Paranair

Paranair is Paraguay's principal airline, serving as a vital bridge that connects the heart of South America with key neighboring nations. Originally established in 2015 and rebranding to its current identity in 2018, the carrier has carved out a niche for itself by focusing on reliable regional connectivity. From its base in Asunción, Paranair offers essential air links to major commercial and tourist hubs across the Southern Cone, making it a convenient choice for travelers exploring the diverse landscapes of Uruguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil.

With a strong emphasis on punctuality and efficiency, the airline operates a fleet designed for regional routes, ensuring quick and comfortable hops between cities. Whether you are traveling for business in Buenos Aires or planning a leisure trip to the beaches of Florianopolis, Paranair provides a streamlined travel experience with a distinct Paraguayan touch.

Regional Connectivity
Paranair specializes in short-haul international flights that are often underserved by larger global carriers. It provides frequent and direct connections to capital cities like Montevideo, as well as important regional centers such as Cordoba and Santa Cruz de la Sierra. This network is particularly valuable for travelers looking to build multi-country itineraries within South America without long layovers.

Fleet and Comfort
The airline operates a fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jets. These aircraft are perfectly suited for the airline's route network, offering a faster and quieter alternative to turboprops often found on similar regional sectors. With a cabin designed for an intimate yet professional atmosphere, the airline ensures a smooth journey to destinations like Salta and San Salvador de Jujuy.

Commitment to Reliability
Since its rebranding, Paranair has focused on maintaining high operational standards and safety. The airline aims to be the most reliable option for connecting Paraguay with the rest of the continent, playing a crucial role in the country's tourism and business sectors. Its schedules are designed to maximize convenience, often allowing for day trips or easy connections for international travelers arriving in the region.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates wishing to contact Paranair should note that the airline is based in Paraguay and operates strictly within South America. As there are no local offices or direct customer service lines in the UAE, all inquiries regarding reservations, changes, or baggage must be directed to the airline's headquarters in Asunción via international phone or digital channels. Support is primarily available in Spanish and English.

Official Website

For the most efficient service, including booking flights and managing reservations, travelers are advised to visit the official website:

www.paranair.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.paranair.com
• Customer Service (International): +595 21 247 2000 (Paraguay HQ)
• Ticket Booking in UAE: Not available locally; please book online or call the international line.
• Email: atencionalcliente@paranair.com
• Mobile App: Currently not available; please use the mobile-responsive website.

Social Media

Paranair maintains active profiles on major social media platforms, where they share updates and can occasionally assist with general queries:

• Facebook: facebook.com/paranair
• Twitter (X): twitter.com/paranair
• Instagram: instagram.com/paranair_

Local Offices

Paranair does not currently maintain a physical office or ticket counter in the United Arab Emirates. All administrative and commercial operations are centralized at their headquarters:

• Headquarters Address: Senador Long 505 esq. Moisés Bertoni, Paseo Esperanza, Asunción, Paraguay.
• Airport Desk: Available only at departure airports in South America (e.g., Silvio Pettirossi International Airport).

Customer Support Hours

Since there is no 24/7 global call center, travelers calling from the UAE should be mindful of the time difference (Paraguay is typically GMT-4 or GMT-3). The call center generally operates:

• Monday to Friday: 08:00 – 17:30 (Local Paraguay Time)

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Paranair operates a fleet of regional jets, primarily the Bombardier CRJ-200, which influences the carry-on allowance due to limited overhead bin space. Passengers are typically allowed one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 5 kg. In addition to this main carry-on, travelers may bring one small personal item, such as a purse, laptop bag, or briefcase, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

Due to the compact nature of the cabins, carry-on bags that exceed the size limits or the weight allowance may be tagged at the gate and placed in the cargo hold (often referred to as "valet service" or "delivery at aircraft"). In these cases, you will pick up your bag immediately upon deplaning on the tarmac or jet bridge, rather than at the baggage claim carousel.

Checked Baggage Policy

Your checked baggage allowance with Paranair depends on the fare class purchased. It is essential to verify the specific conditions of your ticket before traveling to hubs like Asunción.

• Standard/Flex Fares: Usually include one piece of checked baggage with a maximum weight of 23 kg (approximately 50 lbs).
• Promo/Light Fares: These tickets may not include a checked bag allowance, requiring passengers to purchase baggage strictly as an add-on.
• Infants: Passengers traveling with infants are generally allowed to check a stroller or car seat free of charge.

The total dimensions (length + width + height) for any checked bag should not exceed 158 cm. If you are connecting from a long-haul international flight arriving from the UAE, be aware that Paranair's regional allowances may differ from your intercontinental carrier's policy.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits, or if you wish to transport more bags than your fare permits, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees are typically charged per kilogram for overweight items or per piece for additional bags. It is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage allowance online in advance, as fees paid at the airport counters in Buenos Aires or Montevideo are generally higher than prepaid rates.

