Pegasus Airlines

Pegasus Airlines has established itself as Turkey's leading low-cost carrier, revolutionizing affordable air travel by effectively bridging the gap between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Founded in 1990 and transforming into a pure low-cost airline in 2005, the company operates on the principle that everyone has the right to fly, offering competitive fares without compromising on service quality or safety. With a dynamic and modern approach, Pegasus serves as a vital connector for travelers, centering its operations around its strategic hub in Istanbul at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

Pegasus Airlines is renowned for its young and modern fleet, consisting primarily of Boeing 737-800s and the more fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft. This commitment to fleet modernization not only reduces the environmental impact but also ensures a comfortable journey for passengers. The airline's "Low Cost" business model allows travelers to customize their experience, paying only for the services they need, such as additional baggage or in-flight meals, making it a flexible choice for both leisure and business trips.

For travelers from the UAE, Pegasus offers excellent connectivity with frequent flights to Turkey and beyond. Key routes include direct connections from Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi to Istanbul. Additionally, the airline provides convenient seasonal and direct options to other popular Turkish destinations, such as Antalya and Ankara, facilitating easy access to the country's diverse regions.

Safety and operational excellence are core values for Pegasus Airlines. The carrier is registered under the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), adhering to rigorous international safety standards. Over the years, Pegasus has received recognition for its operational efficiency and digital innovation, particularly for its user-friendly mobile app and the "BolBol" loyalty program, which simplifies earning and spending points on flights.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily reach Pegasus Airlines through a variety of digital and voice channels. While the airline encourages the use of its user-friendly mobile app and website for most transactions, including ticket changes and extra services, local support is available for specific inquiries. For urgent matters or comprehensive assistance, the international customer service center is the primary point of contact, supplemented by local sales agents and airport desks in major Emirati cities.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, campaigns, and online booking, visit the official website:

• www.flypgs.com/en

Contact Information

For general inquiries, ticket modifications, and customer support:

• International Customer Service (24/7): +90 850 250 67 77 (English available)
• Local Sales Office (Dubai): +971 4 357 8128
• Email: info@flypgs.com
• Mobile App: Pegasus: Cheap Flight Tickets (Available on iOS and Android)

Social Media

Stay connected for the latest announcements and support via official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/pegasusairlines
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/flypgs
• Instagram: instagram.com/pegasusairlines
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pegasus-airlines

Local Offices in the UAE

Pegasus Airlines operates from key airports and has representation in major cities. Please note that airport desks typically open around flight departure times.

• Dubai City Office:
  • Address: Al Sharaf Tower, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Umm Hurair 1, Bur Dubai.
  • Phone: +971 4 357 8128
• Dubai International Airport (DXB):
  • Location: Terminal 2 (Check-in counters)
  • Airport Contact: +971 4 224 5555
• Sharjah International Airport (SHJ):
  • Location: Airport Terminal (Departure Level)
  • Airport Contact: +971 6 558 1111
• Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH):
  • Location: Terminal A (formerly Midfield Terminal)
  • Airport Contact: +971 2 505 5555

Emergency & 24/7 Support

The International Customer Service line (+90 850 250 67 77) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing assistance in English. For immediate issues at the airport, such as lost baggage or check-in delays, it is recommended to visit the Pegasus Airlines counters directly at the terminal.

Understanding the baggage policy is an essential step for a smooth journey with Pegasus Airlines. As a low-cost carrier, the airline offers a tiered system that allows passengers to pay only for what they need. Whether you are flying from Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, familiarizing yourself with these allowances in advance can save you time and money at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Pegasus Airlines has updated its cabin baggage rules to provide more flexibility based on the fare package purchased. It is crucial to select the right package during booking, as gate fees for non-compliant bags can be higher.

• Light Package: This basic fare includes only one under-seat bag. The dimensions must not exceed 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm, and it must fit strictly under the seat in front of you. No weight limit is specified for this item as long as it fits, but a general guideline is around 3 kg.
• Saver, Advantage, and Comfort Flex Packages: These bundles typically include the under-seat bag plus one cabin bag to be stored in the overhead locker. This cabin bag must not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm and a maximum weight of 8 kg.

Passengers on the Light package who wish to bring a larger cabin bag must purchase it as an add-on separately. If you arrive at the gate with baggage that exceeds your allowance, it will be charged and placed in the cargo hold.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage allowances vary depending on the route and the fare class selected. For international flights, such as those connecting the UAE to Istanbul or Antalya, the weight concept usually applies.

