T'way Air

T'way Air has established itself as a vibrant and competitive player in the South Korean aviation market, bridging the gap between affordable travel and quality service. Since its rebranding in 2010, the carrier has rapidly expanded its network to connect travelers with key cultural and business hubs across Asia, Oceania, and beyond. With a philosophy centered on "smart travel," the airline offers a refreshing approach to flying, making it a popular choice for those seeking value without compromising on safety or comfort.

Operational Excellence and History
Although its roots trace back to Korea's first low-cost carrier, the airline officially launched as T'way Air in 2010 with a renewed vision and management. The name "T'way" stands for "Tomorrow," "Together," and "Treasure," reflecting the company's commitment to a forward-looking, cooperative, and valuable relationship with its passengers. Over the years, it has received recognition for its service quality among low-cost carriers (LCCs) in the region, steadily increasing its market share through strategic route planning and operational efficiency.

Key Routes and Destinations
The airline operates a robust domestic network, frequently connecting the mainland to the popular island destination of Jeju City from various hubs including Cheongju and Daegu. Internationally, T'way Air serves a wide array of short- and medium-haul destinations. Japan is a major market, with frequent flights to Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, and Okinawa. The carrier also has a strong presence in Southeast Asia, flying travelers to vacation spots such as Da Nang and Nha Trang in Vietnam, as well as Kota Kinabalu. Additionally, the airline connects major Korean cities like Busan to these international hubs.

Fleet and Safety
T'way Air operates a modern fleet primarily composed of the Boeing 737-800 and the newer Boeing 737 MAX 8, known for their reliability on short-haul routes. To support its expansion into medium and longer-haul markets, the airline has also introduced the Airbus A330-300 to its lineup. Safety is a core value for the company; it maintains a rigorous safety management system and has achieved IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registration, meeting international safety standards. This dedication ensures that passengers can enjoy their journey with peace of mind.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, contacting T'way Air primarily involves using their digital channels and global support centers. As the airline does not currently operate direct flights from the UAE or maintain a physical passenger branch there, all reservations and inquiries are managed centrally through their headquarters in South Korea. Passengers are encouraged to use the official website or mobile app for the most efficient service.

Official Website
Access the global English platform to book flights, manage reservations, and check schedules:
www.twayair.com

Contact Information
Please note that international call charges may apply when contacting the headquarters from the UAE. The support team operates on Korea Standard Time (KST).

• Global Customer Service Center: +82-1688-8686 (Available 07:00 – 19:00 KST, Daily)
• Online Support: Use the "Customer Opinion" or "1:1 Inquiry" forms on the website for non-urgent queries.
• Mobile App: Download the T'way Air app (iOS/Android) for self-service booking management.

Social Media
Follow T'way Air for news and travel updates:

• Facebook: facebook.com/twayair
• Instagram: @twayair
• YouTube: T'way Air Official

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates
T'way Air does not currently maintain a public passenger sales office or an airport ticket counter in the United Arab Emirates. Travelers should not visit local airports (such as DXB or AUH) expecting to find T'way Air staff for ticketing issues. All passenger services are handled remotely via digital platforms.

Emergency & 24/7 Support
There is no dedicated 24-hour phone line for the UAE region. In case of urgent itinerary changes, passengers should log in to the "My Booking" section on the official website or app, which is available 24/7 for modifications and cancellations.

Traveling with T'way Air is designed to be convenient and efficient, but understanding the baggage rules in advance is key to a smooth journey. As a low-cost carrier, the airline offers different allowances based on your ticket type and destination. Whether you are flying light for a weekend getaway or packing for a long vacation, here is everything you need to know about T'way Air's baggage policies.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

All passengers flying with T'way Air are entitled to a free carry-on allowance. To ensure safety and comfort in the cabin, strict size and weight limits apply. Each passenger typically receives:

• One main carry-on bag: This must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs) in weight. The maximum dimensions are 40 cm x 20 cm x 55 cm (including handles and wheels).
• One personal item: In addition to the main bag, you may bring a small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. This item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Note: The combined weight of the carry-on bag and the personal item should not exceed the total 10 kg limit. Business Class passengers may be eligible for a higher allowance, such as two pieces of carry-on luggage (10 kg each), depending on the specific route and fare rules.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends heavily on the fare bundle you purchase (e.g., Event, Smart, or General fares) and your route. It is crucial to check your specific ticket confirmation, but the general guidelines are as follows:

• Standard/Smart Fares: These typically include 15 kg (33 lbs) of checked baggage. This applies to many domestic and international connections, for instance, if you are flying from Seoul to destinations such as Osaka or Jeju City.
• Event/Promo Fares: These tickets often do not include any free checked baggage. If you purchase this fare type for a trip to places like Tokyo or Da Nang, you will likely need to buy baggage allowance separately.
• Business Class: usually includes up to 30 kg or more, offering greater flexibility for passengers traveling to major hubs like Fukuoka or Busan.

