RusLine

RusLine (7R) is a prominent Russian regional airline that has been serving passengers since 1997. Based in Naryan-Mar, the carrier specializes in connecting smaller cities and remote regions directly, playing a vital role in the country's transport infrastructure. By offering convenient point-to-point flights that often bypass busy capital hubs, RusLine provides essential air links to a wide variety of destinations, ranging from the Arctic territories to the Urals and Central Russia.

The airline operates a fleet specifically designed for regional aviation, consisting primarily of Bombardier CRJ-100/200 aircraft. These jets are well-suited for short to medium-haul domestic routes, allowing the carrier to maintain efficiency and accessibility. With a seating capacity of approximately 50 passengers, these aircraft ensure reliable connections to areas that are often underserved by larger carriers, making travel easier for both business and leisure passengers.

RusLine offers frequent flights connecting Saint Petersburg with key regional cities such as Naryan-Mar, Tambov, and Yaroslavl. Travelers can also utilize the airline's services from Moscow to reach destinations like Tambov and the northern city of Vorkuta. This network structure helps reduce total travel time by avoiding unnecessary layovers in major transit hubs.

The carrier maintains a strong presence in the Urals and Siberia, linking Yekaterinburg to destinations like Naryan-Mar and Syktyvkar. Additionally, RusLine operates routes from Kazan to Khanty-Mansiysk and Naryan-Mar. Other significant connections include flights from Ufa to Naryan-Mar and services connecting Yaroslavl with Perm, further strengthening regional mobility.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates should note that RusLine is a Russian regional carrier and does not currently operate direct flights to or from the UAE, nor does it maintain local representation in the region. For all inquiries regarding tickets, flight schedules, or connections within Russia, passengers must contact the airline's main headquarters and support center located in Moscow.

Since there are no local support lines in the United Arab Emirates, please use the international contact numbers provided below. The airline's main call center operates around the clock to assist with urgent matters such as last-minute changes or cancellations. Be aware that international calling rates may apply depending on your provider. For online services, it is recommended to use the browser's translation feature if the English version of the website is not automatically detected.

• Official Website: www.rusline.aero
• Customer Service (International): +7 495 933-23-33
• Email Support: info@rusline.aero
• Headquarters Address: 121354, Moscow, Dorogobuzhskaya Street, 14, bld. 1, Russia
• Social Media: vk.com/rusline.aero (VK), t.me/rusline_aero (Telegram)
• Mobile App: "RusLine" (Available for download on Android and iOS platforms)

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

When flying with RusLine, your carry-on allowance depends on the fare family you have selected. Generally, passengers are entitled to one piece of hand luggage. Due to the compact overhead bins on the Bombardier CRJ-100/200 aircraft used by the airline, strict dimensional limits apply. The standard maximum dimensions for carry-on bags are usually 40x30x20 cm. It is crucial to adhere to these limits, as larger items may not fit in the cabin.

The weight limit for hand luggage is typically 10 kg for most standard fares. However, passengers travelling on promotional or "Light" tickets should verify their specific allowance on their ticket confirmation, as restrictions may vary. In addition to the main carry-on item, passengers are usually permitted to bring essential personal items such as a handbag, briefcase, or laptop bag into the cabin.

Checked Baggage Limits

RusLine offers a tiered fare structure that determines your checked baggage rights. Understanding your ticket type is essential before packing:

• Light Fares: typically do not include a checked baggage allowance. Passengers on this fare who need to check a bag must pay an additional fee.
• Classic and Optimum Fares: usually include one piece of checked luggage. The standard weight allowance is 20 kg per bag.

The maximum total dimension (length + width + height) for any checked bag is generally 203 cm. If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits specified in your fare rules, you will be charged for excess baggage at the airport.

Excess and Special Baggage

If you plan to travel with more luggage than your free allowance permits, it is highly recommended to pay for the extra weight or additional pieces in advance through the official website or call center. Pre-paying for excess baggage is significantly cheaper than paying fees at the airport counter during check-in.

