Introduction of Airbus A319 to Skytrans Fleet
Skytrans Airlines, a prominent Australian carrier, is set to enhance its fleet by introducing the first Airbus A319. This strategic expansion follows the recent acquisition of Skytrans by Avia Solutions Group in March 2024, a global leader in aviation services including ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) leasing. The integration of the Airbus A319 marks a significant transition for Skytrans from an all-turboprop fleet to incorporating jet aircraft.
The Airbus A319, bearing the manufacturer serial number MSN1779, is 22.3 years old and was first operational in July 2002. Initially delivered to Alitalia, and later transitioning to ITA Airways, the aircraft is currently being refurbished and repainted by MAAS Aviation at Kaunas International Airport in Lithuania. It is scheduled for a ferry flight from Europe to Australia in November 2024, with expectations to join the Skytrans fleet by the end of the year. The aircraft will be registered in Australia as VH-L7A and is configured to accommodate 144 passengers in a single-class layout.
Operational Expansion and Future Plans
With the acquisition of the A319, Skytrans aims to enhance its service offerings and operational capacity. The carrier primarily serves a network of 19 airports across Queensland and the Cape York Peninsula, focusing on Regular Public Transport (RPT) and charter operations. The addition of the jet aircraft will potentially open new routes and offer more efficient services, particularly on longer or more densely trafficked routes.
Furthermore, Skytrans has recently been awarded a significant contract by the New South Wales Government to operate flights from Sydney to Lord Howe Island, starting February 2026. This route is currently serviced by Qantas, which is retiring its DHC-8-200 aircraft. Skytrans will exclusively operate this route until March 2030, with plans to finalize a codeshare agreement with QantasLink.
Strategic Growth and Diversification
Avia Solutions Group’s acquisition of Skytrans is part of a broader strategy to expand its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region. This move not only diversifies the group’s operational bases across counter-seasonal regions but also enhances its service capabilities through the addition of new aircraft types like the Airbus A319. Avia Solutions Group, which owns several other airlines and holds nine Air Operator’s Certificates (AOCs) globally, operates a diverse fleet of 214 aircraft.
The group’s extensive portfolio includes airlines such as SmartLynx Airlines, Avion Express, and Magma Aviation among others. Beyond airline operations, Avia Solutions Group offers comprehensive aviation services ranging from MRO, crew recruitment, training, to ground handling. The addition of Skytrans further strengthens its global presence and operational versatility, with approximately 12,000 staff employed worldwide.