The spirit of travel with Air Algérie

This North-African national airline has been a well-known operator for over seven decades. What began as a simple charter service between Algeria and France -- serving Algiers, Marseille and Paris -- soon expanded to other European destinations around the Mediterranean and beyond. The company has transitioned through national independence from France and extensive corporate reorganisations. Still backed by the government, Air Algérie remains one of the country's key transport brands -- its distinctive stylised tailfin design represents an African swallow, one of the speediest of long-range travellers.

Today, the airline carries around 5 million passengers every year to destinations as far afield as Budapest, Moscow, Dubai, Montreal and London -- a total of 43 scheduled international locations are served regionally year round. In such a vast country, the airline also continues to play an important role as a domestic carrier, connecting over 30 airports within Algeria's own borders. It operates out of Algiers International Airport, a key base for regular domestic, international and charter & pilgrimage flights, with a fleet ranging from the Airbus A330 to the 66-seat capacity ATR-72.

Flying with Air Algérie

The airline prides itself on its customer service, under the motto "Caring for you".

• In economy class, an on-board service of snacks and meals is served for all medium and long-distance flights: passengers can order meals up to 48 hours before take-off.

• Premier and business class passengers can additionally enjoy in-flight films, games and an extensive programme of music, available through seat-back screens on many flights.

The airline's loyalty programme Air Algérie Plus is available at different levels of membership, with the top levels being the "Chelia" and the "Tahat" cards that offer an additional 25% and 50% bonus for all air miles. Reward points can be used for upgrades and confer priority booking privileges.

Practical information

Online booking, by phone or computer, is available for many flights. Note, however, that you will still need to collect a printed check-in slip on arrival at the airport.

• The airline has a strict cabin baggage policy: hand luggage must be under 10 kg (or under 5 kg for shorter flights in smaller aircraft) and must not exceed 35 x 55 x 25 cm. Unlike some airlines, there is no additional allowance for laptops or cameras, so make sure these fit in your hand luggage.

• All hold baggage is subject to a maximum 32 kg limit and maximum total dimensions of 158 cm.