Tradewind Aviation

Tajik Air is the renowned national air carrier of Tajikistan. However, when planning your travels, it is important to note that in current booking systems, the IATA code TJ represents a route network geographically located in the Caribbean region. According to available data, operations with this code are currently centred around the airport of San Juan (Puerto Rico), which serves as the departure point for the majority of flights.

Below are the key characteristics of the current flight programme for the TJ code, based on scheduled departure statistics:

The list of destinations served under the TJ code is focused on providing connections between major hubs and popular island resorts. An analysis of the schedule highlights the following routes:

• Destination No. 1: The highest number of flights is operated from San Juan to the city of Gustavia (Saint Barthélemy). This route is highly popular among tourists heading for an exclusive holiday.
• Alternative Departures: Besides Puerto Rico, Gustavia can be reached via flights from the city of St. John's (Antigua and Barbuda).
• Other Islands: The flight map also includes flights from San Juan to The Valley (Anguilla) and to the island of Tortola (British Virgin Islands).

Thus, although the Tajik Air brand is historically linked to Central Asia, flights with the TJ marker in this selection represent a convenient way to travel between the picturesque islands of the Caribbean Sea, ensuring access to the region's best beaches.

For the prompt resolution of issues related to flights, baggage allowances, or changes in the Tajik Air schedule, passengers are advised to use official communication channels. It is important to consider the coding specifics: the IATA code TJ in global booking systems is often assigned to flights operated in the Caribbean basin (for example, from San Juan airport), so please verify exactly which carrier is operating your flight before calling.

Official Resources

Reliable information regarding tariffs and services of the national carrier of Tajikistan can be obtained on the official web resource (address provided in text format):

• Website: www.tajikair.tj

Contact Centre

To contact airline representatives regarding flights within Central Asia and international destinations from Dushanbe, please use the following details:

• Inquiry Service and Call Centre: +992 44 600 99 66
• Additional Phone Number: +992 90 505 00 00
• Email (General Information): info@tajikair.tj
• Booking and Ticket Sales Department: ticket@tajikair.tj

Company Office

The carrier's headquarters is located in the capital of Tajikistan, in the immediate vicinity of the country's main air gateway:

• Address: Tajikistan, Dushanbe, M. Mastongulova St., 32/1 (Dushanbe International Airport area).

Note on Caribbean Flights

If your route passes through Caribbean cities such as San Juan (Puerto Rico), Gustavia, or St. John's, and the ticket shows the code TJ, the actual operator is Tradewind Aviation. The office in Dushanbe does not have access to these bookings. In such cases, please contact the American operator:

• Support Phone (USA): +1 203 267 3305
• Operator Website: www.flytradewind.com

Preparing luggage is an important part of planning a trip with Tajik Air. Since the code TJ covers both flights of the national carrier of Tajikistan (on large liners) and partner flights in the Caribbean region (on small private aircraft), baggage rules can differ significantly. Below are the main standards and recommendations.

Important Note: Be sure to check the aircraft type on your ticket. Rules for a Boeing 757 departing from Dushanbe will differ from standards for small Pilatus aircraft flying, for example, on the San Juan — Gustavia route.

Cabin Baggage: Items in the Cabin

For standard scheduled flights of the airline, classic norms are established, allowing you to take the essentials on board:

• Economy Class: Usually one piece weighing up to 5–8 kg is allowed (depending on the fare). Dimensions must not exceed 55×40×20 cm so that the bag fits easily on the shelf.
• Business Class: Passengers can expect an increased allowance weighing up to 10 kg.
• Personal Items: In addition to cabin baggage, a lady's handbag, men's briefcase, laptop, or umbrella is permitted.

Attention for Caribbean flights: If your departure is from the city of St. John's or other island airports on small aircraft, space for cabin baggage may be extremely limited. It is recommended to take only documents and valuables into the cabin.

Checked Baggage

Free baggage allowances depend on the destination and class of service. For most international Tajik Air flights, the Weight Concept applies:

• Economy Class: The standard allowance is 20 kg per passenger.
• Business Class: Up to 30 kg of baggage is allowed.
• Children under 2 years: Infants without a separate seat are usually allocated a 10 kg allowance plus the possibility of transporting a collapsible stroller free of charge.

