Air Transport

Central European low-fare carrier SkyEurope Airlines is adjusting its fleet-expansion plans, again with a capacity reduction that will give it 26 aircraft by 2013.

SkyEurope ordered up to 32 Boeing 737-700s three years ago, but has been hacking back its commitment - first to 30 aircraft by 2011, then to 28 by 2012. Fifteen of these aircraft have been delivered.

In a third-quarter financial update last week, the carrier said it has firmed two of its five outstanding options, giving it 10 outstanding firmly ordered aircraft and three options. It will return two aircraft leased from GE Commercial Aviation Services and replace them with new aircraft.

"Capacity will be reduced during the upcoming winter months to minimise seasonal risk due to high fuel prices," says the carrier.