Flights, baggage allowance, onboard services, and travel information
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Airbus Transport International (ATI) is Airbus’s in‑house cargo airline operating Beluga aircraft. It does not sell passenger tickets and has no passenger cabin, so there is no option to take a pet “in cabin” with this operator. While ATI moves freight, including some specialized live‑animal consignments, these are arranged as commercial cargo. Meanwhile, the IATA code 4Y is used by Discover Airlines for passenger flights. If your ticket shows 4Y, you are flying with Discover Airlines, not ATI—please confirm pet rules directly with the carrier; what follows explains ATI’s cargo‑only reality and general industry standards so you know what to ask for.
Because ATI operates freighters, animals do not travel as a traveler’s personal item. Instead, live animals move as air cargo under the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR). That means acceptance depends on aircraft routing, origin/destination capabilities, temperature constraints, and whether a licensed freight forwarder can book and prepare the shipment. For most individuals, this is arranged through a pet‑shipping specialist who handles paperwork and handover at the cargo terminal. If you actually hold a 4Y passenger ticket (Discover Airlines), small pets may be permitted in the cabin and larger ones as checked/cargo on some routes—but policies, limits, and embargoes vary; always verify with the ticketing airline before you plan anything.
For cargo moves, the crate must be an IATA‑compliant, rigid kennel that allows the animal to stand without the ears touching the roof, turn around, and lie naturally. It needs secure metal fasteners, ample ventilation on multiple sides, absorbent bedding, and separate, spill‑resistant water and food containers accessible from outside. There is no single “ATI” size chart published for the Beluga fleet; maximum kennel size and total weight are constrained by aircraft loading limits, route, and handling equipment at each cargo station. Your forwarder will match kennel class and dimensions to aircraft and route tolerances. For cabin scenarios on passenger airlines, many European carriers use soft or rigid carriers around 55 × 40 × 23 cm with a combined pet‑plus‑carrier limit commonly up to 8 kg—these figures are typical, not guaranteed, so confirm the exact numbers with the airline on your ticket.
Live‑animal air cargo follows country veterinary and customs laws in addition to IATA LAR. Most shipments require a current health certificate, species‑appropriate vaccinations (often rabies), and—where applicable—microchip registration and parasite treatment records. International moves may also require import permits, CITES documentation for protected species, and proof of ownership or consignment. Fees for ATI‑type moves are quoted by freight forwarders based on chargeable weight/volume, routing, seasonal surcharges, and handling of live animals; expect additional costs for kennels, veterinary checks, and customs clearance. On passenger flights (if you’re actually on Discover Airlines 4Y), pet fees are per segment and vary by route and travel class; assistance dogs are typically carried free of charge once pre‑approved.
Not every species is accepted. Many airlines limit routine transport to dogs and cats; rodents, rabbits, birds, reptiles, and fish face stricter rules or outright bans, especially on long sectors or where quarantine applies. Brachycephalic (snub‑nosed) breeds often face restrictions in hot months or are refused for hold transport due to respiratory risk. Some countries (for example, the U.K. and Ireland) channel most pet entries via approved cargo procedures rather than in‑cabin carriage, and the United States has tightened dog‑entry rules—microchipping, age limits, and specific documentation are now essential. Seasonal heat/cold embargoes and station‑by‑station capability can also affect acceptance even when paperwork is perfect.
Start early—ideally 4–6 weeks in advance—so vaccinations and certificates align with destination timing rules. Crate‑train gradually, making the kennel a safe, familiar space; on the day of travel, add absorbent bedding and a recently worn cloth to reduce stress. Feed a light meal several hours before handover, keep water available, and avoid sedation unless a veterinarian states it is medically necessary; most airlines discourage or refuse sedated animals because it can mask distress at altitude. Handover for cargo is at the airport’s freight terminal, often several hours earlier than passenger check‑in; your forwarder will advise exact cut‑off times and collection procedures at destination. Keep original documents with the shipment and carry scanned copies; label the kennel clearly with your contact details and feeding instructions.