If your route runs through Tortola or The Valley (flight code TJ, operator Tradewind), it is strongly recommended to use soft bags instead of hard suitcases, as they are easier to stow in the luggage compartments of light aircraft.

Excess Baggage and Fees

Additional fees apply for any excess weight or oversized items. Tariffs depend on the specific route and current exchange rates. You can pay for excess weight at the airport cashier before departure. To avoid unnecessary expenses, it is recommended to weigh suitcases at home.

Special Items

Transporting non-standard baggage requires prior approval from the airline (no later than 24–48 hours before departure):

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, or surfboards may be included in the free baggage allowance if they do not exceed weight limits, but are more often charged as a separate piece.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be taken into the cabin as hand luggage. For large instruments (cello, guitar), purchasing a separate seat in the cabin may be required.
• Animals: Transporting pets is possible only with all veterinary documents and prior booking.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to carry the following in cabin baggage and checked baggage:

• Explosives, fireworks, and flammable liquids.
• Compressed gases and toxic substances.
• High-power lithium-ion batteries (in checked baggage).

In cabin baggage, liquids are allowed only in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. This rule is strictly enforced at all airports, including the hub in the city of San Juan.

Packing Tips

To ensure a smooth journey, follow these simple rules:

Always place valuables, documents, money, jewellery, and vital medication in your cabin baggage. Remove all old tags with barcodes from your suitcase to avoid confusion during sorting. Use a bright cover or ribbon to quickly identify your luggage on the carousel.

Tajik Air understands how important it is for passengers not to part with their pets during travel. The carrier's policy (IATA code TJ) allows the transportation of domestic animals both in the aircraft cabin and in the cargo hold, provided strict safety standards and veterinary requirements are met. Whether you are flying on a large liner or taking an inter-island flight, for example, from San Juan airport, preparing your pet for the flight requires a careful approach.

Transportation Options

In the Cabin (Cabin Baggage)

This option is suitable for small cats and dogs that can comfortably fit at the owner's feet. Conditions for this type of transport are the strictest, as the comfort of other passengers is a priority.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must be compact, usually no more than 55×40×20 cm (for soft carrier bags, slight compression in height is allowed).
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the cage must not exceed 8 kg.
• Permitted Animals: Most commonly, only domestic cats and dogs are allowed.
• Placement Requirements: The carrier must fit under the seat in front and have ventilation.
• Limit per Passenger: One passenger may carry only one carrier.

Important: If your route includes flights on small aircraft to destinations such as Gustavia or Tortola, cabin space may be severely limited, and booking a spot for a pet must be done as early as possible.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

If your pet's weight exceeds 8 kg, it must travel in a specially equipped compartment of the aircraft where the necessary temperature and pressure are maintained.

• Container Requirements: A rigid plastic container complying with IATA standards, with a secure metal lock.
• Animal Comfort: The pet must be able to stand freely at full height, turn 360 degrees, and lie down in a natural position.
• Equipment: The bottom of the container must be covered with absorbent material; fixed bowls for water and food are also required.
• Documentation: The cage must have a "Live Animals" sticker and the owner's contact details.

As Cargo

For very large dogs, exotic animals, or when transporting without the owner's accompaniment, shipment via the cargo terminal is used.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 50–75 kg (depending on the aircraft type) or if the breed is prohibited for transport in luggage.
• Procedure: Processing takes place through the cargo warehouse, not at the passenger check-in counter.
• Routes: Service availability depends on the destination; for example, flights from the city of St. John's may have different cargo acceptance rules than major hubs.

Necessary Documents

Without a complete package of documents, the animal will not be allowed on board. For international flights, including flights to The Valley and other foreign airports, the list includes:

• Veterinary Passport: International standard with microchip details.
• Health Certificate: Form No. 1 (or international certificate), issued by a state veterinary clinic no earlier than 3–5 days before departure.
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months before the flight) and vaccinations against other infections.
• Import/Export Permit: Required for some countries with strict veterinary control (especially relevant for island nations).

Service Costs

Animal transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately. Tariffs are calculated based on weight and destination (indicative conditions are shown):

• In the Cabin: Fixed rate (usually from 50 to 100 USD equivalent).
• In the Baggage Hold: Calculation is often based on weight (per kg) or as for a piece of excess baggage.
• Route Dependence: Prices may be higher on popular tourist routes.

