Regionaly supported carrier step in after TAT exit (360 words)

Published: 10/6/2000

Air connections between scattered settlements in Yamal under threat after Surgut-based Tyumenaviatrans Airline refused to continue its air services due to non-payment of a Rb4 m ($0.10 m) debt by the regional government, may be rescued with the continuation of services by Yamal Airlines. A tentative agreement has been struck between the local administration and the administration dominated joint stock company Yamal Airlines, to provide daily services between settlements, particularly during the winter when river transportation is impossible. The local authorities are also seeking for Yamal Airlines to increase frequencies on their Salekhard-Yar-Sale-Novy Port route from two to four times per week and launch a service linking Mys Kamenny, Seyakha, Yaptik-Sale and Tambey. Yamal Airlines has also agreed to utilise its helicopters to provide emergency medical services to remote settlements, with Yamal region providing the aviation fuel. Yamal Airlines was founded in February 1997 in Sakelard by the regional administration in response to earlier refusals by Tyumenaviatrans to provide regional services due to outstanding debts. The airline operates 16 Mi-8, 1 Tu-134 and 2 Tu-154 (B and M), 6 Yak-40, and 3 An-74. The fleet is reported by its General Director Vasily Kryuk, to be in relatively good condition as YA's fleet was created from aircraft acquisitions rather than simply inheriting the aircraft from the former Soviet Aeroflot fleet. On what basis the aircraft were purchased however, is not available. Local sources have has suggested that the airline may attempt to compete with Tyumenaviatrans on regional and longer haul domestic and international routes. Given the recent revival of TAT's fortunes and the regional backing of the airline, this appears to be wishful thinking on Yamal's part, particularly as TAT have declared their intention to aggressively expands its capabilities at Surgut's new airport terminal. Yamal however, is reported to believe that it can and seeks partners. With reports of merger discussions with Kogalim-based Kogalymavia Airlines that operates a fleet of 10 aircraft, including 5 Tu-154Ms and 4 Tu-134's and 10 helicopters, of which there are 4 Mil Mi-8/17s.

Article ID: 2114