The maximum weight for any single piece of checked luggage is 32 kg to ensure the safety of baggage handlers. If a bag exceeds this weight, it must be repacked into separate bags.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance provided by your ticket, excess baggage fees will apply. These fees vary based on the route zones—whether you are heading to Nha Trang or taking a short domestic flight to Cheongju—and are charged per kilogram or per piece.

It is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage allowance online in advance (usually up to 24 hours before departure). Pre-purchasing baggage online is significantly cheaper than paying the excess fees at the airport check-in counter.

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

T'way Air has specific rules for transporting special items. These items are considered "Special Baggage" and may incur a separate handling fee independent of your standard baggage allowance.

• Sports Equipment: Items such as skis, snowboards, surfboards, and bicycles must be packed in dedicated hard cases to prevent damage. The airline charges a special handling fee for these items. The sum of the three dimensions (width + length + height) must typically be under 277 cm.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (like violins) can be brought into the cabin as your carry-on if they fit within the overhead bin dimensions (under 115 cm total linear dimensions). Larger instruments (like cellos) require the purchase of an Extra Seat to be carried in the cabin. Alternatively, they must be checked in as special baggage in a secure hard case.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, certain items are restricted or completely prohibited on board. Please review this list carefully before packing:

• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Spare lithium batteries, portable power banks, and electronic cigarettes are strictly forbidden in checked luggage. These must be carried with you in the cabin.
• Restricted in Carry-on: For international flights, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less and placed in a single, clear, re-sealable 1-liter plastic bag. Sharp objects (knives, scissors) and tools are not allowed in the cabin.
• Lighters: Generally, one lighter per passenger is allowed on their person, but this can vary by country regulations. Lighters are never allowed in checked bags.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid unexpected fees and stress at the airport, keep these tips in mind:

• Weigh your bags at home: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure you are within the 15 kg or 10 kg limits before you leave for the airport.
• Check your fare type: If you booked a "Event" fare for a holiday in Kota Kinabalu, remember to add baggage online if needed, as it is not included by default.
• Label everything: Attach a sturdy name tag with your current contact information to all checked bags.
• Keep valuables with you: Always pack medication, documents, money, and expensive electronics in your carry-on bag, never in your checked luggage.

Pet Travel Rules

T'way Air welcomes small furry companions on board through its dedicated "t'pet" service, making travel easier for pet owners. The airline primarily focuses on allowing pets to travel in the cabin with their owners, ensuring a stress-free journey for small dogs, cats, and household birds on both domestic routes to places like Jeju City and international flights.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

This is the primary method for transporting pets on T'way Air. The airline offers a generous weight allowance compared to many other carriers.

• Carrier dimensions: Hard cases must not exceed 37 cm (width) × 23 cm (height). Soft cases can have a height of up to 26 cm. The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must be within 115 cm.
• Maximum weight: Up to 9 kg (combined weight of the pet and the carrier).
• Allowed pet types: Dogs, cats, and household birds (at least 8 weeks old).
• Breed restrictions: Fierce or aggressive dogs are not permitted.
• Limit per passenger: 1 pet per passenger (maximum 6 pets per flight).

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

T'way Air currently does not accept pets as checked baggage in the aircraft hold. All pets must be small enough to travel in the cabin. If your pet exceeds the 9 kg weight limit or the carrier size restrictions, they cannot be transported on T'way Air flights.

As cargo (for large animals)

The airline does not operate a separate air cargo service for transporting large animals or pets unaccompanied by a passenger. Travelers with larger animals are advised to seek alternative arrangements with specialized cargo carriers.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth check-in process, passengers must prepare the following documents:

• Veterinary certificates: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and general health.
• Quarantine certificates: Required for international travel, verifying compliance with the destination country's entry rules (e.g., for flights to Tokyo or Da Nang).
• T'way Air Pet Transport Agreement: This form is typically completed at the airport check-in counter.
• Import permits: If required by the destination country's regulations.

Service Costs

Fees are charged per animal and vary depending on the route. Prices are subject to change:

• Domestic flights: Approximately KRW 30,000 (South Korean Won).
• International flights: Approximately KRW 100,000 to KRW 200,000, depending on the zone and distance.
• Payment: Fees are usually paid at the airport counter on the day of departure.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Use a soft-sided carrier for better fit under the seat; it must be well-ventilated and waterproof.
• Feeding: Avoid feeding your pet a large meal within 2–4 hours of departure to prevent motion sickness.
• Familiarization: Let your pet spend time in the carrier before the trip to reduce stress.
• Arrival: Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for document verification and weighing.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Aggressive breeds are restricted, including American Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweilers, Dobermans, and Tosas.
• Prohibited animals: Rodents (hamsters, rabbits), reptiles (turtles, snakes), and wild birds are not permitted.
• Seat restrictions: Passengers with pets cannot sit in exit rows or Business Saver zones.
• Age limit: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel.

