the fare bundles:

• Basic: The entry-level option offering the lowest price, including a seat and carry-on luggage only.
• Smart: Adds a checked bag and an inflight meal, offering a standard economy experience.
• Premium: The top-tier experience featuring premium cabin seating, two checked bags, priority services, and enhanced dining.

Earning Miles and Points
French Bee does not issue miles for flights, and there are no co-branded credit cards or hotel partnerships for earning points directly with the airline. The focus remains on immediate value:

• Flights: No miles are awarded based on distance or fare class.
• Partners: Points cannot be earned through hotel bookings or car rentals directly linked to a French Bee account.
• Savings: The "reward" is considered to be the immediate financial saving on the ticket price compared to full-service carriers.

Redeeming Options
Since no miles are collected, there are no redemption mechanisms for award flights or upgrades. All services must be purchased directly:

• Award Flights: Not applicable; all tickets are purchased with cash.
• Upgrades: Passengers can purchase upgrades to the Premium cabin or "Cosy Cabin" (a quiet zone) during booking or at the airport, subject to availability.
• Discounts: Seasonal promotions and instant savings are offered instead of points redemption.

Alliance and Partnerships
French Bee is not a member of any major airline alliance (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). However, it maintains strategic partnerships to improve connectivity:

• Interline Agreements: Partnerships with airlines like Alaska Airlines allow for smoother connections and baggage transfers when booking combined itineraries to the US West Coast or Papeete.
• Sister Airline: It operates closely with Air Caraïbes (Groupe Dubreuil), though their loyalty programs are currently separate.
• Rail Connect: A partnership with SNCF (Train + Air) allows travelers to connect their flight with high-speed train services across France.

How to Stay Updated
While there is no membership to join, savvy travelers can ensure they never miss a deal by using the airline's digital tools:

• Good Deals Card: Add the "French bee Good Deals" pass to your smartphone's wallet (Apple or Android) to receive instant notifications about flash sales and promotions.
• Newsletter: Subscribe via the official website to receive exclusive offers directly in your inbox.
• Account Creation: Create a "My Account" profile on the website to manage bookings and personal data efficiently.

Onboard Services and Travel Classes

French Bee offers a unique "smart-cost" experience designed to make long-haul travel comfortable yet affordable. Operating exclusively with a modern fleet of Airbus A350 aircraft, the airline prioritizes passenger well-being with quieter cabins, mood lighting, and advanced air pressure regulation systems. Whether you are flying to Paris or continuing your journey to San Francisco, the inflight experience is tailored to let you pay only for the services you truly value.

Economy Class: Comfort on a Budget

The Economy cabin is designed to maximize value without sacrificing essential comforts. The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather and feature adjustable headrests to help you relax during the flight. Arranged in a 10-abreast configuration, the cabin utilizes the A350's extra width to provide adequate personal space.

• Seat Features: Each Economy seat offers a pitch of 32 inches, providing standard legroom for long-haul journeys. The seats are equipped with USB ports and electrical outlets, ensuring your devices remain charged throughout the trip.
• Comfort Kit: For added relaxation, passengers can purchase a "Blue Comfort" kit containing a blanket, pillow, and travel essentials, or bring their own amenities to feel at home.

Premium Class: An Elevated Experience

For travelers seeking extra space and priority treatment, French Bee offers a distinct Premium Class. While the airline does not operate traditional lie-flat Business or First Class cabins, the Premium cabin serves as a high-quality alternative, located in a dedicated private section at the front of the aircraft.

• Spacious Seating: Premium seats are wider and arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration (7 seats per row), offering significantly more elbow room and privacy. They feature a generous 36-inch pitch, a footrest, and leg rest support for a restful journey.
• Priority Services: Premium passengers enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and luggage delivery, ensuring a seamless experience from the airport in locations like New York City or Saint-Denis to their final destination.
• Complimentary Amenities: A comfort kit, blanket, and pillow are included in the fare, along with a welcome drink upon boarding.

Dining and Beverages

French Bee's dining concept revolves around flexibility. Meals are included in "Smart" and "Premium" fares but are optional for "Basic" tickets, allowing savvy travelers to save money if they prefer to dine before flying.

• Economy Dining: Passengers with meal-inclusive tickets receive a tasty meal tray featuring French-inspired cuisine. Those on Basic fares can pre-book meals online or purchase snacks and drinks directly from the onboard "Blue Café."
• Premium Dining: Premium Class travelers are served a superior menu with a choice of hot meals, served on proper tableware, accompanied by a selection of wines and beverages.
• Special Dietary Needs: Kosher, Halal, vegetarian, and allergen-free meals can be pre-ordered up to 48 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Boredom is not an option on board, thanks to a comprehensive entertainment system available to every passenger regardless of class.

