It seems that the introduction of Embraer E-Jets into the Austrian Airlines fleet isn’t going to plane, with the airline having to cancel flights.
Austrian Airlines Embarer E-195 – Image, Austrian Airlines via Flickr
The issues appear to be integrating the fleet and the pilots who are training to fly this type of aircraft.
As such, some regional flights being operated by Austrian Airlines are being cancelled – with 300 flights from the schedule disappearing.
Austrian Airlines long haul and charter operations will not be affected by the changes, and will continue to operate as timetabled.
Whilst 300 flights seems a lot, it’s a drop in the ocean of the planned operation of 23,000 in the months of July and August when these cuts take place.
Destinations with multiple flights a day will have an axe swung to them whilst the shortage is in place. This includes Bucharest (Romania), Prague (Czech Republic), Sofia (Bulgaria) and Zagreb (Croatia).
Refunds and rebookings are being offered by Austrian (or where you booked your ticket originally).
Cancellations are never fun – especially when they affect you when they travel. At least Austrian Airlines appear to be dealing with the situation, and making the best of it.
Hopefully, the training scheme will deliver the pilots the airline needs so desperately – so it can deliver its customers to where they need to go.
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