ATI does not carry passengers, so assistance dogs are not relevant to its operations. If your booking is genuinely a 4Y passenger flight with Discover Airlines, recognized assistance dogs are usually accepted in the cabin free of charge once pre‑cleared; documentation, training proof, and advance notice are required—confirm directly with the carrier.
In short, ATI is a freight‑only operator; pets do not travel with you as cabin companions and must be shipped as cargo through a licensed forwarder under IATA LAR. If your itinerary shows 4Y for a passenger trip, you’re flying Discover Airlines—confirm that airline’s exact in‑cabin, checked, or cargo pet rules before you book, and reconfirm 72 hours before departure. Doing this early removes surprises and keeps your animal safer, calmer, and properly documented from door to door.
The IATA code 4Y appears on many leisure itineraries, but it is commercially used by Discover Airlines (formerly Eurowings Discover). By contrast, Airbus Transport International does not operate scheduled passenger services, so there are no public child-travel rules for that company. If your e‑ticket shows “4Y,” check the “operated by” line: policies always follow the airline actually flying the segment. To help you plan with confidence, the guidance below reflects common practices among major European carriers under EASA rules and is a practical checklist for families. For exact entitlements and fees, confirm with the operating airline shown on your booking before you travel.
Airlines typically define an infant as a child under 2 years old on the date of each flight segment. A child is usually 2–11 years, and an adult fare commonly starts from 12 years, though some carriers treat 12–15 year‑olds as “young persons” for supervision purposes. If your little one turns two during your trip, the return or onward flight will usually require their own seat, even if the first leg didn’t. Identification that proves age—such as a passport or birth certificate copy—can be requested at check‑in. These definitions drive how seats, fares, and baggage work, so it’s wise to review them when you build your itinerary.
You can travel with an infant as a lap child or buy them their own seat. A lap infant typically pays a reduced fare or percentage of the adult fare plus taxes, and most airlines allow only one lap infant per adult; a second infant will need a booked seat with an approved car seat. Children aged 2+ must have their own seat, and exit rows are off‑limits for all children and anyone using a child restraint. Bassinet positions are usually at bulkhead rows and must be requested early; supplies are limited and not guaranteed until boarding. Weight and length limits apply to bassinets—often around 10–14 kg and roughly 70–80 cm—so check specifics with the operating carrier.
If you purchase a seat for an infant, a certified child car seat is usually the safest option. Look for a label indicating EASA/FAA approval (many seats also carry “TÜV approved for aircraft use”), and be prepared to install it in a window seat; aisle and exit rows are generally prohibited. Rear‑facing seats may be restricted by size, and some premium seats with airbag belts aren’t compatible with car seats. Some airlines accept the CARES harness for children 10–20 kg, but it must be pre‑approved—always verify acceptance in advance. Bringing the manual and photos of the approval label can speed up gate checks by crews.
When a child has their own seat, their baggage allowance typically mirrors the adult fare purchased; “Light/Basic” fares may reduce or exclude checked baggage. Lap infants often receive a small carry‑on (for diapers and food) and, on many carriers, one piece of baby equipment—such as a stroller or car seat—carried free. A compact stroller can usually be taken to the gate and gate‑checked; larger prams are typically checked at the counter. Using a protective bag helps prevent scuffs, and labeling each piece with your name and contact details is prudent. Remember that allowances can vary by route and fare brand, so a quick check in your booking “Baggage” section avoids surprises.
At security, baby milk, sterilized water, and purees are exempt from the standard 100 ml rule; declare them and expect additional screening. At the gate, tell staff if you’ve requested a bassinet so they can prioritize bulkhead seating where possible, but keep a backup plan in case allocation isn’t possible. For car seats, aim for the window position to avoid blocking egress, and bring a slim extender strap only if the airline supplies or allows it—most require the aircraft belt alone. On arrival, gate‑checked strollers are often returned planeside, though at some airports they go to oversized baggage; asking the agent before boarding can save you an anxious wait. A lightweight carrier or sling is a handy fallback while you collect gear.
