VA / TT Fleet departures

[Greg Hyde]

Does anyone have (or get) a list of when each VA aircraft returned to service ?

[Tristan S]

YFN YFQ YFP YFG YFI
VUR YFH YFE VUI
YVA VUX

These are ones that left and can back, top 5 got new regos and the bottom 2 ex TT

**Edit** didnt read closely to see you asked for dates, luckily James was on the ball.

[James Smith]

This is my list of the B738s and their dates of return to service. Some aircraft returned to lessor and came back, others did not leave but took some time to resume service.

YQM - 11/5/21, YQO - 22/5/21, YQR - 2/6/21, YQG - 23/8/21, YQH - 14/9/21
YFC - 26/2/21, YFH - 11/8/21, YFE - 21/9/21, YFJ - yet to resume service, YVA - 18/12/20 returned from Tiger, VUI & VUJ - yet to resume service, VUE - 6/4/21, VUR - 19/6/21, VUW - 16/3/21, VUX - 1/9/21 returned from Tiger, VUY - 8/7/21

[Greg Hyde]

thks guys

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 777 -3ZG 35302 745 VQ-BTK Azur Air delivery 29sep21 SAW-VKO, basic all white plus Lujo hotel decals ex VH-VOZ

[MarkR]

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

ACG moved an A320neo to CEG yesterday for painting, wonder if we will see N343CG emerge shortly

[Tristan S]

ACG moved an A320neo to CEG yesterday for painting, wonder if we will see N343CG emerge shortly

Hopefully they do a better job on her than was done on IWQ in Townsville...

[Yusef D]

Hopefully they do a better job on her than was done on IWQ in Townsville...


Do tell... what went wrong?

[Tristan S]

Do tell... what went wrong?

They did the bare minimum. Repainted the nose, tail, engines and winglets. The middle just had the Silk Air titles removed and Virgin Australia title applied.
I guess because they wanted to get it into service quickly and will want to worry more about the interior than the exterior.
(Apologies but I can't find any public photos)

[Greg Hyde]

Doesn't look to bad

https://cdn.jetphotos.com/full/6/53018_1633238077.jpg

May of been what VA requested to be done (based on there current financial position)

[Tristan S]

Doesn't look to bad

https://cdn.jetphotos.com/full/6/53018_1633238077.jpg

May of been what VA requested to be done (based on there current financial position)

Mmm other pics I've seen show it in a little worse a light :)

I agree, it will be what VA could afford and realistically, the exterior isn't as important.

[Dylan Hardie]

YFU for HKG tomorrow and YIT due back Friday

2nd Silkair 737 9V-MGF due into BNE Friday night

[Tristan S]

N343CG (VH-VUJ) Positioned GEG HIO earlier today and has now departed HIO, destination unknown (no flightplan has been filed).
Interestingly it does not appear Jet Test are flying her, the callsign is OMD506 - Nomad Aviation.

[Yusef D]

Pretty clearly heading for Hawaii... must be on its way to Australia.

[MarkR]

N343CG (VH-VUJ) Positioned GEG HIO earlier today and has now departed HIO, destination unknown (no flightplan has been filed).
Interestingly it does not appear Jet Test are flying her, the callsign is OMD506 - Nomad Aviation.

Wonder if it’s for Rex given it’s visit to the paint shop, would have thought they would not be in a hurry to expand given they are not operating?

[Tristan S]

Wonder if it’s for Rex given it’s visit to the paint shop, would have thought they would not be in a hurry to expand given they are not operating?

She's coming back to VA, following VUI (N341CG) which was also repainted prior to returning.

[Radi K]

Interestingly it does not appear Jet Test are flying her, the callsign is OMD506 - Nomad Aviation.

Jet Test is now Nomad.

https://twitter.com/JTTsteve/status/1445940990959783937

[Tristan S]

Jet Test is now Nomad.

https://twitter.com/JTTsteve/status/1445940990959783937

Yep, literally just read the tweet, had wondered if this was the case!

