Volaris Costa Rica

Volaris Costa Rica is the dynamic "wing" of a major Mexican aviation group, designed to make travel across Central America and beyond accessible to everyone. Founded in 2016, this airline quickly gained popularity thanks to its budget model, allowing tourists to explore the region's volcanoes, beaches, and colonial cities without unnecessary costs. Based at the strategically important Juan Santamaría Airport, the carrier serves as a reliable bridge connecting picturesque Costa Rica with key destinations in Mexico and the USA.

History and Mission

As a subsidiary of Volaris (Mexico), the Costa Rican division has adopted the successful ultra-low-cost model of the parent brand. The company's main mission is the democratization of the skies: offering minimal fares with the flexibility to add services on a "pay only for what you use" basis. This allows passengers to save significantly by opting out of unnecessary extras.

Flight Geography

The airline's route network focuses on strengthening ties between countries in the region. A significant portion of flights is directed to neighbouring states, such as Guatemala City and San Salvador, making the airline a convenient choice for short regional trips.

For travellers heading north, Volaris Costa Rica offers direct flights to Mexico. Popular destinations include the resort city of Cancun, the cultural capital Guadalajara, and the bustling metropolis of Mexico City. Connections with the United States are also actively developing: tourists can take advantage of flights to sunny Orlando, lively Miami Beach, or head to the West Coast to Los Angeles.

Fleet and Safety

The company's air fleet consists of modern and fuel-efficient liners from the Airbus A319 and A320 family. Using a unified fleet of aircraft allows for high standards of maintenance and reduced operating costs, which is directly reflected in ticket prices. As part of a large aviation holding, Volaris Costa Rica adheres to strict international safety protocols, regularly undergoing audits and quality checks.

You can contact Volaris Costa Rica representatives in several convenient ways. The carrier is actively developing digital service channels, so many issues are resolved fastest via messengers or the mobile app, although classic telephone support lines are also available for passengers.

Official Website

The main source of information and platform for managing bookings is the company's global website: www.volaris.com.

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.volaris.com
• Customer Support (Costa Rica): +506 4000 0229
• Customer Support (USA): +1 855 865 2747 (toll-free line)
• Customer Support (Mexico): +52 55 1102 8000
• WhatsApp (Vane Chatbot): +52 55 5898 8599 (for quick resolution of issues and flight check-in)
• Feedback: To send requests, complaints, or suggestions, it is recommended to use the special support portal on the website (section "Your Experience" / tuexperiencia.volaris.com).
• Mobile App: "Volaris" (available on App Store and Google Play) — allows you to buy tickets, check in, and track flight status.

Social Media

The airline maintains active pages on social networks, where it publishes news about promotions and schedule changes. Often, you can get a consultation via direct messages:

• Facebook: @viajavolaris
• X (Twitter): @viajaVolaris
• Instagram: @viajavolaris

Local Offices

Like many low-cost carriers, Volaris Costa Rica does not have a wide network of city sales offices. The company's main physical presence is concentrated at departure airports.

• Main Service Counter: Located at the base airport Juan Santamaría, city of Alajuela. Check-in counters open several hours before flight departure.

24/7 Support

Contact centre telephone lines and WhatsApp support operate 24/7, ensuring assistance to passengers at any time of day, regardless of the time zone.

Please note: contact details and phone numbers may change. We recommend checking current information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Travelling with a low-cost carrier requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to baggage. Volaris Costa Rica's (Q6) policy is built on the principle of "pay only for what you carry". This allows for significant savings on tickets if you travel light, but requires advance planning for those bringing large suitcases. To avoid unexpected surcharges at the airport, familiarise yourself with the carrier's current rules.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

Depending on the selected fare (usually Zero, Basic, or Plus), the number of bags allowed in the cabin may vary. Volaris clearly distinguishes between a "personal item" and "standard carry-on baggage":

• Personal Item: Included in all fares without exception. This can be a handbag, a laptop backpack, or a small briefcase. The main condition is that the item must easily fit under the seat in front of you. Maximum dimensions should usually not exceed 35 x 45 x 20 cm.
• Carry-on Bag: Included in more expensive fares or paid for separately. This is a small wheeled suitcase or large bag that is placed in the overhead bin. Standard dimensions are up to 55 x 40 x 25 cm.

