BBN Airlines Secures Singapore Permit to Expand ACMI Services in Asia

BBN Airlines Indonesia, a subsidiary of the global aviation leader Avia Solutions Group (ASG), has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a Foreign Operator Permit (FOP) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS). This newly acquired permit marks the second overseas license awarded to the ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) specialist airline in 2024, paving the way for BBN Airlines to broaden its presence across new Asian markets and enhance its existing portfolio of customer airlines in the region.

Established in August 2022 in Jakarta, Indonesia, BBN Airlines Indonesia has demonstrated consistent growth since its inception. The airline currently operates a fleet of six Boeing 737 aircraft, including three passenger-configured 737-800s with an all-economy layout offering up to 189 seats, two Boeing 737-800 freighters, and one Boeing 737-400 freighter added to the fleet in November 2023. This diverse fleet underscores BBN Airlines’ capability to cater to both passenger and cargo demands efficiently.

Martynas Grigas, Chairman of BBN Airlines Indonesia, highlighted the importance of the FOP in a recent statement. “This permit reflects our excellence in meeting stringent international aviation safety regulations, further enhancing our credibility as we expand,” Grigas stated. He emphasized that the permit not only boosts the airline’s credibility but also enhances its ability to deliver the advantages of ACMI, such as flexibility and cost efficiency, to a broader customer base in Singapore and surrounding regions.

Originally launched as a dedicated ACMI cargo airline, BBN Airlines has successfully diversified into commercial passenger wet-lease operations. This strategic pivot has allowed the airline to respond dynamically to market demands and leverage its ACMI expertise to offer comprehensive aviation solutions. The recent extension of their FOP with CAAS aligns with BBN Airlines’ ambition to expand its reach and service offerings within the competitive Asian aviation market.

In addition to the Singaporean FOP, BBN Airlines Indonesia has also secured a Foreign Air Transport Air Operators Certificate (FATAOC) from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) of Australia in August 2024. This certification enables the carrier to operate flights to and from Australia, further expanding its operational footprint beyond Indonesia and reinforcing its position as a versatile ACMI provider.

Looking ahead, BBN Airlines is targeting a significant expansion of its operational fleet, aiming to grow to 40 aircraft by 2027. This ambitious growth plan is part of ASG’s broader strategy to enhance its global aviation services. ASG, which owns several other airlines including SmartLynx Airlines, Avion Express, Ascend Airways, KlasJet, AirExplore, Skytrans, and Magma Aviation, holds nine Air Operator’s Certificates (AOCs) across Europe, Indonesia, Thailand, and Australia. The group currently operates a fleet of 214 aircraft, providing a robust foundation for BBN Airlines’ expansion initiatives.

Beyond its core airline operations, Avia Solutions Group offers a wide range of aviation services including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), pilot and crew recruitment and training, ground handling, and other associated services through subsidiaries like AeroTime and AviationCV.com. These comprehensive services enable ASG to support its airlines effectively, ensuring operational excellence and sustained growth.

The extension of the wet lease agreement with airBaltic and the recent FOP from CAAS are testament to BBN Airlines Indonesia’s commitment to excellence and its strategic vision for growth in the Asian market. By leveraging its ACMI expertise and expanding its operational licenses, BBN Airlines is well-positioned to meet the increasing demands of the aviation industry and provide superior services to its global clientele.

In conclusion, BBN Airlines Indonesia’s acquisition of the Foreign Operator Permit from Singapore’s CAAS marks a pivotal step in its expansion journey. Supported by Avia Solutions Group’s extensive aviation network and resources, BBN Airlines is set to enhance its service offerings, connect new markets, and contribute significantly to the regional aviation landscape in Asia.