VA / TT Fleet departures

[Tristan S]

My count is 12 from the VA fleet that haven't returned or been taken up by REX...but...
5 are due to come back to the VA fleet (YFE, YFH, YFJ, YFG, YFI)
2 are reportedly being converted to freighters (VOT and VUC)
Leaving 5
VUA in MEL
VOQ in ASP
VOS in BNE
VUI an VUJ in Goodyear

Plus a couple of ex-TT birds:
VOR and VUD in ASP
VUB in MEL
VOY in TNA (although I think this is also destined to become a freighter. )

Happy to be corrected here :)

[MarkR]

VA show a little patience and I suspect they will be able to swoop on Rex assets soon enough

[James Smith]

Tristan, I agree with your list. VOQ, VOR, VOS, VUA, VUB & VUD are the ex-Virgin and Tiger B738s still in Australia (6) with ex VUI & VUJ (2) at Goodyear in the US. There are still seven to come back to Virgin but they are all in maintenance at present being readied.

I have discarded VOT, VOY & VUC from my list after they flew to Jinan in China to become freighters.

[James Smith]

There are still seven to come back to Virgin but they are all in maintenance at present being readied.

To clarify the seven B738s and where they are having maintenance performed, they are YFE (HKG), YFH (CRK), YFJ (CRK), ex YFG (MCI), ex YFI (MCI), VUX (HKG) & VUY (HKG). The seven have been confirmed by Dave in previous posts so are assured as returning to VA and not popping up with another airline.

REX has the choice of eight B738s, the six ex-Virgin and Tiger B738s still in Australia or the two in Goodyear in the US.

[Tristan S]

To clarify the seven B738s and where they are having maintenance performed, they are YFE (HKG), YFH (CRK), YFJ (CRK), ex YFG (MCI), ex YFI (MCI), VUX (HKG) & VUY (HKG). The seven have been confirmed by Dave in previous posts so are assured as returning to VA and not popping up with another airline.

REX has the choice of eight B738s, the six ex-Virgin and Tiger B738s still in Australia or the two in Goodyear in the US.

VUX/VUY never actually left the fleet, they were just stored. (Well, technically VUX went to TT, but then returned to VA)

[James Smith]

Tristan, I guess I have been using the word "returning" to include returning to service and returning to the fleet. We were advised that VUX & VUY were remaining in the Virgin fleet and they have turned out to be the last two to resume service.

[MarkR]

Interesting to hear ex VA wide body crew currently with Rex are heading back to VA……

[MarkR]

Departed YEG now on the ground in YAM (Sault Ste. Marie Airport)

Ended up at Bar River, owned by Springer Aerospace who do cargo conversions, and apparently Amazon Air are looking at ATRs for their fleet, coincidence?

[Tristan S]

Ended up at Bar River, owned by Springer Aerospace who do cargo conversions, and apparently Amazon Air are looking at ATRs for their fleet, coincidence?

Flightradar said YAM, FlightAware said Bar River :)

That was my thought too when I saw the article on Amazon! Wonder if there is a market for second hand ATR Freighters or if conversion is their only option?

[Yusef D]

Interesting to hear ex VA wide body crew currently with Rex are heading back to VA……

88 (including a couple of management pilots who never really left.

A few of whom are coming back from Rex 737, and a few more expect to soonish.

Bold expansion move by VA, in a time when we clearly aren't past state border closures.

88 down, 800 to go!

[Dylan Hardie]

YIA to XSP and YIL returns to BNE

[Tristan S]

Any word on the two ex-VA jets REX are getting?
https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/rex-adds-two-more-boeing-737-jets-as-it-eyes-new-routes

[Tristan S]

YIA to XSP and YIL returns to BNE

Looks like VOK is also heading to XSP, with YIL still there - guess the crew of VOK will bring YIL home.

[Greg Hyde]

ATR 72 -221A(600) 1107 2-CGCA Camo Australia seen re-regd 28jun21 at EXT ex VH-VPI

[Tristan S]

ATR 72 -221A(600) 1107 2-CGCA Camo Australia seen re-regd 28jun21 at EXT ex VH-VPI

Interesting, joining VPJ on the 2-reg.

[Greg Hyde]

Interesting, joining VPJ on the 2-reg.

Rego of "convenience"

Heard that it is heading to EI- Reg

[Tristan S]

Ex Tiger A320 VH-VNR was taken for a spin today, any word on am imminent departure? Reports are it's going to Indonesian start up "Super Air Jet"

[Stuart McCarthy]

Ex Tiger A320 VH-VNR was taken for a spin today, any word on am imminent departure? Reports are it's going to Indonesian start up "Super Air Jet"

Yes, it's going to PK-SAW of Super Air Jet as you reported.

[James Smith]

VH-YIL is returning to BNE today after maintenance in XSP as VA9948 arriving at approximately 17:00.

[James Smith]

Yes, it's going to PK-SAW of Super Air Jet as you reported.

Is Tiger A320 VH-XUG also going to Super Air Jet? There was a report that it was to be registered PK-SAT but nothing recorded under that registration as yet and it was been deleted from the Australian register in late May. It did a test flight from XSP on 15/3/21 but no flights since.

[James Smith]

I think that I answered my own question thanks to Planespotters. VH-XUG did or will become PK-SAT but has not flown under that registration, as it looks as though all three Super Air Jet A320s are parked and will soon be joined by a fourth, being PK-SAW.

[lloyd fox]

Can anyone answer if any of the VA 737's are in storage at Charlotte NC USA.
There is a reason why i am asking this which i will explain later .Cheers.:)

[Tristan S]

Can anyone answer if any of the VA 737's are in storage at Charlotte NC USA.
There is a reason why i am asking this which i will explain later .Cheers.:)

There are 4 in the US.
2 storage at Phoenix Goodyear Airport (N341CG, N343CG) , 2 at Kansas City Airport (2-VYFG, 2-VYFI)

[James Smith]

Hi Lloyd, as far as my records show there are four ex-Virgin B738s currently in the US, they have all been in storage at GYR Arizona, with two still there - N341GC & N343GC and two currently in pre-return to VA maintenance in MCI, Kansas City - 2-VYFG & 2-VYFI.

This list is from the Virgin administration last year and doesn't include any other ex-Virgin B737s that may have been disposed of over the previous years that maybe in storage in the US after flying with other operators.

[lloyd fox]

Thanks Tristan and James for your prompt reply.

OK on the 27th and 29th August there are 2 REX deliveries for BNE coming from Charlotte USA...

So i guess they could be the 2 American registered ones you guys mentioned.

