About Azimuth Airlines
Azimuth Airlines is a Russian regional carrier operating under IATA code A4 and ICAO code AZO. The airline is headquartered in Rostov-on-Don, Rostov Oblast, and is based at Platov International Airport (ROV). Founded in 2017, Azimuth was established to fill the gap left after Donavia merged with Rossiya Airlines in 2016, which left Rostov-on-Don without a home-based carrier. The airline was co-founded by Vitaly Vantsev, co-owner of Vnukovo International Airport, alongside Pavel Udod and Pavel Yekzhanov. Azimuth received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Russian aviation authorities on 18 August 2017 and commenced regular scheduled flights on 21 September 2017.
Azimuth focuses on connecting cities across southern Russia, the North Caucasus, and Central Russia through affordable, comfortable regional air travel. Over the years, the airline has grown to become one of Russia's leading regional carriers, transporting more than 9.5 million passengers in its first six and a half years of operation.
Airline Overview and History
Azimuth Airlines has a relatively short but impressive history marked by rapid growth and strategic expansion. Below is a timeline of the airline's key milestones:
- February 2017 — Azimuth re-registered as a legal entity in Rostov-on-Don after initially registering in Krasnodar.
- March 2017 — Contracts were signed for the delivery of four Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) regional jets.
- 7 July 2017 — The airline received its first SSJ100 aircraft (tail number RA-89079).
- 18 August 2017 — Azimuth obtained its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Russian government.
- 9 September 2017 — The first commercial flight carried the Krasnodar FC football team for a UEFA match.
- 21 September 2017 — Regular scheduled passenger services commenced, with the inaugural route being Rostov-on-Don to Moscow.
- 7 December 2017 — All operations were transferred from the old Rostov-on-Don Airport to the newly opened Platov International Airport.
- 2018 — Azimuth played a key role in providing air connectivity during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as Rostov-on-Don was one of the host cities.
- 2023 — The airline carried more than 2.3 million passengers, a 21% increase compared to 2022.
Today, Azimuth operates from three main hubs: Platov International Airport in Rostov-on-Don, Pashkovsky Airport in Krasnodar, and Mineralnye Vody Airport. The airline serves over 60 domestic and international destinations across Russia and neighbouring countries.
Fleet and Aircraft
Azimuth Airlines operates an all-Sukhoi Superjet 100 (SSJ100) fleet, making it one of the largest operators of this Russian-built regional jet. Key details about the fleet include:
- Aircraft type: Sukhoi Superjet 100-95B and 100-95LR (long range)
- Fleet size: Approximately 20 aircraft
- Configuration: Economy Class and Comfort Class seating, with a typical capacity of around 100 passengers per aircraft
- Range: The SSJ100 is designed for short- to medium-haul routes, with the LR variant capable of covering distances up to 4,578 km
The SSJ100 features a spacious cabin with 3-2 seating in Comfort Class and 3-3 seating in Economy Class. The aircraft is equipped with modern avionics and meets international safety standards. Azimuth has maintained high utilisation rates for its Superjet fleet, earning recognition as one of the leading operators of the type in Russia.
Top Flight Routes
Azimuth Airlines primarily serves destinations across Russia and selected international routes. The airline connects key cities in southern Russia, the North Caucasus, and beyond. Popular routes include:
- Rostov-on-Don to Moscow — The airline's flagship route, connecting southern Russia to the capital with multiple daily frequencies.
- Krasnodar to Moscow — A high-demand domestic route linking the Krasnodar region to Moscow.
- Rostov-on-Don to Saint Petersburg — Connecting two of Russia's most important cities.
- Mineralnye Vody to Moscow — Serving the popular spa and resort region of the North Caucasus.
- Rostov-on-Don to Sochi — A popular leisure route to Russia's Black Sea coast.
- Krasnodar to Kaliningrad — Linking southern Russia to Russia's westernmost exclave on the Baltic Sea.
Internationally, Azimuth has operated services to destinations such as Tbilisi (Georgia), Almaty (Kazakhstan), and select seasonal routes. If you are travelling from Malaysia to Russia or connecting through Russian cities, you may find convenient options by searching on Traveloka. For popular Malaysian departure routes, explore flights from Kuala Lumpur to Dubai for onward travel to Rostov-on-Don and other Azimuth destinations.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Azimuth Airlines provides a structured baggage policy that varies depending on the fare type purchased. Here is a summary of the standard allowances:
Cabin Baggage
- Weight: Up to 10 kg
- Dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm maximum
- Personal item: One additional personal item (handbag, laptop bag, etc.) up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm and 5 kg is allowed free of charge
Checked Baggage
- Standard allowance: 1 piece up to 23 kg (sum of three dimensions not exceeding 203 cm)
- Basic fares: May not include free checked baggage; passengers can purchase additional baggage during booking, online check-in, or at the airport
Excess and Additional Baggage
If your baggage exceeds the free allowance, you may purchase additional baggage at check-in or through the airline's online services. Fees vary depending on the route and are calculated at the time of purchase. It is recommended to add extra baggage during the booking process for the best rates.
Prohibited Items
Standard aviation restrictions apply. Explosives, flammable substances, toxic materials, compressed gases, and other dangerous goods are strictly prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage. Sharp objects, large liquids, and aerosols must be packed in checked luggage in accordance with international regulations.