• Saver Package: typically includes 20 kg of checked baggage.
• Advantage Package: usually offers 20 kg along with extra benefits like seat selection.
• Comfort Flex Package: generally provides 20 kg of baggage allowance with full flexibility on ticket changes.

For domestic flights within Turkey (connecting via Ankara or Istanbul), the standard allowance typically starts at 15 kg for the Essentials/Saver package. Infants (0-2 years) generally receive a baggage allowance of 10 kg on all flights.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to travel with more than the standard allowance, it is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage weight online or via the mobile app before your flight. Pre-purchasing additional kilograms can be up to 50% cheaper than paying the fees at the airport check-in counter. Fees are calculated per kilogram and vary based on the destination zone.

Special Baggage Items

Pegasus Airlines accommodates passengers traveling with special items, though specific rules and fees apply.

• Sports Equipment: Equipment for golf, skiing, diving, and surfing is categorized as special baggage. These items are subject to a fixed fee per piece and are not included in the standard baggage allowance. It is advisable to pay for these services in advance.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit within the cabin baggage dimensions (55x40x20 cm) can be taken on board as your hand luggage. For larger instruments, such as a cello, you must purchase an extra seat. Large instruments carried in the hold must be packed in a hard-shell case to prevent damage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety, certain items are strictly prohibited or restricted:

• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your cabin baggage only; they are strictly forbidden in checked luggage.
• Liquids in Cabin: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag (max 1 liter capacity).
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage (sharp objects may be allowed in checked bags only).

Tips for Efficient Packing

Maximize your allowance and avoid stress with these simple tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure you stay within the 20 kg or 8 kg limits.
• Bundle Up: If you know you will shop in Istanbul, buy the extra baggage allowance online before your return flight to save money.
• Label Everything: Place a tag with your name, phone number, and email address inside and outside your bags.
• Check Connections: If you have a connecting flight (e.g., Dubai to Antalya via Istanbul), ensure your baggage is checked through to the final destination to avoid retrieving it during the layover.

Pet Travel Policy

Pegasus Airlines understands that pets are cherished family members and strives to make their journey as safe and comfortable as possible. Whether you are flying from Dubai to Istanbul or connecting to other destinations, the airline offers specific services for transporting cats, dogs, and birds. However, travel rules vary significantly depending on your route, particularly for international flights versus domestic flights within Turkey.

Important Route Restrictions

Before booking, it is critical to understand two major limitations regarding the destination and type of animal:

• Flights to the United Arab Emirates: Pegasus Airlines generally does not accept pets on flights arriving into the UAE (e.g., to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah). You may transport pets out of these airports, but bringing them into the country on Pegasus flights is typically restricted.
• Travel with Birds: Budgerigars, canaries, and parrots are accepted only on domestic flights within Turkey. Birds are not permitted on any international flights, including those departing from the UAE.

Transport Options

Depending on the weight and size of your pet, there are different ways they can travel. Capacity is limited, so it is essential to contact the Pegasus Call Center or manage your booking well in advance.

In Cabin (PETC)

Small pets may travel in the cabin with you if they meet specific weight and size requirements. This option is available for cats and dogs on international flights, and for cats, dogs, and birds on domestic Turkish flights.

• Weight Limit: The total weight of the pet plus the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Carrier Dimensions: The cage or bag must fit under the seat and not exceed 32 cm x 32 cm x 50 cm.
• Mothers and Puppies/Kittens: A mother and her litter (or two pets of the same species and size accustomed to living together) may share a carrier if they do not exceed the weight and size limits.

In Cargo Hold (AVIH)

Pets that exceed the cabin limits travel in the ventilated cargo compartment of the aircraft. This applies to cats and dogs heavier than 8 kg.

• Container Requirements: You must provide a rigid, secure, and well-ventilated crate (IATA-compliant). Soft-sided bags are not accepted for the hold.
• Comfort: The crate must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Booking: This service is subject to availability and must be confirmed before travel.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure from airports like Sharjah or Dubai, you must have all necessary veterinary documents ready. Requirements can be strict for entry into Turkey or the EU.

