Braathens and ATR Extend Maintenance Partnership

Braathens and ATR Renew Maintenance Partnership for Five Years

ATR and Braathens Regional Airlines (Braathens) have agreed to extend their global maintenance agreement (GMA) for an additional five years, reinforcing a collaboration focused on operational reliability and cost-efficiency. This renewal reflects Braathens’ sustained confidence in ATR’s technical expertise and comprehensive support services amid increasing competition among aircraft manufacturers.

Continued Maintenance Support and Training Initiatives

Under the extended agreement, Braathens will continue to benefit from a broad range of maintenance services, including access to ATR’s extensive inventory of line replaceable units (LRUs), as well as repair and landing gear overhaul support. These services are critical to maintaining Braathens’ ATR fleet in optimal condition, enabling the airline to maximize operational efficiency and reduce downtime in a competitive market environment. Industry analysts observe that while other manufacturers are enhancing their maintenance offerings, ATR’s reputation for reliability and cost-effectiveness remains a key differentiator in the sector. The renewal has been welcomed by market stakeholders, who emphasize the operational advantages it confers on Braathens.

Beyond technical maintenance, ATR is expanding its collaboration with Braathens through a targeted training program designed to meet future pilot requirements. This initiative links flight school cadets with Braathens by providing type rating courses at the ATR Training Centre. Selected cadets will join the airline as junior first officers, with ATR Flight Instructors delivering line training to ensure a seamless transition and uphold Braathens’ stringent safety and performance standards.

Strategic Realignment and Fleet Expansion

The renewal of the maintenance agreement coincides with a strategic shift in Braathens’ business model. The Swedish carrier has moved away from scheduled and charter services to concentrate exclusively on providing flight capacity for other airlines, including SAS and Austrian Airlines. To support this new focus, Braathens plans to expand its ATR fleet from 14 to 17 aircraft by the end of the year. Among the new additions is a brand-new ATR 72-600, delivered directly from ATR’s final assembly line, underscoring the airline’s ongoing commitment to the ATR platform.

As Braathens adapts to evolving market demands, its extended partnership with ATR positions the airline to sustain high levels of operational efficiency and reliability, thereby reinforcing the standing of both companies within the regional aviation sector.