Plus Ultra Lineas Aereas

Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas is a dynamic Spanish long-haul airline that bridges the gap between Europe and Latin America, offering travelers a distinctively warm and welcoming flying experience. Based in the vibrant capital of Spain, this carrier specializes in connecting the historic streets of Madrid with the bustling energies of South American capitals and select African destinations. With a name inspired by Spain's national motto, meaning "Further Beyond," the airline embodies a spirit of exploration and a steadfast commitment to connecting cultures across the Atlantic Ocean.

Although founded in 2011, Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas commenced its flight operations in 2015, quickly establishing itself as a reliable option for transatlantic travel. The airline's primary mission is to provide competitive and comfortable air transport, focusing heavily on routes between Spain and Latin American nations. Its strategic hub at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport serves as the gateway for passengers travelling to major destinations such as Lima, Caracas, and Bogota. Additionally, the carrier operates flights to Malabo and offers connections to Cartagena, facilitating tourism and business exchanges between these regions.

The airline operates a fleet primarily composed of Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft. These wide-body jets are well-suited for long-haul journeys, designed to offer passenger comfort with spacious cabins and reliable performance. Plus Ultra places a strong emphasis on service quality, often providing generous baggage allowances that appeal to travelers visiting family or moving between continents. Their core values revolve around customer satisfaction, operational excellence, and maintaining a competitive price point in the market.

Regarding safety and standards, Plus Ultra operates under the strict regulations of the Spanish Aviation Safety and Security Agency (AESA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Adhering to these rigorous European standards ensures that every flight meets high safety requirements. While it is a younger player compared to some legacy carriers, Plus Ultra has carved out a niche by focusing on specific high-demand routes and delivering a personalized Spanish hospitality experience on board.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, contacting Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas primarily involves using their international communication channels, as the airline is based in Spain and focuses on routes between Europe and Latin America. While there are no specific local offices or direct phone lines within the UAE, passengers can reach the airline's support team through their global call center, email, or digital platforms.

The most efficient way to manage bookings, check flight status, or find support is through the airline's official online portal.

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.plusultra.com
• International Customer Service (Spain): +34 91 142 08 88
• Email Support: atencionalcliente@plusultra.com
• Sales and Reservations: ventas@plusultra.com

Please note that when calling the international customer service number from the United Arab Emirates, international calling rates will apply. The support team generally operates during European business hours.

Social Media Channels

For quick updates or alternative ways to reach out, you can follow Plus Ultra on their official social media accounts:

• Facebook: Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas
• Twitter (X): @PlusUltraAero
• Instagram: @plusultraaero
• LinkedIn: Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas

Headquarters

Since there is no physical branch in the United Arab Emirates, all major correspondence and administrative matters are handled at the airline's main headquarters in Madrid:

• Address: Torregalindo 1, 28016 Madrid, Spain

For urgent matters or 24/7 assistance, it is recommended to use the online contact forms on the official website or check if your travel insurance provider offers emergency travel support.

Understanding the baggage policy is a crucial step in preparing for your journey with Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas. Whether you are flying from their hub in Madrid to South America or connecting between destinations, the airline offers a competitive baggage allowance designed to accommodate the needs of long-haul travelers. Below is a comprehensive guide to what you can bring on board and check in for your flight.

Please note that specific allowances may vary depending on your fare class (e.g., Promo, Saver, Flex) and the specific route, such as flights to Lima or Bogota. It is always recommended to check the specific details on your ticket confirmation.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

Passengers flying with Plus Ultra are generally entitled to bring hand luggage into the cabin. This ensures that essential items and valuables are kept close during the flight.

• Economy Class: Typically allows one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 10 kg. The standard maximum dimensions are usually 55 x 40 x 25 cm, including wheels and handles.
• Business Class: Passengers usually enjoy an enhanced allowance, often permitting two pieces of hand luggage, with a combined weight limit that offers more flexibility for business travelers.
• Personal Item: In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers are normally allowed one small personal accessory, such as a handbag, laptop case, or small backpack, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Limits

Plus Ultra is known for its generous checked baggage policies, particularly on its transatlantic routes between Europe and Latin America. The "piece concept" generally applies, meaning allowances are based on the number of bags rather than total weight alone.

• Economy Class: Depending on the fare purchased, passengers can often check in one or two pieces of luggage. The standard maximum weight for each bag is 23 kg. Some promotional fares may include fewer bags, while flexible fares often include two.
• Business Class: Travelers in Business Class typically benefit from a higher allowance, usually consisting of three pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg.
• Infants: Passengers traveling with infants (under 2 years old) generally receive a checked baggage allowance of one piece (often up to 10 kg) plus a collapsible stroller or car seat free of charge.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If you need to bring more than your free allowance permits, Plus Ultra applies excess baggage fees. These can occur in two forms: overweight bags (bags weighing between 23 kg and the maximum safety limit of 32 kg) or extra pieces (additional bags beyond the ticketed allowance).

