TUS AIR

1. Executive Summary TUS Airways is a Cypriot airline operating from its main hub at Larnaca International Airport (LCA). Its brand identity is built around the motto "The Ultimate Schedule," reflecting a core commitment to providing reliable, convenient, and well-timed flights. The airline positions itself as a regional specialist, focusing on connecting Cyprus with key destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, primarily Greece and Israel. Its business model is a hybrid/value-focused approach, combining competitive base fares with a range of optional ancillary services, catering to both leisure and business travelers in its niche market. 2. Business Model and Market Positioning TUS Airways operates on a model that blends elements of traditional and low-cost carriers, focusing on value and customer choice. Unbundled Services: The pricing structure is designed to keep base fares competitive. The most basic fare typically includes only a small personal item. All other services are offered as optional add-ons, allowing passengers to pay only for what they need. Ancillary Revenue Focus: A significant portion of its business model relies on ancillary revenue streams. This is evident from the detailed "Fees & Charges" section on their support site, which includes fees for: Checked Baggage Seat Selection Airport Check-in Name Changes Sports Equipment Market Position: TUS Airways is not a global carrier. It is a regional specialist that leverages its geographical location in Cyprus to dominate specific, high-demand routes in the Eastern Mediterranean. It competes by offering direct flights and convenient schedules where larger airlines might not. 3. Operational Philosophy - "The Ultimate Schedule" The airline's slogan is central to its operational strategy. Convenience and Frequency: The goal is to offer flight times that are practical for both business day trips and leisure travel, avoiding inconveniently early or late hours where possible. Reliability: The promise of an "ultimate schedule" implies a focus on punctuality and operational reliability to build passenger trust. Point-to-Point Connectivity: The model is focused on direct, non-stop flights between Cyprus and its key destinations, simplifying travel within the region. 4. Customer Policies and Services (Derived from the Support Center) The help center provides clear insights into the passenger experience: Booking and Fares: Bookings are primarily made online. Fare families likely exist, offering different levels of inclusions (e.g., baggage, flexibility). Baggage Allowance: The policy is strict and typical of a value-focused airline. Cabin Baggage: A small personal item is usually included. A larger cabin bag (trolley) must be purchased as part of a higher fare bundle or as a separate ancillary service. Checked Baggage: Not included in the basic fare and must be pre-purchased online (at a lower rate) or at the airport (at a higher rate). Check-In Process: Online Check-in: Strongly encouraged and available from 48 hours up to a few hours before the flight. This is a cost-saving measure for the airline. Airport Check-in: Available, but potentially subject to a fee, further incentivizing passengers to check in online. Special Assistance: The airline provides standard industry services for passengers with reduced mobility, unaccompanied minors, and those traveling with infants or pets, indicating full compliance with international aviation regulations. 5. Fleet and Network Fleet: TUS Airways operates a streamlined and modern fleet consisting of Airbus A320 aircraft. This single-aisle workhorse is ideal for the short-to-medium-haul routes that constitute its network, offering efficiency and reliability. Network: The route map is highly concentrated on the Eastern Mediterranean. Core Markets: Greece (Athens, Thessaloniki, Preveza, Greek Islands) and Israel (Tel Aviv). Strategy: The network is designed to capture traffic for tourism, business, and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) between Cyprus and these neighboring countries.