• Pet Passport & ID: A valid pet passport and a microchip are mandatory.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate issued shortly before travel (check specific timelines for your destination).
• Vaccinations: A valid rabies vaccination certificate is required (administered at least 21 days prior to travel).
• Titer Test: For travel entering Turkey from certain countries, a rabies antibody titration test report may be required.

Service Costs

Pet travel fees are charged per leg and are not included in your standard baggage allowance. Prices are subject to change but generally fall within the following estimates for international routes:

• In-Cabin: Approximately 50 USD/EUR per leg.
• Cargo Hold: Approximately 70–90 USD/EUR per leg, depending on the pet's weight (e.g., under or over 15 kg).
• Connecting Flights: If you are flying to Antalya or Ankara via Istanbul, fees will apply for each flight segment.

Safety and Restrictions

For the safety of all passengers and animals, Pegasus Airlines enforces specific restrictions:

• Age Limit: Pets must be at least 3 months old (12 weeks) to travel.
• Prohibited Breeds: Certain dog breeds considered dangerous (such as Pitbull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and Japanese Tosa) are not accepted.
• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed cats and dogs (like Pugs, Bulldogs, or Persian cats) are at higher risk of respiratory issues during air travel. While Pegasus may accept them, it is strongly advised to consult your vet and the airline, as restrictions may apply based on temperature and route.

Loyalty Program: Pegasus BolBol

Pegasus BolBol is the rewarding frequent flyer program of Pegasus Airlines, designed with a simple and transparent philosophy: the more you fly, the more you earn. Unlike complex mileage systems based on distance, BolBol is a revenue-based program where members earn BolPoints based on the amount spent on tickets and additional services. This user-friendly approach makes it easy for travelers from the UAE to accumulate points on their trips to Istanbul and beyond, turning every journey into an opportunity for future travel.

Membership Categories

Pegasus BolBol operates differently from legacy carriers by offering membership categories based on age and eligibility rather than elite status tiers. This ensures that valuable benefits are accessible to specific traveler groups immediately upon joining.

• Standard BolBol Membership: The entry-level tier for all adults. Members earn BolPoints on every flight and purchase, enjoy simplified booking processes, and receive exclusive birthday offers.
• BolBol Youth (Genç): A specialized tier for travelers aged 12 to 27. Members in this category enjoy significant perks such as zero penalties for flight changes or cancellations and extra BolPoints on every flight.
• BolBol Kids: Designed for children aged 0 to 12. This membership allows families to link accounts, making it easier to pool points earned by minors into a family management system for faster redemption.

Earning BolPoints

Accumulating points is straightforward and flexible, with multiple avenues to boost your balance whether you are flying or on the ground.

• Flights: Earn BolPoints for every Turkish Lira (or currency equivalent) spent on flight tickets and additional services like seat selection or extra baggage.
• Mobile App Bonus: Bookings made via the Pegasus mobile app typically earn points at a higher rate (often double) compared to the website.
• Partners: Earn points on stays with hotel partners like Airbnb and Rocketmiles, or when renting cars with agencies such as Budget and Avis.
• Co-Branded Cards: Holders of the ING Pegasus BolBol Credit Card can earn points on daily shopping and earn accelerated points on Pegasus spending.

Redeeming BolPoints

Pegasus BolBol offers high flexibility when it comes to spending your hard-earned points, with no blackout dates on flight redemptions.

• Award Flights: Use points to pay for any available seat on domestic or international flights, including routes from Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi.
• Taxes and Fees: Unlike many other programs, BolBol allows you to pay for airport taxes and service charges using your points.
• Ancillary Services: Redeem points for travel extras such as additional baggage allowance, pre-ordered meals, or specific seat assignments.
• Ticket Flexibility: Points can be used to cover costs associated with ticket changes, giving you peace of mind if plans shift.

Alliance and Partnerships

Pegasus Airlines is not a member of a global airline alliance like Star Alliance or SkyTeam. However, it maintains strategic codeshare partnerships to extend its reach.

• Codeshare Partners: The airline cooperates with major carriers such as KLM, Qatar Airways, Delta Air Lines, and Flynas to offer seamless connections.
• Network Reach: These partnerships allow BolBol members to access a wider network of destinations beyond the direct Pegasus route map.

How to Join

Joining Pegasus BolBol is free, quick, and entirely digital. Travelers can sign up by providing their mobile phone number and email address via the official website or the Pegasus Airlines mobile app. Membership is activated instantly, allowing you to start earning points on your very next flight to Antalya, Ankara, or Istanbul.

