Orange Air

OR Airlines (IATA code: OR) is a renowned European carrier whose philosophy is built around the idea of comfortable and affordable holidays for every traveller. Based at the bustling Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol), the company serves as a reliable bridge between rainy Europe and the world's sunniest resorts, turning the flight into a pleasant start to a long-awaited holiday.

The company has established itself as an expert in leisure travel, offering passengers a high level of service on both short European routes and long-haul transatlantic flights. Thanks to a modern approach to service and an extensive route network, OR Airlines is chosen annually by thousands of tourists seeking warmth and new experiences.

Below is a brief summary of information about the airline:

Flight Geography and Key Destinations

The airline's route network covers several continents, focusing on popular resort areas. From its base hub, the carrier operates regular flights to the Canary Islands, for example, to sunny Las Palmas and Tenerife. For lovers of exotic destinations, long-haul flights to the Caribbean are offered, including picturesque Willemstad and Mexican Cancun. The schedule also features sought-after African destinations, such as Egyptian resorts and Tanzanian Zanzibar City.

Fleet and Safety

OR Airlines operates a modern and technologically advanced fleet, primarily consisting of Boeing aircraft. For long-haul flights, Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft are frequently used, ensuring enhanced comfort, cleaner cabin air, and reduced noise levels, which is particularly important during multi-hour flights across the ocean.

Safety is a fundamental value of the company. The carrier strictly adheres to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations and maintains the technical condition of its vessels at the highest level. The professionalism of pilots and cabin crew is regularly confirmed by international certificates, guaranteeing passengers peace of mind throughout the journey.

You can contact representatives of OR Airlines (known under the TUI fly Netherlands brand) via the unified TUI customer service centre, which handles all requests related to flights and bookings. The company offers convenient communication channels, including a telephone line, messaging apps, and an extensive network of offices in the Netherlands.

To manage bookings, check in for a flight, and receive up-to-date information, it is recommended to use the official website or the carrier's mobile application. Below are the main contact details for communicating with the airline.

Official Website

https://www.tui.nl

Contact Details

• Customer Support (International): +31 88 088 58 85 (available Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 20:00, Sunday from 09:00 to 20:00 local time)
• Customer Support (in the Netherlands): 088 088 58 85
• WhatsApp Support: +31 6 133 44 911 (messages only)
• Email: info@tui.nl (general enquiries)
• Mobile App: TUI Nederland (available on the App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

• Facebook: TUI Nederland
• X (Twitter): @TUINederland
• Instagram: @tuinederland
• YouTube: TUI Nederland

Local Offices

• Headquarters: Volmerlaan 3, 2288 GC Rijswijk, Netherlands (TUI Nederland Office)
• Base Airport: TUI service desks are located in the departure zones of Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol).
• Travel Offices: The TUI network has over 130 sales offices throughout the Netherlands where consultation is available.

Emergency Support

For urgent resolution of issues related to flight cancellations or rescheduling, it is recommended to call the hotline at +31 88 088 58 85. Outside of business hours, information is available via the mobile app or personal account on the website.

Please note: Contact details and opening hours are subject to change. We recommend checking the official website for the most current information before contacting us.

Preparation for a flight always begins with packing suitcases, and knowing the baggage carriage rules will help avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport. OR Airlines (TUI fly Netherlands) offers flexible conditions, allowing passengers to choose the optimal tariff depending on the duration of the trip and personal needs.

Cabin Baggage: Allowance and Dimensions

Each passenger is entitled to bring one piece of cabin baggage on board. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure comfortable stowage of all travellers' belongings in the overhead bins. The maximum allowable dimensions for a bag or small suitcase are 55 x 40 x 20 cm.

The standard weight limit for cabin baggage is 10 kg. It is important to remember that if your bag exceeds these parameters, airline staff may ask you to check it into the cargo hold, which may incur additional costs. Small personal items, such as a laptop or a handbag, are recommended to be packed inside the main piece of cabin baggage unless your tariff specifies otherwise.

