Southwind Airlines

Southwind Airlines (2S) is a specialized leisure carrier dedicated to providing convenient air travel options for vacationers. Established with a focus on tourism, the airline facilitates seamless journeys between major cities and popular sunny getaways. With its distinct operational structure, Southwind serves as a reliable bridge for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration, prioritizing passenger comfort and timely connections.

A cornerstone of the carrier's network is its significant operational hub in Moscow. From this key base, Southwind Airlines coordinates a busy schedule of flights designed to meet the high demand of tourists. The airline ensures robust connectivity to famous resort areas, making it a popular choice for those planning their holidays by the sea or business trips within the region.

The airline's route map features frequent connections to major Turkish destinations. Travelers can enjoy direct flights to Istanbul, a vibrant metropolis, and Antalya, the gateway to the Mediterranean coast. Additionally, Southwind Airlines serves other key regional centers, offering regular services to Kazan and Yekaterinburg. This focused network ensures that passengers have flexible and direct options for their travel plans between these dynamic cities.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates who wish to contact Southwind Airlines should note that the carrier primarily manages its operations and customer support from its headquarters in Turkey. While there are no dedicated local branch offices or counters within the UAE, passengers can easily reach the airline's support team through their international channels for assistance with bookings, flight status, and other inquiries.

Official Website

The most convenient way to manage your travel plans is through the airline's official online platform. Here, passengers can book tickets, check flight schedules, and access important travel information.

• Official Website: https://southwindairlines.com/

Contact Information

For direct assistance, passengers in the United Arab Emirates can contact the airline's central customer service. Please be aware that international calling rates may apply.

• Customer Service (International): +90 850 283 27 89
• Ticket Booking: +90 850 283 27 89
• Email: info@southwindairlines.com
• Customer Relations Email: crm@southwindairlines.com
• Mobile App: Currently, the airline does not have a dedicated mobile application; all services are accessible via the mobile-friendly official website.

Social Media

Stay connected and receive the latest updates or announcements by following Southwind Airlines on their official social media profiles:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southwindairlines/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southwindairlines/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southwindairlines/

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Southwind Airlines does not currently operate a physical office or walk-in customer service center in the United Arab Emirates. All administrative matters are handled through the main headquarters in Antalya, Turkey.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent matters, such as last-minute changes or flight irregularities, the main call center operates around the clock to assist passengers.

• 24/7 Support Line: +90 850 283 27 89

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Passengers flying with Southwind Airlines are generally entitled to a complimentary hand luggage allowance, designed to keep essential items within reach during the flight. The specific allowance can vary depending on the fare class and ticket type:

• Standard Allowance: Most Economy Class and standard tickets include one piece of cabin baggage with a maximum weight of 8 kg.
• Dimensions: The standard maximum dimensions for hand luggage are typically 40x30x20 cm. However, for certain tour packages or Premium fares, the allowance may increase to dimensions of 55x40x20 cm and a weight of up to 10 kg.
• Liquids: In accordance with international aviation security regulations, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed inside a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 liter.

Checked Baggage Limits

Southwind Airlines offers checked baggage options that cater to different travel needs, often included in the ticket price for international flights. It is important to verify the specific allowance indicated on your ticket confirmation.

• Weight Limits: Common allowances range from 10 kg to 20 kg per passenger, depending on the route and tariff purchased.
• Maximum Weight Per Piece: For health and safety reasons regarding baggage handling, a single piece of checked luggage must not exceed 30 kg. Bags weighing more than this limit may need to be repacked or sent as cargo.
• Infants: Passengers traveling with infants (under 2 years old) are typically allowed to check a stroller or pushchair free of charge.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance in weight or number of pieces, excess baggage fees will apply. These charges are calculated based on the additional weight (per kilogram) or per additional piece, depending on the destination.

Travelers planning to carry more than the standard limit are advised to purchase extra baggage allowance in advance through the airline's official website. Pre-booking excess baggage online is often more cost-effective than paying the fees at the airport check-in counters.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment

Southwind Airlines accommodates passengers wishing to travel with sports equipment, such as golf bags, ski gear, or diving equipment. Since these items are considered special baggage, they may be subject to specific carriage rules:

• Advance Registration: It is recommended to register sports equipment at least 24 hours before the flight to ensure space availability in the hold.
• Fees: Special fees may apply for the transportation of sports gear unless explicitly included in a specific promotional fare.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in or transported on a separate paid seat in the cabin, subject to prior arrangement.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include:

• Dangerous Goods: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids/solids, oxidizers, poisons, and radioactive materials are forbidden.
• Lithium Batteries: Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in hand luggage only and never in checked bags.
• Prohibited in Cabin: Sharp objects (scissors, knives), tools, and blunt instruments capable of causing injury are not permitted in the aircraft cabin.

