Myanmar National Airlines

Myanma Airways (today known as Myanmar National Airlines) is not merely a national carrier, but the true wings of the "Golden Land." With a rich history dating back to 1948, the airline offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Myanmar's hospitality even before arriving at their destination. Combining decades of tradition with modern comfort standards, this carrier opens up air routes to the ancient pagodas and tropical landscapes of Southeast Asia.

History and Modernity
As one of the oldest airlines in Asia, the carrier has come a long way from Union of Burma Airways to the modern brand of Myanmar National Airlines (MNA). Today, the company plays a key role in the country's transport system, connecting remote corners of the nation with its business center. The route network includes major international destinations: flights regularly depart to bustling Bangkok and high-tech Singapore. Domestic flights cover numerous cities, including historic Mandalay, making the airline the ideal choice for a comprehensive journey across the region.

Fleet and Comfort
The aircraft fleet has undergone extensive modernization. For long-haul and busy routes, comfortable new-generation Boeing 737-800 liners are used, equipped with modern entertainment systems. Regional and domestic flights, requiring landings at smaller airports, are serviced by reliable ATR 72-600 turboprop aircraft. This ensures stable connections even with hard-to-reach tourist locations.

Service and Safety
The company's philosophy is built on a warm welcome, starting with the traditional greeting "Mingalabar." The crew is known for their friendliness and desire to showcase true Myanmar hospitality. Special attention is paid to safety: the airline has successfully passed the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit), confirming compliance with strict international standards for operational safety and maintenance.

You can contact Myanmar National Airlines (formerly Myanma Airways) in several ways. The carrier is actively developing digital communication channels but also maintains physical sales offices in key cities of its route network for passenger convenience.

Main Communication Channels

• Official Website: www.flymna.com (site available in English).
• Support and Booking (Call Center): +95 1 378 603, +95 1 377 840.
• Email: contactus@flymna.com (for general inquiries and support), reservations@flymna.com (for ticketing questions).
• Mobile App: "MNA" — available for download on the App Store and Google Play. Allows you to manage bookings and check in online.

Social Media

The airline publishes the latest news, schedule changes, and special offers on its official pages:

• Facebook: Myanmar National Airlines (main communication channel with passengers).
• Instagram: @flymna
• LinkedIn: Myanmar National Airlines

Representative Offices

If you require a personal visit to arrange complex itineraries or resolve disputes, you can visit the local offices.

• Head Office (Myanmar): 104 Strand Road, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.
• Bangkok Office (Thailand): Suvarnabhumi Airport, Level 4, Entrance 6, Row L (services flights from the city of Bangkok).
• Singapore Office: Changi Airport Terminal 3, Row 10 (for departures from the city of Singapore).

Please note: contact details, phone numbers, and office addresses may change without prior notice. We strongly recommend checking current information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Preparing for a flight with Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) begins with packing your suitcases correctly. The airline offers quite generous baggage allowances, which is especially pleasing for those planning to bring back souvenirs from their trip. To ensure check-in at the airport goes smoothly, it is important to familiarize yourself with weight and size restrictions in advance.

Cabin Baggage

Myanma Airways flights follow standard international rules for items you take with you into the cabin. This allows passengers to have everything they need at hand during the flight, whether it's a short trip to Mandalay or an international flight.

• Economy Class: One piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7 kg is allowed.
• Business Class: Two pieces with a total weight of up to 10 kg are permitted (or one piece up to 10 kg, depending on the aircraft type).
• Dimensions: The bag size must not exceed 58 x 34 x 23 cm so that it fits easily into the overhead bin.
• Personal Items: In addition to the main cabin baggage, you can take a small handbag, a briefcase with a laptop, or a camera free of charge.

Checked Baggage

The airline's baggage policy (IATA code: UB) is based on the Weight Concept. This means you can check in multiple bags as long as you do not exceed the total allowed weight. Limits depend on the class of service and route.

Domestic Flights:

• Economy Class: 20 kg.
• Business Class: 30 kg.