[Dennis McLean]

Now in HNL, been there for almost 3hr30m

[Tristan S]

Id expect it to overnight and head to BNE tomorrow, thats usually how they roll.. get in late in the arv and head out on SQ246

[MarkR]

Now in HNL, been there for almost 3hr30m

Unlikely to leave before tomorrow, normally they take a days break

[Yusef D]

....Or QR, the ferry pilot's favoured airline.

[MarkR]

....Or QR, the ferry pilot's favoured airline.

I’ve been in touch with the kitchen, asparagus with every meal for the next few days ex BNe for QR :eek:

[Tristan S]

I’ve been in touch with the kitchen, asparagus with every meal for the next few days ex BNe for QR :eek:

Hahaha, Steve's favourite.

[Yusef D]

Not sure if they've been posted before but the regos in (VA) fleet joining order are IWQ, IJQ, IJU, IWX, IJW, IWY, IXJ. 1-2 to enter service per month Oct-Feb. When they were ordered by Silkair someone must have looked at the options catalog and said yes to practically everything. Very different to other Virgin or Qantas specs.

[Tristan S]

Not sure if they've been posted before but the regos in (VA) fleet joining order are IWQ, IJQ, IJU, IWX, IJW, IWY, IXJ. 1-2 to enter service per month Oct-Feb. When they were ordered by Silkair someone must have looked at the options catalog and said yes to practically everything. Very different to other Virgin or Qantas specs.

Interesting, do you have details on the options? was it like headlight protectors and floor mats? :D

[Adrian B]

Interesting, do you have details on the options? was it like headlight protectors and floor mats? :D

Sunroof...

[MarkR]

Unlikely to leave before tomorrow, normally they take a days break

No break and an early departure, looks like they are trying to catch the mid arvo SQ flight

[Dennis McLean]

Departed MAJ at 09.22 local time, due in BNE at 12.49 today

[Max C]

ATR72 FVL is now also with Heavilift

https://www.jetphotos.com/registration/VH-FVL

[Greg Hyde]

Sunroof...

Aloha Airlines (Flt 243) tried that in the late 1980's but it never took off

[Yusef D]

Au contraire, the roof did take off.

[Greg Hyde]

Au contraire, the roof did take off.

Not in a PAX friendly way

[Yusef D]

Not in a PAX friendly way

true. and a very cabin crew unfriendly way.

[Yusef D]

Interesting, do you have details on the options? was it like headlight protectors and floor mats?

even more amber annunciator lights
second nosewheel steering tiller
heated third cockpit windows (more typical in northern Europe than SE Asia)
second weather radar
brake temp gauges
external park brake warning light
etc

and headlight protectors and floor mats

[Greg Hyde]

Do we have any news on 9V-MGF ?

Earlier yesterday there were no test flights on any of the a/c which VA have reportedly leased ?

[Radi K]

Do we have any news on 9V-MGF ?

Earlier yesterday there were no test flights on any of the a/c which VA have reportedly leased ?

Enroute https://flightaware.com/live/flight/SIA8890/history/20211009/0100Z/WSSS/YBBN

[Greg Hyde]

thks

[Tristan S]

Guessing she'll then head to TSV for the same painting treatment.

[Dylan Hardie]

VUS to XSP via DRW tomorrow morning

VON to return on Monday

[Greg Hyde]

even more amber annunciator lights
second nosewheel steering tiller
heated third cockpit windows (more typical in northern Europe than SE Asia)
second weather radar
brake temp gauges
external park brake warning light
etc



Silk Air operated regular flights in/out of Kathmandu so this may account for some of the winter (ice & heaters) gear not normally seen on SE Asian a/c.

[Tristan S]

VH-VUI performed a test flight this evening, BNE BNE, as VA9900.

[Dylan Hardie]

YFJ due back into Brisbane tomorrow night

[James Smith]

Thanks Dylan for the update. It has been four months in maintenance.

Just to clarify with different time zones along the east coast, on Flightaware YFJ is scheduled into BNE just prior to 21:00 tonight, Monday (22:00 Sydney time).

[James Smith]

The return flight of YFJ from CRK did not take place today and the flight plan has now been withdrawn.

