Global Aviation Operations

TransAsia Airways (GE) was a former Taiwanese airline that concluded its history in 2016. Before ceasing operations, the carrier actively performed passenger flights, ensuring air connectivity across its routes. A key hub for flight operations was Johannesburg, from where a portion of the route network was managed.

The list of destinations included flights connecting significant locations. In particular, the airline's aircraft operated regular flights to Cape Town. This destination remained accessible to travellers right up until the company suspended operations, allowing for comfortable travel between the cities.

Due to the fact that TransAsia Airways (GE) completely ceased its operations in 2016, active customer support and ticket booking are no longer carried out. It is impossible to contact representatives of the carrier through the old communication channels.

Official Website

Previously, the airline's official web resource was located at www.tna.com.tw. Currently, the site is unavailable or not maintained.

Contact Details

• Official Website: Not functioning.
• Customer Support: Telephone lines are disconnected.
• Ticket Booking: Service unavailable.
• Email: The company's email addresses are inactive.
• Mobile App: Support has ended; download is unavailable.

Social Media

The airline's pages on social networks have been frozen and have not been updated since the suspension of flights. Inquiries via messengers are not processed.

Local Offices

All physical sales offices, representative offices, and check-in counters at base airports are closed.

It is important to note that TransAsia Airways (GE) ceased operations in 2016. The baggage allowance information provided below is of a historical and reference nature, reflecting the carrier's standards that were in effect prior to the company's closure.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

In accordance with the airline's policy, Economy Class passengers were generally permitted to take one piece of hand luggage on board. The weight of the bag was not to exceed 7 kg, and its dimensions had to fit within standard limits (usually 56x36x23 cm) so that it could fit freely in the overhead locker or under the seat. Additionally, a small personal item was allowed: a handbag, a laptop in a case, or a camera.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowance limits on TransAsia Airways flights depended on the class of service and the route:

• Economy Class: The standard allowance was 20 kg.
• Business Class: Passengers could expect an increased limit of up to 30 kg.

On some routes, the Piece Concept may have applied, but for the majority of regional flights, the Weight Concept was in effect, allowing weight to be distributed across several bags within the total limit.

Excess Baggage Rates

An additional fee was charged for exceeding the weight or number of baggage pieces. Tariffs were calculated for each kilogram of excess weight and depended on the flight distance. Payment was usually made at the check-in counter at the departure airport. Passengers were advised to weigh their suitcases in advance, as excess weight rates at the airport were significantly higher than when booking in advance (when such a service was available).

Special Items and Non-Standard Baggage

The transport of sports equipment (e.g., skis, golf bags, bicycles) and musical instruments required special attention. The following rules applied to such items:

• Sports Equipment: Included in the free baggage allowance if it fell within the weight limits. Otherwise, it was charged as excess baggage.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments could be taken into the cabin instead of hand luggage. For large instruments (e.g., cellos), it was necessary to purchase a separate seat in the cabin.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

To ensure flight safety, TransAsia Airways strictly prohibited the carriage of explosives, flammable liquids, compressed gases, and toxic materials in any type of baggage. Lithium-ion batteries and power banks were permitted exclusively in hand luggage; checking them into the cargo hold was forbidden.

Tips for Effective Packing

To avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport, travellers were recommended to:

• Check the weight and dimensions of suitcases at home in advance.
• Place all valuables, documents, money, and essential medicines in hand luggage.
• Use bright luggage tags with the owner's contact details.
• Familiarise themselves with the customs regulations of the destination country before departure.

Rules for Transporting Pets

During its period of activity, TransAsia Airways (GE) adhered to standard international norms regarding the transport of animals, striving to ensure comfort for both pets and passengers. Since the airline ceased operations in 2016, the information presented below is for reference only and reflects the carrier's historical rules.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)

Transporting animals in the aircraft cabin was permitted for small pets that did not cause inconvenience to other passengers. Key requirements included:

• Carrier Dimensions: The container had to fit under the seat in front. Standard permissible dimensions were approximately 40×30×20 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier was not to exceed 7–8 kg (depending on the aircraft type).
• Permitted Animals: Usually, only domestic cats and dogs were allowed.
• Breed Restrictions: Fighting breeds and flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs required special approval.
• Limit per Passenger: One passenger could carry only one carrier with one animal.

