Tunis Air

Tunis Air, the national flag carrier of Tunisia, serves as a vital bridge connecting Africa to Europe and the Middle East. Known affectionately for its "Gazelle" logo, the airline has been a symbol of Tunisian hospitality and aviation progress since its inception shortly after World War II. With a commitment to connecting the world to the rich culture and sunny landscapes of Tunisia, this carrier offers travelers a distinctively warm welcome the moment they step on board.

History and Company Values
Founded in 1948, Tunis Air is one of the oldest airlines on the African continent. The company was established with the mission of fostering economic and cultural exchanges between Tunisia and the rest of the world. Over the decades, it has evolved from a small regional operator into a modern airline that prides itself on safety, reliability, and the promotion of Tunisian tourism. The airline's core values center on customer satisfaction and maintaining a bridge between cultures, ensuring that every journey reflects the warmth of the Mediterranean.

Route Network and Key Markets
The airline operates a robust network centered around its primary hub in Tunis. It maintains particularly strong ties with Europe and the Arab world. Travelers can find frequent flights to major European cities, including Paris, Marseille, and Frankfurt am Main. The network also extends significantly into the Middle East and North Africa, with popular routes to destinations such as Jeddah, Istanbul, and Casablanca. This strategic positioning makes it a convenient option for passengers moving between continents.

Fleet and Service
Tunis Air operates a mixed fleet primarily consisting of Airbus aircraft, including the A320 and A330 families, designed to service both short-haul regional hops and medium-haul international routes effectively. Onboard, passengers can expect a full-service experience that typically includes complimentary meals and beverages, reflecting the generosity of Tunisian culture. The airline focuses on providing a comfortable and safe environment, adhering to strict international safety standards and regulations to ensure peace of mind for all travelers.

Contacting Tunis Air in the United Arab Emirates

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can easily connect with Tunis Air through their dedicated local office in Dubai or via their airport counters. Whether you need to book a ticket, manage an existing reservation, or inquire about baggage, the airline maintains a local presence to assist you. For urgent matters outside of standard business hours, the airline's global support channels are also available.

Official Website

For the most direct access to flight schedules, online check-in, and booking management, visit the official website. While there is no specific regional site for the UAE, the global platform serves all international markets.

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.tunisair.com
• Customer Service (UAE): +971 4 223 7776
• Airport Office (Dubai): +971 4 224 5555
• Ticket Booking: +971 4 223 7776
• Email: callcenter@tunisair.com
• Mobile App: Tunisair (Available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

Stay updated with the latest news and offers through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Tunisair Officielle
• X (Twitter): @tunisairpublic
• Instagram: @tunisair_officiel

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

Dubai City Office
Al Maktoum Street
Near Metropolitan Palace Hotel
Deira, Dubai, UAE

Airport Desk
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Terminal 1, Departure Hall

Emergency & 24/7 Support

If you cannot reach the local UAE office or require assistance outside of local business hours, you can contact the airline's headquarters in Tunisia, which offers extended support.

• Global Call Center (24/7): +216 70 019 161

Traveling with Tunis Air is designed to be a smooth experience, but understanding the baggage policies beforehand is essential for a hassle-free journey. The airline operates under a standard piece concept for most of its network, which simplifies packing for passengers flying to destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Tunis Air permits passengers to bring cabin baggage on board, though the specific allowance depends on the travel class. Generally, passengers in Economy Class are allowed one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 8kg. Travelers flying in Business Class (Espace Privilège) enjoy a more comprehensive allowance, typically consisting of two pieces with a combined total weight of 10kg.

In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers may bring one personal accessory, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera case. The standard dimensions for cabin luggage are generally 55 x 40 x 25 cm. It is important to ensure that your bag fits in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you to avoid it being checked at the gate.

Checked Baggage Limits

The checked baggage allowance on Tunis Air varies based on your destination and fare class. The airline uses the Piece Concept, meaning allowances are defined by the number of bags rather than just the total weight.

