BRA – Braathens Regional Airlines Completes Restructuring and Plans Fleet Expansion
BRA – Braathens Regional Airlines, based in Stockholm Bromma, has successfully finalized its restructuring process initiated in October, aiming to enhance profitability and secure its future in the Swedish aviation market. The airline has received an additional investment of SEK114 million (USD11.1 million) from its current shareholders, a move that underscores their commitment to BRA’s long-term viability and strategic direction.
The restructuring, which has drawn parallels to the Chapter 11 process in the United States, received the green light from both creditors and the Solna District Court on February 16. This step marks a significant milestone in BRA’s efforts to stabilize its operations and chart a course for growth.
Operating as a virtual carrier through AOC holder BRA – Braathens Regional Airways and its newly established AOC under Braathens International Airways, BRA is positioning itself to concentrate on three core business segments: domestic flights within Sweden, charter operations, and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services. This focus is expected to streamline BRA’s operations and leverage its strengths across different market segments.
BRA’s strategic domestic network centers around Stockholm Bromma, connecting approximately 20 destinations within Sweden. The airline’s charter services cater to tour operators such as Apollo and Ving, and it has secured a notable ACMI contract with Austrian Airlines, underscoring its versatility and capability in serving diverse aviation needs.
Looking ahead, BRA plans to operate a fleet of 21 aircraft, comprising fourteen ATR72-600s for regional operations, alongside four A319-100s and three A320s for its broader network. This planned fleet expansion reflects the airline’s ambition to not only preserve but enhance aviation infrastructure and accessibility throughout Sweden.
Per G Braathen, BRA’s owner and chairman, emphasized the airline’s commitment to sustainability and its role in supporting the aviation sector in Sweden. “BRA is now well placed to continue preserving the aviation infrastructure and accessibility in Sweden, while actively pushing on with our important sustainability work,” he stated.
This restructuring and strategic realignment come after BRA sought bankruptcy protection in April 2020 due to the challenges posed by the pandemic, leading to a temporary halt in operations. However, with a successful relaunch in October 2020 and the recent completion of its restructuring, BRA is poised for a new chapter in its history, with a clear focus on growth, sustainability, and serving the Swedish market.