Southern Airways Express

Southern Airways Express serves as a vital connector in the American aviation landscape, dedicated to linking smaller communities with major global gateways. Operating with a philosophy that values convenience and personal connection, this regional carrier offers a travel experience that feels far more exclusive and efficient than the typical commercial flight. Whether you are island-hopping across the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii or commuting between essential business hubs on the mainland, the airline ensures that even the shortest journeys are comfortable and reliable.

Southern Airways Express distinguishes itself through a unique business model focused on "essential air service," ensuring that passengers in smaller cities like Jonesboro and Lititz have seamless access to the national air transportation network. The airline has grown significantly since its founding, notably acquiring Mokulele Airlines, which expanded its footprint into the Pacific. This expansion allows travelers to enjoy scenic, short-haul flights between destinations such as Kahului and Honolulu, offering unparalleled views of the islands from above.

The carrier operates a robust fleet primarily consisting of Cessna Grand Caravans, known for their reliability and versatility in regional operations. A key pillar of the company's mission is safety; unlike many operators of similar-sized aircraft, Southern Airways Express mandates a two-pilot crew on every flight, ensuring the highest standards of operation. This commitment to safety and reliability makes them a trusted choice for connecting to larger hubs like Pittsburgh, St. Louis, and Dallas.

Passengers flying with Southern often benefit from the efficiency of smaller airport terminals, which can mean reduced wait times and a stress-free boarding process. Whether connecting to a transcontinental flight in Los Angeles or taking a quick business trip to Nashville, the airline provides a friendly, "hometown" service atmosphere that puts the passenger first.

Contacting Southern Airways Express from the United Arab Emirates

As Southern Airways Express is a regional carrier primarily operating within the United States and Hawaii, it does not maintain local offices or call centers in the United Arab Emirates. Travelers located in the UAE who need to manage bookings or make inquiries should utilize the airline's online platforms or contact their US-based support team via international phone lines.

For the most direct assistance, we recommend using the official website or mobile app to handle reservations and changes.

• Official Website: www.iflysouthern.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: https://www.iflysouthern.com
• Customer Service (International): +1 800-329-0485 (US Toll-Free; international calling rates from UAE will apply)
• Ticket Booking: +1 800-329-0485
• Email: info@iflysouthern.com
• Mobile App: "Southern Airways" available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

Social Media Support

The airline is active on social media and may respond to direct messages regarding general inquiries. This can be a useful alternative to making an international phone call.

• Facebook: Southern Airways Express
• X (Twitter): @iflysouthern
• Instagram: @iflysouthern
• LinkedIn: Southern Airways Express

Local Offices

• United Arab Emirates: There are currently no local offices or airport desks for Southern Airways Express in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates. All support is handled remotely from the United States.

24/7 Support

The main customer service line (+1 800-329-0485) is available 24 hours a day to assist with urgent booking changes, cancellations, or flight status updates. Please ensure your phone plan allows for international calls to the United States before dialing.

Traveling with Southern Airways Express (9X) offers a unique flying experience, often utilizing smaller regional aircraft like the Cessna Grand Caravan. Because of the specific weight and balance requirements of these aircraft, the baggage policies differ slightly from major commercial carriers. Understanding these guidelines ensures a smooth journey whether you are flying for business or leisure.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances are designed to maximize safety and comfort in the compact cabins. Passengers are typically permitted to bring one personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, or small backpack, which must fit securely in your lap or under the seat in front of you. Due to the absence of overhead bins on many Southern Airways Express aircraft, larger carry-on bags (roller boards or duffels) will usually be "valet checked" at the aircraft steps and returned to you immediately upon deplaning.

Regarding Checked Baggage Limits, the airline generally allows passengers to check luggage, but specific weight restrictions are strictly enforced to maintain aircraft safety. The standard allowance typically permits bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each. The total linear dimensions (length + width + height) should not exceed 62 inches. It is advisable to verify the specific allowance for your fare class at the time of booking, as policies may vary slightly depending on the route.

Travelers planning to bring more than the standard allowance should be aware of Excess Baggage Fees. Any bag weighing over 50 lbs is considered overweight and may incur additional charges or, in some cases, may not be accepted due to the cargo capacity limitations of the aircraft. If you are connecting to a major airline flight at a hub like Pittsburgh or Dallas, remember that Southern's weight limits may be stricter than those of the larger carrier.

Special Items such as sports equipment and musical instruments are generally accepted, provided they fit within the cargo hold's dimensions and weight limits. Golf clubs, skis, and guitars should be packed in hard-sided, protective cases. Due to limited cargo space, it is highly recommended to notify the airline in advance if you plan to travel with bulky items to ensure they can be accommodated on your specific flight.