Cheers and thanks.:)

[James Smith]

Thanks for the information, Lloyd. This could mean that the lessor is getting maintenance and maybe painting done in Charlotte in the eight weeks prior to delivery to BNE.

Neither of the two B738s in storage at Goodyear have flown under their US registration as yet. They were VH-VUI & VUJ with Virgin. Will keep an eye on possible movements.

[lloyd fox]

Thanks James...Cheers and makes sense.

[Dylan Hardie]

One of the 700's are due to go to Hong Kong this Sunday

[Tristan S]

One of the 700's are due to go to Hong Kong this Sunday

Guessing VBZ as VBY went to XSP in May.

[Stuart McCarthy]

Is Tiger A320 VH-XUG also going to Super Air Jet? There was a report that it was to be registered PK-SAT but nothing recorded under that registration as yet and it was been deleted from the Australian register in late May. It did a test flight from XSP on 15/3/21 but no flights since.

The full fleet so far are:

Airbus A320-232 PK-SAJ c/n: 4488 ex: VT-IGU IndiGo Airlines Hexcode: 8A088A
Airbus A320-232 PK-SAT c/n: 6032 ex: VH-XUG Tiger Airways Australia
Airbus A320-232 PK-SAV c/n: 4637 ex: VT-IEE IndiGo Airlines Hexcode: 8A08A0
Airbus A320-232 PK-SAW c/n: 5900 ex: VH-VNR Tiger Airways Australia

Info courtesy of Greg Wood in Perth, the press release from the airline was dated May 2021

[James Smith]

Thanks for the information on Super Air Jet, Stuart.

[Radi K]

VNP back in Perth from Clark. https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVNP/history/20210701/1000Z/RPLC/YPPH

[Tristan S]

VNP back in Perth from Clark. https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVNP/history/20210701/1000Z/RPLC/YPPH

Wow.. must have been some serious maintenance, it has been there since November!

[James Smith]

Crumbs, I thought that it must have been rotting under a palm tree in the Philippines.

[James Smith]

On Flightaware I sometimes see a flight of 1 or 2 minutes for an aircraft. I see this with aircraft in maintenance and assume that the Engineers are activating the transponder or other electronics to work on while the aircraft remains on the ground. Please correct me if I am wrong or half wrong with this.

The reason I tell you this is that N341CG one of the ex-Virgin B738s in storage in GYR had two short flights (3 & 2 minutes) on Flightaware on 29/6/21, local date. This may be an indication that the aircraft is being readied to ferry to Charlotte for maintenance before being leased to REX. See Lloyd's post #525. Maybe a test flight is imminent. There is nothing showing for N343CG on Flightaware.

I'll keep an eye on developments.

[James Smith]

Ex-Virgin/soon to be reunited Virgin B738 2-VYFG conducted a 1 hour 42 minute test flight from MCI (Kansas City) late on Friday afternoon 2/7/21.

In addition, A320 VH-VNP is scheduled to resume services with VARA operating PER - OCM (Boolgeeda) later this morning.

[Dylan Hardie]

VUY due to come back to BNE via CNS on Monday

[Tristan S]

FVU has been removed from the register.

FVU ATR - GIE AVIONS DE TRANSPORT REGIONAL ATR72-212A 978 28/06/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Canada

[Stuart McCarthy]

VUY due to come back to BNE via CNS on Monday

VUY just filed a flight plan HKG-CNS as VOZ9944

[Tristan S]

VUY just filed a flight plan HKG-CNS as VOZ9944

Looks like it's returning to HKG:
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVUY

[James Smith]

That's two returns in three flights for VUY. I wonder if it is another cracked windscreen as this and the Darwin return look to have occurred in similar phases of flight at or close to the top of climb. Probably another issue though.

[Dave J]

That's two returns in three flights for VUY. I wonder if it is another cracked windscreen as this and the Darwin return look to have occurred in similar phases of flight at or close to the top of climb. Probably another issue though.

Not a cracked windshield this time James. Nothing major either. Cheers

[Tristan S]

Not a cracked windshield this time James. Nothing major either. Cheers

Just imagining the pilots taking it back to the hangar and having a coffee in the waiting room while the mechanics put it back on the hoist and tinker.
:cool::p

[Dave J]

Some 'different' arrivals on the NG front in the not too distant future I believe.

Watch this space :)

[Tristan S]

Some 'different' arrivals on the NG front in the not too distant future I believe.

Watch this space :)

Ex VH-YFG, currently 2-VYFG, to be VH-YQG is currently enroute from MCI to HNL
Guessing we'll see it back on Australian shores soon!

[James Smith]

Thanks Tristan. 2-VYFG is operating as JTN82.

VUY is scheduled to operate HKG-CNS-BNE this morning again as VA9944, departing at 9:40 AEST.

An intriguing comment Dave. We all know the B738s that are returning to Australia for Virgin, so could there be a special colour scheme applied to one from the US perhaps, to be "different"?

[Steve S... 2]

I thought that VH-YFE looked very rough n ready for a Virgin in a pic I recently saw of it before it went overseas for maintenance.

[James Smith]

2-VYFG has left HNL for MAJ as JTN82 and will continue to BNE where it is scheduled to arrive at 19:05 this evening.

[Dylan Hardie]

YFH due back into Brisbane tomorrow at this stage

VUX due back Monday via CNS

[Tristan S]

YFH due back into Brisbane tomorrow at this stage

VUX due back Monday via CNS

Coming back thick and fast!

Lets hope state borders open up soon....

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A330 -243 1293 9H-GKL Aircastle seen re-regd atWOE 06jul21, still in Virgin Australia cs ex VH-XFC

[Dylan Hardie]

Another 737 due up to HKG on Friday

[James Smith]

VH-VUY resumed services for Virgin this morning operating VA308 from BNE - MEL.

[Dylan Hardie]

Another 737 due up to HKG on Friday

YIR will be the the 737 to Hong Kong

[Tristan S]

YFH due back into Brisbane tomorrow at this stage

VUX due back Monday via CNS

YFH has filed a flightplan, due into BNE at 21:59L

[Dylan Hardie]

XFG up for a quick maintenance flight MEL-MEL

[Tristan S]

Am reading that VH-XFG will depart tomorrow at 0800L for WOE via AUH. There she will join sister ship VH-XFC.
Ex-TT 320 VH-VNR is also due to depart at 1000L possibly off to Indonesia via DWN.