• Economy Class: Depending on the route, passengers are typically entitled to either one piece of luggage weighing up to 23kg or two pieces of 23kg each. For example, flights connecting to West Africa or the Near East often have specific allowances compared to regional flights.
• Business Class: Passengers receive a generous allowance, usually consisting of two or three pieces, with each bag weighing up to 23kg. This ensures plenty of capacity for business attire or gifts without the worry of strict weight constraints on a single bag.

Whether you are planning a trip to London or a vacation in Barcelona, it is crucial to verify the specific baggage allowance printed on your ticket, as promotional fares or specific routes may have different rules.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the standard limits, or if you wish to bring extra pieces, excess baggage fees will apply. These charges are calculated based on travel zones. It is generally more cost-effective to purchase additional baggage allowance online in advance rather than paying at the airport counter. Please note that for health and safety reasons regarding baggage handling, any single bag weighing more than 32kg will not be accepted as checked luggage and must be shipped as cargo.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment

Tunis Air accommodates passengers wishing to travel with special items such as sports equipment or musical instruments. Items like golf clubs, bicycles, or surfboards can often be transported, though they may incur a specific fixed fee depending on their weight and dimensions.

For musicians heading to cultural hubs like Rome or Geneva, small instruments may be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments usually require a dedicated seat booking or must be checked in as special hold luggage. Always contact the airline at least 48 hours before departure to reserve space for special equipment.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include explosives, flammable substances, compressed gases, and toxic materials.

Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs): In carry-on baggage, liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less, packed in a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 liter. This rule applies to all international flights, including those to Munich or Lyon. Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your cabin luggage and are not permitted in the hold.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To avoid unexpected fees and stress at the airport, consider these packing tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the 23kg limit before leaving home.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address. Removing old barcodes from previous trips prevents routing errors.
• Distribute Weight: If traveling with a companion, consider splitting heavy items between your bags to balance the weight.
• Keep Valuables Close: Always keep medication, documents, cash, and electronics in your carry-on bag.

Tunis Air welcomes passengers to travel with their pets, understanding that four-legged companions are an important part of the family. The airline permits the transport of dogs, cats, and small birds on most of its network, subject to specific safety and hygiene conditions. To ensure a smooth journey, travelers must arrange for pet travel in advance, as space for animals on board is limited.

In cabin (carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin if they meet the following criteria:

• Carrier dimensions: The container must not exceed 55 x 40 x 20 cm to fit securely under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum pet weight: The total weight of the animal including the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed pet types: Generally limited to small dogs, cats, and small birds (such as canaries).
• Breed restrictions: Animals must be odorless, quiet, and not belong to dangerous breeds.
• Limit per passenger: typically, only one pet container is permitted per passenger.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

Larger animals that exceed the cabin weight limits travel in the ventilated and pressurized cargo hold:

• Container requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-compliant rigid crate (fiberglass or hard plastic) with a secure locking door and solid floor. Wire mesh cages are not permitted.
• Weight and size limits: This option is for animals weighing more than 8 kg, up to a maximum typically around 32 kg (inclusive of the crate).
• Temperature restrictions: The airline may refuse transport if extreme temperatures at the departure or arrival airports pose a risk to the animal's health.
• Required documentation: All health certificates and passports must be securely attached to the container.

As cargo (for large animals)

Some situations require pets to be transported as manifest cargo rather than checked baggage:

• When this option is required: For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to destinations with strict import regulations (e.g., flights to London).
• Special requirements: Transport must be arranged via the freight terminal, requiring an Air Waybill (LTA).
• Booking procedure: Bookings must be made through the Tunis Air Cargo department or a certified freight forwarder well in advance.

Required Documentation

To travel with your pet, you must present the following documents at the check-in counter:

• Veterinary passport: A valid document identifying the animal and its owner.
• Health certificate: A statement from a veterinarian issued within a few days of travel (typically 3 to 10 days) confirming the animal is fit to fly.
• Vaccinations: Proof of a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days prior to travel and less than one year ago).
• International certificates: Any specific sanitary or import permits required by the destination country's authorities.

