UK charter and wet-lease carrier British World Airlines (BWA) is in discussions with airlines in the southern hemisphere to boost business for its Boeing 737-300s during the northern winter. Meanwhile, the Southend-based airline has strengthened its relationship with British Airways' Italian franchise airline, National Jets Italia (NJI), with the delivery of two 737s.
BWA is replacing its BAC One-Eleven fleet with 737-300s after withdrawing the One-Elevens from service in December due to noise regulations. Two have been sold, while BWA has "promising leads" for the remaining three, says Mike Sessions, commercial director. Three 737-300s are now in service, one of which is operating ad hoc charters, while the other two are in service in Italy with NJI, which is operating under BWA's air operator's certificate (AOC).
Although BWA's 737 operating ad hoc charters have been 90% occupied during the winter, the carrier is "looking for a partnership on the other side of the world", says Sessions, adding that BWA is "talking to a few people".
BWA may take on more 737s, but has a greater need to address the market demand for 70- to 100-seaters. "We're looking to add two aircraft, probably 146s, by the start of the summer," adds Sessions.
BWA has had three BAe 146s operating with NJI since it launched services last July. The aircraft are operating under a management contract, while the two 737s, which launched Rome-Athens services last month, are wet leased. NJI's contract to operate under BWA's AOC is on a one-year renewable basis.
Source: Flight International