[James Smith]

N341CG, ex-Virgin VH-VUI, which has been in GYR since December, 2020 has filed a flight plan from GYR to MIA departing at 1:10 EST. It is presumed that this is for pre-service maintenance in MIA for one of the next two B738s for REX.

[Tristan S]

And there there was 1.. XFG has left leaving only XFD in MEL (with XFE still stuck in PER)

[James Smith]

Thanks for the update, Tristan. Is XFE still not able to depart from PER because the airport has legally barred the A332 from leaving?

[Jamie D]

Thanks for the update, Tristan. Is XFE still not able to depart from PER because the airport has legally barred the A332 from leaving?

XFE landing gear was damaged last year and is unserviceble. Apparently there are a number of factors contributing to it not being repaired and ferried, including no hanger big enough and who is going to wear the costs of the repair. I read somewhere on Facebook (yes i dont believe everything on Facebook) that it may be parted out in Perth but as i said that was on Facebook.

[Tristan S]

XFE landing gear was damaged last year and is unserviceble. Apparently there are a number of factors contributing to it not being repaired and ferried, including no hanger big enough and who is going to wear the costs of the repair. I read somewhere on Facebook (yes i dont believe everything on Facebook) that it may be parted out in Perth but as i said that was on Facebook.

Yeah, pretty much what I have heard too.
Also heard that they cannot get approval to ferry in its current state to somewhere with a big enough hangar to fix it.

[Brenden S]

Airbus are refusing to allow a ferry flight and Perth Airport are refusing to allow the aircraft to be jacked on the apron. I believe the apron was damaged when they did the component replacement on the initial defect.

[Tristan S]

VH-VUX positioning this morning back to BNE via CNS
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVUX
Due into BNE at 1952L

[James Smith]

Thanks Tristan.

Also, VH-YFH looks to be doing a 2 hour 5 minute test flight from/to BNE today leaving at 12:30.

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners

Boeing 737-8FE 34441 2015 N341CG Aviation Capital Group ferried 08jul21 GYR-MIA, for freighter conversion? ex VH-VUI

[Dylan Hardie]

ATR72 VH-FVZ planned for a BNE-BNE tomorrow morning

[Stuart McCarthy]

Am reading that VH-XFG will depart tomorrow at 0800L for WOE via AUH. There she will join sister ship VH-XFC.
Ex-TT 320 VH-VNR is also due to depart at 1000L possibly off to Indonesia via DWN.


XFG arrived at LDE

[Tristan S]

XFG arrived at LDE

So it has, joining XFJ in that case :)

[Tristan S]

From Skyliners

Boeing 737-8FE 34441 2015 N341CG Aviation Capital Group ferried 08jul21 GYR-MIA, for freighter conversion? ex VH-VUI

Interesting, suspicions were that this would come back to AU for REX but other sources are now saying freighter conversion.

[James Smith]

Tristan, the most significant aspect of the Skyliners remark that N341CG has ferried to MIA, "for freighter conversion" is that it was followed by a question mark, which suggests that they are not certain why it has relocated. I don't know if any other aviation sites are also reporting the conversion.

On the 27th and 29th August there are 2 REX deliveries for BNE coming from Charlotte USA.

Lloyds post above gave some confirmation to us that the two B738s already in the US would be the seventh and eighth jets for REX. However, by ferrying to MIA does that rule one of the two or both out? Not necessarily, as maintenance could be done in MIA and repainting done in CLT followed by ferry to BNE. So, it will be interesting to see if N343CG also ferries to MIA soon.

The other aspect is that there has been no movement of the other six ex-Virgin B738s that are possible aircraft for REX and are still in storage around Australia. Although, the ninth and tenth B738s for REX could come from these aircraft.

John Sharp has stated publicly when the lease contracts were signed for the seventh and eighth B738s that they would be ex-Virgin aircraft, so that leaves an available source of just eight aircraft. Of those eight, only one aircraft has had any movement since then.

Re-reading the REX media release of 29 June, if they are due to receive the two B738s by late August (27th & 29th in BNE according to Lloyds information) to enter service in September then time is getting short. It is less than seven weeks away.

[Tristan S]

Tristan, the most significant aspect of the Skyliners remark that N341CG has ferried to MIA, "for freighter conversion" is that it was followed by a question mark, which suggests that they are not certain why it has relocated. I don't know if any other aviation sites are also reporting the conversion.



Lloyds post above gave some confirmation to us that the two B738s already in the US would be the seventh and eighth jets for REX. However, by ferrying to MIA does that rule one of the two or both out? Not necessarily, as maintenance could be done in MIA and repainting done in CLT followed by ferry to BNE. So, it will be interesting to see if N343CG also ferries to MIA soon.

The other aspect is that there has been no movement of the other six ex-Virgin B738s that are possible aircraft for REX and are still in storage around Australia. Although, the ninth and tenth B738s for REX could come from these aircraft.

John Sharp has stated publicly when the lease contracts were signed for the seventh and eighth B738s that they would be ex-Virgin aircraft, so that leaves an available source of just eight aircraft. Of those eight, only one aircraft has had any movement since then.

Re-reading the REX media release of 29 June, if they are due to receive the two B738s by late August (27th & 29th in BNE according to Lloyds information) to enter service in September then time is getting short. It is less than seven weeks away.

Hey James..

I also read the conversion noted here https://rzjets.net/aircraft/?reg=559498

All good notes in the rest of your post, will be interesting indeed to see what happens..all guesswork at the moment :)

[James Smith]

I also read the conversion noted here https://rzjets.net/aircraft/?reg=559498

Hi Tristan, your link above refers to Aviation Capital Group acquiring N341CG. Does the CG in the registration stand for Capital Group? It seems to be.

We'll have to see what happens.

[MarkR]

I suspect it’s being converted given MIA is the home of AEI, doesn’t make sense to go to Miami for maintenance when their are planty of options closer to home.

[Tristan S]

Hi Tristan, your link above refers to Aviation Capital Group acquiring N341CG. Does the CG in the registration stand for Capital Group? It seems to be.

We'll have to see what happens.

Can't be a 100% but I'd bet it was. :cool:

[MarkR]

Can't be a 100% but I'd bet it was. :cool:

Worth noting they have an order for 15 firm and 15 options for AEI passenger to cargo conversions.

I also would not be surprised if Rex delay expansion, the NSW lockdown will be draining a lot of cash.

[Tristan S]

A number of updates today...

