Skytrans to Welcome First Airbus A319 in 2024
Australian regional carrier Skytrans Airlines is set to introduce its first Airbus A319, marking a major fleet upgrade as it moves beyond its all-turboprop operations. This milestone follows the airline’s acquisition by Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) lease operator, in early 2024. The addition of the A319 aligns with Skytrans’ expansion goals as the carrier strengthens its network across Australia.
The Airbus A319, registered as MSN1779 and re-registered in Australia as VH-L7A, is 22.3 years old and originally entered service with Alitalia in 2002. Most recently, the aircraft flew under ITA Airways, Alitalia’s successor, before being acquired by Skytrans. Currently configured to seat 144 passengers in a single-class layout, the aircraft will undergo final maintenance checks and a ferry flight from Europe to Australia in November 2024. The A319 is expected to arrive in Australia after repainting at Kaunas International Airport in Lithuania, managed by MAAS Aviation.
Skytrans anticipates obtaining the necessary Air Operator Certificate (AOC) variation to operate the Airbus A319 by the end of 2024. The approval will enable the airline to introduce jet service, allowing for faster and more efficient operations, especially on longer routes across Queensland and remote regions. Skytrans’ current fleet comprises 13 regional aircraft, including De Havilland Canada DHC-8-100s, DHC-8-200s, and Cessna 208Bs, serving a network of 19 airports in Queensland and the Cape York Peninsula.
With Avia Solutions Group’s backing, Skytrans aims to expand its operational capabilities. Avia Solutions Group acquired Skytrans in March 2024 as part of its strategic growth plan to bolster its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Skytrans’ network primarily focuses on Regular Public Transport (RPT) scheduled services and charter flights, with the new A319 potentially enabling future growth in both sectors. Notably, Skytrans has been awarded a contract to operate flights from Sydney to Lord Howe Island, a route currently served by Qantas. This new service will commence in February 2026 and run until 2030. Skytrans and QantasLink are in discussions to finalize a codeshare agreement for this route, offering increased connectivity options for travelers.
The Skytrans expansion aligns with Avia Solutions Group’s strategy to balance demand across seasons, leveraging the Asia-Pacific’s counter-seasonal demand to Europe. This approach allows the Group to maximize fleet utilization year-round by rotating aircraft between regions. In addition to Skytrans, Avia Solutions Group owns a portfolio of airlines, including SmartLynx Airlines, Avion Express, Ascend Airways, and BBN Indonesia Airlines, and holds nine Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) across Europe, Indonesia, Thailand, and Australia.
Beyond its airline operations, Avia Solutions Group provides a comprehensive range of aviation services, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), ground handling, and pilot recruitment and training. Employing approximately 12,000 staff globally, the Group operates 214 aircraft, positioning it as a dominant force in the international aviation market.
The introduction of the Airbus A319 is a significant step for Skytrans, enhancing its operational capacity and strengthening its ability to serve remote Australian regions efficiently. Backed by Avia Solutions Group, Skytrans is poised to become a key player in regional aviation, with the new jet enabling it to better serve its growing passenger base across Queensland and beyond.
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