Transavia France

Over the years, Transavia has won over many Europeans with its value for money and extensive network of destinations, making it an attractive option for travelers looking for an affordable flying experience in and around Europe. Its limited fleet, however, is often the cause of some negative reviews. But what is it like to fly with the airline? Milesopedia now reviews the low-cost airline Transavia France.

In November 2006, a new era of low-cost air travel began with the creation of Transavia, a French low-cost airline born from the collaboration between Air France and Transavia Holland. Since then, Transavia, a 100% subsidiary of Air France-KLM, has been charting its own course, successfully adapting to fluctuations in the tourism market.

In the Skytrax – Best Low Cost Airline 2023 ranking, Transavia ranked second in Europe and sixth worldwide. This position demonstrates Transavia’s continued commitment to offer affordable travel without compromising on quality, making it a key player in the European aviation sector.

And in addition to affordable flights, Transavia works with various partners to offer a range of complementary services, from hotel reservations to transfers and car rentals.

Transavia offers a range of short and medium-haul flights at very competitive fares, connecting France, the Netherlands and Belgium to a wide variety of destinations. Departures are operated from key airports such as Paris Orly, Nantes, Lyon, Montpellier, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven and Brussels, with over 120 destinations throughout France, Europe and the Mediterranean basin.

The company has four operational bases in France, each offering unique connectivity to different destinations:

1. Orly 3: Since 2007, Transavia has been taking off from Orly 3, offering flights to 109 destinations.
2. Nantes Atlantique: Since 2010, the company has been operating flights from Nantes Atlantique airport, with a flight schedule to 34 destination.
3. Lyon Saint-Exupéry: Present at Lyon Saint-Exupéry since 2010, Transavia offers flights to 28 destinations.
4. Montpellier: Established in Montpellier since 2020, the airline serves 11 destinations from this base.

Here are all the destinations served by Transavia in Europe, the Middle East and Africa:

The Transavia fleet is characterized by its simplicity. It features only one class: Economy. Passengers requiring more space can reserve an extra seat by contacting customer service.

The Transavia fleet is mainly made up of Boeing 737-700s and Boeing 737-800s, offering 189 seats and measuring 39.5 meters in length. These aircraft are suitable for short- and medium-haul flights, enabling Transavia to serve a wide range of destinations in Europe. While the emphasis is on simplicity, the company strives to provide safe and convenient travel for its passengers.

For additional luggage or seat reservations, please visit My Transavia. Reservations can be changed up to 2 hours before departure, subject to payment.

At the time of booking, you can select the Flex option, at 10 euros per person per trip. This allows you to change your flight up to 12 hours before departure, with no change fees. Only the fare difference will be charged. If you did not choose this option when you purchased your ticket, you’ll have to pay 50 euros, plus the fare difference.

Fast Track Queuing is available to anyone with a Max Fare ticket traveling from one of the airports listed below. Please note, however, that this benefit is only available if you arrive on time and depart from one of the following airports:

Transavia’s in-flight entertainment options are very limited. There are no screens. Only an in-flight magazine offering a series of reports from across Europe, tips to share, unusual activities and exclusive interviews is available to passengers.

In-flight meals are available at extra cost. The menu changes with the seasons, but snacks such as vegetarian miso noodles, pocket pizzas, bulgur salads and penne with tomato sauce are available in a 10-euro menu version. There’s also a children’s menu, available for 6 euros.

As quantities are limited, it is not unusual for certain products to be discontinued. So it’s a good idea not to travel with empty pockets.

The low-cost airline does not have its own frequent flyer program. Flying Blue is Transavia’s loyalty program, just like KLM and Air France.

Launched in 2005, the program allows frequent flyers to enjoy exclusive benefits and attractive rewards, and to earn Miles when traveling with Air France–KLM‘s partner airlines. These miles can then be redeemed for airline tickets, award tickets, upgrades and more.

The Flying Blue program is divided into four levels. Members receive additional benefits when they reach certain mileage thresholds. The levels are Explorer, Silver, Gold and Platinum, each offering privileges such as lounge access, additional baggage allowance and priority boarding.

In addition to earning Miles on flights, Flying Blue also offers opportunities to earn Miles through a network of partners, including hotels, car rentals, restaurants and financial services such as American Express.

Holders of American Express and Air France KLM American Express cards can earn even more miles, making them particularly attractive for travelers who have reached (or would like to reach!) a level in the Flying Blue loyalty program.

Air France–KLM ‘s low-cost airline has won over many travelers with its attractive fares. Transavia offers a wide range of destinations in France, Europe and the Mediterranean to meet the diverse needs of European travelers.

Transavia stands out for its efficient service, from online booking to boarding. Cabin crew are often praised for their friendliness and professionalism, creating a pleasant atmosphere on board.

The company also offers flexible rebooking options, a benefit rarely offered by a low-cost airline.

Finally, the ability to earn Flying Blue Miles with the Air France–KLM frequent flyer program is a particularly attractive benefit for frequent flyers.

Some travelers have negative reviews of Transavia, reporting recurring flight delays and communication problems with airline staff when seeking information about delays or flight changes.

In terms of in-flight comfort, the seats are narrow and legroom is limited, which can be uncomfortable, especially on longer flights.

Additional costs, which can quickly add up at the time of booking, have also been a source of dissatisfaction for some passengers. Some were surprised by the additional luggage fees or the cost of changing their reservations.