Packing Tips for a Smooth Journey

To ensure a hassle-free check-in process at airports like Moscow or Antalya, consider the following tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to check your bag's weight at home and avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to the outside of your bag, and place a copy of your contact details inside.
• Valuables: Always keep valuable items, important documents, cash, and medication in your carry-on luggage.

Pet Travel Rules

To ensure a smooth journey for your furry companions, Southwind Airlines provides clear guidelines for transporting pets. Whether you are planning a vacation to the sunny coast or relocating, the airline allows cats, dogs, and birds to travel safely, provided that reservations are made well in advance and all sanitary requirements are met.

Transport Options

Depending on the size and weight of your pet, they will travel either in the passenger cabin with you or in the ventilated cargo hold. It is essential to choose the correct category during booking and confirm availability with the airline.

In Cabin (carry-on)

Small pets that can travel comfortably in a carrier may be permitted to join you in the cabin. This option is regulated to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers.

• Carrier Requirements: The cage or carrier must meet specific size limits to ensure it fits under the seat in front of you. It should be leak-proof and properly ventilated.
• Weight Restrictions: Strict weight limits apply to the combined weight of the animal and the carrier. Pets exceeding this limit will need to be transported in the hold.
• Allowed Pet Types: Typically, this service is available for cats, dogs, and small birds (such as budgerigars and canaries).
• General Rules: Pets must remain inside their carrier throughout the entire flight.

In Cargo Hold (checked baggage)

Pets that exceed the weight or size limits for the cabin must travel as checked baggage in the aircraft's climate-controlled hold.

• Container Requirements: You must provide a hard-sided, IATA-compliant crate. It must be sturdy, lockable, and large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Safety and Labeling: The crate must be clearly labeled with your contact details. It is important to ensure the container is secure to prevent escape during transit.
• Specific Species: Certain larger birds or animals may be required to travel in the hold rather than the cabin.

As Cargo (for large animals)

For very large animals or shipments that exceed standard checked baggage limitations, transportation as manifest cargo may be required. This method follows specific air freight regulations and involves a different booking process through the airline's cargo department.

Required Documentation

To avoid issues at the airport, ensure you have all necessary paperwork ready before departure. Rules may vary based on your destination, whether you are flying to Antalya or returning to Moscow.

• Veterinary Passport: A valid international pet passport is usually required.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate issued shortly before travel is mandatory for most international flights.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid vaccinations, particularly against rabies, is essential. Waiting periods after vaccination often apply.
• Microchip: Animals must be identified with a microchip, which is a standard requirement for international travel.
• Country-Specific Rules: Additional tests (such as rabies antibody titration) may be required depending on the destination country's regulations.

Service Costs

Pet transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is subject to additional fees. Charges are determined by the airline based on several factors:

• Fee Structure: Costs typically vary depending on the weight of the animal (including the crate) and the specific route.
• Payment: Fees are generally paid at the airport during the check-in process.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Comfort: Ensure the carrier is lined with absorbent material. Loose materials like straw or sand are generally prohibited.
• Feeding: It is advisable to feed your pet a light meal several hours before departure to prevent motion sickness.
• Acclimatization: Allow your pet to get used to their crate or carrier in the days or weeks leading up to the flight to reduce stress.

Restrictions

For safety and regulatory reasons, Southwind Airlines enforces certain restrictions on animal transport:

• Restricted Breeds: The transport of breeds classified as dangerous or aggressive is typically restricted or prohibited.
• Age and Health: Minimum age requirements apply, and animals must be healthy and fit to fly. Pregnant animals may also be subject to travel restrictions.

Important: Airline policies regarding pet travel, including specific weight limits, dimensions, and fees, can change. We strongly recommend contacting Southwind Airlines directly via their official website or support channels to confirm the latest requirements and secure a reservation for your pet.

Loyalty Program

Southwind Airlines (2S) currently operates primarily as a specialized leisure carrier focused on charter and holiday flights. Unlike traditional legacy carriers, the airline does not maintain a standard frequent flyer program with mileage accrual or elite status levels. The airline's business model is designed to provide direct value through competitive pricing and simplified service options for all passengers.