Important: Airline policies regarding pet travel can change frequently. It is highly recommended to contact T'way Air directly or check their official website before booking to confirm the latest rules and availability for your specific route.

Loyalty Program: T'way Plus

Unlike traditional airlines that require passengers to fly thousands of miles before earning a free trip, T'way Air has revolutionized loyalty with its subscription-based membership, T'way Plus. This innovative program is designed for travelers who want immediate value, offering a "pay-and-get-back" system where the subscription fee is returned as travel credit along with premium perks. It is an ideal choice for frequent flyers moving between South Korea and major destinations like Osaka, Da Nang, and Tokyo.

How It Works
Instead of accumulating miles over years, members pay an annual subscription fee and receive up to 90% of that fee back as T'way-e Card credit. This credit can be used immediately to book flights. In addition to the credit, the membership unlocks a suite of VIP benefits that are typically reserved for elite status holders on other carriers.

Membership Tiers
T'way Plus offers varying tiers to suit different travel styles, ranging from Lite (for budget-conscious leisure travelers) to Platinum (for frequent business flyers). Higher tiers unlock more exclusive privileges.

• Lite & Basic: Perfect for travelers planning one or two trips a year. Benefits include improved earning rates and access to subscriber-only fares.
• Prime & Platinum: Designed for frequent travelers. These tiers offer the highest cashback rates, unlimited free seat selection, and premium airport services.

Key Benefits
Subscribing to T'way Plus enhances the travel experience significantly, especially on busy routes to Jeju City or Fukuoka.

• Prior Access: Members get early access to special promo fares (Early Bird) one day before the general public.
• Seat Selection: Free advance seat selection, allowing members to secure window or aisle seats without extra fees.
• Travel Flexibility: Fee waivers for itinerary changes, providing peace of mind for travelers with uncertain schedules.
• Companion Benefits: Members can designate a travel companion to share their benefits, making family trips or couple getaways more comfortable.
• Priority Services: Higher-tier members enjoy priority check-in, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling at major airports like Seoul (Incheon/Gimpo).

Alliance and Partnerships
T'way Air is currently not a member of any major global airline alliance (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). The carrier operates independently, focusing on keeping costs low and flexibility high through its own T'way Plus program. However, the airline maintains interline and codeshare partnerships with select carriers to expand its network reach.

How to Join
Travelers can subscribe to T'way Plus directly through the T'way Air official website or mobile app. The subscription is active immediately upon payment, allowing you to use the benefits for your very next booking.

Service Classes and Onboard Experience

T'way Air adheres to a "smart travel" philosophy, offering a streamlined service model that allows passengers to customize their journey based on their needs and budget. While the airline operates primarily as a low-cost carrier, it provides a comfortable and safe environment across its fleet, which includes the efficient Boeing 737 for short hauls and the spacious Airbus A330 for medium-to-long-haul routes connecting cities like Seoul to the world.

Economy Class
The core offering on all T'way Air flights is Economy Class. Designed for efficiency and value, the cabins feature modern leather seats with a standard pitch suitable for short regional hops to destinations such as Osaka or Fukuoka.

• Seat Configuration: On the Boeing 737, seats are arranged in a 3-3 layout. On the Airbus A330, Economy Class features a 2-4-2 configuration, offering more aisle access.
• Comfort Options: Passengers can purchase "Premium Seats" for extra legroom (typically in the front rows or emergency exit rows) or "Front Seats" for quicker disembarkation upon arrival.

Business Saver
Available exclusively on the airline's Airbus A330-300 aircraft, the Business Saver class bridges the gap between low-cost fares and premium comfort. This class is ideal for travelers looking for extra space on longer flights, such as those to Da Nang or Kota Kinabalu.

• Premium Seating: Business Saver seats are significantly wider and offer generous legroom. Depending on the specific aircraft configuration, some seats are flat-bed types, allowing for complete relaxation.
• Perks: Passengers in this class enjoy priority check-in, priority boarding, and priority baggage handling, ensuring a smooth experience at the airport.
• Note: As a "Saver" product, it focuses on the hard product (seat comfort). Lounge access and complimentary full-course meals may not be included in the base fare and vary by route/ticket type.

In-Flight Dining

To keep fares low, T'way Air operates a "buy-on-board" dining concept. Complimentary water is generally provided, but meals and other beverages are paid services.

t'shop (In-flight Sales)
For spontaneous cravings, the "t'shop" offers a variety of snacks, cup noodles, soft drinks, beer, and coffee for purchase during the flight. The menu is updated seasonally and features popular Korean snacks.