Fees for excess baggage are generally lower if purchased online in advance rather than at the airport check-in counter. Note that no single piece of luggage can weigh more than 32 kg due to health and safety regulations for baggage handlers.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Instruments

Travelers wishing to transport special items such as musical instruments or sports equipment (e.g., surfboards, bicycles, golf clubs) must adhere to specific rules.

• Sports Equipment: Equipment is often treated as special baggage. Depending on the size and weight, it may count towards your free allowance or incur a separate fixed fee. It is mandatory to pack these items in protective cases.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions. larger instruments generally require checking in as special baggage or, in some cases, purchasing an extra seat if they are fragile and cannot be checked.
• Notification: It is highly recommended to contact the airline at least 48 hours before your flight to reserve space for special equipment, as hold space can be limited.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, strict regulations apply to what can be packed. Compliance with European Union aviation security standards is mandatory for all flights departing from Spain.

• Prohibited in Hold and Cabin: Explosives, flammable liquids/solids, oxidizers, toxins, and radioactive materials are strictly forbidden.
• Cabin Restrictions: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag (max 1 liter capacity). Sharp objects and tools are not permitted in the cabin.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in hand luggage only and never in checked baggage.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey with Plus Ultra as smooth as possible, consider these packing tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure your bags are under the 23 kg limit to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
• Label Everything: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to the outside and inside of every bag.
• Secure Valuables: Always keep medication, travel documents, money, and electronics in your carry-on bag.
• Check the Ticket: Baggage rules can change based on seasonal promotions or specific routes (e.g., to Cartagena or Caracas). Always verify the "Baggage Allowance" section on your e-ticket receipt.

Traveling with Pets on Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas

Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas understands that pets are part of the family and allows passengers to travel with their dogs and cats on board. Whether you are flying from Madrid to South America or traveling between other destinations, the airline offers options for furry companions to join you, provided all safety and health regulations are met.

Transport Options

In Cabin (PETC)

Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin, allowing you to keep them close throughout the flight. This option is subject to availability and specific limits.

• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum allowed dimensions for the carrier are typically 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
• Allowed Pets: generally restricted to dogs and cats.
• Container Type: The carrier must be flexible, waterproof, and ventilated. The animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Limit: Usually limited to one pet per passenger and a specific number of pets per flight.

In Cargo Hold (AVIH)

Pets that exceed the weight or size limits for the cabin can travel in the aircraft's hold as checked baggage. The hold is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure animal safety.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be transported in a rigid, IATA-approved travel crate (fiberglass or hard plastic) with a secure metal door.
• Safety: The container must be escape-proof, leak-proof, and provide enough space for the animal to stand naturally without touching the roof, turn around, and lie down.
• Booking: Space in the hold is limited, so this service must be requested in advance.

As Cargo

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to destinations with strict import restrictions (such as the UK in some cases), animals must be transported as air cargo.

• Requirement: This applies when the total weight (pet + crate) exceeds the limit for checked baggage (often over 32 kg or 45 kg depending on the route).
• Procedure: Passengers must contact the airline's cargo department or a specialized freight forwarder to arrange this service.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth journey, especially on international routes to Lima, Caracas, or Bogota, specific paperwork is mandatory.

• Veterinary Passport: An official document stating the pet's details and owner information.
• Valid Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian, typically within 10 days prior to travel.
• Vaccination Record: Proof of up-to-date vaccinations, with the Rabies vaccine being the most critical (administered at least 21 days before travel).
• Microchip: An ISO-compliant microchip is required for identification.
• Export/Import Permits: Specific sanitary certificates required by the destination country (e.g., SENASA in Peru or ICA in Colombia).

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per way and vary based on the destination and method of transport. Prices are subject to change.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €50 to €100 per segment depending on the route.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €120 to €300 per segment, varying by destination and crate size.
• Payment: Fees are typically paid at the airport ticket counter on the day of departure.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their carrier or crate several weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent air sickness; offer water right up until the flight.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent pad and a familiar blanket or toy inside the crate to help keep the pet calm.
• Avoid Sedation: Veterinarians and airlines generally advise against sedating animals as it can affect breathing at high altitudes.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Certain dangerous or aggressive dog breeds may be prohibited from travel.
• Brachycephalic Animals: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks; they may be allowed in the cabin if they meet weight limits.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must generally be at least 3 to 4 months old to travel, primarily due to rabies vaccination requirements.
• Service Animals: Certified assistance dogs can typically travel in the cabin free of charge regardless of weight, provided proper documentation is submitted in advance.