B777 VH-VPF has been removed from the register
VPF THE BOEING COMPANY 777-3ZGER 37940 8/07/2021 47.132(3) - De-registered - IDERA or CDCL

B737s VOT & VOY also removed:
VOT THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 33801 6/07/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Guernsey
VOY THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 33996 6/07/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Guernsey

[Tristan S]

ATR72 VH-FVZ planned for a BNE-BNE tomorrow morning

Off to DRW this morning - any ideas on its final destination?

[James Smith]

Speaking of ex Virgin ATRs there is a short article published by Executive Traveller last Thursday about the two aircraft helping to launch Ireland's new Emerald Airlines.

The article says that Emerald plans to take more than the two ATRs that left our shores in May. Could FVZ be heading to the UK?

The Dublin based start up is set to take over the routes of the former Aer Lingus Regional franchise by October, and plans for the two 68-seat all-economy planes to be joined by a dozen more by the end of the year.

Full article: https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/two-ex-virgin-turboprops-help-launch-ireland-s-newest-airline

[Tristan S]

Speaking of ex Virgin ATRs there is a short article published by Executive Traveller last Thursday about the two aircraft helping to launch Ireland's new Emerald Airlines.

The article says that Emerald plans to take more than the two ATRs that left our shores in May. Could FVZ be heading to the UK?



Full article: https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/two-ex-virgin-turboprops-help-launch-ireland-s-newest-airline

Possible re: FVZ.

The article would be referring to VPI/VPJ that both arrived in Exeter in May.

[Greg Hyde]

Speaking of ex Virgin ATRs there is a short article published by Executive Traveller last Thursday about the two aircraft helping to launch Ireland's new Emerald Airlines.

The article says that Emerald plans to take more than the two ATRs that left our shores in May. Could FVZ be heading to the UK?



Full article: https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/two-ex-virgin-turboprops-help-launch-ireland-s-newest-airline

Mentioned that several weeks ago. The two currently stored in Exeter.

VH-VPJ/2-KCBA and & VPI/2-CGCA

Emerald have taken over (bought) Fly-Be maintenance base at Exeter.

[Stuart McCarthy]

A number of updates today...

B777 VH-VPF has been removed from the register
VPF THE BOEING COMPANY 777-3ZGER 37940 8/07/2021 47.132(3) - De-registered - IDERA or CDCL

B737s VOT & VOY also removed:
VOT THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 33801 6/07/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Guernsey
VOY THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 33996 6/07/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Guernsey


2-VVOT & 2-VVOY so I have been told.

[James Smith]

ATR 72 VH-FVZ is departing DRW for DPS shortly.

[Tristan S]

YIQ off to XSP today, just about to leave DRW

[Steve S... 2]

VOK (the oldest and my favorite in the VA fleet) is currently in XSP also.

[Tristan S]

As is YIA.. which is due to fly BNE MKY on the 15th, so guessing the crew flying YIQ will bring her home tomorrow.

[James Smith]

2-VYFI is about to depart on a 1 hour 42 minute test flight from to MCI.

VH-FVZ made it to Medan KNO yesterday.

[Tristan S]

As is YIA.. which is due to fly BNE MKY on the 15th, so guessing the crew flying YIQ will bring her home tomorrow.

As I suspected, YIA will position back to BNE from XSP today as VA9948, ETA 1730L

[James Smith]

It looks as though VH-YFE is scheduled to return overnight tomorrow following maintenance departing HKG at 22:00 local via CNS and arriving in BNE at 10:26 EST Friday 16/7/21.

[Dylan Hardie]

VNR planned for MEL-PER-BTH tomorrow afternoon

[Tristan S]

VNR planned for MEL-PER-BTH tomorrow afternoon

Interesting routing, why not via DRW?

[Tristan S]

Looks like FVZ (currently in MCT) is destined to follow VPI/VPJ to Emerald Airlines.
VH-FVZ Commuer Aircraft Leasing ferried 12-16jul21 BNE-DRW-DPS-KNO-MLE-MCT-HRG-HER-MPL-EXT, for Emerald Airlines ex F-WWEX

[Tristan S]

Ex- VH-YFI, currently 2-VYFI, to be VH-YQH has left MCI in route to HNL.
Guessing she'll arrive in BNE within a day or so.

[MarkR]

What’s the rego of the bird in Jian
https://twitter.com/JTTsteve/status/1415426205839503364/photo/2

[Tristan S]

What’s the rego of the bird in Jian
https://twitter.com/JTTsteve/status/1415426205839503364/photo/2

VOY or VOT, I can't be 100%. (2-VVOY / 2-VVOT)

[MarkR]

VOY or VOT, I can't be 100%. (2-VVOY / 2-VVOT)

Cheers, doesn’t look like any work is being done to make it a freighter, maybe new plans?

[Tristan S]

Cheers, doesn’t look like any work is being done to make it a freighter, maybe new plans?

VH-VUC, also reportedly going to become a freighter, sat at TNA for 3 months before heading to YIH so perhaps they have limits on the number of conversions they can do? Guess we'll see soon.

[James Smith]

It looks as though VH-YFE is scheduled to return overnight tomorrow following maintenance departing HKG at 22:00 local via CNS and arriving in BNE at 10:26 EST Friday 16/7/21.

It looks as though VH-YFEs return has been delayed.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-VUC, also reportedly going to become a freighter, sat at TNA for 3 months before heading to YIH so perhaps they have limits on the number of conversions they can do? Guess we'll see soon.

Most of the conversion companies have more orders then "feed-stock" so they are grabbing frames when they can get them.

As an aside, the guys in Singapore have opened (or about too) a 2nd conversion line for A321P2F.

[Tristan S]

Most of the conversion companies have more orders then "feed-stock" so they are grabbing frames when they can get them.

As an aside, the guys in Singapore have opened (or about too) a 2nd conversion line for A321P2F.

Us that were some JQ 321s are being converted? (IE VH-ULD)

[Greg Hyde]

Us that were some JQ 321s are being converted? (IE VH-ULD)

Correct, with one ongoing conversion and one to come

Freighter conversion are booming at the moment

[Tristan S]

Absolutely.. less pax flights means less bellies they can fill....

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners

Airbus A320 -232 5900 PK- Super Air Jet delivery 15jul21 MEL-PER-BTH, VH-reg ex VH-VNR

[Yusef D]

Lion Air Group moves in mysterious ways! Getting rid of 739s to Delta while taking on mature A320s to another LCC. I don't get it.

[Stuart McCarthy]

From Skyliners

Airbus A320 -232 5900 PK- Super Air Jet delivery 15jul21 MEL-PER-BTH, VH-reg ex VH-VNR


Its going to Super Air Jet Indonesia as PK-SAW, info from their press release dated May 2021.