[Dylan Hardie]

Has been rescheduled to go again today but will see what happens

VUI to operate first service to MKY tomorrow

[Tristan S]

ATR72 FVL is now also with Heavilift

https://www.jetphotos.com/registration/VH-FVL

Recently operated its first flights for them.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHFVL

[Dylan Hardie]

MGF or it's new rego will be off to Townsville Saturday morning as VA9935

[Tristan S]

YFJ and VON now due to arrive into BNE within minutes of each other this evening.
2110 and 2112 respectively.

[Yusef D]

VON seems to be heading northeast from Singapore, up to CRK maybe?

[James Smith]

On Flightaware, VONs return to BNE with arrival at 21:12 is from CRK not XSP. It could be that VON is taking a separate crew to CRK who will then fly YFJ back to BNE, hence the similar arrival times.

[Tristan S]

VON seems to be heading northeast from Singapore, up to CRK maybe?

FlightAware doesnt show a destination, but there is now a flight filed for CRK BNE later today.. they are dropping off the crew for YFJ.

[James Smith]

Both VON and YFJ are airborne out of CRK with VON departing four minutes before YFJ. Their respective scheduled arrival times in BNE are 21:47 and 21:50 this evening. They are flying at 37,000 and 39,000 respectively and it will be interesting to see if they remain in this order, although VON is currently flying at a faster speed.

[Yusef D]

Interesting that VON is operating on a Virgin callsign, but YFJ is coming in on its registration. It seems it hasn't yet rejoined the Virgin fleet.

[Tristan S]

VON never left the fleet and is returning from maintenance, YFJ not yet back in the VA fleet - delivery flight by the lessor.

[Dylan Hardie]

IJQ planned for Townsville later this afternoon

[Stuart McCarthy]

Going up the coast now to TSV VH-IJQ as VOZ9931

[Tristan S]

VH-YFJ has filed BNE BNE at 1440 today.

[Tristan S]

Airbus A320 -232 4053 OE-INN Avolon ferried 16oct21 SBD-DLH ex VH-VNO

[Dylan Hardie]

Would she still in in TT colors?

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGF became VH-IJQ on 15/10

[Tristan S]

Interesting that neither VUJ and YFJ were back on or updated in the register.

[Jamie D]

Would she still in in TT colors?

I just found a picture of her in SBD all white

https://www.planepictures.net/v3/show_en.php?id=1628728

[Tristan S]

Further ferry for VNO
Airbus A320 -232 4053 OE-INN Avolon ferried 16-18oct21 SBD-DLH-KEF-MPL ex VH-VNO

[Greg Hyde]

They did the bare minimum. Repainted the nose, tail, engines and winglets. The middle just had the Silk Air titles removed and Virgin Australia title applied.
I guess because they wanted to get it into service quickly and will want to worry more about the interior than the exterior.
(Apologies but I can't find any public photos)

Read on another forum that it had a total repaint.

[Tristan S]

IQW? the first Silk Air?
Yeah, no, definitely didn't have a full repaint, have seen the pics and she's dirty from aft of the nose to forward of the tail.

Not sure what they are doing with IJQ.

[MarkR]

LOL, that’s what the picture shows that Greg posted https://www.yssyforum.net/board/showpost.php?p=112836&postcount=760

[Max C]

A full strip and repaint is 12-14 days, give or take.

Anything less than that is a touch up job.

[Dylan Hardie]

IJQ returns back from TSV on the 27th as VA9932 at 1415pm

[Anthony Collins]

So the ex-Silk Air birds given their age would have the Sky Interiors i presume. Will they outfit these to match the standard fit out? Purple dividers, seat colours etc...

[Greg Hyde]

This may help:

The 737 features the Boeing Sky Interior, which highlights new modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead stowage bins.

https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2014-02-03-Boeing-SilkAir-Begins-Transition-to-All-737-Fleet

[MarkR]

Many of them won’t be converted, there is not enough seats available, and in fact Virgin are advising that due to unusual configs, you may not get extra leg room etc on some flights.

[Dylan Hardie]

So the ex-Silk Air birds given their age would have the Sky Interiors i presume. Will they outfit these to match the standard fit out? Purple dividers, seat colours etc...