Important: Watch the total weight carefully. The airline often sets a limit on the combined weight of two items (personal item + carry-on), which must not exceed 10 kg for basic fares or 20 kg for extended options. We recommend weighing your bags at home before leaving.

Checked Baggage

If your belongings do not fit in the cabin, you can check them into the cargo hold. Volaris Costa Rica's policy regarding checked baggage is fairly loyal but strict on excess weight.

• Standard Weight: Usually, one paid suitcase can weigh up to 25 kg (about 55 lbs). This is slightly more than the standard 20-23 kg of many European carriers.
• Dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 158 cm.
• Cost: The price for baggage is not fixed. It depends on the route, season, and, most importantly, the time of payment. Adding baggage when buying a ticket online is the cheapest option. Paying at the check-in counter at the airport, for example, before departing to Alajuela, will cost significantly more.

Excess Baggage and Fees

Any excess weight or dimensions are subject to fines. If your suitcase weighs between 26 and 35 kg, you will have to pay for the excess weight. Baggage heavier than 35 kg or exceeding permissible dimensions is most often processed as cargo and requires special procedures. It is strictly recommended not to exceed the limit of 45 kg per piece — such baggage will simply not be accepted for carriage.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Costa Rica is a paradise for surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, so the transport of special equipment is in high demand here. Volaris Costa Rica allows the transport of sports equipment (surfboards, bicycles, diving gear, golf bags) and musical instruments for an additional fee.

Conditions for transporting non-standard baggage:

• The item must be securely packed (preferably in a hard case).
• The total weight must not exceed 25 kg (an additional fee applies if exceeded).
• The maximum length of the item for narrow-body aircraft is usually limited (check exact figures on the website, but typically it is around 2-2.5 metres).
• For small musical instruments, it is possible to purchase a separate seat in the cabin.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Strict restrictions apply to ensure flight safety. If you are flying, for example, from a popular shopping destination like Miami Beach, remember the packing rules for your purchases.

• Prohibited in Carry-on: Sharp and cutting objects (knives, scissors), liquids in containers over 100 ml, work tools.
• Prohibited in Checked Baggage: Lithium batteries and power banks (these can only be carried in carry-on!), electronic cigarettes, flammable substances, explosives.
• Food Restrictions: On flights between countries (for example, to Guatemala City or the USA), customs bans apply to the import of fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, and meat products.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, follow these simple recommendations:

1. Pay in advance: Always add baggage via the website or app at least 4 hours before departure. The price difference compared to paying at the airport can reach 50%.
2. Use soft bags: Backpacks or soft bags are better suited for carry-on luggage — they are easier to fit under the seat or in the overhead bin than hard cases.
3. Valuables with you: Carry money, documents, jewellery, and fragile electronics (laptops, cameras) only in your carry-on luggage. The airline is not responsible for their safety in the cargo hold.
4. Labelling: Be sure to attach a tag with your name and phone number to your suitcase. This will speed up the search if baggage is delayed, which sometimes happens on connecting flights, for example, via Mexico City.

Volaris Costa Rica understands that pets are an important part of the family, so it offers flexible conditions for travelling with dogs and cats. The carrier allows animals both in the aircraft cabin and in the baggage hold, ensuring the safety and comfort of furry passengers on flights across Central America, to Mexico, and the USA.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

This option is ideal for small pets accustomed to travelling close to their owner. You can take an animal with you if the flight departs, for example, from Alajuela airport, and the following conditions are met:

• Carrier Dimensions: Maximum dimensions — 44 x 30 x 19 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier must not exceed 10 kg.
• Permitted Animals: Cats and dogs only (at least 4 months old).
• Carrier Requirements: It can be soft or hard, but must close completely and fit under the seat in front of you. The animal must be able to stand up and turn around.
• Limit: One animal per passenger.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

If your pet is too large for the cabin, it can travel in a special climate-controlled compartment. This is a frequent choice for long-distance flights, for example, to Mexico City.

