Switzerland-based carrier Hello is introducing Airbus A320 twinjets to replace its Boeing MD-90 fleet, and has signed a maintenance agreement covering five aircraft of the type.

Hello is to start phasing out the MD-90s in November, with a "farewell flight" planned for 30 January, coinciding with the World Economic Forum.

A first A320, previously in service with Philippine Airlines, has already been received by the Swiss carrier, which has agreed with maintenance firm SR Technics a component services deal that covers five A320s and runs to 2016.

SR Technics says the service package will include provision of a dedicated consignment stock in Basle and access to its component pool on a flight-hour basis.

Hello's MD-90s are among a batch of the type being leased by SAS Group to a US carrier.

Source: Flight International