IWQ has been fitted with Ex Tigerair seats with the headrests colors been changed

[Wenglock M]

That's interesting - if those happen to be the newer Rockwell Collins seats, with the tablet/phone holder, they're actually a generation ahead of the ones that used to be on the SilkAir 737-800s, and a similar model to the ones found on the 737-8 MAXs.

[Greg Hyde]

Interesting that neither VUJ and YFJ were back on or updated in the register.

VUJ returned to the VH reg on 20/10

Also VOQ & VUD were deleted from reg on 18/10 and 22/10 with both Exported to Cayman Islands

[James Smith]

Also VOQ & VUD were deleted from register on 18/10 and 22/10 with both Exported to Cayman Islands

Both are still in storage in ASP. Is movement imminent?

[Greg Hyde]

James, It may only be book keeping since the Caymans are normally a "flag of convenience"

[James Smith]

Thanks Greg. I wonder whether Virgin got the seats out of these two aircraft? :)

[Stuart McCarthy]

IJQ just filed flight plan TSV-BNE as VOZ9932

[Dylan Hardie]

Re planned for tomorrow morning now as VA9934

[Greg Hyde]

paint wasn't dry

[Tristan S]

Re planned for tomorrow morning now as VA9934

Looking at the flight path, the were undertaking some testing during the flight?

[lloyd fox]

GOT IT on arrival at BNE
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51634154176/in/dateposted/

[Steve S... 2]

Beautiful - a full repaint this time.

[Dylan Hardie]

VOQ with the new registration of VP-CJA ferried ASP-DRW-ICN

[Tristan S]

VOQ with the new registration of VP-CJA ferried ASP-DRW-ICN

Interesting, I wonder if VUD will depart soon too.

[lloyd fox]

3rd Silk Air 737 expected BNE at 1915 hrs 3 Nov from SIN.

[Dylan Hardie]

VOQ with the new registration of VP-CJA ferried ASP-DRW-ICN

Now off to Guangzhou

[MarkR]

Now off to Guangzhou

Must be heading for conversion with GAMECO

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners

Boeing 737-8FE 33798 1391 VP-CJA ? ferried 27-29oct21 ASP-DRW-ICN-CAN, c/n tbc ex VH-VOQ

[Tristan S]

Have read elsewhere that yes, she is off for conversion.

[MarkR]

The guys from Nomadic will be back in country next week to collect an A320 from ASP, wonder if she is ex Tiger?

[James Smith]

I have two ex-Tiger A320s currently in storage at ASP: VH-VND & VNH.

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 33798 1391 VP-CJA Jlps Leasing Stella Ltd ferried 27-29oct21 ASP-DRW-ICN-CAN ex VH-VOQ

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners

Embraer 190 AR 190.00412 ZS- SA Airlink deliveery 29-31oct21 BNA-SNU-SID-LAD-JNB, 2-reg ex 2-HZPQ

Another ex-VA e190 heading to Sth Africa

[Tristan S]

YFV off to HKG today as VA9945

[Greg Hyde]

https://twitter.com/JTTsteve

To get to ASP from NY

JFK-DXB-BNE - Kingair to ASP

[Tristan S]

VOR removed from the AU register
VOR THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 33799 25/10/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Cayman Islands

[Tristan S]

Airbus A330 -243 1293 9H-GKL GKL Aircraft Ireland One ferried 01nov21 WOE-ISL ex VH-XFC

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGQ had a test flight in Singapore yesterday.

[Stuart McCarthy]

Two B738's have taken off from ASP for DRW VP-CJD & VP-CJE, rumoured to be ex PK, but not confirmed, is it possible they are ex VH-VUD and VH-VOR ?

[Stuart McCarthy]

VH-VUT just flight planned for MEL-DRW-XSP as VOZ9949

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners

Airbus A320-232 5218 VT-IHR IndiGo Airlines ferried 02nov21 DEL-ISL prior return to lessor ex VH-VNQ

[Tristan S]

Two B738's have taken off from ASP for DRW VP-CJD & VP-CJE, rumoured to be ex PK, but not confirmed, is it possible they are ex VH-VUD and VH-VOR ?

Yup, that's them.
Wondering if they are also headed for conversion.

[Tristan S]

VH-VUT just flight planned for MEL-DRW-XSP as VOZ9949

Suspect the crew will then bring VUS back.