International Flights:
If you are flying abroad, for example to Bangkok or planning a trip to Singapore, the allowances increase:

• Economy Class: 30 kg.
• Premium Economy: 35 kg.
• Business Class: 40 kg.

Important: The maximum weight of a single piece of baggage must not exceed 32 kg for the safety of baggage handlers. If your suitcase is heavier, it will need to be repacked.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your items exceeds the free allowance, a fee is charged for each extra kilogram. Rates depend on the flight zone. Payment is made at the check-in counter at the airport in local currency or US Dollars. We recommend weighing your luggage at home, as excess weight on international routes can be significantly more expensive than on domestic ones.

Special Baggage

Sports Equipment: Golf sets (up to 15 kg) are often carried free of charge in addition to the standard baggage allowance, making the airline popular among golf tourism enthusiasts. Bicycles, diving gear, and skis require prior approval and may be subject to a separate fee if they exceed general limits.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin as carry-on luggage if they fit in the overhead bin. Large instruments (e.g., a cello) require purchasing a separate seat in the cabin or must be checked in a hard case marked "Fragile."

Prohibited and Restricted Items

To ensure flight safety, there are strict rules regarding the contents of your bags. Violation of these rules may lead to confiscation of items or refusal of carriage.

• Prohibited in Cabin Baggage: Sharp and cutting objects (scissors, penknives), imitation weapons, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml.
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Portable chargers (Power Banks), electronic cigarettes, lithium batteries (these can only be carried in cabin baggage!), explosives, and flammable substances.
• Specific Ban: Like many Southeast Asian airlines, Myanma Airways prohibits the transport of durian fruit due to its pungent odor, both in the cabin and in the cargo hold.

Packing Tips

Upon arriving in Yangon, many tourists immediately set off on further journeys, so convenient packing is critical. Always remove old tags with barcodes from your suitcase to avoid confusion during sorting. Keep valuables, documents, money, and vital medicines with you in your carry-on luggage at all times. We also recommend using TSA-standard combination locks and attaching a tag with your name and contact details to every suitcase.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) understands that pets are an important part of the family and provides the opportunity to travel with them. Transporting animals requires strict adherence to safety rules and prior booking, so it is important to notify the carrier about your four-legged passenger in advance, preferably immediately after purchasing the ticket.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Cabin Baggage)
This option is suitable for small pets that can stay with their owner throughout the flight, for example, to Mandalay or other domestic destinations.

• Carrier Dimensions: The sum of three dimensions must not exceed 115 cm (approx. 48×32×35 cm) and must fit under the seat in front.
• Maximum Weight: Up to 7-10 kg (including the container; exact limit depends on the aircraft type, ATR or Boeing).
• Allowed Animals: Domestic cats and dogs of small breeds.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up and turn around inside the container.
• Limit: Usually, one animal is allowed per passenger.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)
If your pet exceeds the weight limits for the cabin, it will travel in a special heated compartment of the aircraft.

• Cage Requirements: A rigid container (plastic/metal) of IATA standard with a secure lock.
• Weight Restrictions: The maximum weight of one piece must not exceed 32 kg (including the cage).
• Equipment: The bottom must be covered with absorbent material, and a water container is mandatory.
• Documentation: The cage must have a tag with the owner's name and contact details at the destination (e.g., if you are flying to Yangon).

As Cargo (For Large Animals)
Used when the animal's weight with the cage exceeds 32 kg or if the animal is flying unaccompanied (Cargo).

• When Required: For very large dogs or commercial transport of animals.
• Special Requirements: Processed through the airline's cargo terminal, requires a reinforced cage.
• Booking Procedure: Request is submitted separately, at least 7 days before departure.

Necessary Documents

To check in for your flight, you will need a complete set of documents. This requires special attention for international flights, for example to Singapore or Bangkok, where strict quarantine regulations apply.

• International Veterinary Passport.
• Health Certificate (form depends on the country, issued 3-5 days before departure).
• Valid Rabies Vaccination (administered not less than 30 days and not more than 12 months before the flight).
• International certificates and import/export permits (for international flights).
• Microchip Certificate (mandatory for many international destinations).