Check-in Guide
Azimuth Airlines offers multiple check-in options to ensure a smooth travel experience:
Online Check-in
- Opens: 24 hours before scheduled departure
- Closes: 3 hours before departure
- How: Visit the Azimuth Airlines website or use the airline's mobile application to check in, select your seat, and download your boarding pass
Airport Check-in
- Domestic flights: Check-in counters open approximately 2 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before departure
- International flights: Check-in counters open approximately 3 hours before departure and close 40 minutes before departure
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport with sufficient time, especially during peak travel seasons. You can also check the latest updates on your flight status through Traveloka's Flight Status page.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Azimuth Airlines offers two cabin configurations on its Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircraft:
Comfort Class
- Seating: 3-2 configuration with wider seats and extra legroom at the front of the cabin
- Benefits: Free seat selection, priority boarding, enhanced baggage allowance, and complimentary meal service on select routes
Economy Class
- Seating: 3-3 configuration with comfortable leather seats
- Benefits: Standard baggage allowance (varies by fare type), buy-on-board meal and beverage service
In-flight, Azimuth provides a buy-on-board service where passengers can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages from a curated menu. The airline also offers in-flight shopping for a selection of goods. While the SSJ100 does not feature individual seatback entertainment screens, the relatively short flight durations on regional routes mean passengers typically do not require extensive entertainment options.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Azimuth Airlines accommodates a variety of passenger needs with the following policies:
Children and Infants
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an adult's lap free of charge or at a discounted fare with a separate seat. A valid birth certificate or passport is required.
- Children (2-12 years): Require their own seat and a valid identity document. Child fares may be available depending on the route.
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers beyond 36 weeks of pregnancy may be restricted from flying. A medical certificate confirming fitness to fly is recommended for passengers in advanced stages of pregnancy.
- It is advisable to contact the airline or your booking agent before travel if you are more than 28 weeks pregnant.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair assistance and special mobility support are available upon request at least 48 hours before departure.
- Passengers requiring medical equipment or oxygen supply should notify the airline in advance.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children aged 5 to 12 may travel as unaccompanied minors with prior arrangement through the airline. An unaccompanied minor service fee applies.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Azimuth Airlines operates the A+ Loyalty Programme, which rewards frequent travellers with benefits and savings on future flights. Key features of the programme include:
- A-Rubles: Members earn A-rubles on every flight, which can be redeemed to pay for future tickets and additional services such as extra baggage or seat selection.
- Double Accrual: Loyalty members enjoy double accrual of A-rubles on eligible routes and promotional periods.
- Seat Selection: A+ members can select their preferred seat for a nominal fee.
- Late Check-in Extension: Members who are running late may be eligible for an extended check-in window.
To join the A+ Loyalty Programme, passengers can register through the Azimuth Airlines website or mobile app. Membership is free and benefits begin accumulating from the first eligible flight.
Why Book Azimuth Airlines Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes it easy and convenient to search, compare, and book Azimuth Airlines flights. Here are some reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Comprehensive search: Compare Azimuth Airlines fares alongside other airlines to find the best deal for your journey.
- Flexible payment: Pay with credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, or popular Malaysian e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
- Instant e-ticket: Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app.
- 24/7 customer support: Get assistance at any time through Traveloka's customer service team via chat, email, or phone.
- Price alerts: Set up price alerts to be notified when Azimuth Airlines fares drop on your preferred route.
- Secure booking: Traveloka uses advanced encryption to protect your personal and payment information.
- Bundle deals: Save more by bundling your flight with hotel bookings on Traveloka for a complete travel package.
Azimuth Airlines Promotions and Deals on Traveloka
Traveloka regularly features promotions and exclusive deals on Azimuth Airlines flights. To make the most of these offers, keep the following tips in mind:
- Check the Traveloka Promos page: Visit the Traveloka app or website regularly to browse the latest flight deals and promotional codes that can be applied to Azimuth Airlines bookings.
- Subscribe to notifications: Enable push notifications on the Traveloka app to receive real-time alerts about flash sales and limited-time offers on Azimuth Airlines routes.
- Use promo codes: Azimuth Airlines occasionally releases promotional codes for discounted fares. Apply these codes during checkout on Traveloka to enjoy additional savings.
- Book in advance: Fares tend to be lower when booked weeks or months ahead of the travel date. Plan your trip early to lock in the best price.
- Travel during off-peak periods: Flying on weekdays or during non-holiday periods typically offers more affordable fares compared to weekends and peak seasons.
- Combine with Traveloka Points: Earn and redeem Traveloka Points on eligible bookings for additional discounts.
How to Book Azimuth Airlines Tickets on Traveloka
Booking Azimuth Airlines flights on Traveloka is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
- Visit Traveloka: Open the Traveloka app or go to www.traveloka.com and select the Flights section.
- Enter your travel details: Input your departure city, destination, travel dates, number of passengers, and preferred cabin class.
- Search and compare: Browse the search results and use filters to sort by price, departure time, or airline to find Azimuth Airlines flights.
- Select your flight: Choose the Azimuth Airlines flight that best suits your schedule and budget.
- Fill in passenger details: Enter the required passenger information, including full name (as per passport or ID), contact details, and any special requests.
- Choose add-ons: Add optional extras such as travel insurance, extra baggage, or seat selection if available.
- Make payment: Select your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or e-wallet (Touch 'n Go, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay) — and complete the transaction.
- Receive confirmation: Your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your email and will also appear in the Traveloka app under My Bookings.
With Traveloka, you can manage your booking, check flight status, and access customer support all in one place. Start searching for Azimuth Airlines flights today and enjoy a seamless booking experience.