Children’s and baby meals are usually available on long‑haul but must be pre‑ordered—ideally 24–48 hours before departure. Even with a meal request, pack familiar snacks, cutlery, and an empty bottle or sippy cup; you can ask crew for water once on board. Many airlines offer family pre‑boarding or priority boarding; if it isn’t announced, politely ask at the gate as it helps with settling car seats and stowing gear. Seatback entertainment usually includes kids’ content, yet a fully charged tablet with offline shows and child‑safe headphones is a sanity saver. For takeoff and landing, feeding or offering a pacifier helps equalize ear pressure; for older children, sips of water and gentle jaw movements work well.
Seat selection is strategy: bulkheads provide bassinet eligibility and no recline from the row ahead, while a few rows behind the wing can be quieter; avoid exit rows with children and be cautious of lavatory queues. Dress everyone in layers and pack a change of clothes for you and your child—spills happen—and a compact “grab bag” with wipes, nappies, a small blanket, and a spare shirt makes aisle access easier. Plan naps around flight time but stay flexible; small routines, like a favorite book, reduce stress. Build buffer time at the airport, especially for stroller tagging and document checks, and consider travel insurance that covers missed connections and medical care.
Keep documents handy in one pouch:
For bookings that show 4Y, policies will follow the operating airline—often Discover Airlines or a codeshare partner—so double‑check fares, baggage, and equipment rules in your manage‑booking portal 48–72 hours before departure. A brief call can confirm bassinet requests and car‑seat acceptance, leaving you free to focus on the fun parts of flying with your child. Enjoy the journey, and keep expectations realistic—preparation and a bit of kindness to yourself go a very long way.
If your ticket shows IATA code 4Y, you’re flying with Discover Airlines, a Lufthansa Group carrier that participates in Miles & More. Airbus Transport International is a cargo operator and doesn’t run a public frequent‑flyer scheme, so for passenger travel under 4Y the applicable loyalty program is Miles & More. That’s good news: your 4Y flights can earn miles and status benefits across the Lufthansa Group and, through Miles & More, connect you to the wider Star Alliance network.
Miles & More keeps things straightforward with four tiers: Member, Frequent Traveller (FTL), Senator (SEN), and HON Circle. Since 2024, status is earned in a single calendar year with a new points system: you’ll collect Points on most partner flights, Qualifying Points specifically on Miles & More airlines (including 4Y), and HON Circle Points for premium‑cabin travel on those same airlines. As a rule of thumb, qualify with: FTL at 650 Points (including at least 325 Qualifying Points), SEN at 2,000 Points (including at least 1,000 Qualifying Points), and HON Circle at 6,000 HON Circle Points. Status validity is typically one year, and because the clock resets each January 1, it’s worth planning your heavier travel months within a single year to consolidate progress.
You earn two currencies: award miles (for spending) and points (for status). On 4Y and other Lufthansa Group tickets issued by the Group, award miles are revenue‑based: roughly 4 miles per euro for Members, 5 for FTL, and 6 for SEN/HON, calculated on base fare plus carrier surcharges. On many non‑Group partners, miles accrue by distance and booking class. For status, the program now uses fixed amounts per flight segment by cabin and whether the trip is continental or intercontinental. Expect about: Economy 20/60 Points, Premium Economy 40/80, Business 50/200, and First 70/300 (continental/intercontinental). Flights operated/marketed by 4Y generate both Points and Qualifying Points; Business and First on 4Y also earn HON Circle Points.
Your award miles unlock seats on Discover Airlines, the broader Lufthansa Group (Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian, Brussels, etc.), and most Star Alliance carriers. You can also upgrade eligible paid tickets using miles or the program’s upgrade eVouchers, moving from Economy to Premium Economy or Business, and from Business to First where offered. Keep an eye on monthly Mileage Bargains for discounted awards—leisure routes served by 4Y often appear with especially attractive rates, though taxes and carrier surcharges still apply. Beyond flights, miles can be used for hotels, car rentals, and retail via WorldShop or Cash & Miles; these non‑flight options are convenient, but usually deliver lower value than flight awards.