Pre-ordered Meals
For a substantial meal, passengers must order online at least 72 hours before departure. The menu includes delicious Korean and international options, such as Bulgogi Rice bowls, sandwiches, and kids' meals. This service is highly recommended for longer flights to destinations like Nha Trang.

Entertainment and Amenities

T'way Air encourages a "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) approach to entertainment. The aircraft are generally not equipped with individual seatback monitors (IFE), helping to reduce weight and fuel consumption.

• Channel t': The airline's in-flight magazine, available in the seat pocket, offers travel stories, destination guides to places like Jeju City, and duty-free shopping catalogs.
• U-Story Team: On select flights and special occasions, the cabin crew (known as the U-Story team) may perform magic tricks, balloon art, or musical performances to entertain passengers, creating a unique and friendly atmosphere.

Special Services

The airline is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, offering dedicated support for those with specific needs.

• Unaccompanied Minors: A chaperoned service is available for children traveling alone (ages 5 to 11 for international flights), ensuring their safety from check-in to meeting their guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Wheelchair assistance and priority boarding are available. Passengers requiring special assistance should notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place.
• Expecting Mothers: Special care and guidance are provided for pregnant travelers. Depending on the stage of pregnancy, a medical certificate may be required to fly.

From its primary hub in Seoul, T'way Air operates a dynamic network connecting travelers to key destinations across East and Southeast Asia. The airline specializes in frequent regional services, offering convenient links to popular cities in Japan and Vietnam, as well as extensive domestic coverage to the holiday island of Jeju.

Planning a trip with T'way Air offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Asia on a budget. As a South Korean low-cost carrier based in Seoul, the airline connects travelers to numerous exciting destinations. To ensure a smooth journey and the best value for your money, keeping a few strategic tips in mind is highly recommended.

For the lowest fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially for international flights to popular cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Keep an eye out for "Early Bird" promotions and seasonal sales, which are frequently announced on the airline's official website. Signing up for their newsletter can also give you a head start on grabbing discounted seats before they sell out.

To save time at the airport, take advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to select your seat and issue a mobile boarding pass. Downloading the T'way Air mobile app is particularly useful for managing your booking on the go, checking flight status, and accessing your itinerary easily. For domestic routes, such as the busy connection to Jeju City, using the app can significantly streamline your travel experience.

Since T'way Air is a low-cost carrier, base fares often include only essential transportation. If you prefer specific seating, such as extra legroom or a window seat to enjoy the views over Da Nang or Fukuoka, it is wise to purchase seat selection during the initial booking process. This is often cheaper than adding it later. Similarly, carefully review the baggage allowance rules and pre-purchase extra weight if you plan to shop, as airport rates for excess luggage can be higher.

Finally, consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. While T'way Air strives for punctuality, unexpected changes to schedules or personal plans can happen. Having insurance provides peace of mind, covering potential flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies during your trip.

History and Development

T'way Air traces its origins back to the dawn of budget aviation in South Korea. The company was originally founded as Hansung Airlines in 2005, holding the distinction of being the nation's very first low-cost carrier. After navigating significant financial restructuring, the airline was rebranded and relaunched as T'way Air in 2010. With a fresh vision and a new management team, it set out to redefine affordable travel, establishing its primary headquarters in Seoul and commencing operations with a focus on customer satisfaction and safety.

Domestic Growth and the Daegu Hub
In its early years, the carrier focused heavily on stabilizing its domestic network. It quickly became a vital link for travelers heading to the holiday island of Jeju City, operating high-frequency flights from Gimpo Airport. A major strategic milestone was the decision to develop Daegu International Airport as a secondary hub. This move decentralized its operations and provided residents in the southeastern region of Korea with direct access to international travel, bypassing the need to transit through the capital.

Fleet Evolution and Regional Expansion
For most of its first decade, T'way Air operated a standardized fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. This single-type fleet strategy allowed for high operational efficiency and rapid expansion into key Asian markets. The airline successfully launched numerous routes to Japan, connecting travelers to major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. Concurrently, it expanded southward, establishing popular leisure routes to Southeast Asian destinations such as Da Nang and Nha Trang in Vietnam.

Entering the Long-Haul Market
A significant turning point in the airline's history occurred in the early 2020s with the introduction of the wide-body Airbus A330-300 to its fleet. This acquisition marked T'way Air's transition from a strictly short-haul regional carrier to a hybrid airline capable of operating medium- and long-haul flights. This strategic shift enabled the launch of services to destinations in Oceania and laid the groundwork for routes to Europe, distinguishing it from many other local low-cost competitors.

Modern Era and IPO
Today, T'way Air is a publicly traded company listed on the KOSPI, reflecting its growth and financial maturity. It continues to innovate by integrating newer, fuel-efficient aircraft like the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and expanding its network to emerging vacation spots like Kota Kinabalu. Through steady growth and strategic route planning, the airline has evolved from a domestic pioneer into a major international player connecting Korea to the world.