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is always paid for separately.

• Transport in Cabin: A fixed fee or weight charge (Excess Baggage Rate) applies.
• Transport in Baggage Hold: Calculated based on the total weight (animal + cage) according to excess baggage rates.
• Specifics: Prices vary depending on the route (domestic or international).

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Requirements: Accustom your pet to the container in advance to reduce stress.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily 4 hours before departure, but offer water before check-in.
• Reducing Stress: Place a favorite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage.
• Walking: Walk your dog well before heading to the airport.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic breeds (dogs and cats with snub noses) may not be accepted for carriage in the hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Aggressive Animals: The airline reserves the right to refuse carriage of fighting dog breeds.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 3 months old are not allowed to fly.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs can be transported in the cabin free of charge with a certificate.

Important: Regulations for importing animals into different countries may change. We strongly recommend contacting the Myanma Airways call center or the consulate of the destination country before purchasing a ticket to clarify current requirements.

For frequent flyers, Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) has developed its own reward program called MNA Club. This is a classic mileage accumulation system designed to make every journey not only comfortable but also rewarding. The program allows you to turn distances traveled into privileges, upgrading traveler status and unlocking access to premium services even before boarding.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

Status in the MNA Club depends on the number of qualifying miles earned or flight segments completed within a calendar year. The more you fly, the higher your level and the wider the range of bonuses.

• MNA Club Member (Basic): Assigned immediately upon registration. Allows accumulation of miles for flights and redemption for tickets. Members get access to special airline offers.
• Silver: The first elite tier. Includes priority on the waiting list when booking, priority check-in, and an additional 5 kg of baggage allowance.
• Gold: For active travelers. The main benefit is access to airport business lounges. It also offers priority boarding, Fast Track immigration clearance at select airports, and an additional 10 kg of baggage.
• Diamond: The highest status with maximum privileges. Includes a guaranteed seat on the flight (when booked 48 hours in advance), personal service, an additional 20 kg of baggage, and the possibility of a complimentary class upgrade subject to availability.

How to Earn Miles

The main way to top up your balance is through regular flights with Myanmar National Airlines. The number of miles awarded depends on the flight distance and booking class.

• Flights: Miles are credited for each route segment. For example, a flight from the hub in the city of Yangon to popular tourist destination Mandalay will yield a fixed number of bonuses, while international flights, such as a trip to Bangkok or a long-haul flight to Singapore, will allow you to accumulate points significantly faster due to the greater distance.
• Class Bonus: Business Class passengers receive an increased mileage accrual rate (up to 150% of the distance), while Economy Class promo fares may yield a minimal number of points.
• Partners: Additional miles can be earned by using the services of program partners, which include select hotels in Myanmar and car rental companies (the list of partners is periodically updated on the website).

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated points are your currency for future travels. The MNA Club program offers flexible options for using them.

• Award Tickets: Full payment of air tickets with miles on any scheduled airline flights (taxes and fees are paid separately).
• Class Upgrade: Using miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class to enjoy enhanced comfort in flight.
• Excess Baggage: The option to pay for overweight luggage with miles, which is especially relevant for shopping enthusiasts.

Alliance Participation

Currently, Myanma Airways (UB) is not a member of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). The carrier develops its own route network and concludes individual code-share agreements with regional partners. This means that MNA Club privileges apply exclusively to the airline's own flights and do not extend to other international carriers unless otherwise specified in the conditions of a specific ticket.

How to Join the Program

Becoming an MNA Club member is very simple and free. You do not need to take a flight immediately to join.

• Visit the airline's official website or download the MNA mobile app.
• Fill out the form in the Loyalty Program section, providing passport details and contact information.
• Receive a digital membership number, which must be provided with every ticket booking for automatic mileage crediting.