Important: Pet travel rules and government regulations can change frequently. It is mandatory to contact Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas customer service at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm availability and specific requirements for your destination.

Premier Plus Loyalty Program

Make every journey count with Premier Plus, the exclusive loyalty program of Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas. Designed to reward frequent flyers, this program allows passengers to earn miles for every trip taken between Europe, South America, and other destinations. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, Premier Plus turns your miles into valuable rewards, enhancing your travel experience with exclusive privileges and personalized services.

Membership Tiers

The Premier Plus program is structured into four distinct levels, offering increasing benefits as you fly more frequently. Moving up the tiers unlocks a range of premium services designed to make your journey smoother and more comfortable.

• Classic (Entry Level): The starting tier for all new members. Benefits include earning miles on every flight, access to exclusive promotions, and a dedicated customer service line.
• Gold: Designed for frequent travelers, this tier offers significant perks such as priority check-in, priority boarding, and additional baggage allowance to make long-haul travel more comfortable.
• Platinum: A prestigious tier for loyal passengers. Members enjoy extensive benefits, including access to VIP lounges (where available), guaranteed seat availability on full flights, and high mileage earning bonuses.
• Black (Elite): The highest and most exclusive tier in the Premier Plus hierarchy. Reserved for the airline's top-tier travelers, Black status offers the ultimate level of recognition, maximum mileage bonuses, and the most personalized attention throughout your journey.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles with Plus Ultra is straightforward and flexible, allowing you to reach your next reward faster.

• Flights: Earn miles based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased. Long-haul routes, such as Madrid to Lima, Caracas, or Bogota, generate substantial miles.
• Flight Extras: In some cases, purchasing additional services or upgrading your seat can also contribute to your mileage balance.
• Partner Promotions: Keep an eye out for occasional partnerships with car rental agencies or hotels that may allow you to earn extra points for your travel ecosystem.

Redeeming Miles

Your earned miles can be exchanged for a variety of valuable travel rewards, giving you more reasons to fly.

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for free tickets to any of the airline's destinations, subject to availability and taxes.
• Cabin Upgrades: Treat yourself to greater comfort by using miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class on your next transatlantic crossing.
• Excess Baggage: Use your balance to pay for extra suitcases, perfect for those returning from shopping trips or moving abroad.

Alliance Membership

Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas operates independently and is not currently a member of major global airline alliances like Star Alliance or Oneworld. However, the airline maintains interline agreements and specific partnerships that facilitate connectivity for passengers. The Premier Plus program focuses specifically on rewarding loyalty within the Plus Ultra network.

How to Join

Joining the Premier Plus program is free and simple. Travelers can register online through the official Plus Ultra website by filling out a registration form with their personal details. Once registered, you will receive a membership number that should be entered during every booking process to ensure your miles are automatically credited to your account.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

Flying with Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas is designed to be a comfortable and welcoming experience, reflecting the warmth of Spanish hospitality. Whether you are embarking on a long-haul journey from the airline's hub in Madrid to South America or connecting through the Canary Islands, the carrier focuses on providing essential amenities and attentive service to ensure a pleasant crossing across the Atlantic.

Business Class

For travelers seeking enhanced comfort and privacy, Plus Ultra offers a dedicated Business Class cabin. This premium service is tailored to make long flights to destinations like Lima or Caracas as relaxing as possible.

• Seat Comfort: Business Class seats are designed for rest, typically featuring generous legroom, adjustable headrests, and significant recline. On many aircraft in the fleet, these seats convert into angled or lie-flat beds, allowing passengers to sleep comfortably during overnight journeys.
• Priority Services: Passengers in this class enjoy priority check-in and boarding, ensuring a seamless start to the trip. Additionally, a higher baggage allowance is standard.
• Exclusive Amenities: Guests are provided with an amenity kit containing travel essentials, a pillow, and a duvet to enhance the sleeping experience.

Economy Class

The Economy Class cabin is designed to offer value without compromising on essential comforts. It is a popular choice for families and tourists traveling to Bogota or Cartagena.

• Seating: The seats in Economy are configured to maximize space within the cabin standards, offering standard pitch and recline suitable for international travel.
• Amenities: Blankets and pillows are provided to all passengers on long-haul flights to ensure warmth and comfort throughout the journey.

In-Flight Entertainment

To keep passengers entertained during the flight, Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas provides a variety of entertainment options. Depending on the specific aircraft operating the route, travelers may access:

• Streaming System: Many aircraft are equipped with a wireless streaming system, "Plus Ultra On Board," which allows passengers to stream movies, TV shows, music, and magazines directly to their own smartphones, tablets, or laptops. It is highly recommended to bring your own device fully charged and with headphones.
• Individual Screens: On select aircraft, seatback screens may be available, offering a selection of international and Spanish content.

