flybig (FLG, Indore) is focusing on DHC-6-400s operations after all of its ATR - Avions de Transport Régional were returned to lessors. The Indian regional specialist said it would add three more Twin Otters in the first half of December.
"This milestone signifies a crucial phase in our endeavour to further lessen the physical distances across Bharat [India]. The infusion of more aircraft is beyond mere growth; it is a testament to our dedication to bridge distances. Our mission extends beyond mere convenience in air travel; flybig is progressively transforming regional connectivity, one city at a time," chief executive Sanjay Mandavia proclaimed.
The airline said that the three new Twin Otters would arrive in the second half of December but did not reveal their identities. The spokesperson told ch-aviation only that they would arrive from lessors in Mauritius and Japan. flybig said it would use the aircraft for "operations in Bathinda, Ghaziabad, Ludhiana, and, in addition, bi-weekly services extending to Dehra Dun".
The ch-aviation fleets module shows that the carrier currently operates two DHC-6-400s. While one is in storage, the other is operating flybig's Hindon-Bathinda-Dehra Dun and Hindon-Ludhiana routes, according to Flightradar24 ADS-B data.
The regional specialist recently ended its ATR operations, having first returned its only ATR72-500 in October. Two ATR72-600s on lease from VMAN Aero Services have also been retired. While the airline claimed it chose to return them due to the scarcity of spare parts and maintenance issues, the lessor said it repossessed the aircraft.
flybig focuses on serving routes covered by the Indian government's regional connectivity scheme UDAN. Prior to the retirement of the ATRs, it maintained an extensive network in eastern India, operating out of Kolkata. Currently, its limited operations are focused on Delhi and destinations in northern India.