• Cage Requirements: The container must be rigid (plastic), with a metal door and a secure lock. The design must prevent escape.
• Weight and Size: The combined weight of the animal and cage must not exceed 45 kg. The sum of the three dimensions of the cage (length + width + height) — up to 158 cm.
• Comfort: The cage must be clean, waterproof, and ventilated. Wheels must be removed or blocked.
• Labelling: The cage must display the owner's details and a "Live Animals" label.

As Cargo (Volaris Cargo)

For particularly large animals or unaccompanied pets, the cargo transport service is used.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 45 kg.
• Special Requirements: Reinforced cages, special processing through the cargo terminal.
• Booking Procedure: It is necessary to contact the Volaris Cargo department in advance, as the acceptance procedure differs from standard passenger check-in.

Necessary Documents

Preparing paperwork is a critically important stage, especially for international flights, for example, to Guatemala City or the USA.

• Veterinary Passport: Original with owner details and animal description.
• Health Certificate: A certificate issued by a veterinarian (usually no earlier than 5 days before departure for international flights).
• Vaccinations: Valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days and no more than 1 year before the trip).
• Deworming: Record of recent treatment against parasites (internal and external).
• International Certificates: Sanitary export certificate (CZE) or other forms required by the country of arrival (e.g., CDC for the USA).

Service Costs

The pet transport service is not included in the ticket price and is paid additionally.

• In the Cabin: The most budget-friendly option. The price is fixed when purchasing online; the cost is higher at the airport.
• In the Baggage Hold: The cost is higher than in the cabin. Depends on the season and route.
• Dynamic Pricing: Adding the service during the ticket booking stage is always cheaper than paying before departure.

Preparation Tips

• Cage Acclimatisation: Introduce your pet to the carrier a few weeks before the flight to reduce stress.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness, but offer a little water.
• Identification: Attach a tag with the pet's name and your phone number to the collar.
• Activity: Walk the dog well before sending it to the airport.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds (in Hold): Volaris Costa Rica does not accept brachycephalic dog and cat breeds (snub-nosed, e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) for transport in the baggage hold due to the risk of breathing problems. They can only be transported in the cabin if weight and size permit.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, spiders, wild birds, and other exotic species are not permitted.
• Service Dogs: Transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided there are appropriate documents regarding training and the passenger's disability.

Please note: rules for importing animals into different countries (Mexico, USA, Guatemala) may vary. We strongly recommend checking current requirements on the official Volaris Costa Rica website and at the consulate of the destination country before purchasing tickets.

The Volaris Costa Rica (Q6) loyalty programme differs from traditional schemes adopted by major network airlines. Instead of accumulating miles to gain "silver" or "gold" status, the carrier uses a modern hybrid model focused on instant savings and flexible use of points. The basis of this system is the v.club subscription, giving access to exclusive fares, and the Spin Premia rewards programme, allowing points accumulation for every purchase.

Membership Levels (v.club Subscription)

Since Volaris operates in the low-cost segment, "status" here is acquired through a subscription that pays for itself from the very first flight. Instead of ranks like "Gold" or "Platinum", members choose a subscription level depending on who they travel with:

• v.club Individual: The basic level for solo travellers. Unlocks access to the lowest fares (including exclusive promotions) and discounts on baggage.
• v.club Duo: An extended level allowing privileges and discounts to be shared with one companion. Ideal for couples.
• v.club Amigos y Familia (Friends and Family): The maximum level, giving the right to buy tickets at club prices for a group of up to 9 people. An excellent choice for large family trips to resorts such as Cancun.

How to Earn Points

The accumulation part of the programme is implemented through the Spin Premia partner network. The accrual system is simple and transparent:

• Flights: Points are awarded not for distance, but for the amount spent. You receive a certain percentage of points (usually 1 point for every 10-20 currency units) from the cost of the fare and additional services.
• Partner Network: A unique feature of the programme is the ability to earn points for daily purchases across a wide network of partners (for example, in OXXO stores), which is especially relevant for residents of Mexico and Central America.
• Credit Cards: Co-branded bank cards (e.g., Volaris INVEX) allow you to receive an increased number of points for any transactions.

How to Spend Points

The main advantage of the programme is the absence of restrictions on using accumulated funds ("blackout dates").

