Information on Volotea Flights

Volotea Airlines is a Barcelona-based low-cost carrier that connects smaller cities across the continent with a broad range of routes. With fares that won’t break the bank, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to travel smart without sacrificing (much) comfort.

Whether you're booking your first flight with Volotea or you're a seasoned traveler, these insights will help you make the most of your journey.

Volotea Airlines fare classes

The standard fare is the most basic option available. It includes the ability to carry a small personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. However, all additional services, including seat selection and cabin baggage, must be purchased separately.

If you do not choose a seat in advance, one will be assigned to you for free during check-in. Be forewarned, it will probably be a less than desirable seat on the plane. This fare is ideal for passengers who prioritize low cost over convenience and are willing to pay for extras only if necessary.

On the other hand, the Flex Fare is designed for travelers who want more flexibility and comfort. This fare includes several perks, like free seat selection at the time of booking.

Flex Fare passengers can also make unlimited changes to their bookings without any extra fees – a huge plus if your travel plans are uncertain. Plus, priority boarding is included, making the boarding process quicker and smoother. I personally prefer the Flex Fare when traveling around Europe for extended periods because it gives me the freedom to adjust my flights as needed.

Check-in process with Volotea Airlines

Volotea offers several check-in options to suit different traveler needs. Online check-in is available from 4 days up to 2.5 hours before the scheduled departure time. You can also download the airline’s mobile app and check in directly on your smartphone.

Volotea offers airport check-in counters for those who prefer to check-in in person, but be aware that this service comes with an additional fee. I’ve made it a habit to remind myself to check in online whenever I fly with Volotea, especially since I’ve occasionally forgotten when flying unfamiliar airlines. Skipping online check-in can lead to a fee that nearly rivals the price of the ticket itself, so it’s worth setting a reminder.

Boarding

Boarding with Volotea is usually pretty smooth, but keep in mind that the timing can shift depending on the airport and flight.

If you can afford it, I would suggest you purchase priority boarding. That way you'll be among the first to board, which allows you to keep your hand luggage with you on the plane. You can purchase priority boarding up to 2.5 hours before departure. If you are a Megavolotea Plus member (more on this later), it is included in your membership at no additional cost.

Seats and legroom

Seating on Volotea flights is designed to pack in as many passengers as possible while still offering a decent level of comfort.

With a seat pitch typically ranging between 29 and 30 inches, it's about what you’d expect from a low-cost carrier. However, if you're on the taller side, you might find the space a bit snug. Just remember that low, low cost of the ticket when bumping your knee as you try to cross your legs.

If you're after extra comfort, Volotea offers Premium Seats in row 1 and the emergency exit rows (15 and 16), and these offer more legroom. For those who prefer a quick exit, the Standard Seats between rows 3 and 6 put you closer to the front for a faster disembarkation.

If you're simply looking to sit together with your travel companions without worrying about specific locations, the Basic Seats have you covered. Seat selection has an additional cost and the value amount depends on the seat.

Credit cards and miles

Volotea does not yet offer a branded credit card, which is a bit of a drawback for travelers looking to earn miles or points with their purchases. However, you can still earn points and miles through other travel credit cards that offer rewards for general travel spending.

Volotea Airlines loyalty program

Volotea Airlines offers a loyalty program, Megavolotea, but it isn’t your typical rewards program. It requires an annual fee, but it can be a great deal for frequent flyers. The program has two levels: Megavolotea and Megavolotea Plus. Both come with birthday discounts, unlimited flight changes and access to exclusive offers.

At the basic Megavolotea level, members gain access to special fares, up to 15% off checked baggage and access to priority boarding on all flights. There is still an annual membership fee, but benefits can be extended to four travel companions.

For those who fly with Volotea even more regularly, there's Megavolotea Plus. For an annual fee, this upgraded tier includes all the benefits of the basic membership, up to 25% off checked baggage, 50% off seat selection, free priority boarding and even deeper fare discounts.

I don’t fly with Volotea often enough for either tier to be worth it for me, but if you do, these memberships could offer significant savings and added convenience.

Amenities and in-flight entertainment

Volotea sets itself apart from other low-cost carriers with its thoughtful approach to passenger comfort, even while keeping prices budget-friendly. Unfortunately, Volotea does not have seatback screens. Unlike many budget airlines that skip in-flight entertainment altogether, though, Volotea offers a collection that’s easy to access on your own device.

Once you're in the air, simply connect to the onboard Wi-Fi on your smartphone, tablet or laptop, head to the provided URL, and you’ll find a range of entertainment options, including TV shows, movies, games, music and magazines. Personally, I’m a fan of the travel guides they offer. They’re a great way to dive into your destination before you even land.

In terms of amenities, Volotea offers a buy-on-board menu with a selection of snacks, sandwiches and beverages available for purchase. The menu features a variety of options, including local specialties on select routes. However, there are no complimentary snacks or drinks, so it’s a good idea to bring your own refreshments, especially for longer flights.

Changes and cancellations

Volotea offers a range of options when it comes to changing or canceling your flight, but it's essential to know the details to avoid any surprises. There is typically a cost per person to make changes to the date or destination of your flight, and that’s in addition to any difference in fare that might apply when switching to the new flight.

However, if you’ve opted for Volotea’s Flex plan, you have the flexibility to make unlimited changes up to 4 hours before your flight departs. This plan also allows you to cancel your trip and receive a refund in the form of Volotea credit, which can be a lifesaver if your plans change last minute.

Without the Flex plan, Volotea tickets are generally non-refundable, and the airline only offers refunds in specific cases, such as cancellations initiated by the airline itself. Both Megavolotea and Megavolotea Plus members are entitled to unlimited flight changes up to 7 days before the flight at no additional cost.

Pet policy

Volotea has a straightforward and pet-friendly policy that allows you to bring your furry friends along, but only in the cabin. Pets are not permitted to travel as checked baggage.

If you're planning to fly with your dog or cat, they must be at least 8 weeks old and should comfortably fit in a carrier that can be placed under the seat in front of you. The combined weight of your pet and the carrier should not exceed 10 kilograms (about 22 pounds).

There is a cost to bring your pet on board, whether you book online or via their call center. If you arrange it at the airport, the fee jumps further, so I recommend planning ahead.