2. History & Corporate Structure

Founded: Early 2000s (founded 2001) by the Paulmann family and associates; over two decades it expanded from a Chile-focused carrier to a multi-country presence via subsidiaries.

Business model: Low-cost carrier (LCC) model — point-to-point routes, unbundled fares (pay for extras), and an emphasis on cost efficiency.

Corporate organization: Parent operations in Chile with subsidiaries or branded operations in nearby markets (notably Peru and Ecuador), and Abra Group listed among investors/minority owners in public summaries.

3. Hubs, Route Network & Destinations

Primary hub: Santiago (SCL - Arturo Merino Benítez International).

Network footprint: SKY flies a mix of domestic Chilean routes and international services across South America (Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Ecuador) and has marketed routes to the Caribbean and Miami. The carrier often adds seasonal and leisure-focused services (Cancún, Punta Cana, etc.) and also serves important secondary cities in Peru and Chile. For the most current city list consult SKY’s destination pages.

4. Fleet — Types, Size, and Configuration

Airbus narrow-body fleet: SKY operates a fleet built around Airbus A320-family aircraft (A320neo / A321neo previously reported in orders and A320 variants in service); this fleet strategy keeps maintenance and training costs lower and gives high commonality. Fleet numbers change with deliveries and retirements, but public fleet trackers list dozens of active Airbus A320 family jets across the group.

Why this matters: A single-family fleet simplifies scheduling, maintenance, spare parts, and crew training — central to the LCC cost model.

5. Fare Types, Seating & Ancillaries

Unbundled fares: Basic (very low fare) tickets typically include only a small personal item; higher fare buckets add carry-on, checked baggage, seat selection, and flexible changes. SKY sells extras a-la-carte: priority boarding, baggage, seats with extra legroom, and onboard snacks. (Always check the fare rules at booking; “Zero/Basic” fares are strict.)

Seat types and upgrade options: Standard economy seating is the default. Some flights or aircraft may offer seats with extra legroom at a cost. Upgrade to a higher bundle or pay for a seat selection at booking.

Tips: If you need baggage, buy it during booking — it’s typically cheaper than paying at the airport.

6. Baggage Policy

Baggage rules differ by fare and route (and they change), but general patterns are:

• Zero / Basic fares: Include only a small personal item (strict dimensions and weight).
• Plus / Master fares: Include a personal item plus a carry-on and checked bags depending on the fare.
• Checked baggage limits: Vary by route; standard maximum linear dimension 158 cm.

Always verify at booking or see SKY’s baggage pages for current fee tables.

7. Check-in, Boarding & Airport Processes

Online check-in: SKY offers online/mobile check-in; printing or mobile boarding passes are accepted depending on the airport. Online check-in opens at specific windows.

Airport counters & bag drop: If you have checked bags or need assistance, arrive earlier and use SKY counters; airports enforce cut-offs for check-in and bag drop times.

Size checks and enforcement: Travelers report strict enforcement of hand-luggage dimensions on some routes.

8. Customer Service, Claims, and Contact Channels

Official channels: SKY publishes customer forms for claims and case inquiries and has region-specific contact pages. For claims or baggage/IRROPS issues use the SKY online case form linked from their contact pages.

Best practice: File via the online form, keep boarding passes & receipts. Local civil aviation rules may affect compensation.

9. Frequent Flyer / Loyalty

Sky Plus: SKY runs a simple loyalty program where members may earn perks (priority options, fare benefits); check their site for updates.

10. Operational Performance & Reputation

Punctuality & awards: SKY has been recognized in past years for punctuality and regional awards (e.g., Skytrax). Customer feedback centers on fare competitiveness (positive) and ancillary fees (mixed).

11. Safety, Maintenance & Oversight

Maintenance: SKY contracts or runs maintenance through AIRMAN (Santiago). Operates under civil aviation oversight in all markets.

12. Subsidiaries, Alliances & Partnerships

SKY operates subsidiaries such as SKY Peru and SKY Ecuador to expand its reach across the Americas. It also works with interline partners occasionally.

13. Business Strategy & Market Position

Value proposition: Low fares and frequent schedules between major cities.

When to choose SKY: Ideal for travelers prioritizing price over amenities. For all-inclusive service, full-service carriers may be preferable.

For agents: SKY’s regional reach is especially useful for Chile–Peru itineraries.

14. Practical Tips & How to Avoid Surprises

• Buy baggage online at booking time (airport fees are higher).
• Read the fare rules carefully.
• Pre-arrange oversized or special baggage.
• Keep receipts for delays and file claims promptly via mmb.skyairline.com.

15. Notable Sources

• SKY Airline company & summary page (Wikipedia)
• SKY official site — fleet / onboard / destination pages
• Fleet trackers (Planespotters, Airfleets)
• Routesonline and travel blogs tracking fees