Precisionair

Precision Air has established itself as a cornerstone of Tanzanian aviation, offering reliable connections across the breathtaking landscapes of East Africa. Established to serve both business travelers and tourists, the airline seamlessly links the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam with the pristine beaches of the archipelago and the wildlife-rich northern circuit. With a reputation built on steady growth and commitment to service, this carrier provides an authentic and convenient way to navigate the region's diverse geography.

History and Development

Founded in 1993, Precision Air began operations as a private charter air transport company before evolving into a scheduled airline. Over the decades, it has grown from a small operator into a key regional player, becoming the first Tanzanian airline to list on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange. Its development was significantly boosted by strategic partnerships that helped modernize its standards and expand its reach, making it a preferred choice for travelers moving between major East African cities.

Network and Fleet

The airline primarily operates a fleet of ATR aircraft, specifically the ATR 72 and ATR 42 series. These modern turboprop planes are perfectly suited for the regional airports and short-haul routes typical of Tanzania's topography. From its main hub, passengers can easily reach popular destinations such as Zanzibar City, Kilimanjaro, and Moroni in the Comoros. The network also includes frequent flights to Nairobi, facilitating essential cross-border travel and tourism links throughout the wider region.

Mission and Safety

Operating under the motto "You are why we fly," Precision Air emphasizes customer satisfaction and operational reliability. The company is dedicated to maintaining high safety standards and has historically achieved IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registration, underscoring its commitment to international safety practices. By focusing on punctuality and friendly Tanzanian hospitality, the airline strives to make air travel accessible and comfortable for everyone exploring the vibrant cultures and natural wonders of East Africa.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates planning a journey to Tanzania, Precision Air provides support primarily through its international customer service channels. While the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the UAE or maintain a physical branch in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, assistance with reservations, ticketing, and flight schedules is readily available via their global contact center and digital platforms.

Official Website

Travelers can book flights, manage itineraries, and access the latest travel updates directly through the official website, which supports multiple currencies including AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham).

• Website: www.precisionairtz.com

Contact Information

Since there is no local call center in the UAE, customers should use the international support lines based in Tanzania. Standard international calling rates will apply.

• International Customer Service: +255 22 219 1000
• Mobile Support (Call/WhatsApp): +255 784 108 800 / +255 746 984 100
• Email: contactcentre@precisionairtz.com
• Ticket Booking: Available online or via the international numbers listed above.

Social Media

For quick updates or alternative support queries, you can connect with the airline on their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Precision Air
• X (Twitter): @PrecisionAirTz
• Instagram: @precisionairtz

Office Locations

Precision Air does not currently have a local office or ticket counter in the United Arab Emirates. All administrative and operational matters are handled through their headquarters in Tanzania.

• Headquarters Address: Diamond Plaza, 1st Floor, Samora Avenue/Mirambo Street, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent matters outside of standard business hours, passengers are advised to use the mobile support numbers provided above or reach out via the "Manage My Booking" feature on the official website. If you booked through a UAE-based travel agency, please contact your agent directly for immediate assistance with changes or cancellations.

Preparing for your journey with Precision Air requires a little extra planning, especially given the unique nature of regional travel in East Africa. As the airline primarily operates a fleet of ATR turboprop aircraft, overhead bin space is more limited than on wide-body international jets. Whether you are connecting from the UAE through Dar es Salaam or hopping between safari destinations, understanding these allowances will ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

Due to the compact cabin size of the ATR aircraft, strict adherence to hand luggage limits is essential for safety and comfort. Every passenger is entitled to one piece of carry-on baggage.

• Maximum Weight: 7 kg (approximately 15 lbs).
• Maximum Dimensions: 55 cm x 38 cm x 20 cm (including wheels and handles).
• Personal Item: In addition to the main carry-on, you may bring one small personal item such as a laptop bag, ladies' handbag, small camera bag, or reading material.

Tip: If your carry-on is slightly too large for the overhead locker, it may be tagged as "Valet" baggage at the aircraft steps and returned to you immediately upon landing.

Checked Baggage Policy

Precision Air offers a generous standard allowance for checked luggage, designed to accommodate everything from business suits to safari gear. The "Weight Concept" generally applies, meaning you are limited by total weight rather than just the number of bags, though a single piece limit often applies to the free allowance.

• Economy Class: Standard allowance of 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Infants (under 2 years): Allowed 10 kg of checked baggage plus one collapsible stroller or carrycot free of charge.
• Maximum Size: The total linear dimensions (Length + Width + Height) should not exceed 158 cm.
• Safety Limit: No single piece of luggage can weigh more than 32 kg. Bags heavier than this will not be accepted and must be repacked or sent as cargo.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees are charged per kilogram. These rates vary depending on whether you are flying domestically within Tanzania or on regional international routes (e.g., to Nairobi or Moroni). Charges are typically payable at the airport in local currency or USD.

