Italian regional carrier Gandalf Airlines is preparing for further expansion following its order for five more Fairchild 328JETs, as it seeks a European airline partner to ensure its long-term survival.
Gandalf began operations in April last year from a hub in Bergamo, near Milan. Its fleet includes four 328JETs, plus five turboprops - four Dornier 328s and one ATR 42.
The airline, which is pursuing an aggressive expansion strategy, has firmed up orders for five more 328JETs, for delivery this year from June, to help boost its route network.
In the first three months of this year, the airline carried 23,000 passengers, compared to 44,700 for the whole of last year. Gandalf's shares have performed strongly on the Milan stock exchange and an equity partner is being sought to reduce the risk of a hostile take over. Discussions are under way with various major European airlines about a financial link, which could see the airline selling a majority shareholding.
Meanwhile, Italian regional Alpi Eagles is discussing the acquisition of four Embraer RJ-145s for delivery from next year.
The airline currently operates eight Fokker 100s on international and domestic services from hubs in Venice and Milan.
Source: Flight International