Checked Baggage

The carrier's baggage policy depends on the chosen class of service and route. In most basic tariffs, checked baggage is not included in the ticket price and is paid for separately. Passengers can select the necessary weight themselves when booking:

• Light option: 15-20 kg — excellent for short trips, for example, if you are flying to Eindhoven or for a weekend in Europe.
• Standard option: 25-30 kg — the optimal choice for a long holiday at resorts such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• The maximum weight of a single suitcase must not exceed 32 kg in accordance with occupational health and safety rules for baggage handlers.

It is most economical to book baggage in advance via the airline's website. Paying for additional kilograms directly at the check-in counter at the departure airport, whether in Amsterdam or a foreign airport, will be significantly more expensive.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your suitcase exceeds the pre-paid limit, an excess weight fee applies. Rates for each extra kilogram can be high, so it is recommended to weigh your luggage at home before departure. If you realise you are over the limit, it is better to purchase additional weight online before check-in begins.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment

For outdoor enthusiasts, the airline provides the option to transport sports equipment. Bicycles, surfboards, diving gear, or golf bags require prior booking, as space in the cargo hold is limited.

Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within cabin baggage dimensions. For large instruments (e.g., a cello), purchasing a separate seat in the cabin may be required. This is particularly relevant for creative individuals travelling on tours or to festivals, for instance, in Rotterdam.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety reasons, there are strict restrictions on baggage contents. It is strictly prohibited to place the following in checked baggage:

• Lithium batteries and portable power banks — these must only be carried in cabin baggage.
• Electronic cigarettes.
• Explosives and flammable substances.

Liquids in cabin baggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. This rule applies to all flights departing from European airports.

Tips for Efficient Packing

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

• Valuables with you: Always carry documents, money, jewellery, and vital medication in your cabin baggage.
• Labelling: Attach a tag with your name and phone number to your suitcase. This will speed up retrieval in case of loss.
• Protecting contents: Wrap fragile items in soft clothing and place them in the centre of the suitcase.

When planning a flight, for example, to exotic Zanzibar City or sunny Hurghada, familiarise yourself in advance with the customs regulations of the destination country to avoid issues when importing certain goods or products.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Travelling with a four-legged friend requires careful preparation, and OR Airlines strives to make this process as comfortable as possible for you and your pet. The airline allows the transport of cats and dogs both in the aircraft cabin and in the baggage hold, subject to prior booking and compliance with all safety standards.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Cabin Baggage)

• Carrier Type: Only a soft travel bag for animals is permitted. Hard containers are not allowed in the cabin.
• Dimensions: The bag must be flexible to fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions are usually 50 x 40 x 20 cm.
• Weight: The maximum weight of the animal together with the bag must not exceed 10 kg (it is recommended to verify before departure, as standards may vary).
• Permitted Animals: Only small cats and dogs.
• Conditions: The animal must be able to stand freely and lie down in the bag. The animal's head must not protrude during the flight.
• Limit: The number of animals on board is limited, so this service must be booked in advance.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

• Container Requirements: Transport takes place only in rigid plastic cages certified to IATA standards. The cage must have a secure lock, ventilation, and water containers.
• Animal Size: The pet must be able to stand at full height, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Weight Restrictions: Animals are usually accepted if their weight combined with the cage does not exceed 75 kg.
• Flight Conditions: The baggage hold where animals are transported is heated and pressurised similarly to the aircraft cabin.
• Check-in: Handing over the animal for baggage takes place at the check-in counter (for example, at Amsterdam Airport) in the oversized baggage area.

As Cargo

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 75 kg or if the cage size is very large (height over 83-85 cm).
• Special Requirements: Transport is arranged via the cargo terminal.
• Procedure: Separate booking via a cargo agent is required, as the animal will fly under an air waybill, not as passenger baggage.

