Sun Country Airlines

Based in the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," Sun Country Airlines has carved a distinct niche as a premier leisure carrier dedicated to connecting travelers with sunny destinations and major urban centers. What started as a small team of flight attendants and pilots in 1982 has evolved into a beloved low-cost airline known for its friendly Midwestern hospitality and affordable fares. Whether you are looking to escape the winter chill or planning a family vacation, this airline offers a unique blend of scheduled passenger service, charter flights, and cargo operations tailored to modern travel needs.

Sun Country Airlines operates with a clear mission: to offer safe, reliable, and affordable travel to people connecting with family, friends, and memorable experiences. Their business model is a hybrid of a low-cost carrier and a leisure operator, focusing heavily on seasonal demand. This allows them to offer competitive pricing on routes from their home base to popular warm-weather getaways like Orlando, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and international favorites such as Cancun.

The airline utilizes a uniform fleet primarily composed of Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft. This single-fleet strategy enhances maintenance efficiency and reliability, contributing to a consistent passenger experience. The cabins are designed with comfort in mind, offering different seat categories ranging from standard economy to "Best" seats with extra legroom and priority boarding, along with modern amenities like streaming entertainment to personal devices.

Beyond scheduled flights, Sun Country is a significant player in the charter market, frequently transporting U.S. military personnel and collegiate sports teams. This operational diversity speaks to their strong safety standards and logistical capability. The airline prides itself on a culture of "Minnesota Nice," aiming to make every journey pleasant and stress-free, backed by a rewards program that allows frequent flyers to easily earn and redeem points.

Contacting Sun Country Airlines from the United Arab Emirates

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates should note that Sun Country Airlines does not currently operate flights to the UAE or maintain a local office in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. As a U.S.-based carrier centered in Minneapolis, all customer support is handled through their main headquarters in the United States. For the most efficient service, it is recommended to manage bookings directly through the official website or mobile app.

Official Website

For flight bookings, check-in, and managing reservations, visit the official site:

• Website: www.suncountry.com

Contact Information

Since there are no local support teams in the UAE, inquiries must be directed to the international customer service center in the USA. Please be aware of international calling charges and time zone differences.

• Customer Service & Booking (International): +1 651-905-2737
• Group Travel (10+ passengers): +1 651-905-2711
• Hearing Impaired (TTY): 711 (within usage of a relay service)
• Mobile App: "Sun Country Airlines" available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store

Social Media

For quick updates or minor queries, you can reach out to the airline via their official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/suncountryair
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/suncountryair
• Instagram: instagram.com/suncountryair

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Sun Country Airlines does not have physical ticket offices, airport counters, or general sales agents in the United Arab Emirates. All services are digital or handled remotely from the U.S.

• UAE Office: None available.
• Airport Desk: None available at Dubai (DXB) or Abu Dhabi (AUH).

Support Hours

Customer service is not available 24/7. When calling from the UAE, please consider the time difference (Minneapolis is approximately 9–10 hours behind the UAE).

• Hours of Operation: Daily, 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Central Time).
• Best time to call from UAE: Between 4:00 PM and 9:00 AM the following day (UAE time).

Baggage Policy Overview

Sun Country Airlines operates as a low-cost carrier, which means their baggage policy is designed to let you pay only for what you need. This "unbundled" approach allows for cheaper base fares, but it is essential to understand the allowances and fees before you pack. Travelers planning a trip to destinations like Minneapolis or Fort Myers should review these rules carefully to avoid unexpected costs at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowances

When flying with Sun Country, your ticket includes one under-seat personal item at no extra charge. This item must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you, such as a purse, small backpack, or laptop bag. The maximum dimensions for a personal item are 17 x 13 x 9 inches (43 x 33 x 23 cm).

Overhead carry-on bags are not included in standard fares and usually require an additional fee unless you have purchased a specific bundle or seat package. If you choose to add a carry-on bag, it must not exceed 24 x 16 x 11 inches (61 x 41 x 28 cm), including wheels and handles. Additionally, there is a weight limit for overhead bags, typically capped at 35 pounds (approximately 16 kg). Since overhead bin space is limited, purchasing your carry-on allowance during booking is highly recommended to secure your spot and get the best price.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage fees apply to most passengers and vary depending on when you purchase the allowance. The standard weight limit for a checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg), and the maximum linear dimensions (length + width + height) are 62 inches (158 cm).

