ACMI provider Avion Express confirms fleet 'realignment'

ACMI provider Avion Express has confirmed it is adopting a “proactive fleet and structural realignment” with plans to redeliver at least 15 aircraft “and will continue to evaluate fleet size depending on market developments.”

Ishka reported earlier today that the ACMI provider was in talks with lessors about returning more than 20 Airbus A320ceos, or roughly half its fleet, according to multiple leasing sources (see Insight).

The statement in full from the firm (see below). “Avion Express has announced a proactive fleet and structural realignment designed to reinforce the efficiency and agility of the company.

The current geopolitical environment has introduced some of the most significant operational challenges to airlines around the globe since the pandemic, with airspace closures, mandatory flight rerouting, and rising fuel costs all adding layers of complexity across the industry.

As such, Avion Express has agreed on the redelivery of 15 aircraft and will continue to evaluate fleet size depending on market developments.

“ACMI services are designed to support seasonal peaks, when airlines require additional capacity during high-demand periods. Recent geopolitical developments have clearly had an immediate impact on market dynamics, with carriers across Europe revising growth plans amid cost pressures and uncertainty. This is naturally reflected in ACMI demand for this summer season,” said Darius Kajokas, CEO of Avion Express.

He added that the company’s actions are focused on maintaining operational resilience and delivering consistent value to long-term partners.

“Our priority is to ensure operational stability, efficiency, and consistent service quality for our partners. Avion Express and Avion Express Malta are leading ACMI operators globally, which requires continuous alignment with market conditions, and we are prepared to be flexible and react accordingly,” Kajokas said.

“Our core strength lies in the ability to be flexible and efficient - it’s in our DNA. While we anticipate that European demand this summer will not reach the levels seen last year, we are offsetting this by accelerating our expansion into other regions, most notably Brazil. This strategy of diversifying our global footprint and customer base was intentionally designed to serve as a hedge, allowing us to remain resilient even when unforeseen events impact demand in specific markets."

Avion Express’ ACMI operations in Brazil, launched last year, are progressing as planned, with further fleet growth expected for Avion Express Brasil in 2026. Avion Express currently provides ACMI services to airlines including Eurowings, Transavia, and Air Algérie, and operates charter flights for tour operator Novaturas.  The company is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider.”

Avion Express is part of Avia Solutions Group with  its own subsidiaries, notably Avion Express Malta and Avion Express Brasil. In May 2025, Avion express said that it planned to  secure an additional Mexican AOC within the next 24 months. 

The Ishka View

Lessors are clearly working collaboratively with Avion Express to take back aircraft. The statement from the ACMI provider opens the door that more aircraft could be handed back to lessors, in what appears to be a cost rationalisation exercise by the business, arising from the Iran crisis impacts the aviation industry.

Avion Express completed a restructuring in March 2024. Lessors now face a potentially painful remarketing exercise just months ahead of the peak season in Europe in what looks like a volatile time for airlines generally as the Iran conflict continues to add pressure on fuel prices.

Comments:

Sign in to post a comment. If you don't have an account register here.