Airbus is continuing to pitch the Airbus A220 aircraft to Air Serbia, noting that deliveries can be secured despite a backlog. Johan Pelissier, President of Region Europe at Airbus, said, “When the time comes for Air Serbia to replace its A319 fleet, and considering the success we have seen with the A220 across Europe, it would make strong sense for the airline to look closely at the type. It offers a comparable size, but also provides greater long-term flexibility. Given the growth in this region, Air Serbia should avoid limiting itself to a product that could constrain its future development”.
Mr Pelissier added, “The A220 has been a very successful product, and it is true that direct procurement for this aircraft family is unavailable before the end of the decade. However, solutions can be found. The A220 is a strong fit as a replacement for the A319, as demonstrated by a number of operators, including in Europe”. He noted that the A220 engine situation is moving in the right direction. The Serbian carrier has previously expressed concern with the aircraft type due to ongoing Pratt & Whitney engine reliability issues. Approximately 17% to 20% of the global A220 fleet is currently grounded as a result.
Air Serbia has said that its recently concluded wet-lease arrangement for two Airbus A220 aircraft from airBaltic, increasing to four from this summer, will enable the airline to trial the jet’s performance. “We remain committed to innovation and technological development, all with the aim of strengthening our competitiveness in the European market. This type of aircraft will be an important model and reference point for future decisions regarding the composition of Air Serbia’s fleet, in line with the continued development and implementation of the company’s strategic plans,” the carrier said. The airline plans to deploy the aircraft type on its upcoming two longest intra-European routes during the 2026/27 winter season – Tenerife, with a flight time of four hours and 45 minutes, and Tromso, with a flight time of three hours and 55 minutes. However, Air Serbia has so far expressed a greater willingness to expand its Embraer fleet and potentially modernise its mid-life aircraft with new E195-E2 jets.
