Air North Takes Delivery of First 737-800 as Fleet Renewal Plans Progress

Canada’s Air North has welcomed its first B737-800, marking a significant step in the carrier’s fleet renewal plans that were initially conceived before the Covid-19 pandemic. The delivery of the aircraft, registered as C-FNYA and manufactured 12 years ago, follows the airline’s decision to revive its B737 Classic fleet renewal initiative, which had been temporarily postponed during the global crisis.

The newly acquired B737-800, initially registered as N191TS, was ferried from storage at Marana to Kelowna on September 6. Subsequently, it was re-registered under its current marks in Canada on September 26. The aircraft is currently undergoing maintenance at Kelowna airport, as per Flightradar24 ADS-B data.

Air North’s Chief Executive and Owner, Joe Sparling, had previously communicated the airline’s intention to resume its fleet renewal plans, emphasizing the phased induction of the B737-800 into revenue service in spring 2024. This strategic move aligns with the carrier’s overarching objective to support the eventual retirement of some of its B737 Classics.

As of now, Air North’s narrowbody jet fleet comprises one B737-400 (31.3 years old) and four B737-500s (with an average age of 30.7 years). In addition to the B737 series, the airline operates one ATR42-320, one ATR42-320(F), and two ATR42-320(QC) aircraft.

The acquisition of the B737-800 marks a pivotal moment for Air North as it navigates its fleet modernization journey, reinforcing its commitment to operational efficiency and meeting the evolving demands of the aviation landscape. Stay tuned for further developments as Air North progresses with its fleet renewal plans and integrates the new B737-800 into its operational network.