
TAB Airlines operates under IATA code 2L and ICAO code OAW, with its headquarters in Kloten, Switzerland, near Zurich Airport. The airline was originally established as Odette Airways before being rebranded as TAB Airlines in 2003, launching commercial flights on 28 November 2003. Fully owned by Swiss businessman Martin Ebner through the private equity firm Patinex AG since March 2006, TAB Airlines has grown into one of Europe's leading regional carriers, specialising in short- and medium-haul flights across the continent.
TAB Airlines operates primarily under a long-term ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) wet-lease agreement with Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), a member of the Star Alliance network. This partnership enables the airline to serve a wide network of European and Mediterranean destinations from its main base at Zurich Airport (ZRH), with a secondary base at Bern Airport (BRN). In addition to its SWISS partnership, TAB Airlines operates its own branded leisure routes and provides charter services for major tour operators including TUI.
TAB Airlines has a rich history of steady growth and fleet modernisation since its founding in 2003. Key milestones include:
Zurich Airport serves as the airline's primary hub, connecting passengers to approximately 34 European and North African destinations annually. With around 600 employees, TAB Airlines maintains a strong reputation for Swiss quality, punctuality, and reliable service across its entire network.
TAB Airlines operates a modern all-Embraer fleet of 20 regional jet aircraft, making it one of the largest Embraer operators in Europe. The fleet consists of the following types:
The average fleet age is approximately 9.5 years, reflecting the airline's commitment to operating modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. TAB Airlines has also placed orders for three additional Embraer E195-E2 aircraft with five purchase options, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2026. This expansion will grow the E2 fleet from 12 to up to 20 aircraft, gradually replacing the older E190 models.
All aircraft are maintained in accordance with EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) regulations and undergo regular scheduled maintenance checks to ensure the highest safety standards.
TAB Airlines serves a wide network of European and Mediterranean destinations from its Zurich hub. Popular routes include leisure destinations across Southern Europe, North Africa, and seasonal holiday hotspots. Key routes available on Traveloka include:
TAB Airlines also operates domestic Swiss routes including Zurich to Geneva and Zurich to Basel under its SWISS partnership, as well as seasonal leisure routes to destinations such as Larnaca (Cyprus), Hurghada (Egypt), Monastir (Tunisia), Santorini (Greece), and Kittila (Finland) for winter activities.
For Malaysian travellers, TAB Airlines routes offer convenient European connections. You can fly from Kuala Lumpur to TAB Airlines' European destinations with a connecting flight through Zurich or other European hubs. Explore these related routes on Traveloka:
Understanding TAB Airlines' baggage rules before you fly helps you pack efficiently and avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
TAB Airlines follows international aviation security regulations. Dangerous goods, flammable materials, and sharp objects are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage. Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only.
Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure. Check-in counters close between 30 and 60 minutes prior to departure, depending on the airport. A valid passport or government-issued ID is required at check-in.
TAB Airlines offers online check-in from 23 hours up to 3 hours before departure (4 hours before departure at Zurich Airport). Online check-in is not available at all airports due to local stipulations. After completing online check-in, passengers with checked baggage can proceed directly to the baggage drop counter, while hand-luggage-only travellers can head straight to security screening and the departure gate.
TAB Airlines operates an all-economy, single-class cabin across its entire Embraer fleet. Seating capacity ranges from 110 seats on the Embraer E190-E2 to 134 seats on the Embraer E195-E2. All seats feature modern Recaro upholstery with USB charging ports (USB-A and USB-C on E195 aircraft; USB-A on E2 variants), allowing passengers to keep their devices charged throughout the flight.
TAB Airlines provides a complimentary meal or snack on all flights, depending on the time of day and route. Meals are freshly prepared using local Swiss ingredients and presented in attractive meal boxes in the airline's signature red-and-white Swiss colours. Complimentary soft drinks and mineral water are served, while alcoholic beverages such as wine, beer, and sparkling wine are available for purchase on board.
Passengers with dietary requirements can pre-order special meals — including kosher, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options — at no additional cost, up to 72 hours before departure.
As TAB Airlines operates short- to medium-haul European routes, there is no built-in seatback entertainment system. Passengers are encouraged to download content to their personal devices before departure. The USB charging ports at every seat ensure devices stay powered throughout the flight.
TAB Airlines provides wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation. Passengers requiring special assistance are advised to check in at least 2 hours before departure and to pre-book their needs by contacting the airline's Service Centre in advance. Available services include wheelchair assistance, priority seating, and support from trained cabin crew during the flight.
TAB Airlines does not operate its own standalone frequent flyer programme. However, because the airline operates extensively under a codeshare agreement with Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), passengers booking TAB Airlines flights operated on behalf of SWISS may be eligible to earn and redeem Miles & More points through the SWISS and Lufthansa Group loyalty programme.
Miles & More is one of Europe's largest frequent flyer programmes, allowing members to earn miles on qualifying flights and redeem them for award flights, upgrades, and partner services across the Star Alliance network. Check your booking details to confirm whether your specific TAB Airlines flight qualifies for Miles & More accrual.
Booking TAB Airlines flights through Traveloka offers several advantages for Malaysian travellers:
Traveloka regularly features promotions and exclusive deals on TAB Airlines flights to European destinations. Here are some tips to make the most of available offers:
Follow these simple steps to book your TAB Airlines flight on Traveloka:
Save or screenshot your e-ticket for reference at the airport. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel date and that you have any required visas for your European destination.
Flight duration depends on the route. For example, Zurich to London Stansted takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, while Zurich to Palma de Mallorca takes around 2 hours. Check estimated flight times via Flight Status on Traveloka.
You can check your TAB Airlines flight status on Traveloka via the Flight Status page to get real-time updates on departure times, delays, and gate information.