[lloyd fox]

Ex- VH-YFI, currently 2-VYFI, to be VH-YQH has left MCI in route to HNL.
Guessing she'll arrive in BNE within a day or so.

JTN83 showing MAJ-BNE today eta BNE 1905 hrs tonight.

[Tristan S]

Has arrived in BNE so we have three 737s due to be re-registered to VA

[Greg Hyde]

A320 VH-VNC has found a new home with Heston Airlines from Lithuania as LY-VUT

[Tristan S]

Today's register updates...
VH-YQG (ex VH-YFG / 2-VYFG) has returned.



Also to note..
VH-FVZ has landed in EXT, joining VPI/VPJ.

[Tristan S]

Any updates on VH-YFE returning? (or for that matter, YFJ)

[Tristan S]

YFS off to HKG via DRW today.

[Brenden S]

I have heard today from a mate over in QLD that the VA B777's are likely to be scrapped at Wellcamp.

[Tristan S]

Sad.. but won't be the only perfectly serviceable aircraft scrapped around the world.

[Jamie D]

Very sad indeed!! I do find it strange tho that they have just done an engine change on VPD, I saw some photos of it the other day.

[Greg Hyde]

I have heard today from a mate over in QLD that the VA B777's are likely to be scrapped at Wellcamp.

A large number of B777 fleets are being retired & scrapped.

Airbus are pumping out A350's to replace them since Boeing doesn't have a viable replacement.

[Kent Broadhead]

Mind you, most of the 777s being scrapped are early builds, 20ish years old. The ex-VA birds are form 2009 and later.

[MarkR]

I have heard today from a mate over in QLD that the VA B777's are likely to be scrapped at Wellcamp.

I would be surprised given the lack of similar aircraft for sale, two of the ten on offer for sale are ex VA and could go to conversion for freighter as a worst case (which happened to Deltas birds of a similar age), if it happened it would also probably see the cargo door issue rectified.

[Dylan Hardie]

VBZ due back from HKG via CNS tomorrow

[Tom PER]

I would be surprised given the lack of similar aircraft for sale, two of the ten on offer for sale are ex VA and could go to conversion for freighter as a worst case (which happened to Deltas birds of a similar age), if it happened it would also probably see the cargo door issue rectified.

The last 4 were delivered with small rear aft cargo doors, this makes then extremely unattractive to other carriers.

[MarkR]

3 of the 5 didn’t get the option, so there is some hope for VPH

[Tristan S]

YFE has arrived in CNS, due to position to BNE either this morning or tonight (two flightplans are in FlightAware)

[James Smith]

YFE has already departed CNS so the earlier flight plan is the correct one. The crew that took YFS to HKG has probably brought back YFE to BNE.

This leaves YFJ as the only previously stored B738 to return to Australia following return to service maintenance.

[Tristan S]

Id say its more likely the crew are bringing VBZ back.

[Tristan S]

ATR72 VH-FVR positioned MRG CNS yesterday after spending a few months in storage there.

[Tristan S]

Today's register updates...
B738 VH-YQH has (re)joined the register (ex VH-YFI)

ATR72 VH-FVZ has been removed from the register (47.132(3) - De-registered - IDERA or CDCL)
A332 VH-XFG has been removed from the register (47.132(3) - De-registered - IDERA or CDCL)
A320 VH-VNR (ex-TT) has been removed from the register (11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Indonesia)

[Dylan Hardie]

YFE planned for another test flight from Brisbane this afternoon

[Tristan S]

Guessing you're the 'Dylan' on Discord? :)

Any word on when YFE / YFH will (re)enter VA's fleet?

[Dylan Hardie]

That would be me. Both are currently parked on Papa not sure on retry to service

VOL due to head to XSP via DRW tomorrow morning

[Tristan S]

:)

Are YQG and YQH also on papa, or stored elsewhere? I also assume lonely old VOS is sitting there too...

Are the crew then bringing VOK back from XSP?

Cheers.

[Tristan S]

Register updates for today..

VH-YFH has (re)joined the VA fleet.

That is all...

[Jamie D]

Is there any word on what is happening with VH-VOS or VH-XFE? Will these aircraft fly again? I know XFE not in the fleet but i had read about it being broken up in Perth?

[Greg Hyde]

VOY or VOT, I can't be 100%. (2-VVOY / 2-VVOT)

Confirm

VOT to 2-VVOT on 06/07
VOY to 2-VVOY on 06/07

ALSO

ATR FVZ to 2-BKJS on 26/07

[Dylan Hardie]

VOO was due to head to XSP via DRW tomorrow but has since be canceled

[Dave J]

Now leaving on Friday morning

[Dave J]

YFT next to HKG

[James Smith]

VH-VOO flew from BNE to XSP via DRW for maintenance on 6/8/21 as VA9949.

VH-VOK returned to BNE non-stop from XSP following maintenance yesterday, 8/8/21 as VA9948. It is scheduled to return to service operating VA938 from BNE to SYD on Wednesday, 11/8/21.

[MarkR]

I managed to find confirmation that VH-FVU had been sold to a North American airline https://newsroom.aviator.aero/avation-plc-sale-of-atr-72-500-aircraft/ despite being in Flybig livery, interesting.

[James Smith]

B738 VH-YFH returned to Virgin service when it operated VA332 from BNE-MEL on 11/8/21.

[James Smith]

B738 VH-YFT flew from BNE to HKG via DRW for maintenance on 11/8/21 as VA9945.

[James Smith]

B738 VH-YIR flew from HKG to BNE following maintenance on 1/8/21 as VA9944 and returned to service on 5/8/21 operating VA1396 from BNE to ADL.

B738 VH-YFS is currently flying from HKG to BNE via CNS following maintenance as VA9944 and is scheduled to return to service tomorrow, 13/8/21 operating VA464 from BNE to PER.

[Dave J]

VNF next to go to XSP from PER

[Tristan S]

YIQ arrives back in BNE from XSP within the next hour as VA9948

[Greg Hyde]

VH-XFG has been re-registered as 9H-XFG

[James Smith]

Not much paint used to change the registration on the aircraft from V to 9.

[Tristan S]

Boeing 777 -3ZG 35302 745 VQ-BTK Azur Air at SAW 17aug21 in all white cs plus Lujo hotel (Bodrum) decals ex VH-VOZ

[Tristan S]

N343CG (ex VH-VUJ) has joined N341CG (ex VH-VUI) at MIA.

[Dylan Hardie]

VUX operated a BNE-BNE test flight this morning

[Tristan S]

N343CG (ex VH-VUJ) has joined N341CG (ex VH-VUI) at MIA.