For safety reasons, there is a strict list of Restricted and Prohibited Items. Hazardous materials, flammable liquids, explosives, and compressed gases are forbidden in both carry-on and checked luggage. Lithium batteries must be kept in your personal carry-on item and cannot be checked. Always adhere to standard TSA guidelines regarding liquids and sharp objects to facilitate a quick security screening process.

To make your trip easier, here are some Tips for Packing Efficiently. Given the smaller cargo holds of regional aircraft, soft-sided duffel bags are often preferred over hard-shell suitcases as they are more malleable and easier to stow. If you are departing from a busy airport like Honolulu, keep your essential documents and medication in your personal item so they remain accessible throughout the flight, even if your larger carry-on is stowed in the back.

Traveling with pets on Southern Airways Express (9X) is a unique experience due to the airline's fleet of smaller, regional aircraft. The carrier is known for its pet-friendly culture, welcoming furry companions on board to ensure they remain close to their owners. However, because flights are operated primarily on Cessna Grand Caravans, space is strictly limited, making early reservation and adherence to weight limits essential for a smooth journey.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small dogs and cats are welcome in the cabin, allowing them to stay by your side throughout the flight. Due to the intimate size of the cabin, regulations are strictly enforced to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers.

• Carrier dimensions: Must be an FAA-approved soft-sided or hard-sided carrier that fits comfortably in the designated floor space. While specific dimensions can vary by aircraft configuration, standard sizes (approximately 43×28×24 cm) are recommended.
• Maximum pet weight: The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 25 lbs (approx. 11 kg).
• Allowed pet types: primarily domesticated dogs and cats.
• Limit per passenger: Typically one pet carrier per passenger.
• Flight limit: strictly 2 pets per flight. Booking in advance is critical.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Transporting pets as checked baggage is subject to strict availability depending on the aircraft type and route. The cargo compartments on smaller regional planes may differ significantly from large jets.

• Container requirements: Pets must be in a rigid, IATA-compliant plastic crate with secure metal bolts and proper ventilation on all four sides.
• Weight and size limits: Larger animals may be accommodated if space permits, but strict weight caps apply. Contact the airline for specific dimensions allowed on your route.
• Temperature restrictions: Animals will not be accepted if ground temperatures at the departure or arrival airports are too hot or too cold (typically below 45°F/7°C or above 85°F/29°C).
• Required documentation: Health forms and ID tags attached to the crate are mandatory.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For animals that exceed checked baggage limits or are traveling unaccompanied, cargo transport may be arranged. This service is often handled by third-party logistics partners or specific cargo divisions.

• When required: For very large breeds or when the passenger is not on the same flight.
• Special requirements: Requires a completed airway bill and potentially a shipper's certification for live animals.
• Booking procedure: Must be coordinated directly with the airline's cargo department well in advance of the travel date.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary health certificate: A valid certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 to 30 days of travel (rules vary by state).
• Proof of vaccination: Current rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory for all dogs and cats.
• Hawaii-specific forms: For flights to or between islands like Kahului and Honolulu, you must comply with the State of Hawaii’s strict quarantine and entry requirements (C-143 form, titer tests, etc.).
• Identification: Pet's name and owner's contact information must be clearly visible on the carrier.

Service Costs

• In-cabin fee: Fees typically vary based on the weight of the animal and the route, often starting around $25 to $100.
• Cargo/Checked fee: Costs for larger pets are higher and depend on the total weight (animal + crate) and distance traveled.
• Note: Prices are subject to change; verify the exact amount during the booking process.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier familiarity: Let your pet spend time in their carrier days or weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding schedule: Feed your pet a light meal 4-6 hours before departure to prevent air sickness; provide water until flight time.
• Burn off energy: Exercise your pet vigorously before heading to the airport to help them sleep during the journey.
• Arrival time: Arrive earlier than usual to allow time for document checks and carrier inspection.

Restrictions

• Capacity limits: Only two pets are allowed on most flights, so availability disappears quickly.
• Behavior: Aggressive or disruptive animals will be denied boarding.
• Health condition: Sick, injured, or pregnant animals may be refused transport.
• Exceptions: Trained service animals assisting passengers with disabilities are exempt from fees but must still comply with safety rules.

Important: We strongly recommend contacting Southern Airways Express directly at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm your pet reservation and check for any recent policy updates.

Loyalty and Connectivity

Unlike major international carriers that operate complex mileage-based loyalty schemes with multiple elite tiers, Southern Airways Express focuses on delivering value through convenience and seamless connectivity. The airline does not maintain a standalone traditional frequent flyer program where passengers earn points or miles for every segment flown. Instead, it prioritizes interline partnerships that integrate its regional routes with the global networks of major legacy carriers.