Sports Equipment and Special Items

Adventures in Tanzania often require special gear. Precision Air accepts sports equipment, but specific rules apply:

• Golf Bags & Sports Gear: May be included in your standard 23 kg allowance. If the weight exceeds this limit, normal excess baggage rates apply.
• Bicycles: Bicycles are not included in the free allowance and are always subject to a special handling fee. They must be packed in a protective box or bag with handlebars turned parallel and pedals removed.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit within the carry-on dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or, for delicate items like cellos, a separate seat may be purchased (subject to prior arrangement).

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To comply with international aviation safety standards, the following restrictions are strictly enforced:

• Checked Bags: Must not contain loose lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, or valuable items like jewelry, money, and important documents.
• Cabin Bags: Liquids, aerosols, and gels must be in containers of 100ml or less, packed in a transparent re-sealable plastic bag. Sharp objects (knives, scissors) and tools are prohibited in the cabin.
• Forbidden: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and other dangerous goods are strictly banned from all luggage.

Packing Tips for Regional Travel

Flying on smaller regional aircraft is different from long-haul international travel. To make your trip easier:

• Use Soft-Sided Luggage: Duffel bags or soft suitcases are easier to stow in the cargo holds of smaller planes than rigid hard-shell cases.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-On: Always keep your medication, travel documents, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage in case of unexpected delays.
• Identify Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked items. Adding a colorful ribbon can help you spot your bag quickly on the carousel.

Traveling with Pets on Precision Air

Precision Air understands that pets are often considered part of the family and strives to accommodate them on flights across its network. Whether you are relocating or taking a holiday, the airline generally accepts domestic cats and dogs for carriage, subject to advance booking and strict safety regulations. Due to the specific configuration of the ATR aircraft fleet used for regional connections to cities like Dar es Salaam and Nairobi, space is limited, making early arrangements essential.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets may be permitted in the cabin if they meet specific size and weight criteria, allowing them to stay close to you throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: Must not exceed approximately 40 x 30 x 20 cm to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
• Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier is typically limited to 8 kg.
• Allowed Animals: Generally restricted to domesticated dogs and cats.
• Container Type: Soft-sided, leak-proof carriers with adequate ventilation are recommended for the cabin.
• Restrictions: Usually limited to one pet per passenger and a limited number of pets per flight.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that exceed the cabin weight limit or size dimensions must travel in the aircraft's hold as checked baggage. This area is pressurized and suitable for safe transport.

• Container Requirements: rigid, IATA-compliant crates (fiberglass or hard plastic) are mandatory. Wire cages are generally not accepted.
• Comfort: The crate must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Security: The door must be secure and lockable, with food and water dishes accessible from the outside.
• Documentation: A "Live Animal" tag and contact details must be affixed to the crate.

As Cargo

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to destinations with strict import regulations, travel via air freight may be required.

• Requirement: Often necessary when the combined weight of the pet and crate exceeds 32 kg or for commercial shipments.
• Procedure: These bookings are handled through the cargo department rather than passenger reservations.
• Handling: Requires dropping the animal off at the cargo terminal well in advance of the flight.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process and avoid travel disruptions, you must present the following original documents:

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian within a specific timeframe (usually 10-14 days) before travel.
• Vaccination Record: Must show a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days prior to flight but not more than 1-3 years, depending on the vaccine).
• Import/Export Permits: Required for international travel between countries (e.g., Tanzania and Kenya or Comoros).
• Pet Passport: Recommended for tracking medical history and identification.

Service Costs

Pets are not included in the free baggage allowance and are subject to specific fees based on weight and route.

• In-Cabin Fee: Charged as a fixed fee or equivalent to a specific amount of excess baggage.
• Hold Fee: typically calculated based on the total weight of the animal plus the crate, charged at the applicable excess baggage rate per kilogram.
• Route Variation: Fees may be higher for international routes compared to domestic flights within Tanzania.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in their crate weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Provide a light meal approximately 4 hours before departure; avoid feeding right before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
• Hydration: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated but limit water intake just before boarding.
• Comfort Items: Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the crate to help soothe your pet.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) may be restricted or require liability waivers due to respiratory risks at altitude.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens generally must be at least 12-15 weeks old to travel.
• Health: Animals appearing ill, aggressive, or in physical distress will be refused carriage.
• Exceptions: Service dogs (guide dogs) are usually carried free of charge in the cabin but require prior notification and valid training certificates.