N341CG (ex VH-VUI) has now positioned to VCV, not sure if this is part of the rumoured conversion work.

[James Smith]

An interesting development, Tristan. As far as I can find online, aircraft cargo conversions are not done at VCV and I would say that the month and a half that N341CG was in MIA is too short a time to have completed the conversion there. It must have gone to MIA for maintenance and possible repainting?

[MarkR]

VCV has a paint shop for cargo conversions and plenty of MRO operations, no need to fly to MIA otherwise, agree the conversion hasn’t been done yet given it’s a 4 month job, maybe they found issues and put it on the back burner.

[Tristan S]

Yeah.. given the almost straight swap of 31cg with 33cg that could very well be the case.

[Dennis McLean]

Which 2 were to come to Rex. I thought it was these 2??? Not that they need them yet.

[Tristan S]

VH-YQG (ex-YFG) has just departed on it's first RPT flight after returning to VA's fleet, operating VA1396 BNE ADL

Still no photos on Jetspotters of her wearing that rego, so FR24 still has a picture of a 717 in JQ white!

[Tristan S]

https://newsroom.virginaustralia.com/release/virgin-australia-finalises-new-agreements-nine-boeing-737-800-ng-aircraft

Another 9 jets for VA.. dont think there are 9 ex-VA floating around.
Current number reported is 68 in the fleet, this must include YFE (BNE) and YFJ (CRK)

Outside of that, there are 6 still in AUS (3x ex-TT) others that havent come back to the fleet, or gone to REX are reportedly to become freighters... so we'll see. Guess there are plenty of 738s floating around at the moment.

[Steve S... 2]

So Rex is getting 2 and Virgin 9.

Of the 6 still in Australia I'm sure they will be snapped up-which means five entirely new (second hand) 738's for Australia.

[Dave J]

Watch this space.

Thread title will need to be amended soon!

Told you so 😉

[Dave J]

Yep - VUI and VUJ (N341CG and N343CG) .. they were from a different lessor though I believe.

They'll be back soon

[Tristan S]

They'll be back soon

Early reports were they would end up as freighters, guess not :)

Will Jet Test bring them back to AU?

[Yusef D]

Will Jet Test bring them back to AU?

Probably.

Word is that the 9 are new to the fleet, coming from SE Asia, and VUI/J are heading to... Virgin.

[Tristan S]

Read elsewhere they are going to be ex - Singapore Airlines.

[Yusef D]

Can neither confirm nor deny!

Seems strange calling the 737 op Singapore Airlines as opposed to Silkair, doesn't?

[Tristan S]

Probably.

Word is that the 9 are new to the fleet, coming from SE Asia, and VUI/J are heading to... Virgin.

Confirmed, Jet Test will be delivering these back to AU.. not sure when yet though.


EDIT: First one likely to be early next week - probably N341CG (ex-VUI) as it's on the West Coast of the USA (VCV)

[Greg Hyde]

Virgin to lease nine more 737-800 NGs

Virgin Australia has announced it will lease an additional nine Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, with deliveries to begin in October.

The airline said the new aircraft will be welcomed ahead of an anticipated uptick in domestic travel demand, as the rate of vaccination increases and interstate borders inevitably open, and the holiday and summer travel season approaches.

While deliveries will begin in October, Virgin hopes to see all nine jets in the air by mid-February 2022.

“Airlines around the world have had to bend and stretch over the past 18 months as our fleets, teams and wider operations have responded to unprecedented border restrictions and demand volatility,” Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka said.

“But we at Virgin Australia are crystal clear that the underlying consumer desire for travel is strong.

“While our recent efforts have been directed toward adapting to and managing through a very difficult few months for communities and businesses throughout the country, we’ve also maintained a consistent focus on our strategy and medium term growth opportunities.

“These extra aircraft are an important part of our planning and ensure we’re ready to ramp up flying and meet the pent-up demand for domestic travel as soon as the opportunity presents itself.”

Full story

https://australianaviation.com.au/2021/08/virgin-to-lease-nine-more-737-800-ngs/

[lloyd fox]

VH-YQG (ex-YFG) has just departed on it's first RPT flight after returning to VA's fleet, operating VA1396 BNE ADL

Still no photos on Jetspotters of her wearing that rego, so FR24 still has a picture of a 717 in JQ white!

I got one yesterday.:D

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51405994709/in/dateposted/

[Tristan S]

A number of reports around that VH-VOS, parked at BNE since March 2020, is corroded beyond economical repair... can anyone confirm? likely to be scrapped onsite?

[Tom PER]

Can neither confirm nor deny!

Seems strange calling the 737 op Singapore Airlines as opposed to Silkair, doesn't?

I’ve heard about third hand, that VA has been kicking some tyres on some GA B738’s which are recent lease returns.

I would’ve thought maxing out utilisation on the current fleet would’ve been the next step before acquiring additional frames.

[Dylan Hardie]

A number of reports around that VH-VOS, parked at BNE since March 2020, is corroded beyond economical repair... can anyone confirm? likely to be scrapped onsite?
Get's towed around a bit between the logistics and the old 14/32. Haven't seen it have engines in over a year

[Jamie D]

Does anyone have any recent photos of VOS? How often does anyone go inside the aircraft?

[James Smith]

Speaking of maximizing the existing fleet, VH-VUX is scheduled to return to service on Wednesday 1/9/21 operating a return sector, VA775/782 from BNE to CNS.

[lloyd fox]

On another site First Silk Air 738 ..9V-MGI due BNE this Thursday..

No times or livery were mentioned.

[Tristan S]

Get's towed around a bit between the logistics and the old 14/32. Haven't seen it have engines in over a year

Sounds like it might just sit around, racking up parking fees, like Clive's Mineralogy MD-82s....

[Dylan Hardie]

On another site First Silk Air 738 ..9V-MGI due BNE this Thursday..

No times or livery were mentioned.
7:15pm arrival at this stage. STC

[Tristan S]

Guess they will do some work in BNE (cabin?) and send to TSV for a repaint?

[Greg Hyde]

Reportedly 9V-MGF, G, H, I, P & Q with recycled VA Mk1 seats.

[Greg Hyde]

Virgin Australia To Take Former SilkAir Boeing 737-800NGs

Seven SilkAir Boeings head to Virgin Australia

The two former Virgin Australia 737-800NGs are now preparing to return from the United States. N341CG (formerly VH-VUI Kewarra Beach) flew from Miami (MIA) to Victorville (VCV) on August 21. N343CG (formerly VH-VUJ Rosebud Beach) is still in Miami.