Travelers can usually check multiple bags, but the fee increases for each additional bag (second, third, etc.). Prices are significantly lower when bags are added online prior to the flight rather than at the airport check-in counter. If you are traveling on a long itinerary, perhaps connecting through Chicago or Dallas, ensure your baggage allowance covers all legs of your journey.

Excess Baggage Fees

Bags that exceed the standard weight or size limits will incur additional charges. It is important to weigh your luggage before leaving home to avoid these fees:

• Overweight Bags: Fees generally apply for bags weighing between 51 and 99 pounds (23–45 kg). Bags over 100 pounds are typically not accepted.
• Oversize Bags: Luggage measuring between 63 and 80 linear inches will be charged an oversize fee. Anything larger than 80 inches may be refused.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Instruments

Sun Country Airlines accommodates passengers traveling with special items, which is perfect for those heading to Denver for skiing or Orlando for golf. Generally, sports equipment and musical instruments count toward your checked baggage allowance, but specific handling fees or waivers may apply depending on the item.

• Sports Equipment: Golf clubs, skis, snowboards, and fishing gear are accepted. If the item is within standard weight limits, the oversize fee is often waived, though the standard checked bag fee still applies.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat (taking the place of your carry-on or personal item). Larger instruments must be checked or, in some cases, may require the purchase of an additional seat.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. This includes hazardous materials, flammable liquids, and explosives. Lithium batteries, including power banks and spare loose batteries, must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are forbidden in checked bags.

Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must follow the standard "3-1-1" rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and fit comfortably in a single, quart-sized clear plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey smoother and more affordable, consider these packing tips:

• Buy Bags Early: Baggage fees are cheapest during the initial booking and most expensive at the airport gate.
• Measure and Weigh: Use a luggage scale at home to ensure you stay under the 50-pound limit for checked bags and the 35-pound limit for carry-ons.
• Pack Essentials in Carry-on: Always keep medications, travel documents, and valuables in your personal item or carry-on.
• Soft-Shell Luggage: Using soft-sided bags can sometimes make it easier to fit into overhead bins or tight spaces, especially on fuller flights to popular hubs like San Francisco or Seattle.

Traveling with Pets

Sun Country Airlines understands that pets are part of the family and welcomes small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin on select flights. Whether you are visiting family in Minneapolis or heading for a sunny break in Orlando, bringing your furry companion is possible if you follow the airline's specific guidelines. It is important to note that pet spaces are limited to four per flight, so advance booking is strongly recommended.

In-Cabin Pet Policy

Pets are accepted only on flights within the 48 contiguous United States. To fly in the cabin, your pet must be small enough to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that slides underneath the seat in front of you. The carrier counts as your personal item allowance, and a non-refundable fee applies for each segment of your travel.

• Permitted Animals: Only cats and dogs are allowed.
• Carrier Size: The maximum dimensions for the carrier are 17 x 13 x 9 inches (43 x 33 x 23 cm).
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally within the carrier.
• During Flight: Pets must remain inside the carrier with the zipper or door closed at all times while on board.

Route and Destination Restrictions

Sun Country Airlines has strict limitations on where pets can travel. Pets are not permitted on international flights or flights to/from Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Consequently, if you are planning a vacation to international resort destinations such as Cancun or Puerto Vallarta, you will not be able to bring your pet with you.

No Checked Pets

The airline does not accept pets as checked baggage or cargo. If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin according to the dimensions listed above, they cannot fly on Sun Country Airlines. This policy helps ensure the safety and well-being of all animals by avoiding the temperature fluctuations often found in cargo holds.

Service Animals

Fully trained service dogs assisting individuals with disabilities are accepted on all flights, including those to international destinations, at no extra cost. Travelers must submit the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours prior to departure. Please note that emotional support animals are not considered service animals and must travel as standard pets, subject to all fees and restrictions.

Loyalty Program: Sun Country Rewards

Sun Country Airlines offers a straightforward and user-friendly loyalty program known as Sun Country Rewards. Unlike complex legacy programs that require tracking miles flown or flight segments, this program is revenue-based, meaning members earn points based on the amount of money spent on travel. It is designed specifically for leisure travelers, offering a simple way to save on future vacations without worrying about blackout dates or expiring points as long as there is qualifying activity.