Service Costs

Fees for transporting pets are separate from your baggage allowance and vary by destination:

• In-cabin fee: Approximately €50 to €75 per flight segment, depending on the zone.
• Cargo hold fee: Approximately €75 to €150 per animal, often calculated based on weight or fixed piece rates.
• Note: Prices vary by route (e.g., domestic vs. international) and currency exchange rates.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Ensure the crate is spacious enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Feeding before flight: Feed your pet a light meal 4 to 6 hours before departure; avoid feeding them right before the flight to prevent nausea.
• Stress reduction tips: Place a familiar blanket or absorbent mat inside the carrier. Avoid sedation unless specifically advised by a veterinarian, as it can affect breathing at altitude.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs and cats (such as Bulldogs, Pugs, or Persians) are often restricted in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited animals: Rodents, reptiles, and wild animals are generally not accepted as passenger baggage.
• Exceptions: Recognized service dogs (guide dogs) usually travel in the cabin free of charge, provided they are properly harnessed and certified.

Important: Rules and fees are subject to change. It is strongly recommended to contact Tunis Air directly or visit a local office at least 48 hours before your trip to confirm eligibility and reserve space for your pet.

Loyalty Program: Fidelys

Tunis Air rewards its frequent travelers through its dedicated loyalty program, Fidelys. Designed to make every journey more rewarding, the program allows members to earn miles for every flight they take, which can be converted into a variety of travel benefits. Whether you are a business traveler flying frequently to Tunis or a leisure traveler exploring the Mediterranean, Fidelys ensures that your loyalty is recognized and rewarded with exclusive privileges.

Membership Tiers

The Fidelys program consists of three main status levels, each offering progressively higher rewards and exclusive services to enhance your travel experience:

• Classic Card: The entry-level tier assigned upon enrollment, offering a welcome bonus of 3,000 miles.
• Silver Card: Achieved after accumulating 15,000 qualifying miles or 24 segments, offering priority baggage delivery and an extra luggage allowance.
• Gold Card: The premium tier requiring 30,000 miles or 40 segments, granting VIP lounge access and business class check-in regardless of ticket type.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles with Fidelys is straightforward, with opportunities to earn both in the air and on the ground:

• Flight Miles: Earn miles based on the distance flown and the class of service on all scheduled Tunis Air flights.
• Partner Airlines: Collect miles when flying with select codeshare partners on specific routes.
• Car Rentals: Earn bonus miles when you rent vehicles through partners like Sixt during your trips.
• Services: Accumulate points through various non-airline partners including hotels and banks.

Redeeming Miles

Fidelys Miles are a versatile currency that can be used to reduce travel costs or enhance comfort:

• Award Tickets: Purchase flights to destinations like Paris or Jeddah using miles.
• Flight Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class (Espace Privilège) for a more luxurious journey.
• Excess Baggage: Pay for extra luggage allowance with miles instead of cash at the airport.
• Pet Transport: Redeem miles to cover the fees for traveling with your pet in the cabin or hold.
• Change Fees: Use miles to pay for penalties related to changing flight dates or routes.

Alliances and Partnerships

While Tunis Air is not a member of the major global alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam), it maintains a strong network of bilateral partnerships to extend its reach:

• Key Partners: The airline has commercial agreements with carriers like Air France and MEA to offer wider connectivity.
• Regional Cooperation: As a member of the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), it works closely with regional airlines.

How to Join

Joining Fidelys is free and open to any individual aged two years and older. Travelers can register instantly via the Tunis Air website or mobile app. Upon registration, members receive a temporary number to start earning miles immediately, with the permanent Classic card sent after the first qualifying flight is completed.

Flying with Tunis Air offers a blend of traditional Tunisian hospitality and modern aviation standards. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, the airline strives to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment from takeoff to landing. With a fleet configured to serve both short regional hops and longer international journeys, the onboard experience is designed to meet the diverse needs of its passengers.