Frequent Traveller (Star Alliance Silver) brings practical comforts: Business Class check‑in on Lufthansa Group airlines, priority baggage handling at many airports, and access to Lufthansa Business Lounges when you fly the Group the same day. You’ll typically receive an extra checked bag on most fares except Light—especially helpful on leisure trips—and a higher award‑mile earn rate versus base members. Senator elevates the experience to Star Alliance Gold: worldwide lounge access (including Lufthansa Senator Lounges and Star Alliance Gold lounges), priority security where available, priority boarding and waitlists, and an extra checked bag on most Star Alliance airlines. Senators also receive upgrade eVouchers and enjoy better award availability on select routes. HON Circle adds the program’s top‑tier refinements: First Class check‑in, access to Lufthansa First Class Lounges and the Frankfurt First Class Terminal when flying eligible carriers, limousine transfers at select hubs, enhanced baggage and rebooking priority, and a dedicated service team.
With a bit of planning, your 4Y trips can steadily build both award miles for memorable redemptions and the status points that unlock smoother journeys—lounge comfort, extra baggage, and priority treatment—across the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance.
Airbus Transport International is the specialist airline that shuttles Airbus aircraft sections between factories, and its fleet is purpose-built for that outsized mission. Today the core is the next‑generation A330‑743L BelugaXL, complemented by earlier A300‑600ST BelugaST aircraft that are gradually moving into a second career carrying external cargo. In total, you’ll see roughly eleven uniquely modified freighters in the Airbus family—six BelugaXL now handling most production routes and five BelugaST transitioning to Airbus’s outsize charter arm. Because ATI is a dedicated cargo operator, it’s often listed without a traditional passenger IATA code; you may see “4Y” referenced in some databases, while the airline operates under ICAO code BGA with the Beluga callsign. For travelers, that means you won’t book a ticket on these aircraft, but they’re the reason your Airbus‑built flight can exist in the first place.
The BelugaXL is based on the A330‑200, with a dramatically enlarged upper fuselage, a lowered cockpit, and one of the world’s biggest forward cargo doors. It offers about 30% more volume than its predecessor, letting ATI move larger assemblies—famously, two A350 wings—on a single sector. Inside, the main deck features a powered roller floor and precise guidance systems so delicate jigs and sections load safely and quickly. For production logistics, that extra volume means fewer ferry legs and tighter synchronization across Airbus sites in France, Germany, Spain, and the UK. It’s the airline’s everyday workhorse, balancing payload, range, and turnaround speed for frequent intra‑Europe hops.
The BelugaST fleet—five aircraft built in the 1990s—still plays a valuable role. While the XLs assume most internal shuttles, STs are being refitted and reassigned to the Airbus Beluga Transport brand for outsize charters worldwide. Their cavernous, environmentally controlled main deck remains ideal for helicopters, satellites, and industrial components that won’t fit in conventional freighters. ATI can still call on them when network demand spikes, but their second life extends the usefulness of a proven design. In practice, the two types often share procedures and handling systems, keeping operations familiar and efficient.
At the “new” end, ATI’s sixth BelugaXL joined in the early‑2020s, completing the initial XL build and giving the network full next‑gen capacity. These frames benefit from modern avionics and engines that help with reliability on high‑frequency rotations. At the “old” end, the earliest BelugaSTs entered service in the mid‑1990s and have been meticulously maintained through heavy checks and targeted upgrades. Despite their age, their duty cycles are relatively short sectors with controlled loading, which is kinder to airframes than long‑haul cycles. Together, the span from ST to XL shows a thoughtful evolution rather than a hard break.
Publicly, Airbus planned six BelugaXLs, and that target has been met; no additional XL orders have been announced. The strategy now focuses on consolidating production flying on the XL while migrating STs to external charter missions under the Airbus Beluga Transport umbrella. As those STs transition, ATI’s day‑to‑day fleet becomes effectively “all‑XL,” with ST support available as needed. Retirement for the oldest STs will track airframe hours, maintenance economics, and charter demand, not a fixed calendar date. Expect incremental cabin and handling improvements more than headline fleet additions in the near term.