Membership Levels

Sun Country Rewards eschews complicated elite status hierarchies in favor of a simplified, inclusive approach. While there are no traditional Silver or Gold tiers, holding the airline's co-branded credit card effectively grants "elite-style" benefits.

• Sun Country Rewards Member: The standard entry level where members earn points on eligible purchases and can pool points with family and friends.
• Visa Signature® Cardholder: The premium experience offering priority boarding, free first checked bag, and 50% off seat selection and bag fees.

Earning Points

Members accumulate points primarily through spending rather than distance flown, making it easier to calculate rewards based on your budget.

• Flights and Ancillaries: Earn points for every dollar spent on base fares, seat selections, and baggage fees.
• Credit Card Spending: Cardholders earn extra points on airline purchases and categories like gas and groceries.
• Point Pooling: A unique feature allowing up to 10 people to combine their points into a single account for faster rewards.
• Expiration Policy: Points do not expire as long as there is earning or redeeming activity within the program rules.

Redeeming Points

The program offers flexible redemption options, allowing travelers to use points essentially like cash to pay for their journey.

• Award Flights: Redeem points for flights to any destination, such as Los Angeles or Boston, with no blackout dates.
• Partial Payments: Combine points and cash to pay for a booking if you do not have enough points for the full fare.
• Travel Extras: Use points to pay for checked bags, carry-on fees, and seat upgrades.
• Ease of Use: 100 points typically equate to $1.00 in value towards travel purchases.

Alliance and Partnerships

Sun Country Airlines operates as an independent carrier and is not a member of major global alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld. They focus on their own network and interline agreements rather than global alliance benefits.

• Alliance Status: Not affiliated with a global airline alliance.
• Interline Partners: Partnerships may exist for baggage transfer with select carriers, but rewards are proprietary.

How to Join

Joining Sun Country Rewards is free, quick, and purely digital.

• Online Registration: Sign up via the official Sun Country website by providing basic personal details.
• Instant Membership: Receive your rewards number immediately to start earning on your next booking to Miami Beach or New York City.

Cabin Classes and Seating Options

Sun Country Airlines operates with a single-cabin configuration, designed to provide a comfortable and efficient experience for all passengers. While there are no separate Business or First Class cabins, the airline offers distinct seating categories to suit different needs and budgets. Travelers flying to destinations like San Diego can choose between three main seat types: Standard, Exit Row, and "Best" seats.

The "Best" Seats are the airline's premium offering, located in the front rows of the aircraft. These seats provide significantly more legroom (up to 34 inches), generous recline, and preferred boarding privileges, allowing you to settle in sooner. Additionally, passengers in these rows receive a complimentary premium beverage. Standard Seats offer a pitch of approximately 29–30 inches, featuring modern, slimline designs that maximize personal space. Exit Row seats are also available for those desiring extra legroom, though passengers must meet specific safety criteria to sit there.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep fares low while maintaining high passenger satisfaction, Sun Country uses a "Bring Your Own Device" entertainment model. There are no seatback screens; instead, the airline offers a robust wireless streaming service. Passengers can connect to the onboard network using their own smartphones, tablets, or laptops to access a library of movies, TV shows, and games. This service is complimentary, making longer flights to sunny spots like Puerto Vallarta pass quickly.

Keeping devices charged is essential for this system, and the airline has equipped most of its fleet with seat-power options. Generally, you will find USB charging ports available at every seat, ensuring your device stays powered throughout the journey. It is important to note that while entertainment streaming is available, satellite Wi-Fi for internet browsing is not typically offered on Sun Country flights.

Food and Beverage Service

Sun Country offers a curated menu of snacks and drinks available for purchase. The "Fly Buy" menu features a variety of options ranging from light snacks and candy to savory snack boxes. A selection of alcoholic beverages, including local craft beers from Minnesota, wine, and spirits, is also available for sale. Complimentary beverages are limited to water, coffee, tea, and select juices. Whether you are heading to Tampa or Vancouver, it is recommended to bring a credit card, as the cabin is cashless.

