SkyUp Airlines Review [2024]: Is it reliable for budget airfare?

To have a smooth experience, it's critical to book with a reliable airline. Cut the hassle of booking flights and avoid disappointment by opting for an airline that guarantees a seamless flight without last-minute disruptions and delays. Low-cost airlines like Wizz Air and Air Europa also save you money, so you have more to spend on fun and gifts!

Today I have a new airline under my review spotlight, which can be a hit or miss depending on its features and facilities. To discover more, stay with me until the end of the article to hear my take and final verdict about this airline!

What is SkyUp Airlines?

SkyUp Airlines is a Ukrainian carrier based in Kyiv. The airline operates on a hybrid model, offering charter and standard low-cost flights. It was founded in June 2017 and has been operating since May 2018. The airline's route spread over Europe, the Middle East, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Africa.

SkyUp Air carriers aim to make air transport more affordable for a growing percentage of Ukrainians. The company's objective is to elevate Ukrainian commercial flights to a new level of excellence and advancement. Notably, the airline hit the news for allowing its female hostesses to ditch their high heels and pencil skirts in favor of sneakers and trousers.

How many aircraft does its fleet contain?

SkyUp's fleet currently consists of 11 standard-sized aircraft:

• Nine Boeing 737-800 NG planes with a total seating range of 189 people.
• Two Boeing 737-900 ER planes with a passenger capacity of 215 people.

How to book a flight with SkyUp Airlines?

To schedule a SkyUp flight booking, visit their online website and book a flight:

• Select if it's a round trip, one-way or multi-city trip.
• Specify the number of passengers, including adults, children, and infants.
• Choose from economy, business, and premium class options.
• Select the place where you'll take off from.
• Select your destination.
• Enter the departure and return dates.

Note: as of 24 February 2022, SkyUp has temporarily suspended commercial operations due to the war in Ukraine. Currently, it's only offering charter, wet lease, humanitarian, and evacuation flights. Hopefully, the carrier will be back on track soon.

SkyUp Airlines' Features

Want to know what to expect when you fly SkyUp? Here are some of its policies and services.

Cancellation policy

SkyUp Airlines has implemented a 24-hour cancellation policy. In response to passengers' needs and unforeseeable circumstances, you can also request your refund online without contacting SkyUp. 

According to this policy, passengers can cancel their flight up to 24 hours prior to its scheduled departure time. After which, the airline will issue a full refund if bookings are made at least one week before the scheduled departure of your flight. SkyUp Airlines has reserved the right to cancel flights within 24 hours.

Baggage allowance

SkyUp passengers may bring one item of cabin baggage and one personal item, such as a backpack, zippered pouch, or laptop bag, on board. Your carry-on luggage should fit in the overhead containers or underneath the seat next to you.

Besides unusually-shaped items that fit in the airlines' overhead cabin space or under-seat space, carry-on hand luggage should try to stay within 114 cm in collective dimensions. Its checked luggage policy includes one bag of up to 23/32kg, depending on your flight and carriage class.

Extra baggage

When flying with SkyUp Airlines, there are extra luggage fees for exceeding size, weight, and dimension restrictions. In general, the fees do vary by geographical area. For more details and the exact amount charged, please visit the SkyUp website.

Other special cargo

SkyUp Airlines accepts various sports equipment and unique cargo on its flights. Because of its size, certain items may be considered standard carry-on bags. On the other hand, certain items will be considered overweight. For which the Airlines will levy fees and put restrictions. 

Pet policy

Cats and dogs can be transported in the cabin for a fee. The fee for international travel is slightly more than for domestic flights. Birds are also permitted, but only on domestic routes. Other animals and dogs, cats, and birds can also travel in the cargo hold. The pets should fit inside a package box measuring and weighing not more than 55 x 40 x 20 cm and 10 kg in total.

Is SkyUp Airlines worth it?

Keeping in mind its customer services, smooth refunds, and pre-defined baggage allowances, SkyUp seems a reasonable choice. But, if you're planning to travel internationally, then consider other airline options for your trip, as it's not operating commercial flights at present.

Once the war is over, SkyUp Airlines intends to raise SkyUp's market share in Ukraine to 50%, expand the fleet by 5-7 airplanes, establish new bases, and introduce new services. But, for now, the carrier is grounded, meaning it's not top of our list for airlines to book. And stay tuned for our updated SkyUp review!

In the meantime, head over to SkyScanner to book popular European routes! Flights from London to Paphos, Greece, New York, and Dubai are hot options!

Our rating: 4/ 5

Pros:

• Low-cost 
• Relaxed baggage allowance
• Smooth cancellations and refund

Cons:

• Customer care complaints
• Unexpectant flight cancellations
• Inefficient email handling

Considering SkyUp for your next trip?

SkyUp provides decent services on a budget. Consider flying with them if you're low on funds or traveling solo domestically when operations resume. Otherwise, there are plenty of other options available in the market.

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