In the Baggage Compartment (Checked Baggage)

Animals exceeding the limits for cabin transport were carried in a specially equipped, heated cargo hold. The requirements for such transport were stricter:

• Container Requirements: The cage had to comply with IATA standards (rigid plastic, ventilation on three sides, secure lock). The animal must be able to stand at full height and turn around.
• Weight and Size Restrictions: The maximum weight of the container with the animal was usually limited to 32–45 kg. Heavier cages required processing through the cargo terminal.
• Temperature Restrictions: In cases of extreme temperatures at departure or arrival airports, the airline could refuse transport for the safety of the pet.
• Necessary Documents: Copies of veterinary certificates were attached to the cage.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

This option was used in special cases when standard baggage transport was impossible:

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeded allowable baggage limits or the animal was travelling unaccompanied by an owner.
• Special Requirements: Reinforced cages and additional processing of customs declarations.
• Booking Procedure: Approval from the airline's cargo department was required at least several days before departure.

Necessary Documents

To check in for a flight with an animal, a full package of documents was required:

• Veterinary Passport: With information about the owner and a description of the animal.
• Health Certificate: A form issued by a government veterinary clinic (usually valid for no more than 10 days before departure).
• Vaccinations: Mandatory valid vaccination against rabies (administered no earlier than one year and no later than 30 days before the flight) and other vaccinations according to species requirements.
• International Certificates: For international flights, veterinary certificates in the format of the destination country were required.

Service Costs

The pet transport service was not included in the free baggage allowance and was always paid for separately. Pricing was structured as follows:

• Transport in Cabin: A fixed fee was charged per flight segment.
• Transport in Baggage Compartment: The cost was often calculated based on the total weight (animal + cage) using excess baggage rates multiplied by a coefficient.
• Route Dependence: Tariffs were higher on international routes than on domestic flights within Taiwan.

Preparation Tips

To ensure the flight caused minimal stress for the pet, owners were recommended to:

• Carrier Requirements: Purchase the container in advance and let the animal get used to it at home. Line the bottom with absorbent material.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure, but ensure access to water.
• Stress Reduction: Place a favourite toy or item with the owner's scent in the cage. The use of sedatives was permitted only after consultation with a veterinarian.

Restrictions

TransAsia Airways, like many Asian carriers, had a number of strict prohibitions:

• Prohibited Breeds: A ban was often imposed on the transport of brachycephalic breeds (pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese) due to the high risk of breathing problems at altitude.
• Aggressive Animals: Dogs of fighting breeds could be denied transport.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, and wild birds were usually not accepted for transport on passenger aircraft.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs were transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided they had the appropriate certificates and a muzzle.

Important Note: Since TransAsia Airways has ceased operations, these rules serve as a historical record. When planning travel with animals on flights of other airlines, we strongly recommend contacting the carrier directly to clarify current requirements, as rules may change.

Legend Flight Club Loyalty Programme

During its period of operation, TransAsia Airways (GE) offered passengers participation in its branded loyalty programme called Legend Flight Club. This programme was designed to reward frequent flyers, allowing them to accumulate miles and exchange them for various privileges. At present, the programme is closed along with the airline, and all previously accumulated points have been annulled.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

The status system in the Legend Flight Club was built on a classic principle, where passenger activity unlocked access to new levels of comfort:

• Base Level (Card Member): Assigned to all members immediately upon registration. Allowed the accumulation of miles and receipt of newsletters about special offers.
• Silver: Achieved upon accumulating a certain number of miles. Holders received priority on the waiting list and an increased free baggage allowance.
• Gold: Included access to VIP lounges, priority check-in and boarding, as well as additional bonus miles for every flight.
• Diamond: The highest elite tier, offering maximum privileges, including a guaranteed seat on a flight (when booked a certain time in advance) and personal service.