Interline Partnerships

Southern Airways Express has established interline agreements with some of the largest airlines in the United States. These partnerships are designed to facilitate stress-free travel for passengers connecting from smaller regional airports to major domestic and international destinations. The primary benefits include single-ticket bookings and the ability to check baggage through to the final destination.

• American Airlines: Passengers can seamlessly connect to the massive American Airlines network through key hubs.
• United Airlines: Travelers can book itineraries that combine Southern's regional service with United's global reach.
• Alaska Airlines: Particularly beneficial for travelers in Hawaii and the West Coast, this partnership ensures smooth connections between island hops and mainland flights.

By utilizing these agreements, travelers departing from cities like Jonesboro or Lititz can check their bags and receive boarding passes for their connecting flights on major carriers, ensuring a hassle-free transfer experience at busy hubs like Dallas, Chicago, or Pittsburgh.

Campus Connection Program

Recognizing the unique needs of the communities it serves, Southern Airways Express offers the Campus Connection program. This specialized initiative is designed for students, faculty, and parents associated with the colleges and universities located in the airline's service areas. The program aims to make travel between school and home more accessible and affordable.

Key features of the Campus Connection program typically include:

• Flexible Fares: acknowledging that student schedules can change, these fares often offer more leniency regarding changes.
• Community Focus: It strengthens the link between educational institutions and the broader national transportation network.
• Ease of Access: Students can fly directly from their college town to major hubs, avoiding long drives to larger airports.

Corporate and Commuter Value

For frequent business travelers, Southern Airways Express offers value through its reliability and efficiency rather than point accumulation. The airline's model acts as a "commuter friendly" service, often selling ticket books or bulk passes (depending on the specific region and route) that provide a cost-effective solution for regular flyers commuting between cities like St. Louis and Nashville or Honolulu and Kahului.

Service Classes and Cabin Experience

Flying with Southern Airways Express offers a distinct departure from the typical commercial airline experience. Designed as a commuter service prioritizing efficiency and connection, the airline operates a single-class cabin configuration across its fleet. There is no separation between Economy, Business, or First Class; instead, every passenger receives the same attentive treatment and comfortable seating.

The primary aircraft, the Cessna Grand Caravan, provides an intimate atmosphere that eliminates the common frustrations of larger jets. One of the most celebrated features of flying on these regional aircraft is that there are no middle seats. Every passenger is guaranteed either a window or an aisle seat, ensuring personal space and direct access to the spectacular views that define low-altitude regional flying.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

Comfort on Southern Airways Express is defined by the unique nature of its fleet. The cabin layout typically follows a 1-1 or 1-2 configuration, depending on the specific aircraft. The seats are generally upholstered in leather and designed to provide adequate support for the short-haul durations typical of the airline's network. While the seats do not recline like long-haul international airline seats, they offer generous headroom and legroom comparable to, or often better than, standard economy classes on major carriers.

In-Flight Amenities and Entertainment

Travelers should adjust their expectations regarding traditional in-flight amenities. Due to the aircraft's size and the short duration of most flights—often under 90 minutes—there are no flight attendants on board. Consequently, there is no beverage cart service, galley, or lavatory on the Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft.

Entertainment is primarily provided by the journey itself. Since the aircraft fly at lower altitudes than large jets (typically between 8,000 and 12,000 feet), passengers are treated to unparalleled panoramic views. Whether soaring over the lush topography of Hawaii between Kahului and Hoolehua or crossing the American landscape near Pittsburgh, the scenery outside the window serves as the main attraction. Passengers are welcome to bring their own electronic devices and headphones, though Wi-Fi is not available.

Meal and Beverage Services

Given the commuter nature of the service, meals and beverages are not served during the flight. The focus is on getting passengers to their destination quickly and safely. Travelers are advised to consume meals before boarding or to bring a small bottle of water, provided it complies with security regulations. For longer connections through hubs like Dallas or St. Louis, ample dining options are available inside the airport terminals before or after the flight.

Special Services and Accessibility

Southern Airways Express is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone, although the physical limitations of smaller aircraft require some advanced planning.

• Passengers with Disabilities: The airline assists passengers with boarding and deplaning. However, due to the stairs required to enter the aircraft and the narrow aisle width, wheelchairs cannot be taken into the cabin. They will be gate-checked and returned immediately upon arrival. It is crucial to notify the airline of any special assistance needs at the time of booking.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline accepts unaccompanied minors on direct, non-stop flights. This service provides peace of mind for parents sending children between cities like Jonesboro and Nashville. Children are supervised from the moment of check-in until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Car Seats and Strollers: Families traveling with infants can gate-check strollers free of charge. FAA-approved child safety seats may be used on board if a separate seat has been purchased for the child.

Southern Airways Express connects smaller communities with key destinations, operating a dense network of regional routes. With a major operational base in Hoolehua, the airline facilitates essential travel across the Hawaiian Islands as well as offering vital commuter links in the continental United States.