Important: Airline policies regarding live animals are subject to change and strictly enforced by local airport authorities. You must contact Precision Air directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm availability, as the aircraft type may limit the number of animals allowed on board.

Paa Royal Loyalty Program

Frequent travelers can enhance their journey with Paa Royal, the official loyalty program of Precision Air designed to reward passengers for their continued patronage. Whether you are commuting regularly for business or exploring the wonders of East Africa, membership allows you to earn value back on every flight. The program is free to join and offers a structured tier system that unlocks increasingly exclusive privileges as you fly more often.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

Paa Royal consists of four distinct membership levels, each tailored to provide specific advantages to travelers:

• Jade: The entry-level tier where members begin accumulating miles immediately upon registration.
• Silver: Unlocks benefits such as priority on reservation waitlists and bonus miles on eligible flights.
• Gold: Offers premium perks including priority check-in counters and an additional baggage allowance.
• Tanzanite: The highest elite status providing top-tier privileges like lounge access and guaranteed seat availability on full flights.

Earning Miles

Members can accumulate Paa Royal miles through various travel activities and interactions with the airline:

• Flight Activity: Earn miles on every eligible Precision Air flight based on the distance flown and the class of service booked.
• Route Bonuses: Frequent trips on key routes like Dar es Salaam to Nairobi may offer consistent earning opportunities.
• Partner Airlines: Accumulate miles when flying with strategic airline partners on qualifying tickets.
• Validity: Miles remain valid for a set period, encouraging regular travel to maintain your balance.

Redeeming Miles

Your accumulated miles can be exchanged for a variety of travel rewards to make your next trip even better:

• Award Tickets: Redeem miles for free flights to popular destinations such as Zanzibar City or Kilimanjaro.
• Cabin Upgrades: Use your balance to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for added comfort.
• Excess Baggage: Pay for extra luggage weight using your miles instead of cash at the airport.
• Transferability: Options to transfer miles to friends or family members are available under specific conditions.

Alliance and Partnerships

While Precision Air is not a member of a global alliance like Star Alliance or SkyTeam, it maintains a robust strategic partnership with Kenya Airways. This cooperation allows for seamless connections and reciprocal benefits, significantly expanding the network reach for passengers traveling throughout the region and beyond.

How to Join

Becoming a member of Paa Royal is a straightforward digital process:

• Visit the official Precision Air website and locate the Paa Royal section.
• Complete the online enrollment form with your personal details and contact information.
• Receive your membership number instantly via email to start earning on your very next booking.

Flying with Precision Air offers a distinct regional experience tailored to the short-haul nature of travel within East Africa. As the fleet consists primarily of ATR turboprop aircraft, the onboard atmosphere is intimate and focused on efficiency and warm Tanzanian hospitality. While the amenities differ from those found on long-haul wide-body jets, passengers can expect a comfortable journey whether they are commuting for business or heading to a holiday destination.

Classes of Service

Precision Air typically offers two main tiers of service, designed to meet the varying needs of its passengers. Note that due to the regional nature of the flights, a First Class cabin is not available.

• Economy Class: The core offering on all flights, Economy Class provides a practical and reliable travel solution. Passengers enjoy friendly service, complimentary refreshments, and a standard baggage allowance. It is an ideal choice for quick hops between cities like Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City.
• Business Class: Available on select routes and aircraft, Business Class offers enhanced convenience for travelers seeking extra comfort. Benefits often include priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and access to airport lounges at the main hub. On board, passengers are typically seated in the front rows for a quicker exit upon arrival.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

One of the unique advantages of the ATR fleet (ATR 42 and ATR 72) is the cabin layout. The seating is arranged in a 2-2 configuration, meaning there are no middle seats on the aircraft. Every passenger is guaranteed either a window or an aisle seat, ensuring a more comfortable flight with decent legroom suitable for journeys that usually last between 45 minutes to 2 hours.

In-Flight Dining

Despite the short duration of most flights, Precision Air is known for its complimentary snack service. Passengers are treated to a selection of light refreshments to keep them satisfied en route.

• Snacks: The airline is famous for serving fresh, roasted Tanzanian cashew nuts, a local specialty that is highly favored by regular travelers. Light pastries or muffins may also be offered depending on the time of day.
• Beverages: A choice of hot and cold drinks is available, including coffee, tea, water, juices, and soda. Alcoholic beverages may be served in the premium cabin on select flights.