Dining and Beverages

One of the highlights of flying with Plus Ultra is the complimentary meal service included on all transatlantic routes. The airline prides itself on offering menus that blend Spanish culinary traditions with Latin American flavors.

• Full Service: On long-haul flights, passengers in all classes typically receive a hot meal shortly after takeoff and a lighter snack or breakfast before landing, depending on the flight time.
• Beverages: A selection of soft drinks, juices, water, coffee, and tea is available free of charge. Alcoholic beverages may be available for purchase or included depending on the service class.
• Special Diets: Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, gluten-free, diabetic, etc.) can request special meals. These requests must be made at least 48 hours prior to departure through the airline's customer service.

Special Services

Plus Ultra is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering specialized assistance for those with unique needs.

• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): The airline offers a dedicated service for children traveling alone between the ages of 5 and 11 (mandatory) and up to 17 (optional). Cabin crew provide supervision and care from departure until the child is handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM): Assistance is available for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. Services include wheelchair assistance at the airport and priority boarding. It is crucial to request this service at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance.
• Families and Infants: The airline provides special seat belts for infants and, subject to availability, bassinets for babies on long-haul flights. Families traveling with young children are often given priority during the boarding process.

Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas operates a focused network of long-haul flights primarily connecting its main hub in Madrid with key destinations in South America and Africa. The airline provides essential links between Spain and major cities such as Lima and Bogota, facilitating both tourism and business travel across the Atlantic.

To secure the best fares with Plus Ultra Lineas Aereas, particularly for trans-Atlantic journeys starting from their hub in Madrid, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Prices often increase closer to the departure date, so aiming to finalize your reservation two to three months prior can result in significant savings. Additionally, keeping your travel dates flexible by a few days can help you find cheaper options for popular routes to destinations like Lima or Bogota.

Maximizing convenience is key when flying internationally. Take advantage of the online check-in service, which typically opens 24 to 48 hours before your flight. This allows you to confirm your presence and download your boarding pass to your mobile device, saving you valuable time at the airport. Using digital tools or the airline's mobile interface is also an excellent way to stay updated on any schedule changes or gate announcements in real-time.

For long-haul flights, such as those to Caracas or Malabo, comfort is essential. It is advisable to select your seat during the booking process or as soon as check-in opens to ensure you get your preferred spot, whether it is a window seat for the views or an aisle seat for easier access. Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected changes, luggage issues, or cancellations, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey with Plus Ultra Lineas Aereas.

History and Development

Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas was founded in 2011, taking its name from the national motto of Spain, which translates to "Further Beyond." This historic phrase symbolizes the airline's core mission: to cross the Atlantic and connect the cultures of Europe and Latin America. Although the company was established in 2011 by executives with extensive experience in the aviation sector, it spent several years securing the necessary Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and preparing its logistical base. The airline officially commenced commercial flight operations in June 2015, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Spanish long-haul aviation.

From its inception, the carrier positioned itself to serve niche markets that required direct and reliable connections. The airline's main operational base was established at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport in Madrid. In its early years, Plus Ultra focused on launching routes to destinations with strong historical and family ties to Spain. One of its first significant milestones was the inauguration of scheduled flights to Lima and Caracas, providing vital links for the large expatriate communities residing in Spain.

The evolution of the fleet has been a key component of the airline's development. Plus Ultra initially launched operations using Airbus A340 aircraft. These four-engine wide-body jets were selected for their exceptional range and reliability on transoceanic crossings. As the airline matured, it began a fleet modernization program to enhance efficiency and passenger comfort. This included the introduction of the Airbus A330-200, a twin-engine aircraft known for its operational versatility and lower fuel consumption, signaling the company's commitment to more sustainable modern aviation standards.

Expansion continued with the addition of new routes to satisfy growing demand. The airline broadened its footprint in Colombia by launching services to Bogota and the coastal city of Cartagena, strengthening tourism and business exchanges. Additionally, recognizing the unique bond between the Canary Islands and Venezuela, Plus Ultra established a direct connection between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Caracas, a route highly valued by the local population. The network also expanded into Africa with flights to Malabo, diversifying the airline's portfolio beyond South America.

Today, Plus Ultra Líneas Aéreas continues to evolve, focusing on consolidating its existing routes and maintaining high service standards. While it remains a specialized carrier rather than a massive global giant, it has successfully carved out a significant presence in the transatlantic market. By steadily upgrading its fleet and prioritizing specific, high-demand connections, the airline has maintained its status as an important bridge across the Atlantic, staying true to the spirit of going "further beyond."