Planning a trip with Southern Airways Express offers a unique opportunity to connect between major travel hubs and charming smaller communities. Whether you are island-hopping in Hawaii from Kahului or commuting in the mainland US, a few strategic tips can help ensure a smooth journey. Generally, the best time to book your tickets is at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance. While regional fares can be relatively stable, availability on their smaller aircraft is limited, and seats on popular routes can sell out quickly during peak seasons.

To find the best value, it is worth checking fares directly on the airline's official website, as they occasionally offer seasonal promotions or special rates for local commuters. If you are connecting from a major international flight to a regional destination like Lititz or Hoolehua, ensure you leave ample time for the transfer, as you may need to change terminals. Keep in mind that Southern Airways Express specializes in short-haul flights, often acting as a vital link to larger airports like Pittsburgh and St. Louis.

Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. Utilizing this feature is highly recommended to streamline your airport experience. Be prepared for a slightly different procedure compared to major carriers: because Southern Airways Express often operates smaller aircraft like the Cessna Caravan, passengers may be asked for their weight during check-in or at the gate. This is a standard safety procedure for weight and balance calculations, so do not be surprised by the request.

Regarding seat selection, flexibility is key. On many of their flights, specific seat assignments are not available during booking. Instead, the pilot or ground crew may assign seats prior to boarding to ensure the aircraft is balanced correctly. Rest assured, every seat offers excellent views, as these flights often cruise at lower altitudes than large jets, providing scenic panoramas of places like Honolulu and the surrounding landscapes.

For the most up-to-date information, downloading the airline's mobile app is a smart move. It allows you to track flight status, receive real-time notifications about gate changes, and access your mobile boarding pass easily. Finally, consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This is especially important when your itinerary involves connecting flights through busy hubs like Dallas, ensuring you are covered in case of weather delays or missed connections.

Founding and Early Vision

Southern Airways Express was founded in 2013 with a distinct vision: to restore consistent and affordable air service to dozens of American communities that had been left behind by airline consolidation. Established by Stan Little, a practicing attorney with a passion for aviation, the company began operations in Memphis, Tennessee. The initial goal was simple yet ambitious—to function as a "hometown airline" for smaller cities, providing them with essential links to major business and leisure hubs. From its very first flight, the carrier focused on a model of reliability and personal service, quickly securing Essential Air Service (EAS) contracts that allowed it to stabilize routes for communities like Jonesboro.

Expansion into the Mid-Atlantic

A significant turning point in the airline's history occurred in 2016 with the acquisition of Sun Air Express. This strategic move allowed Southern to expand its footprint beyond the Gulf South and into the Mid-Atlantic region. By establishing a robust hub at Pittsburgh International Airport, the airline began connecting reduced-service communities in Pennsylvania and Maryland to a major global gateway. This expansion proved to be a successful blueprint, demonstrating the viability of using 9-seat Cessna Grand Caravans to feed traffic into large international airports.

Pacific Growth and Mokulele Airlines

Perhaps the most transformative event in the company's history took place in 2019, when Southern Airways Express acquired Mokulele Airlines, a beloved inter-island carrier in Hawaii. This merger created one of the largest commuter airlines in the United States. The acquisition added a dynamic new region to the network, connecting destinations such as Kahului, Honolulu, and Hoolehua. While Mokulele retained its distinct brand identity in the islands, the operational integration allowed for shared resources and improved schedule efficiency, cementing the airline's status as a key player in Pacific regional travel.

Recent Acquisitions and Network Consolidation

Continuing its trajectory of growth, the airline acquired St. Louis-based Air Choice One in 2022. This merger was instrumental in strengthening the carrier's presence in the Midwest, particularly around the St. Louis and Chicago hubs. By integrating Air Choice One’s routes and fleet, Southern Airways Express further solidified its network, offering seamless connections for passengers traveling from cities like Nashville and Hot Springs. This consolidation strategy has allowed the airline to standardize its fleet and training procedures while expanding its reach to new markets across the continental United States.

Fleet Evolution and Modern Innovations

Throughout its history, the airline has remained committed to the Cessna 208B Grand Caravan as the workhorse of its fleet. These turboprop aircraft are perfectly suited for short-haul missions, capable of landing on shorter runways while offering a cost-effective solution for regional routes. A hallmark of the company's operational philosophy is the mandatory use of two pilots on every flight—a safety standard that exceeds federal requirements for commuter operations of this size.

Looking toward the future, Southern Airways Express is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable aviation. The company has engaged in partnerships to explore electric and hybrid-electric propulsion technologies. Notably, they have expressed early interest in next-generation transport vehicles, such as electric seagliders, which could revolutionize coastal and island travel in regions like Hawaii and Florida, promising faster and greener connections for the next generation of travelers.