• In-Flight Entertainment (IFE): Every seat is equipped with an extra-large HD touchscreen. The system offers a wide selection of free movies, TV shows, music, and video games. A unique feature allows passengers to view external cameras mounted on the aircraft's tail and belly, offering stunning views of takeoffs and landings in scenic spots like Papeete.
• Wi-Fi Services: Stay connected with the world using the "iBlue" Wi-Fi service. Packages range from a basic "Hello" plan for messaging (WhatsApp, Messenger) to "Geek" and "Addict" plans for browsing and surfing the web at high speeds.

Special Services and Accessibility

French Bee is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers.

• Families and Children: Bassinets are available for infants (must be booked in advance), and the inflight entertainment system includes a dedicated kids' section. Unaccompanied minor services are available for children traveling alone.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides full assistance for passengers with disabilities. Requests for wheelchair assistance or special seating arrangements should be made at least 48 hours before the flight to ensure the ground staff at hubs like Miami Beach or Paris are fully prepared.

French Bee connects travelers to a select network of long-haul destinations, centering its operations around its primary hub in Paris (Orly Airport). From the French capital, the airline specializes in direct routes to sunny getaways in the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, as well as key cities across the United States and Canada.

Securing the best fares with French Bee requires a strategic approach. As a specialized long-haul, low-cost carrier, ticket prices often fluctuate based on demand. To lock in the most affordable rates, it is highly recommended to book your journey as early as possible—ideally three to four months in advance. This is particularly important for popular routes connecting the hub in Paris with destinations like Saint-Denis. Travelers with flexible schedules should utilize the "Low Fare Calendar" feature often found on booking platforms, as flying mid-week can result in significant savings compared to weekend departures.

To stay updated on the latest promotions and flash sales, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their social media channels. These alerts are excellent for finding deals to major cities such as New York City or Montreal. Additionally, downloading the French Bee mobile app is a smart move. The app allows you to easily manage your booking, receive real-time flight notifications, and access your boarding pass, ensuring a smoother travel experience from San Francisco to Europe and beyond.

Streamlining your airport experience begins with online check-in. This service typically opens 48 hours before your scheduled departure. completing this step online not only saves time at the airport but also allows you to double-check your travel documents in advance. If you are flying to sunny leisure spots like Punta Cana or Miami Beach, handling these logistics early lets you start your vacation mode sooner.

Comfort is crucial on long-haul flights, so pay attention to seat selection. Since this is a low-cost airline, selecting a specific seat often incurs an additional fee, but it is a worthwhile investment if you require extra legroom or wish to sit with travel companions. It is advisable to reserve your preferred seats at the time of booking rather than waiting until the last minute. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. whether you are heading to Papeete or returning to France, having coverage for unexpected cancellations or medical emergencies provides essential peace of mind.

History and Development

French Bee was established in 2016 by Groupe Dubreuil, a family-owned French conglomerate with a strong presence in the aviation sector. Originally launched under the name "French Blue," the airline was created with a clear and innovative vision: to become the first French low-cost carrier dedicated exclusively to long-haul routes. The company's inaugural commercial flight took off in September 2016, connecting its base in Paris (Orly Airport) to the holiday paradise of Punta Cana. This successful launch marked the beginning of a new era in affordable transcontinental travel.

Rebranding and US Expansion
A significant milestone occurred in early 2018 when the airline rebranded from French Blue to French Bee. This strategic change was primarily driven by the carrier's ambition to enter the United States market. By adopting a unique identity, the airline swiftly gained approval to operate flights to American territories. This paved the way for the launch of its flagship route to Papeete via San Francisco in May 2018, offering a competitive alternative for travelers heading to the Pacific.

Fleet Evolution
While the airline initially operated with an Airbus A330-300, it quickly transitioned to a more modern and efficient fleet strategy. French Bee became the first airline in the world to operate an all-Airbus A350 fleet, comprised of A350-900 and A350-1000 aircraft. This shift was central to the company's business model, as the A350 XWB offers significant fuel savings, reduced carbon emissions, and lower operating costs—savings that are passed on to passengers through lower fares.

Network Growth
Following its initial success in the Caribbean and French Polynesia, the airline continued to expand its network to include key destinations in the Indian Ocean and North America. The route to Saint-Denis on Reunion Island became a staple connection, reinforcing ties between mainland France and its overseas territories. In recent years, the carrier has aggressively expanded its North American footprint, launching direct services to New York City (Newark Liberty International Airport) and Miami Beach (Miami International Airport), catering to both leisure and business travelers.

Recent Developments
Despite global challenges in the aviation industry, French Bee has maintained a trajectory of growth. The airline recently added Montreal to its route map, further establishing its presence in the transatlantic market. Today, operating alongside its sister airline Air Caraïbes, French Bee continues to refine its "smart cost" model, focusing on digital innovation, fleet modernity, and sustainable travel practices to connect France with the world's most desirable destinations.