[Dylan Hardie]

Two B738's have taken off from ASP for DRW VP-CJD & VP-CJE, rumoured to be ex PK, but not confirmed, is it possible they are ex VH-VUD and VH-VOR ?
Both off to Seoul tomorrow morning

[Stuart McCarthy]

Suspect the crew will then bring VUS back.

She didn't go to XSP, instead did MEL-NTL-BNE, so possible ex BNE tomorrow.

[Tristan S]

She didn't go to XSP, instead did MEL-NTL-BNE, so possible ex BNE tomorrow.

Not sure what you mean, sorry.
VUT is scheduled BNE-DRW-XSP tomorrow, VUS has been in XSP since the 10th of last month so surmise the crew will being her back.

[Stuart McCarthy]

VH-VUT just departed BNE for DRW & XSP as VOZ9949

[Tristan S]

Looks like VOT is now a freighter:
Boeing 737 -8FE(F) 33801 1504 2-VVOT Bocomm Leasing ferried 04-05nov21 TNA-ICN-FRU on delivery to? ex VH-VOT

[Tristan S]

Both off to Seoul tomorrow morning

Then to TNA:
Boeing 737 -8FE 33799 1462 VP-CJD Jlps Leasing Stella Ltd ferried 03-05nov21 ASP-DRW-ICN-TNA (+ 34015/1594 VP-CJE ex VH-VUD) ex VH-VOR

[Tristan S]

VH-VUT just departed BNE for DRW & XSP as VOZ9949

VUS due back tomorrow, as suspected, due into BNE at 1720 as VA9948

[Dylan Hardie]

A320 2-VIDZ has a plan out for ASP-CGK. Ex Tiger?

[Tristan S]

A320 2-VIDZ has a plan out for ASP-CGK. Ex Tiger?

According to Planespotters, no, its ex VT-IDZ

https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/airbus-a320-200-2-vidz-aercap/ey69m5

[Greg Hyde]

If you check the twitter address I posted earlier (happens to be the pilot) you will see that it is an all white A320.

Flight no is OMD516, Departing ASP for CGK, CMB, MCT, CAI & TLS

[Radi K]

Airbus A320 -232 3986 OE-IMY Avolon Aerospace re-regd 14jun21, parked at SBD ex VH-VNK

Photos by Matt Hartman in SBD.
https://i.postimg.cc/nj5Y3Fzy/253660189-10222913307673904-877820279314217624-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/nj5Y3Fzy)

https://i.postimg.cc/47nQv7Jv/253689241-10222913308673929-7476650094743255453-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/47nQv7Jv)

[Tristan S]

Any idea what the green spray on the engine cowling is?

[Brenden S]

Green spray is primer, at a guess there was some corrosion that was removed and then treated.

[Tristan S]

Airbus A330 -243 1293 9H-GKL GKL Aircraft Ireland One ferried 01nov21 WOE-ISL ex VH-XFC

According to planespotters, ex XFC is due to TUS Airways as a 'preighter'

EDIT and this article: https://www.aviationnewsworld.com/post/tus-airways-a330

[Tristan S]

Photos by Matt Hartman in SBD.
https://i.postimg.cc/nj5Y3Fzy/253660189-10222913307673904-877820279314217624-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/nj5Y3Fzy)

https://i.postimg.cc/47nQv7Jv/253689241-10222913308673929-7476650094743255453-n.jpg (https://postimg.cc/47nQv7Jv)

She's on the move, currently in GUM

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/OEIMY

[Tristan S]

IWQ off to TSV again tomorrow as VA9935, possibly to fix the paint job.

[James Smith]

Virgin has scheduled VUJ to operate a return BNE-ADL flight tomorrow 11/11/21 on its return to service. It should be a day to remember. :D

[Tristan S]

Looks like VOT is now a freighter:
Boeing 737 -8FE(F) 33801 1504 2-VVOT Bocomm Leasing ferried 04-05nov21 TNA-ICN-FRU on delivery to? ex VH-VOT

Possibly incorrect info here.. Skyliner has removed the (F) from the series:
Boeing 737 -8FE 33801 1504 2-VVOT Bocomm Leasing ferried 04-06nov21 TNA-ICN-FRU-KUN-QLA on delivery to? ex VH-VOT

[Radi K]

Next is 9V-MGG to BNE today. To become VH-IJU.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/SIA8890/history/20211110/0100Z/WSSS/YBBN

[Greg Hyde]

Next is 9V-MGG to BNE today. To become VH-IJU.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/SIA8890/history/20211110/0100Z/WSSS/YBBN

On the way

[James Smith]

Virgin has scheduled VUJ to operate a return BNE-ADL flight tomorrow 11/11/21 on its return to service.