Special Baggage: Sports and Instruments

Paranair accommodates passengers wishing to transport special items such as sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs, fishing gear) or musical instruments. However, due to the size of the aircraft, space is limited.

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf bags or surfboards must be properly packed in hard-shell cases or protective covers. These items usually incur a special handling fee and must be declared at the time of booking.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can sometimes be carried on board if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments, such as cellos or guitars, must be checked as special baggage or, in some cases, may require purchasing an extra seat (contact the airline in advance for this service).

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, the following items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage:

• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and oxidizers are forbidden.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your hand luggage and are not allowed in checked bags.
• Sharp Objects: Knives, scissors, and tools must be packed in checked luggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing

Traveling on regional routes requires smart packing strategies. Whether you are heading for a business meeting in Cordoba or a vacation in Florianopolis, consider these tips:

1. Use Soft-Shell Bags: Soft duffel bags or backpacks are easier to fit into the smaller overhead bins of regional jets compared to rigid rolling suitcases.
2. Keep Essentials Close: Since larger carry-ons might be gate-checked, always keep your passport, medications, and valuables in your smaller personal item.
3. Check Connection Rules: If you are connecting to Santa Cruz de la Sierra or Salta on separate tickets, remember that you will need to collect your bags and re-check them with Paranair, adhering to their specific weight limits.

Traveling with Pets on Paranair

Paranair understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as yours. The airline permits the transport of dogs and cats on its regional network, offering specific services depending on the animal's size and the route. Whether you are flying to Asunción or other regional destinations, careful planning is required to ensure your furry companion can travel safely with you.

Transport Options

In Cabin (PETC)

Small dogs and cats are welcome in the passenger cabin, provided they remain in their carrier throughout the flight. Due to the compact size of the CRJ-200 aircraft, this service is subject to strict space availability and weight limitations.

• Maximum weight: The total weight of the animal plus the carrier must not exceed 5 kg.
• Carrier dimensions: The container must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Recommended maximum dimensions are approximately 40 x 30 x 24 cm.
• Container type: Soft-sided, waterproof, and ventilated bags are strongly recommended for cabin travel, as they are more malleable and easier to fit into the limited under-seat space of regional jets.
• Allowed pet types: Only domestic dogs and cats are permitted.
• Limit per passenger: Each passenger is allowed to transport only one pet carrier.

In Cargo Hold (AVIH)

Animals that exceed the 5 kg weight limit for the cabin must travel in the aircraft's hold as checked baggage. The hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure safety.

• Container requirements: Pets must travel in a rigid, IATA-approved kennel with a secure metal door and sufficient ventilation.
• Size limits: The container must allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without touching the roof.
• Weight limits: The maximum weight allowed for the animal and container combined is typically 40 kg.
• Booking: Space in the hold is limited on regional jets, so you must request this service at least 48 hours in advance.

As Cargo

For animals exceeding the weight limit for checked baggage, unaccompanied pets, or when traveling to countries with specific strict entry regulations, animals must be transported via Paranair Cargo.

• When required: For very large dogs or commercial shipments.
• Procedure: This service requires coordination with the cargo department and is separate from passenger reservations.

Capacity Limitations

Due to the size of the aircraft operated by Paranair, there is a strict capacity limit for live animals. The airline generally accepts a maximum of 2 pets per flight (total across cabin and hold). Consequently, it is critical to contact the airline and confirm your pet's reservation immediately after booking your own ticket.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process at airports like Montevideo or Cordoba, you must present the following documents:

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date booklet containing the pet's medical history and owner details.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate issued within 10 days prior to the flight indicating the animal is fit to travel.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of all required vaccines, specifically a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days and no more than 1 year before travel).
• International Certificates: For international flights (e.g., entering Paraguay, Argentina, or Brazil), a Sanitary Certificate (CVI) issued by the relevant government authority is mandatory.

Service Costs

Transporting a pet incurs an additional fee, which is not included in the standard ticket price.

• Fees: Charges are variable and depend on the route and the method of transport (cabin vs. hold).
• Payment: Fees are typically subject to tax and are paid at the airport before departure. Please contact Paranair customer service for the most current rates applicable to your itinerary.

Preparation Tips

• Familiarize your pet: Let your pet spend time in the carrier days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness; do not feed them right before flying.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is well-hydrated but limit water intake just before the flight to avoid accidents.
• Comfort items: Place an absorbent mat or a familiar blanket inside the carrier.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks at high altitudes.
• Age restrictions: Puppies and kittens must generally be at least 3 to 4 months old to travel, primarily to comply with rabies vaccination requirements.
• Aggressive behavior: The airline reserves the right to refuse transport to any animal displaying aggressive or dangerous behavior.

