Brunei’s Gallop Air Considers Soft Launch with Chartered Aircraft Amid Certification Process

Brunei’s emerging airline, Gallop Air, is contemplating a soft launch through chartered aircraft from Royal Brunei Airlines, a move that could expedite its debut as early as 2024, as reported by Aviation Week Network. The startup, led by CEO Cham Chi, aims to charter an A320-200N from the state-owned carrier while awaiting its air operator’s certificate (AOC) and the delivery of the initial batch of 30 aircraft ordered from COMAC. While government support in Bandar Seri Begawan has been affirmed, it remains unclear if Royal Brunei is receptive to this interim plan.

Cham Chi stated that using chartered aircraft aligns with the goal of launching operations swiftly. Gallop Air, currently in the initial stage of the AOC acquisition process, hopes to progress to the second stage by year-end. However, challenges lie ahead, as the ARJ21-700 and C919 aircraft on order need certification from local authorities, and securing enough certified flight crews for these Chinese-manufactured planes poses a potential hurdle.

Earlier this year, Gallop Air inked a letter of intent to acquire thirty COMAC aircraft, comprising fifteen ARJ21-700s and fifteen C919s. Notably, one ARJ21 is earmarked for aeromedical retrievals, with potential plans for dedicated freighters. While specific delivery timelines remain undisclosed, both Gallop Air and COMAC are poised to navigate the complexities of certification and crew availability as they advance towards operational readiness.