Membership Tiers

Because Southwind Airlines does not have a traditional loyalty scheme, there are no permanent elite tiers such as Silver, Gold, or Platinum. Instead, the airline offers different fare families that allow travelers to select their preferred level of comfort and benefits for each specific journey:

• Standard Fare: The entry-level option designed for value-conscious travelers, typically including a basic baggage allowance and standard seating.
• Premium Fare: A higher-tier ticket option that mimics elite benefits, often providing perks such as increased baggage limits, complimentary seat selection, and more flexible ticket conditions.

Earning Points

As there is no mileage-based program, the process for earning rewards differs from standard airlines:

• Flights: Passengers do not earn miles or points based on the distance flown or the ticket price.
• Partners: There are currently no agreements with hotels, car rental agencies, or banks that allow for the accumulation of loyalty points through third-party services.
• Everyday Purchases: The airline does not offer co-branded credit cards for earning points on daily spending.

Redeeming Rewards

Since point accumulation is not part of the airline's current offering, redemption options are not applicable in the traditional sense:

• Award Flights: There is no mechanism to book flights using accrued miles; all tickets must be purchased directly.
• Upgrades: Cabin upgrades or preferred seating cannot be secured with points but can be purchased as ancillary services during booking or check-in.

Alliance Membership

Southwind Airlines operates independently and is not part of the major global airline alliances.

• Alliance Name: The airline is not a member of Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.
• Key Partners: Operations are often coordinated closely with major tour operators to facilitate holiday packages rather than through interline airline partnerships.

How to Stay Connected

While there is no loyalty program to join, passengers can still stay informed about the best deals and operational updates.

• Newsletter: Travelers are encouraged to subscribe to the official email newsletter via the airline's website.
• User Account: Creating a personal account on the website allows for easier management of bookings and faster access to special offers.

Service Classes and Cabin Comfort

Southwind Airlines (2S) operates a modern fleet designed primarily for leisure travelers. While the airline focuses on efficiency and value, it ensures a comfortable journey across its network. The cabin configurations vary depending on the aircraft type, which includes both narrow-body jets and larger wide-body aircraft used for high-demand routes.

Economy Class

The core of the airline's offering is its Economy Class, designed to provide a practical and pleasant travel experience. Passengers flying to popular holiday destinations like Antalya can expect:

• Seating: Ergonomically designed leather seats with standard seat pitch, suitable for short to medium-haul holiday flights.
• Layout: On narrow-body aircraft, the layout is typically 3-3. On wide-body aircraft (such as the Airbus A330 or Boeing 777), a twin-aisle configuration offers a more spacious feeling.
• Amenities: Overhead bins are spacious enough for standard carry-on luggage, and cabin lighting is adjusted to ensure a relaxing atmosphere during the flight.

Business Class

On select long-range aircraft, such as the Boeing 777, Southwind Airlines offers a Business Class cabin. This service is particularly appreciated on longer flights, for instance, to Moscow.

• Enhanced Comfort: These seats are significantly wider and offer generous legroom. In some configurations, they may recline further than standard economy seats to allow for better rest.
• Priority: Passengers in this class may enjoy priority boarding and disembarkation privileges.

Note: First Class is not currently offered on Southwind Airlines flights.

In-Flight Dining

To cater to various tastes during the journey, Southwind Airlines operates a "Buy on Board" concept known as the Southwind Café.

• Menu Selection: Passengers can purchase a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, sweet and savory snacks, and confectionery items directly from the onboard cart.
• Beverages: A selection of hot drinks (coffee, tea), soft drinks, juices, and alcoholic beverages is available for purchase.
• Pre-ordered Meals: For specific dietary requirements or a more substantial hot meal, passengers may have the option to pre-order catering during the booking process or up to a certain time before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

As a leisure carrier, Southwind encourages passengers to sit back and relax. While embedded In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) screens are not standard across the entire fleet, the wide-body aircraft may be equipped with central screens or individual systems depending on the specific plane configuration.

• In-Flight Magazine: A complimentary magazine is often provided in the seat pocket, featuring travel articles, destination guides to places like Istanbul, and the onboard menu.
• Personal Devices: Travelers are advised to bring their own tablets, smartphones, or books to stay entertained during the flight. USB charging ports may be available on select aircraft types.