Necessary Documents

For a smooth journey, especially if you are flying to international resorts such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife, prepare the following document package:

• Veterinary Passport: International standard (Pet Passport) for travel within the EU.
• Identification: An electronic microchip is mandatory.
• Vaccinations: Valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before departure).
• Health Certificate: A certificate from a veterinarian confirming that the animal is healthy and fit to fly (valid for a limited time before the flight).
• Additional Certificates: For flights to non-EU countries (e.g., Cancun or Hurghada), specific veterinary certificates of the destination country may be required.

Service Costs

The animal transport service is chargeable and is not included in the free baggage allowance. Prices are indicative and depend on the route:

• Transport in Cabin: Approximately from 50 to 70 Euros per flight segment.
• Transport in Baggage Hold: Approximately from 80 Euros and up, depending on the weight and cage size.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatisation: Accustom your pet to the carrier or cage several weeks before departure to reduce stress levels.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily less than 4 hours before departure, but ensure access to water.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad and a familiar item with the scent of home in the cage.
• Activity: Walk your dog well before heading to the airport.

Restrictions

• Brachycephalic Breeds: The airline may prohibit the transport of snub-nosed dogs and cats (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) in the baggage hold due to the risk of respiratory problems. Often, their transport is possible only in the cabin.
• Aggressive Breeds: Some dog breeds may be prohibited from transport or require reinforced cages.
• Exceptions: Certified guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities are usually transported in the cabin free of charge and without a container (muzzle and leash required).
• Age: Animals younger than 3-4 months (before completion of the primary vaccination course) are not permitted to fly.

Important: Rules for importing animals into different countries (e.g., Boa Vista or Zanzibar City) may differ significantly. We strongly recommend contacting the OR Airlines contact centre to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet and to clarify current requirements immediately after purchasing tickets.

Loyalty Programme and Benefits

Unlike classic network carriers with a traditional mileage system involving point accumulation and complex status hierarchies (such as Silver or Gold), OR Airlines does not use these. The company's operating model, focused on leisure and charter transport, offers passengers a different philosophy of value: transparent prices and participation in the global TUI ecosystem.

The TUI Ecosystem and myTUI Account

Instead of a bonus card, the airline invites travellers to take advantage of a unified digital service. By registering a personal myTUI account on the official website, passengers gain a convenient control centre for their trips. This modern solution offers several practical benefits:

• Booking Management: Quick access to all details of an upcoming flight, with the ability to easily add baggage or select a seat in the cabin.
• Personalised Offers: The system analyses your preferences and forms a list of recommended destinations.
• Exclusive Discounts: Access to private sales of package holidays and flight tickets that are not available in open search.

Real Savings Instead of Miles

The main privilege for OR Airlines clients is the ability to travel more often thanks to affordable tariffs. The company regularly holds seasonal promotions, making flights from the hub at Amsterdam Airport as cost-effective as possible. This allows you to plan a holiday to the Canary Islands, for example, to Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with significant budget savings.

Package Offers

Since the airline is part of a major tourism holding, it is often more beneficial for passengers to purchase comprehensive services. Booking a flight and hotel together through the TUI ecosystem is frequently cheaper than purchasing these services separately. This is particularly relevant for long-haul routes, such as exotic Willemstad or popular Mexican Cancun.

For those who prefer beach holidays in Africa, the company offers favourable conditions on flights to Marsa Alam or Hurghada. Subscribing to company news ensures you won't miss the start of sales for these sought-after destinations at reduced prices.

Thus, loyalty to OR Airlines is rewarded not with virtual points, but with real service quality, the convenience of digital platforms, and the opportunity to go on a dream trip at a fair price.

Service and Classes of Travel

A journey with OR Airlines is not just a flight, but the beginning of your holiday. The company strives to ensure a high level of comfort for every passenger, regardless of the chosen tariff. The fleet, based at Amsterdam Airport, is equipped with everything necessary to make travel time fly by, whether it's a short flight to Europe or a long journey across the ocean.