Service Classes

Tunis Air primarily operates two distinct cabins: Economy Class and Business Class, known as "Espace Privilège." Each class is tailored to offer specific benefits, ensuring that travelers can choose the level of comfort that best suits their journey and budget.

Economy Class
The Economy cabin is designed for practicality and comfort. Passengers can expect ergonomic seating with adjustable headrests on most aircraft. The generous seat pitch allows for adequate legroom, making flights to destinations like Tunis or Frankfurt am Main pleasant. The friendly cabin crew is dedicated to ensuring a smooth journey, providing attentive service throughout the flight.

Business Class (Espace Privilège)
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, "Espace Privilège" offers enhanced privacy and luxury. Located at the front of the aircraft, this cabin features spacious leather seats with increased recline and legroom. On narrow-body aircraft, the middle seat is often kept free to guarantee extra personal space. Passengers in this class enjoy priority boarding, dedicated overhead bins, and a more personalized service style, ideal for arriving refreshed at meetings in Milan or Paris.

Dining and Beverages

One of the highlights of flying with Tunis Air is the culinary experience. Reflecting the rich flavors of Tunisia, the airline serves complimentary meals on the majority of its international routes. The menu typically features a mix of Tunisian specialties and international cuisine, ensuring there is something to please every palate.

Meal Service
Depending on the flight duration and time of day, passengers are served a full hot meal, a cold snack, or a light breakfast. The meals are prepared with fresh ingredients, often highlighting Mediterranean influences. On longer routes, such as those to Jeddah or Istanbul, a multi-course meal is standard.

Beverages
A wide selection of hot and cold beverages accompanies the meal service. Passengers can enjoy coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks. The airline also offers a selection of wines and other beverages to complement the dining experience in both cabin classes.

Entertainment and Amenities

To pass the time pleasantly during the flight, Tunis Air provides various entertainment options. While the specific amenities vary by aircraft type (A320 family vs. A330), the airline aims to keep passengers engaged.

• In-Flight Magazine: "La Gazelle" is the airline's complimentary magazine, found in every seat pocket. It features articles on travel, culture, and lifestyle, printed in multiple languages including Arabic, French, and English.
• Screens and Audio: On wide-body aircraft serving long-haul routes, individual screens may be available with a selection of movies and music. On shorter flights aboard narrow-body aircraft, overhead screens typically display the flight map and short programs.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Passengers can browse an onboard catalog featuring perfumes, cosmetics, and gifts, often available at competitive prices.

Special Services

Tunis Air is committed to making air travel accessible and convenient for everyone, offering a range of special services to assist passengers with specific needs.

Families and Children
Families traveling with infants receive special attention, including priority boarding and the option to request bassinets on certain aircraft (must be booked in advance). For children traveling alone, the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service ensures they are escorted and supervised by ground staff and cabin crew from the moment of check-in until they are handed over to the designated guardian at their destination, such as Nice or Lyon.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility
Travelers requiring wheelchair assistance or other medical support can request these services at the time of booking. The airline provides assistance through the airport and during boarding and disembarking. It is recommended to make these requests at least 48 hours before departure to ensure availability and a seamless experience.

Special Meals
Passengers with specific dietary requirements can request special meals, such as diabetic, low-salt, or vegetarian options. These requests should be made at the time of reservation or at least 24 hours before the scheduled flight time.

Network Overview

Tunis Air connects travelers to the heart of the Mediterranean through its primary hub in Tunis. The airline’s network is designed to bridge Africa with Europe and the Middle East, offering convenient schedules for both business and leisure passengers. While the carrier focuses heavily on linking international cities to the Tunisian capital, it also operates select direct routes to popular coastal resorts, facilitating easy access to the country's sunny beaches.

Key European Connections

Europe remains the core market for Tunis Air, with a particularly strong presence in France. Daily and weekly flights connect major French cities such as Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Nice, and Toulouse directly to Tunisia. Beyond France, the airline serves key European capitals and financial centers, including London, Brussels, and Frankfurt am Main. Travelers from Southern Europe are also well-connected, with frequent services from Milan, Rome, and Barcelona, as well as flights from Geneva and Munich.