Traveling with Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) is an immersion into the atmosphere of traditional Burmese hospitality immediately upon boarding. The airline positions itself as a full-service carrier, which distinguishes it favorably from many low-cost carriers in the region. Passengers can expect included meals, baggage allowance, and attentive service regardless of the chosen fare. The level of comfort varies depending on the aircraft type: modern Boeing liners are used on international flights, while reliable ATR turboprops serve domestic routes.

Economy Class

MNA Economy Class is designed to ensure comfort even during short flights. This is the most popular choice for tourists planning domestic trips, for instance to historic Mandalay, or short international visits.

• Seats: Boeing 737-800 aircraft feature modern leather seats with a pitch of about 30-32 inches, providing ample legroom. On ATR aircraft, the cabin configuration is 2-2, eliminating the uncomfortable middle seat.
• Dining: Unlike budget airlines, passengers here are offered complimentary snacks and beverages even on short flights. On international routes, full hot meals are served.
• Entertainment: The wireless streaming system MNA Play is available on board Boeing aircraft. Passengers can connect to the onboard network via their smartphones or tablets for free to watch movies, listen to music, or read magazines.

Premium Service and Business Class

For those who value enhanced comfort and privacy, the airline offers Business Class travel. This service is especially relevant on longer routes, such as flights to business-centric Singapore or bustling Bangkok. (Note: First Class is currently not available in the fleet configuration; Business Class serves as the premier tier).

• On the Ground: Privileges begin at the airport. Passengers receive access to priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and an invitation to the business lounge at the base airport (Yangon) for a comfortable wait before departure.
• In the Sky: The Business Class cabin on the Boeing 737-800 is separated from the main cabin and offers wide seats with increased recline and footrests. The 2-2 configuration guarantees space and convenience for work or rest.
• Dining: The Business Class menu is distinguished by its sophistication. Passengers are offered a choice of several hot dishes served on porcelain tableware, as well as an extended selection of premium beverages.
• Entertainment: Individual tablets with pre-loaded content are often provided, or access to the entertainment system via built-in screens (depending on the aircraft).

Food and Beverages

The cuisine on board Myanma Airways deserves special mention. The airline strives to introduce guests to local culinary traditions. The menu typically includes Asian and European dishes. Special emphasis is placed on ingredient freshness. If you have specific dietary preferences (vegetarian, diabetic, or Halal meals), it is recommended to order special meals no later than 24 hours before departure via the call center or booking management.

Special Services

The airline cares for all categories of passengers, providing necessary assistance upon prior request:

• Passengers with Disabilities: Airport escort and assistance with boarding/disembarking (including the use of an ambulift where necessary) are provided. Wheelchairs are available upon request.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The Unaccompanied Minor service is available for children aged 5 to 12. Airline staff will look after the child from the moment of check-in until handover to the meeting party at the destination.
• Expectant Mothers: Travel is permitted up to the 32nd week of pregnancy (with a doctor's certificate required after the 28th week). After the 35th week, flights are generally not permitted for the passenger's safety.

The route network of Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) is built around its key hub in the city of Yangon, which serves as the starting point for most journeys. The carrier focuses on maintaining stable connections with major economic centers of Southeast Asia, as well as providing essential domestic flights within the country.

Planning a trip with Myanma Airways (Myanmar National Airlines) is much easier if you know a few nuances of how the airline operates. We have compiled proven recommendations for you that will help save time and money, as well as make your flight as comfortable as possible.

Booking and Finding the Best Prices

To find the most advantageous fares, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance. For international flights, for example, if you are flying from the city of Singapore or planning a return from Thailand, the optimal time for booking is 4–6 weeks before departure. Domestic flights within Myanmar can be planned a little later, 2–3 weeks in advance, however, during the high tourist season (from November to February), seats on popular routes sell out very quickly.

How to find discounts:

• Subscribe to the airline's official Facebook page — this is where "Flash Sales" announcements and promo codes for holidays appear most often.
• Check prices on the official website in the "Promotions" section.
• Register for the MNA Club loyalty program to receive personalized offers.