Both planes are owned by California-based Aviation Capital Group (ACG). The first is due to land in Brisbane later this week.

The seven former SilkAir aircraft en route to Virgin Australia are 9V-MGF, 9V-MGG, 9V-MGH, 9V-MGI, 9V-MGJ, 9V-MGP, and 9V-MGQ. Now SilkAir is merged with parent airline, Singapore Airlines, these Boeings were deemed surplus to requirements. SilkAir moved to dispose of the planes earlier this year.

All seven aircraft are still in Singapore. The oldest, 9V-MGF, is turning seven next month. That plane arrived at SilkAir in September 2014. 9V-MGG and 9V-MGH followed in October and November, respectively.

9V-MGI arrived at SilkAir in February 2015, followed thereafter by 9V-MGJ in April 2015. The final two Virgin Australia-bound 737-800NGs didn’t land in Singapore until 2016. 9V-MGP and 9V-MGQ arrived at SilkAir in May and October 2016.

https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-former-silkair-boeing-737s/

[Tristan S]

Speaking of maximizing the existing fleet, VH-VUX is scheduled to return to service on Wednesday 1/9/21 operating a return sector, VA775/782 from BNE to CNS.

Officially RTS, en route to CNS.

[James Smith]

VH-YQH is scheduled to do a one hour test flight at 15:00 this afternoon from BNE as VA9930. It will be its first flight under this registration.

[lloyd fox]

Tomorrow night's Silk Air arrival Flight Number into BNE should be SQ8800.

[Dylan Hardie]

YIT for HKG tomorrow and YFT returning the following day

[Tristan S]

Not sure if it has been mentioned, but the article here says that ATR72 VH-FVX will be delivered to Hevilift by the lessor. FVX has been sitting in CNS since Feb of last year after spending a few years in NSN.

https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/107241-hevilift-australia-opens-perth-base

[lloyd fox]

JTN 253 either N341CG or N343CG due BNE at 5pm this Sat from MAJ on delivery to VA.

The Silk Air 737 is now showing next Thursday .

[James Smith]

Probably N341CG in VCV as N343CG is still in MIA.

[Dennis McLean]

9V-MGI did a test flight this afternoon SIN/SIN as SQ8800

[MarkR]

Probably N341CG in VCV as N343CG is still in MIA.

Leaving VCV shortly as JTN253

[MarkR]

Maybe not so shortly - a few issues to sort https://twitter.com/JTTsteve

[James Smith]

N341CG has just departed VCV for HNL via SBD for fuel.

[MarkR]

Lots of money spent with the rego change LOL https://twitter.com/JTTsteve/status/1433553443386388492/photo/1

[Tristan S]

Quality!

Any word if she'll get her old rego back?

[Stuart McCarthy]

I've seen a second photo from under the wing which shows N341CG sticker over VH-VUI painted on

[Tristan S]

Yeah, got a reply that it will get the old rego back.

[James Smith]

VH-YFT returned to BNE via CNS as VA9944 following maintenance in HKG, arriving at 19:29 local Friday 3/9/21.

[Greg Hyde]

N341CG is due in Brissie at 17:00 L

[Tristan S]

Updated to 1824L

[Dylan Hardie]

VON for XSP via DRW tomorrow morning

[Tristan S]

VON for XSP via DRW tomorrow morning

Looks like she returned to BNE not long after departure.. issues?

[Dylan Hardie]

Engineers been working on her all afternoon. Looks to be going again tomorrow

[Tristan S]

Todays register update.
YFE has returned to the Virgin fleet:
YFE THE BOEING COMPANY 737-81D 39414

[James Smith]

VH-VON has just departed BNE for DRW and XSP as VA9949 after its return to BNE yesterday.

[James Smith]

VH-VOL is scheduled to depart XSP this morning for BNE after maintenance as VA9948 and is due to arrive at 17:36 at this stage.

[Dylan Hardie]

YIS for XSP via DRW tomorrow morning

[Yusef D]

Anyone know which of the SilkAir/SQ 738s is first?

[Dennis McLean]

I believe 9V-MGI

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGI was test flown last week & is expected tomorrow

[Tristan S]

VH-YFE has filed a BNE BNE flight plan for later today. This is YFEs first flight back under a VA callsign.

[James Smith]

Thanks for the information, Tristan. This will be YFE's third test flight since returning from maintenance in HKG. VH-YQH also did a test flight on 1/9/21 with a VA flight number. Hopefully, they will both return to VA service soon.

Does anyone know when VH-YFJ might be returning from CRK as it will have been there for three months on Friday and will be the last of the 68 B738s to return?

[Tristan S]

Ex VA B77W VH-VOZ....
https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/10286185

[James Smith]

It looks as though VH-VOO is returning to BNE tomorrow from XSP after maintenance as it is scheduled to operate a flight to ADL on Saturday afternoon.

[Dylan Hardie]

9V-MGI planned into Brisbane later this evening and another 737 is planned on the 14th as SQ8105

[Dennis McLean]

No sign of it yet??????

[James Smith]

VH-YQH is returning to service on Tuesday afternoon 14/9/21 when it is scheduled to operate a return service to ADL.

[Tristan S]

Today's register update.
VUI has returned:
VUI THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 34441 10/09/2021 RET

[Dylan Hardie]

They've added VUI onto the nose gear door rather than UI

[Steve S... 2]

Which makes me wonder if one of the ex Silk Air 738's will have a reg'n ending in UI.... As VA always uses last two letters.

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 5900 PK-SAW Super Air Jet delivery 14sep21 BTH-CGK (+ 6032 PK-SAT 03sep21 BTH-CGK) ex VH-VNR

[Tristan S]

N343CG (VH-VUJ) positioned MIA GEG a few hours ago.

[James Smith]

Spokane, Washington State, that's interesting. Maybe that is where the ferry crew is located.

[Dylan Hardie]

Nice photo of it arriving into Spokane

https://flightaware.com/photos/view/8227914-0e178494d8e85c0b562f2a8b9f891367dd9b9e82/aircrafttype/B738

[MarkR]

Spokane, Washington State, that's interesting. Maybe that is where the ferry crew is located.

It taxied to the paint shop ramp

[James Smith]

VH-YFE is returning to service with Virgin on Tuesday afternoon 21/9/21 when it is scheduled to operate a return flight to ADL.