As a modern low-cost carrier, Pegasus Airlines operates with a philosophy that prioritizes flexibility and affordability. Unlike traditional legacy carriers with separate curtained cabins, Pegasus features a single-class configuration across its fleet. However, this does not mean a "one size fits all" experience. Through smart fare packages and add-on services, travelers flying from Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi can customize their journey to match their comfort needs and budget.

Fare Packages and Service Classes

While physically seated in an all-Economy cabin, passengers can choose from distinct fare bundles that effectively act as service tiers. Selecting the right package during booking is often more economical than adding services later.

• Light: The most basic option, ideal for backpackers or short trips. It includes only the seat and an under-seat bag.
• Saver: A balanced choice that adds a checked baggage allowance (typically 20 kg) and a cabin bag, suitable for most holidaymakers visiting Istanbul or connecting to Antalya.
• Advantage: Designed for value seekers, this package includes baggage, seat selection, and a sandwich with a beverage.
• Comfort Flex: The premium tier offering the highest flexibility. It includes free seat selection (including extra legroom seats), baggage allowance, a sandwich, and the ability to change or cancel tickets without penalties, mimicking the flexibility of Business Class.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

Pegasus Airlines operates a young fleet comprising Boeing 737-800 and Airbus A320neo/A321neo aircraft. The cabin features a standard 3-3 layout with modern leather seats designed for efficiency and hygiene.

• Standard Seats: These offer a standard seat pitch of approximately 29-30 inches. The newer "Neo" aircraft are often praised for their quieter cabins and slightly improved personal space.
• Extra Legroom (XL) Seats: For taller passengers or those desiring more comfort on the 4-5 hour flight from the UAE, XL seats are available in the front row and emergency exit rows. These can be purchased separately or selected as part of the Comfort Flex package.

In-Flight Dining: Pegasus Cafe

Dining on Pegasus Airlines is a "buy-on-board" service known as the Pegasus Cafe. The menu is surprisingly extensive for a budget airline, offering hot meals, fresh salads, and a variety of snacks. Unlike some regional low-cost carriers, Pegasus also offers a selection of alcoholic beverages.

• Pre-Order Meals: Passengers are strongly encouraged to order hot meals online up to 24 hours before departure. The pre-order menu is wider than what is available on board and includes favorites like grilled chicken, schnitzel, sushi, and special dietary options (vegetarian, gluten-free, kid's meals). Pre-ordering also offers a price advantage over buying on the plane.
• Onboard Purchase: If you haven't pre-ordered, you can still buy sandwiches, cup noodles, chips, chocolate, tea, coffee, and soft drinks from the cabin crew during the flight.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep fares low, Pegasus aircraft do not have seatback screens. Instead, the airline utilizes a wireless in-flight entertainment system called Fly & Watch.

• How it Works: Passengers connect their own smartphones, tablets, or laptops to the aircraft's local Wi-Fi network. This allows you to stream movies, TV shows, travel guides, and the flight map directly to your device.
• Access: Access to the flight map is usually free. Premium content like Hollywood movies may require a small fee or be included depending on your fare class.
• Preparation: It is recommended to bring fully charged devices and headphones, as USB charging ports are available only on select newer aircraft and not fleet-wide.

Special Services

Pegasus Airlines provides essential support services to ensure air travel is accessible to everyone.

• Families with Children: Families can benefit from priority boarding when available. Infants travel on a parent's lap for a flat fee, and special children's meals can be pre-ordered.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children traveling alone, the airline offers an escort service to guide them from check-in at airports like Ankara or Istanbul through to their guardian at the destination. This must be arranged via the call center.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available free of charge. Passengers requiring assistance should notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth experience at the airport.

Pegasus Airlines provides a vital air bridge between the United Arab Emirates and Turkey, utilizing its extensive network to connect travelers to major cultural and business hubs. With a focus on affordability and convenience, the airline operates a schedule designed to suit both leisure tourists and business professionals, centered primarily around its main base of operations while also offering direct links to the Turkish coast and capital.

Connections to Istanbul

The cornerstone of the airline's operations in the region is the high-frequency service to Istanbul (Sabiha Gökçen). This route serves as the primary gateway for passengers entering Turkey or connecting to onward destinations in Europe. Travelers have a choice of departure points across the UAE, with Sharjah offering the highest number of scheduled flights, ensuring robust daily connectivity. In addition, frequent direct services are available from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making it easy to reach the Bosphorus from any major Emirate.