How Miles Were Accumulated

Programme members could top up their bonus account in several ways:

• Flights: The primary method of accumulation. The number of miles awarded depended on the flight distance and the selected booking class (Business or Economy).
• Partners: Points were awarded for using the services of programme partners, such as international hotel chains and car rental companies.
• Bank Cards: Joint co-branded credit cards allowed everyday spending to be converted into the airline's premium miles.
• Onboard Purchases: Bonuses could also be earned for purchasing goods from the Sky Shop duty-free catalogue.

Options for Using Miles

Accumulated points could be spent on a wide range of services until 2016:

• Award Tickets: Full or partial payment for flight tickets on TransAsia Airways routes.
• Class Upgrade: Upgrading a ticket from Economy Class to Business Class using miles.
• Excess Baggage: Using points to pay for excess baggage at the airport.
• Lounge Access: Exchanging miles for a one-time visit to the business lounge for oneself or companions.

Participation in Alliances

TransAsia Airways was not part of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). The company developed as an independent carrier, yet maintained partner interline agreements with a number of regional airlines, which allowed passengers to book single tickets for complex itineraries.

How It Worked

Previously, one could become a programme member for free by filling out an online form on the official website or a paper application on board the aircraft. Each passenger was issued a personal membership number. Currently, registration of new users is not being performed, and club membership is invalid.

Services and Classes of Service

During its operational period, TransAsia Airways (GE) positioned itself as a full-service carrier, offering passengers a high level of service and traditional Asian hospitality. Although the company ceased flights in 2016, its approach to service left a mark on aviation history. Service varied depending on the aircraft type and route duration; for example, an expanded range of services was offered on flights from the hub in Johannesburg.

Classes of Service

The airline's fleet, consisting mainly of Airbus and ATR aircraft, featured a two-class cabin layout. First Class was not provided on most routes, as Business Class covered the needs of the premium segment.

• Business Class: Offered passengers priority service, including a separate check-in counter and access to lounge zones. Wide seats with an increased recline angle were installed in the cabin (on wide-body A330 liners, they reclined to an almost horizontal position). Passengers were provided with welcome beverages, an enhanced menu, and amenity kits on long-haul flights.
• Economy Class: Distinguished by ergonomic seats with a pitch sufficient for a comfortable medium-haul flight. The cabins were designed to ensure maximum convenience even at full capacity. The ticket price generally included meals and baggage allowance, which favourably distinguished the carrier from low-cost airlines.
• In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

The In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system was available primarily on wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft, which were used on busier and longer routes. Passengers of all classes could use individual screens with a selection of films, music, and games. On narrow-body aircraft (A320/A321), the entertainment programme was broadcast via shared overhead monitors. The in-flight magazine, Renaissance, offered interesting articles on travel and lifestyle.

Dining and Beverages

Gastronomy was a strong point of TransAsia Airways. The airline took pride in its catering, offering a menu combining Eastern and Western traditions:

• Hot Meals: Served on most international flights. Business Class passengers could choose from several main course options served on porcelain tableware.
• Snacks and Beverages: On short regional flights, light snacks, pastries, tea, coffee, and soft drinks were offered.
• Special Meals: Vegetarian, children's, or dietary meals were available upon prior request (usually 24–48 hours before departure).

Comfort and Additional Services

To create a cosy atmosphere on board, blankets and pillows were provided (on night and long flights). Flight attendants underwent rigorous training, ensuring attentive and polite service, which was a hallmark of the Taiwanese airline.

Special Services

The airline paid special attention to passengers requiring extra care:

• For Children: Children's drawing kits or toys were provided on board to occupy young travellers. An unaccompanied minor service was available for children travelling without parents.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: TransAsia Airways ensured full assistance, including the provision of wheelchairs and help with boarding/disembarking. These services required advance booking via the call centre.

Until the cessation of its activities in 2016, TransAsia Airways (GE) served a route network that included regular passenger transport. The main hub airport for operating these flights was Johannesburg, from where departures to key destinations were carried out.

Below is a table of the airline's routes indicating flight frequency over a three-week period. The data reflects the historical flight schedule operated by the carrier prior to the suspension of operations.

Planning a trip and interacting with the air carrier are important stages of travel. Since TransAsia Airways (GE) ceased its operations in 2016, the tips below are for informational purposes and describe procedures that were previously in effect. These recommendations are also useful to consider when choosing alternative carriers on the company's former routes.