Preparation Tips

• Cage Training: Allow your pet to get used to the carrier several weeks before the trip.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but offer a little water.
• Reducing Stress: Put a favourite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage. The use of sedatives is permitted only on a veterinarian's recommendation.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse transport in the following cases:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened snouts (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) may not be allowed in the baggage hold due to the risk of breathing problems.
• Aggressive Behaviour: Animals showing aggression or anxiety during check-in.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 3–4 months are not allowed to fly (until immunity is formed after the rabies vaccination).
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with visual or hearing impairments are transported free of charge in the cabin provided there is a training certificate and a muzzle.

Attention! Since aviation transport rules and veterinary requirements of countries change constantly, we strongly recommend contacting the Tajik Air call centre or the flight operator's support service before purchasing a ticket to coordinate your pet's transport.

Loyalty Programme and Passenger Rewards

For regular clients of Tajik Air and its partners, various opportunities are provided to make travel more comfortable and rewarding. However, given the specifics of the IATA code TJ usage in different regions of the world, the conditions for participation in loyalty programmes and privileges differ significantly depending on the actual carrier operating the flight.

Important Regional Distinction

Before counting on earning bonuses or using elite privileges, it is necessary to identify the operator of your flight:

• Central Asia and International Flights from Dushanbe: Flights operated directly by the national carrier of Tajikistan are serviced according to Tajik Air internal standards.
• Caribbean Basin: Flights under the code TJ connecting hubs such as San Juan (Puerto Rico), Gustavia (Saint Barthélemy), or St. John's are actually operated by the American airline Tradewind Aviation. The Tajik Air loyalty programme does not apply to them.

Privileges for Tajik Air Passengers

On the airline's own flights, a frequent flyer reward system is in place. The programme aims to reward the loyalty of those who regularly choose the national carrier for business and personal trips. Member status is usually determined by flight frequency and accumulated mileage.

Key opportunities for loyal clients:

• Priority Service: The possibility of checking in at dedicated counters (usually Business Class) and priority boarding.
• Extra Baggage: High-tier members can count on an increased free baggage allowance, which is especially relevant for long-haul flights.
• Class Upgrade: Subject to seat availability, the airline may offer an upgrade to Business Class to the most active passengers as a reward.
• Bonus Tickets: Accumulated points can be exchanged for premium flight tickets on regular flights within the carrier's own network.

Features for Tradewind Aviation Flights

If your route passes through the Caribbean islands (for example, you are flying from San Juan to The Valley or to Tortola), the rules of the operator Tradewind Aviation apply. This airline offers its own loyalty system focused on premium class passengers.

The Tradewind programme includes:

• Ticket Books: A convenient system for purchasing blocks of tickets, allowing you to fix the flight cost for a certain period and receive a discount compared to single purchases. This is particularly beneficial for those who frequently fly to the islands for holidays or business.
• Flexibility of Changes: Package holders often have access to more flexible conditions for cancellation or rescheduling without penalties.
• Lounge Access: Passengers in this category can use exclusive departure lounges at airports.

Important to remember: Loyalty cards and miles earned on Tajik Air flights in Asia cannot be used to pay for services or receive privileges on Tradewind flights in the Caribbean region. These are two different systems operating under a single IATA code.

How to Utilize Benefits

To ensure you receive your earned bonuses, follow these simple recommendations:

1. When purchasing a ticket or at the check-in counter, always present your membership number for the relevant programme (or verify the existence of your profile in the database).
2. Keep boarding passes and itinerary receipts until the trips are actually credited to your account.
3. When planning complex itineraries, check with the agent in advance regarding exactly which airline's rules will apply to your flight segment.

The quality of service and the range of amenities provided under the code TJ directly depend on the type of aircraft and the flight region. Since this code unites scheduled flights of the national carrier of Tajikistan and premium shuttles in the Caribbean basin, passengers should understand in advance what to expect from the flight.

Classes of Service

The approach to cabin zoning differs radically depending on the route:

• Caribbean Region (Executive Shuttle): On flights between islands, for example, from San Juan airport to Gustavia, there is usually no division into business and economy classes in the traditional sense. Flights are operated on comfortable turboprop aircraft (such as the Pilatus PC-12), where the entire cabin corresponds to the level of private aviation.
• Mainline Flights (Tajikistan): On classic Tajik Air routes operated on Boeing liners, a standard two-class layout is offered:
  • Economy Class: Basic level of comfort with meals and baggage included.
  • Business Class: A separate cabin in the nose of the aircraft with wide seats and enhanced service.