For such distinctive aircraft, sustainability is about smarter flying as much as newer hardware. The BelugaXL’s larger volume means fewer trips for the same industrial flow, cutting total fuel burn per tonne‑kilometer moved. ATI also pursues operational measures—optimized routing, continuous descent approaches where practicable, and careful load planning to reduce repositioning sectors. Where supply allows, Airbus uplifts blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel on selected operations, a step that will expand as SAF availability grows across Europe. These practical gains add up on a network that flies many short, frequent missions.
If you spot a Beluga on a ramp, you’ll notice the whale‑smile livery—a friendly nod to the type’s nickname and a surprisingly effective wayfinding tool on busy aprons. The cockpit sits below the main deck, so the enormous forward cargo door can open without disturbing aircraft systems or crew areas. ATI’s callsign is aptly “Beluga”, and flights link key Airbus sites such as Toulouse, Hamburg‑Finkenwerder, Broughton, Saint‑Nazaire, and Getafe. The main deck is designed for precision: parts load in custom jigs, lock into place, and are monitored for shock and movement throughout the flight. It’s a fascinating, behind‑the‑scenes fleet—purpose‑built so the aircraft you fly tomorrow can be built today.
Airbus Transport International (ATI) operates the distinctive Beluga fleet that ferries oversized aircraft parts between Airbus sites, making it a cargo‑only airline. It does not sell tickets to the public, and there is no passenger cabin on these flights. That means there is no commercial meal service at all, only basic crew provisions needed for operations. Important: the IATA code 4Y belongs to Discover Airlines (formerly Eurowings Discover), a leisure carrier in the Lufthansa Group. If your itinerary shows 4Y next to a city pair, you are booked with Discover Airlines, not ATI, and the catering rules described by Discover apply.
Because ATI flies cargo aircraft without passenger seats, there are no snacks, no full meals, and no class‑based service offered to travelers. Trolley service, menus, and onboard retail simply don’t exist on these flights. Any food loaded is for the operating crew and is not available for public purchase or consumption. If you came here expecting details about Economy or Business Class on a “4Y” ticket, you’ll want to consult Discover Airlines, as those flights have a passenger catering program that varies by route. In short, ATI has nothing to select or expect in terms of onboard dining.
Special meals — vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, kosher, halal, allergy‑sensitive — cannot be requested from ATI because there is no passenger meal service to modify. There is no pre‑order portal, no advance request window, and no list of dietary options. If your booking shows 4Y and you need a special meal, manage your reservation directly with the operating passenger airline (Discover Airlines or any codeshare partner shown on your ticket) and submit requests at least 24–48 hours before departure. As a personal safeguard, it’s wise to carry sealed snacks that meet your dietary requirements, since offerings can change by aircraft, region, or caterer. Always verify allergen policies on the airline’s site before you fly.
ATI provides no beverage cart, and there is no alcohol service because there are no passengers on board to serve. The Beluga aircraft are not equipped with passenger galleys or catering storage the way airliners are, so drink choices and bar policies are simply not part of the experience. If you are flying on a passenger flight marketed as 4Y, beverage service will depend on route length and cabin, with some flights offering complimentary selections and others using buy‑on‑board — details appear in your booking confirmation. When in doubt, assume nothing is included and verify inclusions before you head to the airport. Alcohol carriage rules in hand luggage also vary by country, so check airport security guidance if you plan to bring your own.
ATI has no chef partnerships, branded menus, or signature dishes, because it does not run a passenger catering program. Unlike consumer airlines that team up with restaurateurs or coffee roasters, ATI’s operations are purely logistical and focused on moving parts, not people. If you need information about chef collaborations for a 4Y passenger flight, review Discover Airlines’ current announcements, as these can change seasonally and by route. Airline catering tie‑ups are marketing‑driven and are normally advertised on the passenger airline’s website and booking pages.