Direct Flights to Antalya

For those seeking the sun and sea of the Turkish Riviera, Pegasus Airlines offers convenient non-stop options to Antalya. These direct routes allow holidaymakers to bypass the hub and land straight in the heart of the Mediterranean coast. Regular flights operate from both Sharjah and Dubai, catering specifically to the high demand for leisure travel to this popular resort city.

Service to Ankara

Facilitating travel to the political center of Turkey, the airline also maintains a direct link between Dubai and Ankara. This route provides a straightforward option for those visiting the capital, avoiding the need for domestic transfers and streamlining the journey for passengers departing from Dubai International Airport.

Securing the best fares with Pegasus Airlines often requires a bit of forward planning. As a low-cost carrier, ticket prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches. For popular connections, such as flights from Dubai or Sharjah to the vibrant city of Istanbul, it is highly recommended to book your tickets at least a few weeks in advance. Keeping an eye out for seasonal promotions can also lead to significant savings, especially during off-peak travel periods.

To stay updated on the latest offers, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their social media channels. Frequent flyers might find value in joining the loyalty program, which allows you to earn points on flights from Abu Dhabi and other departure points. Additionally, downloading the Pegasus Airlines mobile app is a smart move; it not only helps you track fare drops but also serves as a convenient travel companion for managing your itinerary and storing digital boarding passes.

Online check-in is a crucial step for a smooth journey. It typically opens several days before the flight and closes shortly before departure. Completing this process via the website or app helps you avoid potential queues and additional fees at the airport. When checking in, you will have the option to select your seat. While this usually incurs a fee, choosing your spot in advance ensures you get the window or aisle seat you prefer, or perhaps extra legroom for a more comfortable flight to Antalya or Ankara.

Finally, consider adding travel insurance to your booking. While we all hope for a seamless trip, having coverage for unexpected delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies provides peace of mind. Review the policy details carefully to ensure it covers your specific needs, allowing you to relax and look forward to your travels.

History and Development

The story of Pegasus Airlines is a testament to the rapid evolution of civil aviation in Turkey. Established in 1990 as a joint venture between Aer Lingus, Silkar Investment, and Net Holding, the company began operations with a modest fleet of two aircraft. In its early years, it functioned primarily as a charter airline, catering to the growing demand for tourism in the region. However, the airline's true transformation began over a decade later, reshaping how people travel to and from Istanbul.

A New Era: The Low-Cost Revolution

The pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in 2005 when it was acquired by ESAS Holding. Under new leadership, Pegasus changed its strategy entirely, becoming Turkey’s first full-fledged low-cost carrier. This shift was revolutionary for the local market, introducing affordable air travel to a wider demographic. By eliminating unnecessary frills and focusing on efficiency, the airline made flying accessible to millions, rapidly expanding its domestic network and launching international routes to connect Turkey with Europe and the Middle East.

Strategic Expansion and Going Public

Following its successful rebranding, Pegasus experienced exponential growth. In 2012, the airline solidified its position by signing a significant deal for fleet expansion, signaling its long-term ambitions. A major milestone was reached in April 2013 when the company successfully launched its Initial Public Offering (IPO) on Borsa Istanbul. This financial move provided the capital necessary to further aggressive route expansion, connecting major hubs like Dubai and Sharjah to the Turkish network.

Fleet Evolution and Sustainability

A core component of Pegasus Airlines' development has been its commitment to operating a young and efficient fleet. While the airline relied heavily on the Boeing 737-800 NG series for many years, it has since transitioned toward the Airbus A320neo and A321neo family. This modernization effort, often highlighted by multi-billion dollar aircraft orders, has drastically reduced fuel consumption and noise emissions. Today, the carrier boasts one of the youngest fleets in Europe, ensuring reliability for passengers traveling from Abu Dhabi or other international origins.

Mergers and Digital Innovation

The airline's growth was also fueled by strategic consolidation, such as the acquisition of Izair, which helped strengthen its domestic foothold before being fully integrated into the main brand. In recent years, Pegasus has pivoted to become a "digital airline," investing heavily in technology to streamline the passenger experience. From mobile-first booking systems to express baggage kiosks at airports like Antalya and Ankara, the company continues to innovate, proving that a budget-friendly model can still offer cutting-edge convenience.