Important: Pet travel regulations and entry requirements for destinations like Buenos Aires or Santa Cruz de la Sierra can change frequently. We strongly recommend contacting Paranair directly or visiting their local offices well in advance of your trip to confirm the latest rules and reserve space for your pet.

Loyalty Program Overview

Paranair currently operates with a business model focused on efficiency, punctuality, and competitive regional fares rather than a traditional, mileage-based loyalty scheme. Unlike major global carriers that maintain complex frequent flyer programs, Paranair prioritizes a simplified travel experience. As of late 2025, the airline does not have its own proprietary frequent flyer program, nor does it participate directly in a points-based earning system with other carriers.

For travelers from the United Arab Emirates accustomed to extensive alliance networks, it is important to note that flights booked directly with Paranair (ZP) are typically not eligible for mileage accrual on other airlines. The airline's philosophy centers on providing immediate value through ticket pricing and reliable connections across the Southern Cone.

Membership Tiers

Since Paranair does not utilize a status-based loyalty program, there are no elite tiers such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Instead, the airline applies a single-standard service philosophy where every passenger receives the same high level of attention.

• Standard Service: All passengers, regardless of frequency of travel, enjoy the same streamlined check-in and boarding procedures.
• Cabin Experience: The intimate size of the CRJ-200 fleet ensures that all travelers receive personalized service from the crew without the need for priority status separation.

Earning Miles and Points

Currently, there are no mechanisms to earn frequent flyer miles or loyalty points directly through Paranair flights.

• Flights: Flights operated by Paranair under the ZP code do not accrue miles.
• Partner Airlines: While Paranair has historically held interline or code-share agreements (such as with LATAM), these partnerships do not currently support mileage earning for Paranair-operated segments.
• Credit Cards: There are no co-branded credit cards available to international travelers that offer reward points for Paranair purchases.

Redeeming Rewards

As there is no mileage currency, reward flights cannot be booked via points.

• Award Flights: Tickets must be purchased with currency; there is no option to redeem miles for seats.
• Upgrades: Cabin upgrades are not applicable as the regional jets operate with a single-class configuration.

Alliance Membership

Paranair maintains its status as an independent regional carrier and is not a member of the major global airline alliances.

• Alliance Status: The airline is not part of Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam.
• Partnerships: It operates independently to serve the specific regional needs of Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, and Bolivia.

How to Stay Updated

Although there is no membership program to join, travelers can "subscribe" to the airline's updates to receive the best value.

• Newsletter: Travelers are encouraged to sign up for the official newsletter on the Paranair website to receive alerts about flash sales and new route launches.
• Social Media: Following the airline's official channels is the best way to spot promotional fares that serve as a direct financial reward for loyal customers.

Service Classes and Cabin Experience

Paranair operates with a streamlined service philosophy designed for short-haul regional travel. The airline offers a single-class Economy configuration across its fleet of Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft. This "all-economy" approach focuses on efficiency and speed, ensuring a consistent standard of service for all passengers traveling to destinations like Asunción.

While there is no separate Business or First Class cabin, the service is tailored to the needs of both corporate and leisure travelers. The compact nature of the regional jets creates a private, almost semi-private jet atmosphere, which allows the cabin crew to provide attentive and personalized service to every guest on board.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

One of the distinct advantages of flying on Paranair’s regional jets is the seating layout. The cabin is configured in a 2-2 layout, which means there are no middle seats on the aircraft. Every passenger is guaranteed either a window seat or an aisle seat, maximizing personal space and comfort.

• Seat Pitch: The seats offer a standard pitch suitable for flights ranging from 45 minutes to 2.5 hours.
• Upholstery: The cabin features comfortable leather seating designed to provide adequate support for short journeys.
• Quiet Cabin: The engines on the CRJ-200 are rear-mounted, resulting in a quieter cabin experience compared to turboprop aircraft often used on similar regional routes.

In-Flight Dining

Given the relatively short duration of flights—such as the quick hop to Montevideo or Cordoba—Paranair offers a complimentary snack and beverage service rather than full hot meals.

• Snacks: Passengers are typically served a selection of sweet or savory snacks, such as "chipitas" (a traditional Paraguayan cheese bread) or crackers.
• Beverages: A choice of soft drinks, water, juices, and coffee is available free of charge.
• Alcohol: On certain evening flights or specific routes, a limited selection of beer or wine may be offered, though this is subject to availability.

Entertainment and Amenities

Paranair's aircraft are not equipped with seatback screens or Wi-Fi connectivity, which is standard for regional jets of this class. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own devices, books, or work materials to stay entertained.

The airline provides an in-flight magazine, Paranair Magazine, which features articles on travel destinations, Paraguayan culture, and lifestyle topics. Additionally, the low-altitude flight paths often provide stunning views of the South American landscape, from the wetlands of Paraguay to the vast plains of Argentina.