Special Services

Southwind Airlines is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for all guests, providing necessary support for those who need extra assistance.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Assistance is available for passengers requiring wheelchairs or help boarding. Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance to ensure proper arrangements at airports like Kazan or Yekaterinburg.
• Families and Children: Families are welcome on board. While there is no dedicated "unaccompanied minor" service for very young children on all charter flights, the crew is trained to assist families traveling with infants.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant passengers can travel up to a certain week of pregnancy, provided they present a doctor's report confirming fitness to fly if required by the specific timeframe rules.

Destinations and Route Network

Southwind Airlines operates a focused route network primarily designed to connect major Russian cities with popular holiday destinations in Turkey. The airline's operations are centered around its main hub in Moscow, which serves as the primary gateway for its scheduled flights.

From its base, the carrier offers frequent connections to Istanbul, providing travelers access to Turkey's cultural and economic center. Additionally, the airline maintains a strong presence in Antalya, a leading resort city on the Mediterranean coast. This network structure effectively caters to both leisure tourists and those visiting for business.

Beyond the capital, Southwind Airlines extends its reach to other key regional centers in Russia. The airline operates direct flights connecting Antalya with Kazan and Yekaterinburg, allowing passengers from the Tatarstan and Ural regions to reach sunny vacation spots conveniently without needing to transfer.

Popular Routes

The following table lists the airline's most frequent routes based on current scheduling data:

Securing the best fares with Southwind Airlines is easier when you plan ahead. For popular leisure routes connecting Turkey and Russia, such as flights between Antalya and Moscow, it is advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. During peak holiday seasons or summer months, booking even earlier ensures you get the flight times you prefer at a more competitive price.

To find the most attractive deals and promotions, keep an eye on the official Southwind Airlines website and keep checking for seasonal offers. Comparing prices for different dates can also yield savings, especially if your travel plans are flexible. For instance, mid-week flights to cities like Istanbul or Kazan often have better availability and rates compared to weekends.

Save time at the airport by utilizing the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing you to select your seat and download your boarding pass to your mobile device. This helps avoid long queues at the check-in counters, giving you a smoother start to your journey.

Choosing the right seat can significantly enhance your comfort, especially on longer flights to destinations like Yekaterinburg. Consider reserving your seat during the booking process or check-in to secure extra legroom or a window view. For added convenience, use mobile services to manage your booking on the go, allowing you to store your boarding pass and receive instant notifications regarding your flight schedule.

Finally, consider adding travel insurance to your booking. It provides peace of mind by covering unexpected events such as cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Thoroughly review the fare rules regarding baggage allowances and ticket changes to ensure they align with your travel needs before finalizing your purchase.

Founding and Early Vision

Southwind Airlines (2S) was established in April 2022 to address a growing need for dedicated leisure air travel between Turkey and Russia. Founded with the specific goal of supporting the tourism industry, the airline set out to create a reliable air bridge for vacationers. While its corporate roots and headquarters are located in Antalya, the heart of the Turkish Riviera, the carrier strategically positioned Moscow as a primary operational hub to facilitate high-volume passenger movement.

Operational Launch

The airline moved swiftly from its inception to active service. After securing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Southwind Airlines commenced commercial operations in August 2022. The inaugural flights were timed perfectly to accommodate the peak summer holiday season, allowing the airline to immediately serve thousands of tourists seeking sunny getaways.

Fleet Evolution

To ensure efficiency and passenger comfort, Southwind Airlines adopted a flexible fleet strategy from its very first year. The airline launched with a mix of aircraft, including the Airbus A321 for medium-haul efficiency and the wide-body Airbus A330 to handle larger passenger loads. Recognizing the popularity of its routes, the carrier subsequently introduced Boeing 777 aircraft into its fleet. This expansion into high-capacity wide-body jets marked a significant milestone, allowing for greater passenger volume on key routes.

Network Expansion and Route Launches

Following its successful debut, Southwind Airlines rapidly expanded its route map beyond the initial Antalya-Moscow corridor. The airline broadened its network to include Istanbul, connecting travelers to Turkey's vibrant cultural metropolis. simultaneously, the carrier extended its reach into regional Russia, launching direct scheduled flights to major cities such as Kazan and Yekaterinburg. This expansion provided passengers from various regions with convenient, direct access to Mediterranean holiday resorts without the need for connecting flights.

Modern Developments

Today, Southwind Airlines continues to solidify its position as a specialized leisure carrier. By focusing on independent growth and responding dynamically to market demands, the airline has established itself as a key player in the region's tourism sector. The company remains committed to modernizing its services and maintaining a robust flight schedule that caters to the evolving needs of international travelers.