Czech Airlines -- one of the founders of air travel

Part of the prestigious SkyTeam alliance, Czech Airlines is the national flag carrier and enjoys an impressive track record in the industry. Established back in the 1920s, it's one of a select club of first-generation airlines -- alongside the likes of Qantas and KLM -- that is still operating. Few other companies have a better claim to its motto "At home in the skies". However, today's airline is fully up to date. Its modernised fleet of around 20 aircraft, in their distinctive red and white livery, has been bolstered by a deal for seven Airbus 320neos to replace its current 319s.

The airline operates out of Prague's Vaclav Havel Airport with secondary operating bases in Kosice and Bratislava over the border in Slovakia. An extensive network map is genuinely Europe-wide, with flights as far afield as Reykjavik, Lisbon, Malmo and Verona. As one might expect, connections with Eastern European destinations are long-standing, but in 2016 the airline also unveiled new routes to the Near East and Middle East to including Beirut and Riyadh.

Trusted by millions, Czech Airlines continues its traditional values of service and reliability.

Flying with Czech Airlines

Economy travel on the carrier's short and medium-haul routes offers a classic approach to customer care and attention. Smart but unfussy seating and all the usual amenities make this a good choice for the economy traveller. Prompted partly by budget carrier competition, Czech Airlines is one of many carriers to offer three different classes of ticket: Lite is the hand luggage only option, with optional add-ons like seat selection and in-flight meals, while the Economy Plus and Flex tariffs offer greater flexibility and added extras. Business Class (also available as a Lite option) provides extra comfort, preferred seating and in-flight dining as standard plus complementary access to the airline lounge in Prague.

With a nod to the airline's IATA callsign, the aOK Plus programme is the official frequent-flier club. Points are accrued when travelling with the airline, but also with participating SkyTeam carriers and when spending money with approved hotel and car rental partners. Different grades of membership accrue benefits such as priority check-in and increased luggage allowance.

Practical information

Save hassle at the airport with quick and convenient online check-in, open from 36 hours before scheduled departure. The service is also available on smartphones. Alternatively, use the airport's self-service check-in points or do it the traditional way at the check-in counter.

Baggage regulations are as follows:

• All travellers are allowed one item of cabin baggage no greater than 8 kg and 55 x 45 x 25 cm plus a personal item (except Economy Lite travellers). Business passengers are allowed a second bag.
• For Economy Plus and Flex ticket holders on most routes, the hold luggage limit is one item weighing up to 23 kg. Business travellers enjoy a generous allowance of two bags up to 32 kg each. Silver, Gold and Platinum OK Plus passengers are allowed an extra item.