• Paying for Tickets: Points can be used to pay for the full cost of a flight or part of it, paying the difference in cash.
• Additional Services: Use points to pay for baggage, seat selection, or pet transport.
• Any Destinations: Points are valid across the entire route network, whether it's a short flight to San Salvador or a trip to the USA.

Alliance Participation

Volaris Costa Rica is not part of global alliances like Star Alliance or SkyTeam. However, the carrier actively develops its own partnerships:

• Key Partner: Frontier Airlines (USA). Thanks to a code-share agreement, passengers can book single tickets with convenient connections between the route networks of both companies.

How to Join

Joining the loyalty programme is extremely simple:

• Registration: Create an account on the official website volaris.com or in the mobile app.
• Activating v.club: A subscription can be purchased directly during the ticket booking process — the system will automatically suggest adding membership if it lowers the total cost of the order.
• Spin Premia: To earn points, simply register in the Spin Premia programme and provide your membership number with every ticket purchase.

Travelling with Volaris Costa Rica (Q6) is a classic low-cost flight experience, where the main priority is to get you from point A to point B as cost-effectively and safely as possible. The airline operates on an "ultra-low-cost" model, which means there is no division into Business and Economy classes in the traditional sense. Instead, the carrier offers a single standard of service with the ability to flexibly adjust comfort to the personal needs of each passenger.

Travel Classes

Only Economy Class is available on board Volaris Costa Rica aircraft. The entire cabin is a single space without partitions or curtains. However, this does not mean passengers have no choice. The level of comfort and included services depend on the purchased fare (service package, such as Zero, Basic, or Plus) and the selected seat in the cabin.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The airline's fleet consists of Airbus A319 and A320 family aircraft with a 3-3 seat layout (three seats on the left, an aisle, three seats on the right).

• Standard Seats: These are modern slimline seats designed to save space. The distance between rows (seat pitch) is about 71–74 cm. Seat backs usually have a limited recline angle or are fixed, which is typical for short regional flights, for example, to Guatemala City.
• Premium Seats: For those who value personal space, seats in the front rows and at emergency exits are available. There is significantly more legroom here, which is especially relevant on longer flights, such as the flight to Los Angeles. Selection of such a seat incurs an additional fee.

Food and Beverage

Free meals are not included in the price of Volaris Costa Rica tickets. The "Entre Nubes" (Between the Clouds) concept operates on board — a menu of paid snacks and drinks. During the flight, flight attendants will offer you:

• Sandwiches, croissants, and instant noodles.
• Snacks: crisps, nuts, chocolate, and biscuits.
• Hot drinks (coffee, tea) and cold drinks (juices, sodas, water).
• Alcoholic beverages: beer and spirits (tequila, whiskey, etc.).

Tip: Payment on board is most often accepted only by bank cards. We recommend eating a substantial meal before departure or taking a light snack with you if you are flying from Alajuela airport.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Like most budget airlines, Volaris does not equip seats with individual multimedia screens. Wi-Fi is also generally unavailable on board.

• BYOD Format (Bring Your Own Device): The airline encourages the use of personal gadgets. We recommend downloading films, music, or books to your smartphone or tablet in advance.
• Device Charging: USB ports or power sockets are not available on all aircraft, so having a fully charged power bank (in carry-on luggage!) will be useful, especially if you are flying to Mexico City or other distant cities.

Special Services

Despite the budget model, Volaris Costa Rica cares for all categories of passengers and provides necessary assistance services:

• Passengers with Disabilities: Free assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking, as well as the option to transport a wheelchair. A request for the service must be made at least 48 hours before departure via the call centre.
• Children and Infants: Infants under 2 years old can fly on their parents' lap for a minimal fee. For older children, the "Volaris te Acompaña" service is available — accompaniment of minors (from 5 to 17 years old) travelling without adults. Airline staff will look after the child from the check-in counter until handover to the meeting party at the arrival airport, for example, in the city of Orlando.
• Pregnant Women: Travel is permitted without certificates up to the 26th week. At later stages (up to 35 weeks), a medical certificate will be required.

The route network of Volaris Costa Rica (Q6) is built around its strategic hub in the city of Alajuela, located near the country's capital. The carrier ensures regular and affordable connections between Costa Rica and key tourism and business centres in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and the USA.

