Flybig Concludes ATR72-500 Operations; Aircraft Transferred to Buddha Air in Nepal

India’s regional carrier, flybig (FLG), recently concluded its operations with the ATR72-500, returning the aircraft (VT-FBA, msn 955) to lessor Avation earlier this month. In a mutually agreed decision, Avation subsequently sold the 12-year-old turboprop to Buddha Air (U4) in Nepal.

The ATR72-500, which operated its final revenue flight from Kolkata to Guwahati on August 27, 2023, as per Flightradar24 ADS-B data, completed its journey to Hyderabad International on October 9, following the return to the lessor. On October 27, it was ferried to Kathmandu and will soon be re-registered as 9N-AOC under Buddha Air.

While flybig bid farewell to its ATR72-500, the airline continues to operate two ATR72-600s, with one currently active, and one DHC-6-400. Additionally, the regional specialist is anticipating the delivery of two more Twin Otters, further expanding its fleet.

The move to part ways with the ATR72-500 reflects flybig’s strategic fleet management decisions. As the airline streamlines its operations, passengers can still expect continued service on its ATR72-600s and DHC-6-400, providing reliable connectivity across its regional network.

Buddha Air’s acquisition of the ATR72-500 marks a significant addition to its fleet, enhancing its capacity to serve domestic and international routes. The aviation landscape in the region continues to evolve, and both flybig and Buddha Air are poised for new opportunities and growth in the dynamic South Asian market.