Classes of Service

The airline offers a flexible class system adapted to the needs of tourists. Unlike classic carriers with a rigid division into "Business" and "First", OR Airlines focuses on variations of economy and enhanced classes, which allows for affordable prices while maintaining a decent level of comfort.

• Economy: The basic and most popular choice. These are standard seats with a seat pitch of about 74–76 cm. An excellent option for medium-haul flights, for example, to sunny Las Palmas or the island of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Comfort: For those who value personal space. This class offers increased legroom (up to 84 cm). Such seats are particularly recommended on long flights, for example, if you are flying to Willemstad or exotic Zanzibar City.
• Deluxe: Available primarily on long-haul Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Passengers receive the most comfortable seats with a pitch of 106 cm, upgraded dining, priority boarding, and an increased baggage allowance (usually up to 40 kg). This is the ideal choice for travelling to Cancun, allowing you to arrive at the resort rested.

Food and Beverages

Gastronomic service on board depends on the flight duration and booking class. On short and medium flights (e.g., to Rotterdam or Arrecife), the TUI Café concept applies. Passengers are offered a wide selection of snacks, sandwiches, hot and cold drinks for an additional fee. Payment is made by bank card.

On intercontinental routes, hot meals and non-alcoholic beverages are generally included in the ticket price. Deluxe class passengers can look forward to an expanded menu and a selection of premium beverages. Pre-ordering of special meals (vegetarian, gluten-free, diabetic) is also available no later than 48 hours before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

On board modern Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft flying long distances (e.g., to Marsa Alam), a personal entertainment system is installed. Touch screens with a collection of films, music, and games are built into the seatbacks. Paid Wi-Fi is also available on many aircraft, allowing you to stay connected even in the clouds.

On Boeing 737 aircraft flying shorter routes (e.g., to Hurghada or Puerto del Rosario), fixed screens may not be available. In this case, the company offers the Cloud streaming service: you can connect to the onboard network from your smartphone or tablet and watch entertainment content for free.

Comfort and Seat Configuration

OR Airlines aircraft cabins are designed using modern ergonomic materials. Particular attention is paid to lighting: the Mood Lighting system changes light shades depending on the flight phase, helping the body adapt to time zone changes. This is especially relevant when returning from distant lands, such as Cape Verde (islands of Boa Vista or Sal Rei), to the home airport.

Special Services

The airline cares for all categories of passengers:

• For children: Kids' kits with colouring books and games are provided on board. Special safety belts are provided for infants under 2 years old.
• For passengers with reduced mobility: Full support is provided from the check-in desk to seating on the aircraft. Assistance services must be booked in advance (at least 48 hours).
• Onboard Shopping: During the flight, you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, and souvenirs at Duty Free prices.

The route network of OR Airlines covers key tourist destinations, connecting the Netherlands with picturesque corners of the planet. The main departure point is international Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol), from where the majority of flights to warm seas and popular resorts originate.

Below are the airline's most sought-after routes over the last three weeks. The list includes both regular flights to the Canary Islands and the Caribbean, as well as flights to other sunny regions.

Useful Tips for Passengers

To ensure your journey with OR Airlines (TUI fly Netherlands) goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, it is worth taking care of a few details in advance. We have gathered proven recommendations for you that will help save your budget and make the flight from Amsterdam Airport as comfortable as possible.

Best Time to Book

To get the most favourable fares, it is recommended to plan your trip well in advance. The optimal time to buy tickets for popular summer and holiday destinations, such as Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is 4–6 months before departure. The airline often launches early booking promotions that allow you to lock in a low price.

If you are ready for spontaneous trips, keep an eye out for "Last Minute" offers. Sometimes, a couple of weeks before departure, excellent options appear for long-haul flights, for example, to Willemstad or Cancun, when the airline sells off remaining seats on charter blocks.

How to Catch the Best Discounts

The most reliable way to stay informed about sales is to register on the carrier's website and subscribe to the newsletter. Regular promotions, such as the TUI Ticket Sale, allow you to purchase tickets with significant discounts. Also, always check the cost of package holidays: often a flight combined with accommodation works out cheaper than buying a separate ticket, especially at resorts like Hurghada or Zanzibar City.

