Cheap Czech Airlines Flights

Czech Airlines (ČSA), founded on October 6, 1923, was the national flag carrier of the Czech Republic and one of the world's oldest airlines. Headquartered in Prague, the airline operated flights to over 40 destinations across 22 countries, with its main hub at Václav Havel Airport Prague. In 2001, Czech Airlines became a member of the SkyTeam alliance, enhancing its global connectivity.

Despite its long-standing history, Czech Airlines faced significant challenges in the aviation industry, including increased competition from low-cost carriers and financial difficulties. These challenges culminated in the cessation of its own flight operations on October 26, 2024, after 101 years of service. The airline's operations were subsequently absorbed by Smartwings, another Czech airline, marking the end of an era for one of the world's oldest carriers.

Czech Airlines offers multiple check-in options to accommodate passenger preferences. Online check-in is available from 36 hours up to 1 hour before departure through the airline's website or mobile application. This service allows passengers to select seats and obtain boarding passes electronically. For those traveling with carry-on baggage only, online check-in enables direct access to security screening upon arrival at the airport. Passengers with checked baggage must drop it off at designated airport counters before proceeding to security. It's important to note that online check-in is available for flights operated by Czech Airlines (flight numbers OK 0001 - OK 2999). For flights operated by partner airlines or code-share flights (flight numbers OK 3000 - OK 5999), passengers should verify check-in procedures with the operating carrier.

At the airport, Czech Airlines provides free check-in services at designated counters. These counters typically open 2.5 hours before scheduled departure and close 40 minutes prior. Self-service kiosks are also available at select locations, such as Václav Havel Airport Prague, allowing passengers to check in and print boarding passes. For flights departing from Prague, self-service bag drop points are available from 6 hours to 45 minutes before departure, facilitating a faster check-in process for those with checked baggage. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete check-in and security procedures, especially during peak travel periods.

Hand Luggage

Czech Airlines allows Economy Class passengers to carry one piece of cabin baggage with maximum dimensions of 55 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm and a weight not exceeding 8 kilograms. Business Class passengers are permitted two pieces of cabin baggage, each adhering to the same size and weight restrictions. In addition to the standard cabin baggage allowance, passengers may bring a personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, provided it fits under the seat in front. It's important to note that any liquids carried in cabin baggage must comply with security regulations, meaning containers should not exceed 100 milliliters and must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Checked Baggage

The checked baggage allowance varies depending on the travel class and fare package purchased. For Economy Class, the standard allowance is one piece of checked baggage weighing up to 23 kilograms. Business Class passengers are typically allowed two pieces of checked baggage, each with a maximum weight of 32 kilograms. It's essential to check the specific conditions of your fare, as some Economy fare packages, particularly the "Lite" fare, may not include a free checked baggage allowance. Passengers should be aware that any single piece of checked baggage exceeding 32 kilograms will not be accepted due to safety regulations; such items must be repacked to meet the weight limit.

Special Luggage

Sports Equipment

Czech Airlines accommodates the transport of sports equipment, such as skis, golf clubs, or bicycles. These items may be included in the free checked baggage allowance if they fall within the permitted weight and size limits. If the sports equipment exceeds these allowances, additional fees will apply. It's advisable to register sports equipment in advance, as space for such items can be limited.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments can be transported either as checked baggage or in the cabin, depending on their size and weight. Small instruments that fit within the cabin baggage dimensions and weight limits may be carried on board. Larger instruments will need to be checked in, and if they exceed the standard baggage allowance, additional charges may apply. For particularly valuable or fragile instruments, passengers might consider purchasing an extra seat to accommodate the item in the cabin.

Passengers are encouraged to review Czech Airlines' detailed baggage policies and their specific fare conditions before travel to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected fees. Purchasing additional baggage allowance online in advance can result in cost savings compared to paying for excess baggage at the airport.

Czech Airlines offers passengers the option to select their preferred seats to enhance in-flight comfort. This service allows travelers to choose seats in front rows, by emergency exits, or other available unoccupied seats. Seat selection can be made during the initial booking process or later via the "My Booking" application on the airline's website. For last-minute arrangements, preferred seat purchases are available during online check-in, from 36 hours up to 1 hour before departure.

The availability and cost of seat selection depend on the fare package purchased. Passengers with tickets under the PLUS and FLEX packages can select standard seats free of charge, excluding preferred seats, which are available for a fee. In BUSINESS LITE and BUSINESS packages, the most comfortable seats are included in the ticket price.