Sports Equipment: RusLine often accommodates sports enthusiasts, particularly during the winter season. Skiing and snowboarding equipment (one pair of skis with poles or one snowboard, plus boots) may be transported free of charge on certain fares, provided the total weight does not exceed the standard limits (usually 20 kg). Always confirm current seasonal policies before flying.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments that fit within the hand luggage dimensions can be carried in the cabin. Larger instruments require a separate seat booking or must be transported as checked baggage in a hard-shell case to prevent damage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

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

• Explosives, fireworks, and flares.
• Compressed gases and flammable liquids.
• Corrosive substances like acids and wet batteries.
• Toxic or radioactive materials.

For carry-on luggage, the standard restrictions on liquids apply. Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on baggage and are not permitted in the cargo hold.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Since RusLine operates regional jets, cabin space is more limited than on large wide-body aircraft. To make your journey smoother, consider using a soft-sided duffel bag or backpack as your carry-on; these are easier to stow in smaller overhead compartments or under the seat in front of you. Ensure all valuable items, documents, and medication are kept in your hand luggage. If you are connecting to international flights from major hubs like Moscow or Yekaterinburg, verify that your luggage complies with the policies of all airlines in your itinerary.

Travelling with Pets on RusLine

RusLine understands that pets are part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. Passengers are generally permitted to transport domesticated cats, dogs, and birds either in the cabin or in the baggage hold, depending on the animal's size and weight. Since the number of animals allowed on each flight is strictly limited, it is essential to book this service well in advance of your departure.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin if they meet specific size and weight requirements. This option ensures your furry friend stays by your side throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: Maximum size is typically 45x35x25 cm (soft carriers are recommended).
• Maximum Weight: Up to 8 kg (including the animal and the carrier).
• Allowed Pet Types: Domesticated cats, dogs, and birds.
• Placement: The carrier must be stowed under the seat in front of you.
• Limit: Generally one carrier per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that exceed the weight or size limits for the cabin must travel in the aircraft's cargo hold. This area is pressurized, but passengers should confirm temperature control capabilities for specific routes.

• Container Requirements: Rigid, IATA-compliant hard-shell crate with secure locking mechanisms and adequate ventilation.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Weight Limits: Animals weighing more than 8 kg and typically up to 50 kg.
• Documentation: Full set of veterinary documents attached to the crate.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or specific commercial shipments, transport via the air cargo department is required.

• Requirement: Mandatory for animals exceeding standard baggage weight limits (usually over 50 kg).
• Procedure: Must be booked through the airline's cargo terminal or a freight forwarder.
• Booking: Requires separate processing and is not handled at the passenger check-in counter.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process, you must present valid veterinary documents. Requirements may vary based on the destination.

• Veterinary Passport: Must clearly identify the animal and owner.
• Health Certificate: A valid veterinary certificate (Form No. 1 for domestic travel), usually issued no earlier than 5 days before travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of a valid rabies vaccination (administered no later than 21 days before flight and valid for one year).
• International Certificates: Required for any travel crossing international borders.

Service Costs

Pet transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is charged as an additional service. Prices are subject to change based on the route.

• In-Cabin Fee: Charged as a fixed rate per flight segment.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Generally higher than the cabin fee, calculated based on weight or as a fixed oversize baggage fee.
• Payment: Fees can often be paid at the airport or during booking.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Familiarity: Let your pet get used to their crate or carrier days or weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness; keep them hydrated.
• Check-in: Arrive at the airport early (at least 2-3 hours before departure) to complete veterinary controls.
• Comfort Items: Place an absorbent mat in the carrier; avoid putting hard toys inside that could cause injury during turbulence.

Restrictions

Certain limitations apply to ensure the safety of all passengers and animals on board.

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats may be restricted due to breathing difficulties at altitude.
• Aggressive Animals: Animals showing signs of aggression will not be accepted for carriage.
• Prohibited Animals: Wild animals, reptiles, rodents, and arthropods are generally not permitted.
• Service Animals: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities fly free of charge, provided they have the necessary training documents and wear a muzzle and collar.

Important: Airline policies are subject to change without notice. It is strongly recommended to contact RusLine directly or visit their official website to verify the most current rules, fees, and aircraft suitability before purchasing your ticket.

Service Philosophy: Immediate Value

RusLine (7R) simplifies the travel experience by utilizing a "Branded Fare Family" system. Instead of a traditional mileage-based loyalty scheme where benefits must be accrued over years, the airline allows passengers to access elite-style privileges immediately by simply selecting the appropriate ticket tier. This transparent approach ensures that every traveler, whether flying for business or leisure, can enjoy the specific level of comfort and flexibility they require right from the moment of booking.