Optimal Booking Time and Fares

During the airline's active period, the best time to purchase tickets was considered to be 6–8 weeks before departure. This rule particularly applied to popular routes, such as flights between the hub in the city of Johannesburg and tourist destinations. To find low fares, passengers were advised to watch for seasonal sales, which were often held in the run-up to Asian holidays.

Discounts and Special Offers

Previously, information about promotions could be found on the official website or by subscribing to the email newsletter. Frequent flyers used accumulated miles to obtain discounts. Important warning: currently, any offers to buy tickets for TransAsia Airways flights are invalid or fraudulent. Be vigilant when searching for flight options, for example to Cape Town, and choose only active air carriers.

Online Check-in Procedure

The airline's web check-in system allowed for time savings at the airport. Online check-in usually opened 48 hours and closed 1 hour before departure. Passengers needed to enter their booking reference and surname on the website to select a seat and print their boarding pass. All digital check-in services are now disabled.

Seat Selection Tips

For a comfortable flight, it was recommended to study the Seat Map in advance. On medium-haul flights, seats by the emergency exits offered more legroom but required knowledge of English or Chinese to follow safety instructions. Choosing seats in the front part of the cabin allowed for a quicker exit from the aircraft upon arrival.

Travel Insurance

The story of TransAsia Airways' cessation of operations highlights the importance of taking out comprehensive travel insurance. When planning any flights, it is strongly recommended to choose policies that include coverage in case of airline bankruptcy or flight cancellation due to technical reasons. This is the only way to guarantee a refund in unforeseen situations.

Mobile Application

The official airline mobile application previously allowed users to manage bookings and track flight status in real time. At present, support for the app has ended, and it has been removed from official stores. Downloading old versions of the programme from third-party sources is unsafe and futile, as the company's servers are disconnected.

History and Development of the Airline

TransAsia Airways (GE) left a notable mark on the history of civil aviation as Taiwan's first private air carrier. Founded in 1951, the company travelled a long path from a small regional operator to a significant player in the international market before ceasing operations in 2016.

Founding and Early Years

The airline's history began under the name Foshing Airlines. In its early years, the carrier focused on operating domestic flights, ensuring transport accessibility between the island's cities. In 1958, the company temporarily suspended passenger transport, focusing on agency activities, but in 1988, after a 30-year hiatus, it resumed flights as a fully-fledged commercial airline ready to compete in a new era.

Expansion of the Route Network

In the 1990s and 2000s, TransAsia Airways actively developed its network. Starting with charter flights to popular resorts, the company soon moved to regular international transport. According to historical data, the flight geography covered not only the Asian region. The route map also included long-haul destinations connecting different continents. An important transport hub for the airline was Johannesburg, through which connections to the African region were maintained.

One of the key destinations in this segment was flights to Cape Town, allowing passengers to travel comfortably to the south of Africa. This expansion demonstrated the carrier's ambitions to go beyond being a regional player.

Fleet Evolution

The TransAsia Airways fleet was constantly modernised to meet growing passenger traffic and safety requirements:

• ATR 72: These turboprop aircraft formed the backbone of the fleet for short domestic and regional flights, ensuring fuel efficiency and the ability to land at small airports.
• Airbus A320 and A321: Narrow-body liners were used for medium-haul international flights, offering passengers enhanced comfort.
• Airbus A330: Wide-body aircraft joined the fleet to serve the busiest and longest routes, offering a full Business Class with reclining seats.

Innovation and Launch of Low-Cost Carrier

In an effort to adapt to the changing market, in 2014 TransAsia Airways launched a subsidiary budget airline, V Air. This was a bold step aimed at competing in the low-cost segment. V Air was distinguished by its bright branding (the symbol was the Formosan black bear) and affordable prices, attracting a young audience.

Conclusion of Activities

Despite innovations and a rich history, the airline faced serious financial difficulties. In November 2016, the management of TransAsia Airways announced the dissolution of the company and the cessation of all flights. This decision marked the end of the 65-year history of one of the region's oldest carriers, whose aircraft connected people and cities for many years.