Virgin Australia Regional Airlines (VARA) is investigating replacing its Fokker 100 fleet with either the Embraer E190-E2 or Airbus A220-100.
In a memo to staff, VARA Executive GM Nathan Miller said: “We have narrowed down the potential replacement aircraft for our F100s to either the Embraer E190-E2 or Airbus A220-100. These are new-generation aircraft providing superior performance compared to the F100, lower fuel consumption and emissions through the employment of geared turbofan engines, enhanced customer product and improved operational performance.”
Mr Miller told staff that “in 2021, VARA undertook a review of various options to replace the F100s, which now have an average fleet unit age of 30 years. The outcome of the review identified the Boeing 737-700 as a suitable replacement option for the majority of the network, however, some airports we operate into are unable to accept the B737-700 due to aerodrome compatibility. To be able to continue to service our customers in these locations, we retained a small number of F100s.”
“As VARA has grown, and gone from strength to strength, we have earned the right to consider whether there is a better solution for the remaining lines of flying which really require a 100-seat aircraft. The Western Australia charter market is the biggest charter market in Australia, with the most vigorous competition being in the 100-seat segment, so we need to ensure we can provide a great solution for our charter clients with this requirement.”
Mr Miller said that the airline foresees an opportunity for at least four new aircraft based in Perth, commencing mid-2025.
“These aircraft will predominately operate charter activity, along with some RPT activity in shoulder periods where charter activity is low (Friday and weekends). If we go ahead with either of these aircraft, this will be the first time that the WA 100-seat charter market has had new aircraft, since the days of Ansett, which would be great for our business and great for our clients,” Mr Miller said.
“Ultimately, our Board will make the decision on the business case for these aircraft, so it’s important that we can make a strong and clear case for the investment. An essential part of that process is ensuring we consult with all of our key stakeholders – that includes our VARA team members, customers, aircraft manufacturers, clients and unions. We will commence these discussions in the coming days, as we look to understand how we can provide ongoing opportunities for our people while remaining competitive within the 100-seat segment of the charter market,” Mr Miller said.
Lilium, developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jet is partnering with advanced air mobility (AAM) operator…
Lockheed Martin Skunk Works recently joined the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School and other government and industry partners in…
Airbus has finalised the acquisition of U.S.-based Aerovel and its unmanned aerial system (UAS), Flexrotor, in a move to strengthen…
The Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) is highlighting its 5th Generation Jet Fighter KAAN, as well as its T625 Gokbey Helicopter…
Sarsilmaz is bringing its range of weapons to the ongoing show. The company is displaying its defence products from small…
Roketsan is showcasing its well-earned reputation in the development of groundbreaking technologies in rocket, missile and weapon systems at this…
An insight into possible weapon options for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) new Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50 light…
Countries across regions are increasingly staying away from Russian arms since due to the fear of inviting U.S. sanctions, opening…
Fresh after its success in deploying 5G services in India, Vietnam’s Military Industry and Telecoms Group (Viettel) is at the…
Saab is displaying its training solutions for modern training needs at the ongoing DSA. The company is also showcasing its…
Ranhill Defence & Technology a Malaysian provider of defence solutions has partnered with Thai manufacturer of defence vehicles Chaiseri to…
BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), the Indo-Russian manufacturer of cruise missiles is presenting its offering for use on air, land…
STM, a prominent player in the Turkish defence sector is showcasing its naval platforms and tactical mini-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)…
Indian provider of anti-ballistic solutions SMPP Private Limited is presenting its range of bullet-proof armour-based solutions at the ongoing show.…
DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies Sdn. Bhd. (DEFTECH) is marking a strong presence at the ongoing with a wide range of offerings…
DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd (Deftech), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Bhd is now undertaking developmental flight testing of Malaysia’s first-ever…
The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) is seeking to procure two assault craft for its special forces unit, Paskal. These assault…
The Malaysian Army is set to bolster its arsenal with additional mortar systems following previous acquisitions from Spain. In 2022,…
Leonardo is displaying a model of the ATR 72 MPA in Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) colours. Two ATR 72…
Pakistan based defence firm Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS) is showcasing its growing range of defence products at the…
The ongoing edition of Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2024 now underway is slated to result…
BAE Systems is highlighting the capabilities of Nautomate, an autonomous control system for uncrewed marine vehicles, by demonstrating it on…
Turkish defence firm, ASELSAN is showcasing a growing range of defence equipment and services at the ongoing show, in order…
Emirates has announced the first set of destinations to be served by its A350 aircraft entering service in September 2024.…
Ocean Infinity, has presented a new MH370 underwater search proposal to Anthony Loke, the Malaysian Minister of Transport in Kuala…
The 18th edition of Defence Services Asia this year (DSA 2024) is expected to be the biggest ever in the…
It is not a coincidence that the Turkish contingent at the show is one of the largest. The Turkish defence…
Aselsan is keen to grow its market presence in Malaysia and is participating in the ongoing DSA with a wide…
"During the DSA event, we will be holding important discussions on what we can do to strengthen the naval defence…
Turkiye’s SDT Space & Defence Technologies has brought a wide range of its products to the ongoing show. Among the…
Headquartered in Singapore with reporters spread across all major regions, GBP Aerospace & Defence is a leading media house that publishes three publications that serve the aerospace and defence sector - Asian Defence Technology, Asian Airlines & Aerospace and Daily News. Known industry-wide for quality journalism, GBP Aerospace & Defence is present at more international tradeshows and exhibitions than any other competing publication in the region.
For over three decades, our award-winning team of reporters has been producing top-notch content to help readers stay abreast of the latest developements in the field of commercial aviation, MRO, defence, and Space.
Copyright 2024. GBP. All Rights Reserved.
Home Defence & Security Space Commercial Aviation Maintence Repair & Overhaul Daily News Events About Us
2024 GBP all rights reserved.