Special Services

Paranair is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering a range of special assistance services upon request.

• Unaccompanied Minors: A chaperone service is available for children between the ages of 5 and 11 traveling alone. This service ensures supervision from the check-in counter to the arrival gate in cities like Buenos Aires.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance and support for boarding and deplaning are available. Passengers requiring these services should notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure proper arrangements.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant women can travel up to 27 weeks without a medical certificate. From 28 to 35 weeks, a medical certificate authorizing travel is required. Travel is generally not permitted after 36 weeks.

Destinations & Route Network

Paranair connects key destinations in South America through its primary hub in Asunción. The airline operates a focused network of regional flights, linking Paraguay with major cities in Uruguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil, providing essential connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.

To ensure a smooth journey with Paranair, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. As the airline connects the central hub of Asunción with key destinations across the region, seats on popular routes can fill up quickly. Planning your trip 2 to 3 months ahead often secures the most competitive fares, especially if you are traveling to major cities like Montevideo or Buenos Aires. Traveling during mid-week days can also sometimes yield lower prices compared to weekends.

Finding the best deals usually involves staying connected. We suggest signing up for the airline's newsletter or checking their official website regularly to catch seasonal promotions. This is particularly useful for vacation routes, such as flights to Florianopolis or Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Being flexible with your travel dates allows you to take advantage of these limited-time offers.

Maximize your convenience by utilizing the online check-in feature. This service typically opens 24 to 48 hours prior to departure, allowing you to confirm your presence and select your preferred seat from the comfort of your home. Selecting a seat in advance is crucial if you prefer a window view to admire the landscapes over Cordoba or Salta, or if you need an aisle seat for easier mobility. Note that seat selection may come with an additional fee depending on your ticket class.

For peace of mind, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is always a wise decision when flying internationally within South America to cover any unexpected changes. Additionally, keep your digital documents handy. Using mobile boarding passes where available helps streamline your experience at the airport, letting you focus on enjoying your trip to San Salvador de Jujuy or other regional destinations.

Founding and Early Years

The story of Paranair began in 2015, born out of a strategic necessity to improve air connectivity for Paraguay, a landlocked nation often referred to as the "Heart of South America." Originally established as Amaszonas Paraguay, the airline was formed as a subsidiary of the Amaszonas airline group. During these formative years, the carrier focused on re-establishing critical routes that had been left vacant by previous operators, primarily connecting Asunción with neighboring capital cities. This period laid the operational groundwork, introducing a model of efficient, regional aviation designed to serve both corporate and leisure travelers.

2018 Rebranding and Independence

A major milestone in the company's history occurred in 2018, marking a new chapter of independence and national identity. Following a change in the shareholder structure, the airline separated from the Amaszonas group and underwent a comprehensive rebranding to become Paranair. The new name was chosen to reflect a stronger connection to its roots—referencing the Paraná River and the country's geography—while signaling its ambition to be the flag carrier of Paraguay. This transition allowed the airline to pursue an autonomous strategy tailored specifically to the needs of the local market.

Fleet Evolution and Strategy

From the outset, the airline adopted a fleet strategy focused on the Bombardier CRJ-200. Unlike other carriers that pursued larger narrow-body jets, Paranair recognized that the CRJ-200, with its 50-seat capacity, was the ideal vessel for regional routes. This aircraft choice allowed the airline to maintain high frequencies on business routes while remaining profitable on sectors with moderate demand. The consistency of the fleet has been a hallmark of their development, enabling streamlined maintenance and a uniform passenger experience across their network.

Expansion of the Route Network

As Paranair solidified its operations, it expanded its footprint to become a key player in the Southern Cone. The airline prioritized establishing a robust "air bridge" to major commercial hubs. The connection to Montevideo became one of its most frequent and vital services, facilitating constant movement between the two capitals. Similarly, the route to Buenos Aires was developed to serve the high volume of business traffic, offering a reliable alternative to traditional carriers.

The airline also looked beyond capital cities, identifying the need to connect with secondary regional centers. This led to the launch of flights to Cordoba, Argentina's second-largest city, and Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia, effectively linking the agricultural and industrial powerhouses of the region. Furthermore, the network extended to include destinations like Salta and San Salvador de Jujuy in northern Argentina, promoting tourism and cultural exchange.

Modern Developments and Innovation

In recent years, Paranair has continued to innovate by balancing its scheduled commercial flights with seasonal leisure offerings. Recognizing the demand for holiday travel, the airline successfully introduced summer routes to popular coastal destinations, such as Florianopolis in Brazil. Today, Paranair stands as a resilient and essential component of South American aviation, continually refining its services to offer punctuality and regional integration from its hub in Paraguay.