In October 2023, Azerbaijan Airlines and Buta Airways will merge under the brand AZAL, and both will cease to exist.
According to Azerbaijan Airlines, «the merger will incorporate the best qualities of both airlines, further expanding opportunities for our passengers to travel at affordable prices.» Additionally, it will ensure that customers can plan their trips comfortably as they will be able to fly interchangeably within the fleets of both companies. Onboard services will also be enhanced.
This move is not uncommon in the industry. Singapore Airlines with Silkair, Thai Airways with Thai Smile, and Westjet with Swoop have all made similar moves, consolidating their low-cost operations under a single company.
After the merger, all current flights of Buta Airways will continue to operate. However, they will do so under the unified brand of AZAL. The company reported that current prices will be maintained, but with a higher level of service. Several discount and promotional campaigns will be available throughout the year. The new airline will offer a new fare called «Buta Budget» without luggage on all its flights, making tickets more accessible.
Hand luggage will be included in all fares, and the baggage allowance will be increased, except for the «Buta Budget» fare. An updated menu will also be introduced. It will be possible to book tickets and pay for all flights on the website www.azal.az – which will be the only available website – and through the AZAL mobile application.
Detailed information about the merger of both airlines and the new conditions of the different fare classes will be presented to the public on the official AZAL website and its social media accounts upon the official launch of the operation.
