YUGOSLAV flag carrier JAT wants to acquire new aircraft as it tries to modernise its war-battered operations. It is reported in Belgrade newspapers that JAT plans to invest around $1 billion by 2000, to rejuvenate part of its fleet.
JAT resumed international operations in 1994, with the lifting of some UN sanctions against Yugoslavia imposed following Belgrade's support for the Bosnian Serbs in their civil war with Bosnia.
Airbus Industrie was due to demonstrate the A320 to the airline on 6 June, as a potential replacement for two Boeing 727s. JAT officials say, however, that all the usual airframe suppliers are candidates for the contract
The airline has spent more than $8 million having its single McDonnell Douglas DC-10-30 refurbished by Alitalia, but a JAT engineer says that the airline may now sell the aircraft. No final decision has been taken. JAT intends to remain in the long-haul business, however, and will be looking for a replacement if the DC-10 goes.
Source: Flight International
