Braathens Airline to phase out Airbus fleet, focus on ATR72-600 for ACMI growth

Braathens Airline has announced a strategic shift in its fleet plan, deciding to gradually retire its Airbus aircraft by 2027 and focus exclusively on the ATR72-600 turboprop as part of its transformation into a pure ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) provider in the European market.

The move follows the upcoming expiration of the company’s long-term Airbus production agreement in December 2026, affecting seven aircraft. The airline stated that its Airbus jets are no longer optimally configured to meet the needs of tour operators or traditional airlines, while demand in the ACMI sector is increasingly shifting towards flexible, efficient turboprop solutions.

Rationale Behind the Shift

• Market demand: Airlines are increasingly seeking unit fleets for efficiency and cost savings, with growing interest in ACMI capacity.
• Turboprop advantage: The ATR72-600 is fuel-efficient, climate-friendly, and well-suited for seasonal routes, trial markets, and regional operations where larger aircraft are less viable.
• Profitability: Braathens concluded that Airbus operations lack long-term profit potential, while a streamlined turboprop fleet offers stronger growth prospects.

Employee Impact

Braathens is working with unions to offer Airbus crews opportunities to transition to ATR72-600 operations. Both Chairman Per G. Braathen and CEO Malin Brandtvig acknowledged the difficulty of phasing out Airbus aircraft. Still, they emphasised the need to adapt for long-term competitiveness while maintaining an attractive workplace.