Fare Tiers and Benefits

The airline's ticketing structure is designed to cater to diverse travel needs, offering a clear progression of included services. By purchasing a higher fare class, passengers gain instant access to perks that enhance the journey without the need for a frequent flyer card.

• Light: The most economical option, perfect for short trips or travelers who prefer to move quickly. This fare typically includes hand luggage only and offers the lowest price point, with tickets usually being non-refundable.
• Classic: A balanced choice for the average traveler. This tier generally includes a checked baggage allowance (commonly 20 kg) along with standard carry-on items, providing peace of mind for those carrying more personal belongings.
• Optimum: Created for passengers who need flexibility in their schedule. This option often permits ticket exchanges or refunds with significantly reduced penalties, making it ideal for business plans that might change.
• Premium: The highest service tier offering maximum convenience. Passengers on this fare enjoy priority check-in, increased baggage allowances, and complimentary seat selection to ensure the most comfortable flight possible.

Premium Airport Privileges

Holders of Premium tickets receive benefits comparable to business class service on the ground. A standout feature is access to Business Lounges at select major hubs, such as Moscow (Vnukovo) and Saint Petersburg (Pulkovo). This model allows any passenger to access luxury and relaxation before their flight by simply upgrading their fare type for that specific journey.

Special Fares and Discounts

RusLine frequently participates in regional air transportation subsidy programs, making air travel more accessible across its network. On eligible routes, the airline offers special discounted fares for specific passenger categories, including youths, students, and senior citizens. These subsidized tickets provide a cost-effective way to explore different regions, although availability is subject to seasonal schedules and government regulations.

Corporate Cooperation

For organizations with frequent travel needs, RusLine provides a tailored Corporate Program. This cooperation agreement is designed to optimize travel budgets and streamline management for businesses. Corporate partners benefit from fixed special rates, flexible booking and cancellation terms, and dedicated support, ensuring that employee travel is both efficient and economical.

Service Classes and Fare Families

As a regional carrier operating primarily Bombardier CRJ-100/200 aircraft, RusLine (7R) offers a streamlined single-cabin experience. Unlike larger international airlines that feature separate Business or First Class cabins with distinct seating hardware, RusLine differentiates its service levels through a comprehensive "Fare Family" system. This approach allows passengers to choose the level of flexibility and ground privileges that suits their needs, while the onboard seating remains consistent across the aircraft.

For travelers seeking a premium experience, the Premium fare tier serves as the airline's equivalent to Business Class. While seated in the same cabin, holders of these tickets enjoy significant advantages such as priority boarding, complimentary seat selection (typically in the front rows for quicker disembarkation), and, at select airports like Moscow (Vnukovo), access to Business Lounges. The Light, Classic, and Optimum fares correspond to standard Economy Class travel, offering varying degrees of baggage allowance and ticket flexibility without the added ground perks.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

All flights are operated on Bombardier CRJ-100/200 regional jets, which are designed for short to medium-haul routes. The cabin features a 2-2 seating configuration, meaning there are no middle seats on the aircraft. Every passenger is assigned either a window or an aisle seat, providing a more comfortable environment compared to larger narrow-body jets.

The seats are standard leather-upholstered economy seats with a pitch of approximately 31 inches (78 cm). While the cabin is more compact than that of a Boeing or Airbus, the absence of a middle neighbor ensures a reasonable amount of personal space for flights that typically last between one and three hours.

In-Flight Meals and Beverages

Given the relatively short duration of most RusLine routes, the catering service is modest and efficient. On most scheduled flights, passengers are offered complimentary beverages, including water and juices. Depending on the route length and time of day, a light snack or sandwich may also be provided.

It is important to note that full hot meals are generally not served due to the limited galley space on regional jets and the short flight times. Passengers with specific dietary requirements or those embarking on longer connecting journeys are advised to dine at the airport before boarding or bring their own snacks, provided they comply with security regulations.

Entertainment and Amenities

RusLine aircraft are not equipped with seatback entertainment screens or Wi-Fi connectivity. The airline focuses on providing reliable point-to-point transportation rather than digital entertainment. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own books, tablets, or smartphones loaded with content to enjoy during the flight. The airline's in-flight magazine is available in the seat pocket, offering articles on travel destinations, lifestyle, and company news, usually in Russian.