Comfort and Seat Configuration

Passenger comfort is ensured differently based on flight duration and liner type.

On Island Flights (Code TJ): The cabins of small aircraft are designed for just 8 passengers. Seats are made of leather, have an ergonomic shape, and are often arranged in a "club seating" configuration (some seats face each other), which is convenient for conversation in a group. Such aircraft often fly to the island of Tortola or to The Valley.

On Flights from Dushanbe:

• In Business Class, the distance between seats is increased, and backrests recline to a significant angle, allowing for rest during medium and long-haul flights.
• In Economy Class, standard seats with fabric or leather upholstery are installed. Seat pitch corresponds to average market standards for regional transport.

Meals and Beverages

In-flight catering also varies:

• Snacks and Refreshments: On short flights in the Caribbean basin (lasting 30–60 minutes), passengers are usually offered an assortment of beverages (water, juices, soda) and light snacks from a self-service basket before boarding or on board.
• Hot Meals: On Tajik Air flights lasting more than 2-3 hours, economy and business class passengers are traditionally offered hot meals. The menu often includes Halal dishes of national and European cuisine, as well as tea, coffee, and water.

In-flight Entertainment

Entertainment systems (IFE) are not a strong point of either operator using the TJ code:

On large liners, entertainment may be limited to an in-flight magazine. On small aircraft cruising via St. John's and other islands, the main "screen" is the large portholes offering panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. It is recommended to download movies or music to personal mobile devices in advance.

Special Services

The airline strives to make flying accessible to all categories of passengers, however, technical capabilities are limited:

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Ambulift and escort services are provided on large aircraft. However, on light aviation flights (Caribbean), boarding is often carried out via built-in airstairs, which may make access difficult for passengers with limited mobility. Details must be coordinated no later than 48 hours before departure.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The child escort service is available on most scheduled flights. Staff look after the young traveller from the check-in counter until handover to the meeting party at the destination airport.

The route network operated under the IATA code TJ is currently concentrated in one of the most picturesque regions of the planet — the Caribbean basin. The main transit hub for travellers is San Juan (Puerto Rico). It is from here that the majority of flights depart, opening access to tropical islands with magnificent nature and developed tourism infrastructure.

The most sought-after destination is the city of Gustavia on the island of Saint Barthélemy. This place attracts lovers of exclusive holidays: here, travellers will find elite restaurants, boutiques, and white sandy beaches washed by azure waters. High flight frequency (106 flights over three weeks) allows for flexible trip planning.

For those seeking seclusion and tranquillity, the schedule includes flights to The Valley — the capital of Anguilla, famous for its endless sandy shores and coral reefs. Marine adventure enthusiasts should pay attention to flights to the island of Tortola, known as a global centre for yachting and an excellent spot for diving. As an alternative departure point for flights to Saint Barthélemy, St. John's (Antigua and Barbuda) is also used.

Detailed flight statistics for key tourist routes are presented in the table:

Travelling with an airline using the code TJ requires a special approach to planning, as the route network covers both the high-altitude regions of Central Asia and the exclusive resorts of the Caribbean Sea. To ensure your flight is as comfortable and cost-effective as possible, we have prepared a number of practical recommendations considering the specifics of both directions.

Best Time to Book

To obtain the most favourable fares on popular flights from the San Juan hub, experts recommend purchasing tickets well in advance. The Caribbean destination is characterised by distinct seasonality:

• High Season: From mid-December to April, prices reach their peak. If you plan to fly to the city of Gustavia for the New Year holidays, it is best to book 3–5 months in advance.
• Low Season: Summer months and early autumn (September-October) offer lower prices, but the region's weather conditions should be considered.

For classic Tajik Air flights from Dushanbe, the rule "the earlier, the cheaper" applies: the optimal purchase time is 4–6 weeks before departure.

Discounts and Special Offers

To save on flights, pay attention to the following opportunities:

• Package Offers (Ticket Books): If you frequently fly between islands, for example, on the St. John's — Saint Barthélemy route, check for the availability of "Ticket Books". Operators of TJ-coded flights in this region often offer blocks of 10 or more flights with a significant discount.
• Newsletter: Subscribing to news on the carriers' official websites will allow you to be the first to know about seasonal sales.

