Azores Airlines Faces Criticism from Pilot Union Over Safety and Ops

Portugal’s civil aviation pilots’ union (SPAC) has raised concerns over ongoing operational and management issues at Azores Airlines, warning that the situation could affect safety and performance. The union accused the airline’s leadership of mismanagement, citing frequent disruptions in crew planning and slot coordination, and an increasing reliance on ACMI-leased aircraft.

SPAC told local media outlet ECO that there are “serious and recurring failures” at Azores Airlines that risk compromising operational integrity. The union also criticized recent leadership appointments, particularly in the flight operations and training departments, claiming they were made without transparency or merit-based selection.

In response, Azores Airlines defended its management and rejected the union’s claims. The carrier noted that the current leadership, appointed in July 2024, has already ended two ACMI agreements to improve efficiency and align with the European Commission’s restructuring guidelines. The airline attributed ongoing reliance on wet-leased capacity to external issues, such as bird strikes at Ponta Delgada and ground handling disruptions.

ch-aviation data shows that Azores Airlines is currently leasing two A320-200s—OY-RUH from DAT and CS-TSY from White. The airline emphasized its commitment to oversight and is pursuing compensation for recent operational disruptions.

SPAC also questioned the transparency of the carrier’s financial standing, urging Azores Airlines to release its 2024 accounts. The airline responded that financial reports for Grupo SATA will be disclosed following required reviews by the General and Regional Assemblies.

Azores Airlines’ fleet includes A320ceos, A320neos, and A321neo variants. Its regional affiliate SATA Air Açores operates DHC-8 turboprops.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com