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Airbus A220 engine issues lead airBaltic to suspend routes

Airbus A220 engine issues lead airBaltic to suspend routes
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Airbus A380 | Airbus

Engine issues with airBaltic's Airbus A220 fleet have led the airline to suspend routes and reduce flight frequencies during the summer peak season. The carrier will temporarily halt 19 routes and cut frequencies on 21 others, resulting in the cancellation of approximately 4,670 flights and affecting an estimated 67,160 passengers.

The disruptions are attributed to Pratt & Whitney's inability to meet maintenance obligations for the engines powering airBaltic's 49 A220 aircraft. The airline stated: "The engine manufacturer’s inability to meet its timely maintenance obligations has impacted the operational capabilities of airBaltic’s Airbus A220-300 fleet, forcing the airline to adjust its summer schedule."

Unexpected delays and prolonged engine maintenance by Pratt & Whitney have compounded global supply chain issues and maintenance constraints. AirBaltic expressed regret over the forced cancellations and is committed to supporting affected customers through rebooking options or full refunds. The airline is working closely with Pratt & Whitney to resolve these issues.

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The exact number of grounded planes remains uncertain. When asked by Simple Flying, airBaltic said: "At this time, airBaltic cannot disclose the exact number of anticipated grounded aircraft through 2025, as this figure remains subject to change." Routes from Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, and Tampere are among those affected.

Additionally, airBaltic's expanded wet-lease agreement with Lufthansa involves up to half of its A220 fleet. This agreement provides additional capacity for Lufthansa during peak season but reduces flexibility for airBaltic's operations. Despite challenges, airBaltic aims to maintain most of its flights across Europe and beyond.

AirBaltic confirmed it will continue honoring its contractual obligations with Lufthansa Group: "airBaltic will continue to honor its long-term contractual obligations with the Lufthansa Group, which were concluded in September 2024."

Brussels Airlines expects four A220s from this arrangement while Austrian Airlines anticipates three based on recent scheduling inputs. SWISS International Airlines has been operating airBaltic's A220s due to similar engine issues in previous years.

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