Information on Neos Air Flights

Neos is a small Italian airline based near Milan. There are just 16 aircrafts in the Neos fleet but they currently reach 73 destinations, including New York (JFK) from Milan. In my personal experience, this leisure airline owned by an Italian travel company provides an average experience without many frills and is a good option for short-haul routes.

Neos does codeshare with ITA Airways and EasyJet also, which can be useful to you for further travels to more destinations. Most of the planes in the Neos fleet are really new, including the Boeing 737 Next Generation, 737 MAX and Boeing 787.

The airline is cheaper than most others, and it is definitely a case of you get what you pay for in terms of amenities and services. Here is my expert insight on all that Neos offers.

Neos check-in procedures

The airline offers an easy web check-in service where you can get your boarding pass on your mobile phone. Some routes do not allow a full online check-in, though – for instance, in New York you can check in online but you still need to go to the counter to get a printed boarding pass from an agent, and that will add time to your experience at the airport.

Generally, online check-in is available 48 hours before the flight and only up until 3 hours before departure, so be sure to pay attention to these somewhat unusual parameters. There is no airline app, and there are currently no self-check-in kiosks for Neos flights at any airports.

If you’re unable to complete your full check-in process in advance online, you’ll have to go to the desk at the airport and there will certainly be lines. You can opt for a premium cabin ticket to avoid this long line, of course. Fortunately, Neos does not charge any fees for checking in at the desk, unlike many other low-cost carriers who impose a penalty for this service.

Baggage rules

The allowance for checked baggage varies depending on the route you are flying and some flights come with specific and unique regulations, so make sure you look at these when booking your exact flights.

When flying in economy class between the US and Italy you are allowed 1 piece of luggage that can be up to 50 pounds. You get 2 pieces up to 70 pounds each in the Economy Premium. If you want extra luggage you can add 1 more piece during mobile check-in (at a price) or at an airport check-in desk (also for a price).

If you’re in the economy class you will face very strict rules with your carry-on luggage – a bag can only be 17 pounds and no larger than 22 x 15 x 7 inches in size. From personal experience bringing special luggage like skis on a Neos flight, I strongly recommend packaging your gear as small as possible and expecting an extra charge even if you haven’t used up your regular luggage allowance.

Classes on Neos

Neos has just Economy class and Economy Premium class across its routes – there are no business class offerings. For longer and medium-haul flights, Economy Premium is typically available at an increased cost, of course.

On those planes that do offer Economy Premium, you’ll find this cabin arranged in a 2 by 3 by 2 configuration. As a duo, try to book a seat in the side pairs for more comfort and to avoid being stuck in the middle. If you’re solo, the aisle seats in the middle section may be better, as you only have a 50% chance of someone asking you to get up to use the restroom.

Fare categories

Economy comes in 2 fare categories: Basic and Extra. Basic economy is the cheapest but doesn’t have many features, although you still get fed – a nice perk from the airline.

Extra offers more benefits and is definitely worth the extra cost, in my opinion. Economy Extra seats are at the emergency exits and these come with an adjustable headrest, some more food options, a touchscreen entertainment system and both USB and electric outlets at your seat. This also comes with fast-track access through security at eligible airports, plus seat selection up to 4 days before departure.

If you’re booking Premium on an available flight, you will certainly have a more comfortable seat, but it’s not a lie-flat seat as in a long-haul business class cabin on other airlines. You will have extra space, though.

You’ll also receive meal service, a welcome amenity kit (nothing fancy but nice enough), and a screen to watch in-flight entertainment. USB and electric outlets are at each seat and you’ll benefit from a dedicated check-in line, security fast-track and priority boarding.

Some of the airports Neos flies to have a lounge that you will also have access to as an Economy Premium passenger – it’s a pretty simple lounge that doesn’t compare to major airline lounges but it’s a decent perk. I wouldn’t describe Economy Premium seats as anything fancy, but comfortable and welcome if you’re wanting a little more room for not a lot of extra money.

Meals on Neos flights

The food options on longer Neos flights are surprisingly good, although I guess you’d expect that from an Italians brand. Last time I flew Neos, I was served a warm calzone that was more delicious than the one I picked up in Florence. Neos serves traditional Italian dishes plus great wines from around the country, and the set-up is rather refined with real dishes and crystal glasses. They also serve Italian espresso in the sky.

If you need something more refreshing there are also beers, cocktails, cold teas, sparkling wines and other drinks available. You might just be surprised at the extensive menu on Neos, even in economy. From lasagna and eggplant caponata to dolcetto beef and a range of salads, meals are followed by a nice dessert like a mini tiramisu. And there is no additional cost – it is included in the ticket.

The short-haul meals are less exciting and not as good generally. Like me, you may want to come prepared with a couple snacks of your own to enjoy instead.

Onboard amenities

While not all the planes have it, most come with sponsored Wi-Fi, which is great but there are limitations. You have to watch advertisements for each 15 minutes of service and you can only do this twice before you have to purchase access. If you’re going to want Wi-Fi, I recommend just paying for it at the beginning of the flight and avoiding ads – it’s very cheap.

In terms of entertainment, Neos has the latest screens on these newer planes and you’ll have access to music, movies, games, and the usual flight information plus shopping and, happily, a bar menu. You can also order snacks using the screens and they have all kinds of fun Italian treats from candies and chocolate to chips and other more savory items.

Neos does not offer blankets or pillows unless you are in Economy Premium. They do have headphones for the entertainment system, but personally, I bring my own because the quality of the airline headphones is quite low.

Neos has its own magazine called On Board. You can download it from the airline website for your reading pleasure. The magazine is devoted to travel but has lots of interesting articles from travel writers and interesting pieces on current affairs. It is written in both Italian and English.

Promotions

This low-cost airline is very competitive on price and thus they are often running promotions. If you want to pick up a cheap ticket from New York to Palermo or Milan, you’ll often find these on sale quite cheap. These promos are typically found on the airline website where you’ll receive a promotional code to enter when booking. This is typically a percent off your purchase and will reflect at the check-out stage of the transaction.