Aer Arann Rises from the Ashes

Two years after entering bankruptcy protection, restructured Irish regional operator Aer Arann has embarked on a fleet-replacement program. Last month it neared a resolution to negotiations to acquire eight ATR 72-600s, reflecting expectations for rejuvenation of a business that has fought valiantly to escape the ravages of the Irish economic collapse.

The airline, which flies as Aer Lingus Regional (under 2010 franchise arrangements with the eponymous national carrier), authorized ATR to reveal plans at July’s Farnborough International airshow to deliver the first new turboprop next year.“We are reviewing our requirement regarding potential purchase or leasing of [several] new aircraft,” Aer Arann CFO Fiachra Kirwan told AIN in early August.