Online Check-in and Airport

The check-in procedure depends on your flight type. Using online services allows you to save time and choose a convenient seat in advance.

• Online Check-in: Usually opens 24 hours before departure. It is recommended to save the boarding pass on your mobile phone.
• Features on Islands: When departing from small airports such as The Valley (Anguilla) or from the island of Tortola, check-in often takes place at private terminals (FBO). Here the process is simplified, and queues are practically non-existent, however, you should arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to pass security control.

Seat Selection Tips

Comfort in flight largely depends on the correct seat choice, but there are nuances here:

• Light Aviation (Caribbean): On Pilatus PC-12 aircraft flying under the TJ code, a rule of open seating or seat allocation by the pilot for weight balancing often applies. The best views open up from seats on the right side when approaching the islands.
• Large Liners: On the Boeing 757, try to choose seats in the front part of the economy class cabin for a quicker exit or seats at emergency exits for extra legroom (an additional fee may apply).

Travel Insurance

Given the specific nature of the routes, insurance is not just a formality but a necessity:

• Connection Risks: Flights via Puerto Rico or Antigua are often booked on separate tickets from the main flight from Europe or the USA. Arrange insurance covering the risk of missing a connecting flight.
• Active Leisure: If you are flying to Tortola for diving or yachting, ensure your policy covers active sports.

Mobile Capabilities

In the modern world, managing bookings via smartphone is becoming standard. We recommend installing operator apps or using mobile versions of websites for:

• Tracking flight status in real-time (especially relevant with changeable weather in the tropics).
• Quick access to the itinerary receipt without the need to print documents.

The history of Tajik Air is a chronicle of the development of civil aviation in one of the highest mountainous regions of the world. Founded in 1924, it is rightfully considered one of the oldest operating air carriers on the planet. Over the decades of its existence, the company has progressed from using small single-engine aircraft to operating modern comfortable liners, becoming a symbol of Tajikistan's technical progress.

Foundation and Early Years

The birthday of Tajik aviation is considered to be 3 September 1924. It was on this day that the first historic flight was performed on the Bukhara — Dushanbe route on a Junkers F.13 aircraft. Flying in difficult mountainous terrain conditions became a true feat and marked the beginning of regular air communication in the republic. In the early years, aviation was the only reliable mode of transport connecting hard-to-reach mountain areas with the centre, which played a key role in the economic and social development of the region.

Key Milestones and Expansion

In the Soviet period, the aviation enterprise developed rapidly. In the 1930s, the construction of airfields began in key settlements such as Khorog, Kulob, and Gharm. Aviators mastered the most complex routes over the Pamirs, which are still considered some of the most difficult in the world today. An important stage was the introduction of helicopter technology, which allowed cargo and passengers to be delivered to the highest mountain plateaus where aeroplanes could not reach.

Fleet Evolution

The airline's fleet changed along with the development of global aircraft construction, passing through several technological eras:

• Initial Stage: Use of Junkers F.13 aircraft and the legendary Po-2.
• Post-War Years: Arrival of reliable Li-2 and An-2, which became the "workhorses" of local aviation.
• Jet Age: In the 1970s–80s, the fleet was replenished with Tu-154, Yak-40 liners, and Mi-8 helicopters, which significantly expanded the geography of flights.
• Modernity: After gaining independence, the operation of Western technology began. Boeing 737, 757, and 767 appeared in the fleet, ensuring comfort on international lines.

New History and Routes

Becoming the state national carrier of independent Tajikistan, the company focused on expanding international ties. Regular flights were launched to major cities in Russia, Asia, and the Middle East. The airline played an important role in ensuring the country's connection with the outside world, operating flights to Moscow, Tehran, Istanbul, Delhi, and Urumqi.

Modern Realities and Code TJ

In recent years, the brand has been going through stages of restructuring and adaptation to modern market conditions. It is interesting to note that in global distribution systems, the IATA code TJ, historically belonging to Tajik Air, is also used to designate flights in the Caribbean basin. Therefore, today under this code, one can encounter not only flights from Dushanbe but also routes connecting San Juan airport with neighbouring islands, which is a unique feature in the world of aviation data.