[lloyd fox]

9V-MGI planned into Brisbane later this evening and another 737 is planned on the 14th as SQ8105

Tonight now.SQ8890.:)

[James Smith]

Yes, 9V-MGI is showing on Flightaware now with a scheduled departure of 11:00 (AEST) and an estimated 18:31 arrival into BNE this evening. Another after dark arrival!
Does anyone know if any maintenance has been carried out on this aircraft and will be done on the other six B738s in SIN prior to delivery to Virgin?

[Yusef D]

Yes, 9V-MGI is showing on Flightaware now with a scheduled departure of 11:00 (AEST) and an estimated 18:31 arrival into BNE this evening. Another after dark arrival!
Does anyone know if any maintenance has been carried out on this aircraft and will be done on the other six B738s in SIN prior to delivery to Virgin?
Today 07:21 AM
lloyd fox


Great that it's on its way at last. I heard that VA went to a lot of effort sourcing (buying back?) seats from ex-VA 737s that have gone off to new homes, particularly to become freighters. I wonder how much you have to pay a freighter conversion company for seats that they don't even want!

[Dylan Hardie]

Has been towed over to the VA hangar

[Stuart McCarthy]

Was the aircraft in Silkair or Virgin colours?

[Tristan S]

Would have been Silk Air as its due to head to TSV for a repaint.

[Max C]

Definitely Silk Air. It's in the VA hangar in BNE.

[lloyd fox]

Long distance pic yesterday of it.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51502801455/in/dateposted/

[Greg Hyde]

Embraer 190 AR 190.00424 2-HZPR Falko Regional Aircraft feried 21-22sep21 BNA-SJU-SID, still in Virgin Australia cs ex VH-ZPR

ATR 72 -212A(600) 1053 VH-FVQ Tantini Pty ferried 21sep2 MRG-CNS after storage ex F-WWEO

[Tristan S]

Embraer 190 AR 190.00424 2-HZPR Falko Regional Aircraft feried 21-22sep21 BNA-SJU-SID, still in Virgin Australia cs ex VH-ZPR

ATR 72 -212A(600) 1053 VH-FVQ Tantini Pty ferried 21sep2 MRG-CNS after storage ex F-WWEO

The E-jet has been sitting around for years in VA colours!

FVQ ... interesting... wonder if it has been sold/leased.

[Zac M]

Believe ZPR is off to join most of the ex VA E190 fleet in South Africa with Airlink, believe that ZPN, O and Q remain in storage


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Greg Hyde]

Most of the ex-VA E190's are finding a home in South Africa.
Even the ones that were in Israel & UK have found there way to Airlink.
They have around a dozen by last count.

Heavylift are reportedly picking up 2 x ATRs

[Tristan S]

Most of the ex-VA E190's are finding a home in South Africa.
Even the ones that were in Israel & UK have found there way to Airlink.
They have around a dozen by last count.

Heavylift are reportedly picking up 2 x ATRs

Yeah, I have heard that too, and they already have three (some ex-VA)... but they are all -500s, FVQ is a -600. The two 500s in CNS are FVL and FVX (FVL being the aircraft 'airline secrets exposed' said was being 'scrapped')

[Greg Hyde]

Checked my source, Heavylift are renewing the 5 years leasing on their 2 x ex-VA a/c and picking up an extra a/c.

Heavylift has also started ops in WA

[Max C]

FVX is the 3rd for Heavylift. It should be painted by now.

FVQ is off to Greece.

[Radi K]

Would have been Silk Air as its due to head to TSV for a repaint.

Looks like it's rego is VH-IWQ - heading to TSV

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VOZ9903/history/20210925/2330Z/YBBN/YBTL

[Tristan S]

Yeah, that's what PlaneSpotters has listed.. Interesting if they move away from Vxx/Yxx regos for their 737 fleet!

[lloyd fox]

Sure is VH-IWQ
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51517910440/in/dateposted/
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51516178132/in/dateposted/

[Tristan S]

FVX is the 3rd for Heavylift. It should be painted by now.

FVQ is off to Greece.

Have seen pics of FVL in Hevilift livery.

[James Smith]

The registration VH-IWQ for 9V-MGI seems odd to me as there are only three other IW* registrations available - IWT, IWX & IWY. Could it be a temporary registration? If Virgin wishes to keep the *WQ theme, HWQ and JWQ are also not available.

[Tristan S]

The registration VH-IWQ for 9V-MGI seems odd to me as there are only three other IW* registrations available - IWT, IWX & IWY. Could it be a temporary registration? If Virgin wishes to keep the *WQ theme, HWQ and JWQ are also not available.

Have read elsewhere that the regos will be IJQ, IJU, IJW, IWQ, IWX, IWY and IXJ

[James Smith]

Thanks for the Virgin registration details, Tristan.

Do you mean that you have seen pictures of FVX in Hevilift livery? FVL was the ATR where there was talk of it being scrapped and it looked as though it was missing many pieces a few months ago.

[Tristan S]

Thanks for the Virgin registration details, Tristan.

Do you mean that you have seen pictures of FVX in Hevilift livery? FVL was the ATR where there was talk of it being scrapped and it looked as though it was missing many pieces a few months ago.

FVL, .. yeah, was that one ... Which was in fact just under maintenance.

[MarkR]

The registration VH-IWQ for 9V-MGI seems odd to me as there are only three other IW* registrations available - IWT, IWX & IWY. Could it be a temporary registration? If Virgin wishes to keep the *WQ theme, HWQ and JWQ are also not available.

Blocks of regos are scarce now, they just have to take what they can get

FVL was the ATR where there was talk of it being scrapped and it looked as though it was missing many pieces a few months ago.

As pointed out at the time engines are the first to go in a scrapping, and she had hers, bloggers are usually a good source of misinformation if it’s not sourced from a press release.

[Tristan S]

Today's register updates.
IWQ (ex 9V-MGI) has been added to the register
IWQ THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8SA 44225 24/09/2021 ADD

[MarkR]

VH-FVU is now C-FNAN and joins the North Star Air fleet as their third ATR 72

[Tristan S]

YIS has returned from XSP currently holding due to the storms in BNE

[Dylan Hardie]

IWQ due back to BNE Sunday afternoon

[Tristan S]

IWQ due back to BNE Sunday afternoon

Due at 1415L as VA9926

[James Smith]

YIS has returned from XSP currently holding due to the storms in BNE

Did a replacement B738 fly to XSP for maintenance to replace YIS? I see that VON is continuing to receive maintenance there.

[Tristan S]

Did a replacement B738 fly to XSP for maintenance to replace YIS? I see that VON is continuing to receive maintenance there.

Doesn't appear so, cannot see any having gone to XSP