Middle East and Africa

Strengthening regional ties, Tunis Air operates essential routes to the Middle East and North Africa. Passengers can fly directly to Jeddah and Istanbul, which serve as important cultural and commercial links. Within the Maghreb and West Africa, the airline maintains steady connections to cities such as Algiers, Casablanca, and Nouakchott, supporting regional mobility and trade.

Direct Holiday Routes

In addition to flights into the capital, Tunis Air offers specific routes tailored for vacationers heading to Tunisia’s renowned coastal destinations. This includes direct connections from Paris to Midoun on the island of Djerba, and from Nice to Monastir, allowing tourists to bypass the capital and land closer to their holiday resorts.

Popular Routes

The following table highlights some of the most frequently operated routes in the Tunis Air network:

To secure the best value for your trip with Tunis Air, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance. Aim to finalize your reservation at least three to four weeks prior to your intended departure date, as fares tend to rise significantly closer to the time of travel. Being flexible with your travel dates can also be advantageous; flying mid-week often yields lower prices compared to weekends.

Keep an eye out for special deals and seasonal promotions by regularly visiting the airline's official website. Subscribing to their newsletter is a smart way to receive direct updates on flash sales and discounts for routes connecting to their hub in Tunis. This ensures you never miss an opportunity to save on your next journey.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of online check-in. This service typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled flight, allowing you to confirm your presence and download your boarding pass to your mobile device. This simple step can save you valuable time at the airport, helping you avoid long queues at the check-in counters.

Selecting your seat early is crucial for a comfortable flight. You can often choose your preferred spot during the booking process or while checking in online. Whether you prefer the view from a window seat or the convenience of an aisle seat, locking in your choice early ensures you sit exactly where you want.

For added convenience, consider downloading the airline's mobile app if available. It serves as a handy travel assistant, letting you manage your booking, check flight status in real-time, and access your travel documents effortlessly. Finally, always remember to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected cancellations or baggage delays, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

The story of Tunis Air began in 1948, when the company was established to facilitate air transport for passengers and mail between Tunisia and international destinations. Originally founded with the support of the Tunisian government and Air France, the airline commenced operations with a modest fleet of Douglas DC-3 aircraft. These early years were focused on establishing a reliable air bridge across the Mediterranean, primarily connecting the airline's home base in Tunis with key French cities such as Marseille and Paris. The iconic "Gazelle" logo, which remains the airline's symbol today, was adopted early on, representing the grace and speed of the carrier’s service.

A major turning point in the airline's history occurred in the 1960s with the dawn of the jet age. Tunis Air modernized its operations by introducing the Sud Aviation Caravelle, a move that significantly reduced flight times and enhanced passenger comfort. This period marked the airline's transition into a fully independent national flag carrier following the country's independence. The network quickly expanded beyond France to include other major European hubs, such as Frankfurt am Main and Rome, solidifying the carrier's role as a crucial link between North Africa and Europe.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Tunis Air focused on fleet renewal and route expansion to meet the growing demand for tourism in Tunisia. The airline gradually retired its older Boeing 727 and 737 aircraft, shifting its strategy towards a predominantly Airbus fleet. This modernization allowed for increased capacity and efficiency, enabling the launch of new routes to the Middle East, including regular services to Jeddah, catering to both business travelers and pilgrims. The airline also strengthened its regional presence, connecting the capital to neighboring cities like Algiers and Casablanca.

In recent years, Tunis Air has continued to evolve by integrating modern aircraft technology into its operations. The induction of the Airbus A330 for long-haul and high-density routes and the A320neo for improved fuel efficiency highlights the company's commitment to sustainability and passenger comfort. Today, the airline stands as a symbol of Tunisian aviation heritage, continuously adapting its services to maintain its status as a bridge between cultures while bringing tourists from cities like London and Geneva to the sunny shores of Tunisia.