Special Services and Accessibility

The airline provides a range of services for passengers requiring special assistance. Wheelchair assistance is available at all airports, and the cabin crew is trained to assist passengers with disabilities during the flight. Travelers requiring these services should request them at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Families traveling with children are welcome, but it is important to be aware of the airline's specific policies regarding minors. Sun Country Airlines does not accept unaccompanied minors. All children under the age of 15 must travel with an adult on the same reservation. This policy is strictly enforced, so families planning trips to places like Fort Lauderdale should organize their travel plans accordingly to ensure all young flyers are properly accompanied.

Destinations and Route Network

Sun Country Airlines operates a specialized route network that primarily connects its main hub at Minneapolis with popular leisure destinations and major cities across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The airline focuses on seasonal demand, offering frequent service to sunny vacation spots and key urban centers to accommodate both tourists and visiting friends and relatives.

Securing the best possible fare with Sun Country Airlines often comes down to timing. As a low-cost carrier, their pricing model typically rewards early birds. To find the most attractive deals, it is advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Keeping an eye on their seasonal promotions is also a smart strategy, as the airline frequently releases sales for travel to popular warm-weather destinations. Joining their loyalty program, Sun Country Rewards, can also provide access to exclusive offers and allow you to earn points towards future travel.

When planning your route, remember that the airline's primary hub is located in Minneapolis. This city serves as the central connecting point for the majority of their flights. If you are looking for direct connections to vacation hotspots like Orlando or international getaways such as Cancun, checking the schedule from the main hub often yields the most frequency and flexibility.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of the online check-in process. This window generally opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. Checking in online not only saves you time at the airport but also allows you to secure your digital boarding pass early. If you have baggage to check, you can often pay for bags in advance during this process, which is typically cheaper than paying at the airport counter.

Seat selection is another important aspect to consider during booking. Sun Country offers different categories of seating, ranging from "Best" seats with extra legroom and boarding priority to "Standard" seats. Since seat assignment is not always guaranteed without a fee, travelers who wish to sit together—especially families—should consider purchasing their desired seats at the time of booking to ensure they are not separated.

Finally, consider downloading the official mobile app before you travel. It is a convenient tool for managing your itinerary, tracking your luggage, and receiving real-time flight updates. given the unpredictable nature of travel, purchasing travel insurance is also highly recommended. This can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies during your trip.

Sun Country Airlines began its journey in January 1982, founded by a small group of pilots and flight attendants in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Originally established as a charter operator, the airline was created to fill a void left by the cessation of Braniff International. In its early years, it focused primarily on whisking travelers away from the cold Midwestern winters to warmer climates, a mission that remains central to its identity today. The carrier quickly gained a reputation for its friendly service and distinct "hometown" feel.

Over the decades, the carrier evolved from a purely charter service into a scheduled passenger airline. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, it steadily expanded its route network, adding regular flights to popular vacation spots across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Despite the turbulent nature of the aviation industry, including various ownership changes and economic shifts, the airline maintained its strong connection to Minnesota travelers, often being referred to as Minnesota's "Hometown Airline."

A significant turning point in the airline's history occurred in 2017 when it was acquired by funds managed by Apollo Global Management. This transition marked the beginning of a strategic transformation into a highly efficient ultra-low-cost carrier. The leadership team streamlined operations, unbundled fares to offer lower base prices, and optimized the network to focus heavily on peak seasonal demand. This shift allowed the airline to compete more aggressively with other budget carriers while retaining its leisure-focused appeal.

In a unique industry development, Sun Country diversified its business model in 2019 by partnering with Amazon to fly cargo. This innovative agreement involved operating a fleet of freighter aircraft for Amazon Air, providing a steady revenue stream that complements its fluctuating seasonal passenger service. This hybrid model—combining scheduled passenger flights, charter operations for university sports teams and the military, and cargo services—distinguishes it from traditional low-cost competitors.

Today, the airline operates a unified fleet consisting primarily of Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft. This single-fleet strategy simplifies maintenance and crew training, significantly contributing to operational reliability and cost efficiency. Following its successful initial public offering (IPO) in 2021, the company has continued to grow, modernizing its onboard experience and expanding its reach while maintaining the Midwestern hospitality that has defined it since the beginning.