Online Check-in and Mobile App

Save yourself from queues at the airport by using the online check-in service. Usually, it opens 24 hours before and closes 5 hours prior to departure. Please note: if you have paid for a specific seat in the cabin in advance, check-in may be available much earlier (up to 30 days before departure), which is very convenient for planning.

The official mobile application is an indispensable travel companion. With its help, you can:

• Have electronic boarding passes at hand.
• Promptly receive notifications about gate changes or departure times.
• Quickly add baggage or order meals if plans have changed.

Tips for Seat Selection

Comfort in flight is important, especially if a long journey to Marsa Alam or the Cape Verde islands (Boa Vista, Sal Rei) lies ahead.

• More space: For tall passengers, we recommend Comfort or Extra Legroom category seats.
• Travelling with family: To guarantee sitting together, book seats immediately when purchasing tickets. The system automatically seats passengers who haven't selected seats, and there may be no adjacent seats available at the check-in counter.
• Window view: On flights to tropical islands, window seats will offer unforgettable views upon landing.

Insurance for Peace of Mind

Unforeseen circumstances shouldn't spoil your holiday impressions. The airline and its partners offer several types of insurance worth considering when booking:

• Cancellation Insurance: Allows you to recover the cost of tickets if the trip has to be cancelled due to illness or other valid reasons.
• Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Covers medical expenses and assistance in case of lost luggage abroad.

History and Development of the Airline

The history of OR Airlines (IATA: OR) is a dynamic journey of transformation from a local charter carrier to a vital link in one of the world's largest tourism groups. Over the years, the company has changed names and liveries several times, but its main mission has remained unchanged: connecting rainy Netherlands with the sunniest corners of the planet.

Foundation and Early Years

The airline was founded in 2005 under the name ArkeFly. Its emergence was a response to the bankruptcy of another Dutch carrier, Air Holland. The tourism concern TUI Group purchased assets and slots to guarantee its clients reliable flights to holiday destinations. Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol) immediately became the base airport from which the route network expansion began.

In the early years, the fleet consisted primarily of Boeing 767 aircraft, which were ideally suited for long-haul flights to the Caribbean islands, a historically important destination for Dutch tourists. Even then, the company began operating regular flights to Willemstad, ensuring a stable link between the metropolis and overseas territories.

Rebranding and Integration

The company's development is inextricably linked to the evolution of the parent brand TUI. In 2013, the name ArkeFly was shortened to the concise Arke to unify the brand with the tour operator of the same name. However, the most significant stage was the global strategic step taken by the group in 2015, when it was decided to unite all the group's airlines (British, German, Belgian, Scandinavian, and Dutch) under a single name.

Thus, the carrier received its modern, globally recognisable name — TUI fly Netherlands (although the IATA code "OR" was retained as a tribute to history). The aircraft were repainted in the signature sky-blue colour with the red smile logo on the tail.

Fleet Evolution: The Dreamliner Era

A key milestone in technical development was the renewal of the aircraft fleet. The company was one of the first in the Netherlands to bet on innovative Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The arrival of these liners significantly improved comfort on ultra-long routes, such as flights to Mexican Cancun. The new aircraft not only offered passengers more spacious cabins and an improved air conditioning system but also allowed the airline to reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions, which became an important step in its sustainability strategy.

Route Network Expansion

Parallel to the fleet renewal, the geography of flights expanded. The company strengthened its positions at popular European resorts, increasing the frequency of flights to Spanish Las Palmas and the island of Tenerife (Santa Cruz de Tenerife). Exotic destinations in Africa were also added, including direct flights to Zanzibar City and Egyptian resorts.

Today, OR Airlines is a modern, high-tech airline that continues to introduce innovations, such as digital services on board and simplified booking systems, making travel more accessible and comfortable for thousands of tourists annually.