Italian regional airline Alpi Eagles is gearing up for a major fleet renewal and expansion. The privately owned carrier aims to finalise its plans by the third quarter.
Alpi operates eight Fokker 100s from its Milan hub on regional services within Italy and to points in Spain, Germany and France. One of the Fokkers is operated under a wet lease agreement by Air Sicilia. The move is planned to allow the airline to boost its capacity and range capabilities.
Smaller regional aircraft types are being studied to help the airline take a larger slice of the Italian domestic market. Meanwhile, the acquisition of an aircraft larger than its 85-seat Fokkers will allow Alpi to serve new European destinations.
Although no formal decision is due before the middle of the year, the airline is thought to be eyeing 50-seat Embraer ERJ-145s for its regional routes, and the acquisition of Airbus A320s for its mainline operations.
Source: Flight International