Entertainment and Amenities

Given the short flight times and the type of aircraft, there are no seatback screens or Wi-Fi services on board. However, the airline provides other forms of engagement:

• In-Flight Magazine: Passengers can read "Paa," the airline's complimentary magazine, which features articles on lifestyle, business, and travel destinations across the region like Nairobi and the Comoros.
• Scenic Views: Since turboprops fly at lower altitudes than jetliners, travelers are often treated to spectacular aerial views of the African landscape, including Mount Kilimanjaro and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Special Services

Precision Air is committed to making travel accessible for everyone and offers specific services for passengers with special requirements. These services should be requested at the time of booking to ensure availability.

• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline provides a supervised travel service for children between the ages of 5 and 11 traveling alone, ensuring they are cared for from check-in until they are handed over to a designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance (WCHR) is available for passengers who need help navigating the airport and boarding. Due to the stairs required to board the aircraft, cabin crew and ground staff are trained to assist passengers safely.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant women can travel up to 28 weeks without a medical certificate. Travel between 28 and 36 weeks requires a doctor's letter confirming fitness to fly.

Precision Air operates a robust regional network centered around its primary hub in Dar es Salaam, connecting travelers to the most sought-after locations in East Africa. From the bustling commercial capital, the airline provides frequent and reliable scheduled services to major Tanzanian cities, the pristine beaches of the archipelago, and key neighboring international destinations.

To get the most out of your journey with Precisionair, timing is often the key to securing the best value. For popular routes, such as those connecting the main hub in Dar es Salaam with busy regional destinations like Nairobi or the idyllic Zanzibar City, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least three to four weeks in advance. Fares tend to increase significantly as the departure date approaches, particularly during the peak safari and holiday seasons.

Keep a close watch for seasonal promotions and special offers. Signing up for the airline's newsletter or regularly checking their official website can help you spot limited-time deals. If your travel dates are flexible, use the "flexible dates" search option when booking to identify cheaper flights to destinations like Moroni or Kilimanjaro, as flying mid-week is often less expensive than on weekends.

Streamline your travel day by utilizing the online check-in service. This facility typically allows passengers to check in via the website or mobile app starting 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. By checking in online, you can avoid long queues at the airport counters, which is especially convenient if you are traveling with hand luggage only.

When it comes to seat selection, consider the scenic potential of your flight. Precisionair operates in some of the most visually stunning regions of East Africa. If you are flying towards Kilimanjaro or Arusha, securing a window seat is highly recommended; on a clear day, the views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the sprawling savannahs are truly unforgettable. You can usually select your preferred seat during the booking process or while checking in online.

For seamless travel management, consider downloading the Precisionair mobile app. It puts essential tools right in your pocket, allowing you to book flights, manage existing reservations, view flight status updates, and access mobile boarding passes. Finally, do not overlook the importance of travel insurance. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, having coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage ensures peace of mind throughout your trip.

Founding and Early Years

Precision Air was established in 1993, beginning its journey as a humble private charter air transport company. Founded by Tanzanian businessman Michael Shirima, the airline initially operated with a single five-seater Piper Aztec aircraft, primarily serving the growing tourism sector and providing crop-spraying services. Based initially in Arusha, the gateway to the northern safari circuit, the company quickly identified a need for reliable scheduled services to connect the country's dispersed regions.

Strategic Partnership and Expansion

A pivotal moment in the airline's history occurred in 2003 when it entered into a strategic partnership with Kenya Airways. This alliance provided Precision Air with vital capital and technical expertise, enabling a significant modernization of its operations. The partnership facilitated fleet expansion and helped the carrier adopt international aviation standards. In 2011, the company achieved another major milestone by becoming the first airline to list on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange, allowing the Tanzanian public to own a stake in their national carrier.

Fleet Evolution

Over the decades, the fleet has undergone a remarkable transformation to suit the specific topographical needs of East Africa. Moving away from small light aircraft, Precision Air standardized its operations around the ATR series of turboprops. The introduction of the ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft allowed the airline to operate efficiently into airports with shorter runways while offering passenger comfort comparable to larger jets. For a period, the airline also operated Boeing 737 jets to serve longer regional routes, before refocusing its strategy on being the premier regional turboprop operator.

Route Network Growth

As the fleet grew, so did the network. The airline established Dar es Salaam as its primary hub, creating a "hub and spoke" model that efficiently connects secondary cities. Significant route launches included high-frequency shuttles to Zanzibar City and Kilimanjaro, as well as crucial cross-border services to Nairobi. The network further expanded to include flights to Moroni, strengthening trade and tourism ties between the mainland and the Indian Ocean islands.

Modern Developments

Today, Precision Air continues to innovate by focusing on operational safety and digital convenience. It has successfully passed the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), a benchmark for global safety management. Recent developments focus on enhancing the customer experience through digital booking platforms and mobile check-in services, ensuring that this Tanzanian success story remains a competitive and reliable choice for travelers exploring the region.