Special Services

The airline provides essential assistance to ensure travel is accessible to everyone. These services must be requested in advance, typically during the booking process or at least 48 hours before departure.

• Unaccompanied Minors: For children aged 5 to 12 traveling alone, RusLine offers an escort service where airline staff supervise the child from check-in to the handover at the destination. This service is mandatory for this age group and optional for older children up to 16.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline assists passengers requiring wheelchairs or help boarding. Since regional jets may use remote stands (requiring stairs) rather than jet bridges, it is critical to notify the airline beforehand so that a specialized ambulift can be arranged if needed.
• Expectant Mothers: Women who are more than 30 weeks pregnant require a medical certificate dated no earlier than 7 days before the flight to ensure it is safe for them to travel.

RusLine (7R) maintains a strategic route network focused on connecting regional centers across Russia, with a significant operational hub in Naryan-Mar. The airline specializes in direct flights that link remote northern territories with key metropolitan areas and the Urals, often bypassing major transit hubs to provide more efficient travel options.

Securing the best value for your journey with RusLine often comes down to timing. Travelers generally find the most attractive fares by booking tickets at least a few weeks in advance, especially for popular routes during peak travel seasons. Being flexible with your travel dates can also help you uncover lower prices, as midweek flights are sometimes more affordable than weekend departures.

To stay updated on the latest deals and promotions, it is advisable to check the airline's official website regularly. RusLine frequently offers seasonal discounts on flights connecting major hubs like Saint Petersburg and Moscow to regional centers such as Tambov and Yaroslavl. Subscribing to their newsletter can ensure you are among the first to know about flash sales.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before departure, allowing you to choose your preferred seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. This is particularly useful for bypassing long queues at the airport, leaving you more time to relax before your flight to destinations like Kazan or Khanty-Mansiysk.

Choosing the right seat can significantly enhance your comfort on board. If you enjoy scenic views, especially when flying over the diverse landscapes towards Yekaterinburg or the northern regions near Naryan-Mar, consider selecting a window seat during the booking process. For those who prefer a bit more mobility or quicker access to the aisle upon landing, an aisle seat is the ideal choice.

For a hassle-free journey, managing your booking via mobile tools is highly recommended. Additionally, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is always a wise decision. It provides peace of mind by covering unexpected events, ensuring that your trip to Ufa, Perm, or Chelyabinsk remains a pleasant and worry-free experience.

RusLine was founded in 1997 as a charter operator, initially focusing on ad-hoc flights and private business aviation. In its early years, the company operated a diverse mix of Soviet-designed aircraft, catering to specific corporate clients and holiday groups rather than maintaining a regular scheduled network. For over a decade, the airline built a reputation for flexibility and reliability in the charter market before embarking on a significant strategic transformation that would redefine its role in Russian aviation.

A major turning point in the airline's history occurred around 2009 and 2010, marked by a decisive shift towards scheduled regional passenger services. This era saw the introduction of the Bombardier CRJ-100 and CRJ-200 aircraft into the fleet. These Canadian-manufactured regional jets were perfectly sized for the Russian domestic market, allowing RusLine to offer economically viable flights on routes with moderate passenger demand that were too thin for larger aircraft like the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.

The airline's expansion was significantly accelerated by the integration of assets and personnel from other regional carriers, most notably Air Volga. This move allowed RusLine to rapidly increase its fleet size and establish a stronger foothold in the Volga region and Southern Russia. With a growing number of CRJ aircraft, the carrier began to build a unique network architecture. Instead of funnelling all traffic exclusively through Moscow, RusLine started developing "point-to-point" connections between regional centers, drastically reducing travel times for passengers moving between cities like Yekaterinburg and Kazan or northern outposts.

Over the years, RusLine has established itself as a critical link for remote and hard-to-reach territories. The airline developed extensive operations in the Arctic and Ural regions, becoming a primary lifeline for cities such as Naryan-Mar and Vorkuta. By securing slots at major hubs like Moscow (Vnukovo) and Saint Petersburg (Pulkovo) while simultaneously serving smaller airfields, the carrier successfully bridged the gap between metropolitan areas and industrial towns. Today, RusLine continues to modernize its services, focusing on digital integration and maintaining essential air bridges across the vast geography of the country.