Travelling with a budget airline like Volaris Costa Rica requires a special approach to planning. To ensure the flight goes smoothly and the final ticket cost remains low, it is important to know a few nuances of how low-cost carriers operate. We have collected proven tips for you that will help save time and money.

Best Time to Book and Find Low Prices

Volaris's pricing model is dynamic: the fewer seats remain, the higher the price. To catch the most favourable fare, follow these recommendations:

• Book in advance: The optimal time to buy tickets is 3–4 months before departure. Purchasing a ticket less than 14 days before the flight often costs significantly more.
• Watch for promotions: The airline often holds sales on Tuesdays and on national holidays. Subscribe to the email newsletter to be the first to know about discounts on popular routes, for example, to Guatemala City or sunny Cancun.
• Date flexibility: If your plans allow, check prices for adjacent dates. Sometimes departing mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is cheaper than on weekends.

Online Check-in: Save Time and Money

Volaris Costa Rica actively motivates passengers to use digital services. Checking in at the airport counter may be a paid service depending on your fare, so:

• Check in online: Web check-in opens 72 hours and closes 1 hour before departure for international flights. It is free and allows you to avoid queues at the airline's hub — the airport in the city of Alajuela.
• Print or save: Be sure to print your boarding pass or save the mobile version. An additional fee may be charged for printing the pass by an airline employee at the airport.

Seat Selection on the Plane

In basic fares, a seat is assigned by the system automatically at random. If you are travelling as a group or family, there is a risk that you will be seated in different parts of the cabin.

• For short flights: If you are not flying far, for example, to San Salvador, you can save money and trust the system's random selection.
• For long flights: On longer flights, such as the flight to Los Angeles, comfort plays a big role. We recommend paying for seat selection in advance when booking — it is cheaper than upgrading at the airport. Seats in the front rows ensure a quicker exit from the aircraft upon arrival.

Volaris Mobile App

The official airline app is an indispensable tool for the modern tourist. It allows you to fully manage your trip without paper documents:

• Storing boarding passes: Your tickets are always at hand, even without internet access.
• Flight status: The app sends real-time notifications about boarding commencement, gate numbers, or flight delays.
• Adding services: If you realise you have bought more souvenirs than planned, you can purchase extra baggage via the app literally on the way to the airport, which is still cheaper than paying at the counter.

Travel Insurance

Since the cheapest Volaris fares are usually non-refundable, it is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance.

• Cancellation protection: Choose a policy covering trip cancellation due to illness or other valid reasons.
• Medical insurance: This is mandatory when flying abroad, especially to the USA (for example, to Orlando or Miami), where medical care is very expensive.
• Baggage delay: Given that low-cost carriers operate with short connections, baggage insurance will give you peace of mind and compensation in case of delay.

The history of Volaris Costa Rica (IATA code: Q6) began in 2016, when the company was founded as a subsidiary of the major Mexican low-cost carrier Volaris. The main goal of creating the new carrier was to expand the budget air travel model to the Central American market, where at that time there was a shortage of affordable offers for tourists and locals. The airline chose the strategically important city of Alajuela as its main hub, home to the Juan Santamaría International Airport, serving the country's metropolitan region.

In the early years of its existence, the airline focused on obtaining an operator's certificate and building a route network within the region. An important milestone was the launch of scheduled flights connecting Costa Rica with neighbouring states. This was a real breakthrough for travellers wishing to visit cities such as Guatemala City or San Salvador without the substantial costs typical of traditional airlines at the time.

As Volaris Costa Rica strengthened its market position, it began active expansion to the north, opening flights to Mexico and the USA. A significant stage of development was the inclusion of flights to Mexico City in the schedule, as well as to popular tourist centres such as Cancun and Guadalajara. Expanding flight geography to the United States allowed Central America to be connected with key American cities, including Orlando, Los Angeles, and Miami Beach, which significantly simplified logistics for tourists.

The airline's fleet was formed with an emphasis on standardisation and economic efficiency. The basis of the fleet consists of modern Airbus A320 family liners. Choosing these aircraft allows the carrier to maintain high standards of safety and fuel efficiency. Today, Volaris Costa Rica continues to introduce innovations in digital passenger service, offering flexible fares and convenient online services, remaining true to its mission — making air travel accessible to a wide audience.