It's important to note that seat selection may not be available on certain flights, such as codeshare flights (OK3000-OK5999).

Czech Airlines' loyalty program, OK Plus, was discontinued on October 26, 2024. Until this date, members could earn miles for flights with Czech Airlines and SkyTeam partners, redeeming them for bonus tickets and other benefits. With the program's termination, memberships and accrued miles are no longer valid.

Similarly, the OK Plus Corporate program for companies ended on December 31, 2023. This program allowed companies to accumulate points from their employees' flights and redeem them for various rewards. With the discontinuation of both programs, Czech Airlines currently does not offer a new loyalty program.

Czech Airlines offers a range of in-flight food and beverage services tailored to the fare type and class of travel. Passengers with FLEX tickets in Economy Class receive a complimentary light snack, which includes fresh ciabatta bread filled with chicken, a piece of chocolate or a biscuit, and a bottle of water. Those traveling on LITE and PLUS fares have the option to purchase items from the in-flight menu or pre-order meals before their flight. The in-flight menu features a variety of hot and cold dishes, snacks, and beverages, with selections changing seasonally to provide diverse options for passengers.

For an enhanced dining experience, Czech Airlines offers a Gourmet Menu program, allowing passengers to pre-order from 28 hot and cold meal options designed to emulate Business Class dining in Economy Class. Each gourmet meal comes with a complimentary beverage. Pre-ordering these meals can be done up to 24 hours before departure, ensuring availability and personalization according to individual preferences. This service is available to all passengers, regardless of fare type, providing an opportunity to upgrade their in-flight meal experience.

Czech Airlines provides in-flight entertainment options that vary depending on the aircraft and flight duration. On long-haul flights operated by aircraft such as the Airbus A330-300, each seat is equipped with personal monitors offering a selection of films, music, and flight information to enhance the passenger experience. Additionally, these seats are often equipped with AC and USB power ports, allowing passengers to charge their electronic devices during the flight.

For short-haul flights, particularly those operated by aircraft like the Airbus A319, the in-flight entertainment system is more limited. These aircraft may feature overhead drop-down screens that display a travel map throughout the flight, but do not offer individual entertainment options. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own devices pre-loaded with content for personal entertainment on these shorter routes.

In addition to electronic entertainment, Czech Airlines offers "MyWings," a joint in-flight magazine for Smartwings and Czech Airlines passengers. Launched in January 2019, this magazine features interesting destinations, travel tips, service news, and interviews, aiming to inspire readers and enhance their journey.

It's important to note that Czech Airlines does not currently offer in-flight WiFi services. Passengers planning to work or requiring internet connectivity during their flight should make necessary arrangements prior to boarding.

Traveling with pets can be fun, and Czech Airlines makes it easy. They have rules to keep pets safe and comfy, whether in the cabin or as checked baggage.

Only dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets are allowed on Czech Airlines. Pets in the cabin must fit in a kennel no bigger than 109 cm/43 in and weigh under 8 kg/18 lbs. Checked baggage pets need a kennel up to 274 cm/109 in, with solid bottoms and air holes.

When flying with pets, check-in at least 60 minutes before. Pet fees depend on the flight route. There's an extra EUR 60 / CZK 1620 fee for cabin pets. Checked baggage pet fees vary by weight.

Czech Airlines might not fly pets if they're sick, aggressive, or in bad kennels. They also limit pets to three per flight, with two in Economy and one in Business Class.

Service Animals (Guide Dogs) get to fly for free, no container needed. Emotional support dogs are pets and can fly in the cabin or as checked baggage, with fees.

Czech Airlines offers lounge access at Václav Havel Airport Prague, providing passengers with various facilities. The MasterCard Lounge in Terminal 1 and the ERSTE Premier Lounge in Terminal 2 are available to Business Class passengers, OK Plus Gold or Silver members, SkyTeam Elite Plus members, and certain credit card holders. These lounges feature comfortable seating areas, complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and business facilities, allowing passengers to relax before their flights.

Additionally, the FastTrack Lounge in Terminal 2 offers extra privileges such as expedited security screening and dedicated check-in services. Designed for flights within the Schengen area, this lounge includes amenities like a children's play area, showers, and private meeting spaces. Access to the FastTrack Lounge is available to certain credit card holders, partners, or by paying at the door.

Since lounge access policies and fees may vary over time, it is essential to check updated information before traveling. Some lounges may also be restricted to specific passenger programs or memberships, so confirming eligibility in advance is recommended.