Online Check-in and Mobile App

Technology makes travel easier. We strongly recommend downloading the official MNA mobile app (available for iOS and Android). It allows you not only to buy tickets but also to manage bookings on the go.

Check-in Procedure:

• Web Check-in: Online check-in usually opens 24 hours and closes 2 hours before departure. This is a great way to avoid queues at counters at the airport, especially at the airline's hub — the city of Yangon.
• Boarding Pass: After online check-in, save the mobile boarding pass to your phone. However, at some airports in Myanmar, you may be asked to print it out or go to the Drop-off counter for document verification, so arrive with a little extra time.

Seat Selection on Board

Myanmar is a country of stunning landscapes, and flying over it is an excursion in itself. When booking or during online check-in, try to choose a window seat (Window Seat).

• If you are flying to Mandalay, the view of ancient pagodas and the Irrawaddy River valley during the landing approach can be one of the most vivid impressions of the trip.
• For tall passengers, we recommend choosing aisle seats (Aisle Seat) or seats in the front rows of Economy Class for extra legroom.

Travel Insurance

Despite the high reliability of the carrier, having travel insurance is a mandatory item for a peaceful vacation. For flights, especially international ones (e.g., to Bangkok), we recommend taking out a policy covering not only medical expenses but also flight-related risks:

• Flight delay or cancellation.
• Loss or damage to baggage (especially relevant for complex connections).
• Inability to make the trip due to personal circumstances.

Tip: Always carry printed copies of e-tickets and hotel reservations. At some regional airports in Myanmar, security may ask to see paper confirmation of your itinerary at the terminal entrance.

The history of Myanmar's national carrier is a mirror of the development of civil aviation in the entire country. Having gone from a small state-owned company to a modern international operator, Myanma Airways (now known as Myanmar National Airlines) has become a symbol of reliability and tradition, linking the past and the future.

Birth of a Legend (1948–1950s)
The airline was founded in 1948, the year the country gained independence, under the name Union of Burma Airways (UBA). At a time when ground transportation was difficult due to rugged terrain and dense jungles, air transport became the only thread connecting remote regions with the center. The first flights were made on classic De Havilland Dove aircraft and legendary Douglas DC-3s. The base airport from the early days was Yangon, from where the first domestic flights departed.

Era of Expansion and Name Changes
In the 1950s, the company began to expand beyond domestic borders, launching flights to neighboring countries. An important milestone was the addition of Fokker F27 and F28 turboprop aircraft to the fleet in the 1960s and 70s, which significantly increased passenger comfort. Over time, the name also changed: in 1972, the carrier became Burma Airways Corporation, and in 1989, following the country's name change, it was named Myanma Airways. During this period, the airline focused primarily on domestic transport, becoming the main way to reach historical treasures such as Mandalay and Bagan.

New Chapter: Rebranding and Modernization (2014)
The most significant event in recent history was the large-scale transformation in 2014. The state-owned company Myanma Airways was reorganized and renamed Myanmar National Airlines (MNA). This was not just a cosmetic repair, but a complete reboot:

• Technological Breakthrough: The company switched to a modern computerized booking system, abandoning outdated paper tickets.
• Fleet Renewal: The latest Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft were ordered for international routes and modern ATR 72-600s for regional lines.
• Service Standards: New uniforms for the crew were introduced, and service standards were revised to meet international levels.

Return to the International Arena
After a 22-year hiatus, during which the airline flew only domestically, in 2015 the "Silver Bird" (the symbol on the tail of the aircraft) spread its wings abroad again. The first international destination after the pause was Singapore, marking the return of Myanmar's national flag to major global hubs. Soon the route network was supplemented by flights to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other Asian cities.

Modern Achievements
Today, the airline continues to develop, introducing innovations in safety and comfort. An important achievement was obtaining the IOSA certificate (IATA Operational Safety Audit), which confirmed the carrier's compliance with the strictest global standards. Remaining true to its roots, the airline (IATA code: UB) harmoniously combines historical heritage with 21st-century technologies, remaining the main guide to the world of Myanmar culture.