It’s easy to mix up the codes, so here’s a quick way to align expectations before you travel. The IATA designator 4Y is used in passenger bookings by Discover Airlines, not by Airbus Transport International, and the meals you receive depend on that passenger carrier’s policies. To get the right answer for your trip, follow the steps below and confirm what’s included long before you pack a snack. Doing this cross‑check only takes a minute and avoids surprises at 35,000 feet.
If you’re browsing flights and care about onboard dining, always confirm the operating carrier and what your fare includes before purchasing. Screenshots of inclusions can help if policies vary by route or season. Pack a refillable bottle and a few sealed snacks to stay comfortable if service is shorter than expected, especially on regional hops. Travelers with strict dietary needs should carry suitable food and review the airline’s allergen statement in advance, since no carrier can guarantee a completely allergen‑free environment. Finally, policies evolve — check the airline’s website close to departure so your expectations match what’s actually served on the day.
Airbus Transport International (IATA: 4Y) operates Airbus Beluga freighters and is a cargo-only carrier. That means there is no scheduled passenger service and, accordingly, no onboard entertainment system to describe for this operator itself. If you’ve arrived here while planning a trip, it’s likely because you saw the code “4Y” on a passenger itinerary. In commercial contexts today, 4Y commonly appears on tickets for Discover Airlines (part of the Lufthansa Group), which does carry passengers. To help you prepare, the guidance below explains what you can typically expect on 4Y‑branded passenger flights operated by that leisure carrier, rather than Airbus Transport International’s cargo operations.
On long‑haul routes, you can generally expect seatback screens with a familiar catalog: recent movies, popular TV series, kids’ selections, music playlists, and a moving map—sometimes with a handful of simple games. The movie library usually mixes new releases with classics across multiple regions, and TV options lean toward complete seasons or curated highlights for binge‑friendly viewing. Audio includes chart playlists and calm background mixes, while family content sits in a dedicated area to keep choices age‑appropriate. Short‑ and medium‑haul flights are more variable: some aircraft offer a wireless portal for streaming to your own device, while others may provide little or no built‑in entertainment. As always, the exact setup depends on aircraft and route, so it’s wise to check your flight details close to departure.
Seatback systems on long‑haul flights are intuitive to navigate and usually support multiple languages, subtitles, and closed captions where available. Expect USB power at most seats and, on many aircraft, AC outlets—helpful if you plan to watch longer films or use your laptop. When a wireless portal is offered on shorter flights, you’ll connect to the onboard Wi‑Fi network (internet not required) and stream via your browser; no app is typically necessary, but bringing wired headphones remains the safest bet. Content breadth is similar across cabins, though Business and Premium cabins often feature larger screens, better resolution, and upgraded, noise‑reducing headsets. Economy generally receives the same catalog, just on smaller displays and with standard earbuds.
Selected long‑haul aircraft offer paid onboard Wi‑Fi for messaging and light browsing; speeds and pricing can vary by route and equipment, and high‑bandwidth streaming is usually limited. When a wireless entertainment portal is available, it is separate from paid internet access and focuses on streaming the onboard library. Content is curated in partnership with major international studios, regional distributors, and music labels to keep the mix fresh and multilingual throughout the year. You may also see a digital press library available before or during the trip, letting you download newspapers or magazines to your device—availability depends on the specific flight. If your ticket shows 4Y but you’re unsure of the amenities, check the “operated by” line on your booking or the airline’s website for aircraft‑specific details.
Even with a solid onboard catalog, a little preparation ensures you don’t miss out—or run out of battery mid‑movie. It’s especially helpful on shorter sectors where entertainment can vary by aircraft, and on routes where Wi‑Fi may not be available the entire way. Below are quick, practical steps to make the most of whatever your flight offers:
In short: Airbus Transport International itself doesn’t carry passengers, so it doesn’t offer in‑flight entertainment. But if your 4Y flight is operated by a passenger airline, you can expect a modern mix of movies, TV, music, and maps on long‑haul—with more variability on shorter hops—and you’ll be best served by a little advance preparation and the right cables at hand.
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