Now rescheduled to tomorrow morning, 12/11/21 BNE-PER.

[Tristan S]

IWQ or IJQ getting some shiny new seats
https://www.tiktok.com/@virginaustralia/video/7029064776592542977?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

[Steve S... 2]

It's the 'on the cheap' paint job aircraft IWQ, going by the dirt stains streaming down from under each window (which I think IWQ had when it left the paint shop in TSV).

[Tristan S]

Now rescheduled to tomorrow morning, 12/11/21 BNE-PER.

Ended up on VA1388 BNE ADL

I believe now that this leaves just the ex-SilkAir birds (IWQ / IJQ) as not having RTS (YFJ still hasn't come back into the VA fleet)

[Greg Hyde]

IWQ or IJQ getting some shiny new seats
https://www.tiktok.com/@virginaustralia/video/7029064776592542977?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

IJQ was having the seats fitted.

The seats are similar to those used on the B737Max

Virgin Australia reveals new business class, economy seats

https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/virgin-australia-reveals-new-business-class-economy-seats

[Greg Hyde]

Reportedly one of the remaining ex-VA ATRs has been sold by Aviation (Singapore) for cash.

[Tristan S]

Reportedly one of the remaining ex-VA ATRs has been sold by Aviation (Singapore) for cash.

Interesting, wonder if it was either FVR or FVQ, they both positioned to CNS from MRG a few months ago.

[Tristan S]

IJU has been added to the register:
IJU THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8SA 44223 12/11/2021 ADD CIT AEROSPACE LLC

YFJ now back with VA
YFJ THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 41001 10/11/2021 No Change

[MarkR]

Interesting, wonder if it was either FVR or FVQ, they both positioned to CNS from MRG a few months ago.

I noted one of the VARA ATRs on Friday sans engines and other bits in CNS

[Greg Hyde]

Interesting, wonder if it was either FVR or FVQ, they both positioned to CNS from MRG a few months ago.

The only additional info is that it has been sold into Europe.

I expect it would be one of the two in Cairns under maintenance preparing for the ferry flight.

[MarkR]

I noted one of the VARA ATRs on Friday sans engines and other bits in CNS

Grabbed a shot on my phone as we took off today

https://photos.app.goo.gl/DSoFQSyphxCQmw1J9

[Dylan Hardie]

IJU off to TSV tomorrow and IWQ returning

[James Smith]

YFJ returns to Virgin service today operating a return flight BNE to CNS as VA775/780. This leaves only the seven ex-SilkAir B738s to enter service with Virgin.

[MarkR]

YFJ returns to Virgin service today operating a return flight BNE to CNS as VA775/780. This leaves only the seven ex-SilkAir B738s to enter service with Virgin.

YQH is still pending AFAIK.

[Tristan S]

YQH is still pending AFAIK.

YQH returned to service in September, and has operated a few flights since. (although she is currently sitting in MEL)
https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/vh-yqh

[James Smith]

YQH has operated 15 flights for Virgin since returning to service on 14/9/21, the most recent from ADL - MEL on 7/11/21.

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGP is reportedly arriving tonight.

Based on previous arrivals, don't believe anything until it lands

[Stuart McCarthy]

YFJ returns to Virgin service today operating a return flight BNE to CNS as VA775/780. This leaves only the seven ex-SilkAir B738s to enter service with Virgin.

She went tech after take-off for CNS, has just landed back at BNE.

[James Smith]

YFR stepped in to operate VA 775/780 after YFJ went tech.

[Tristan S]

VA to increase their fleet further:
"The business is also continuing to add to its fleet, with Letters of Intent signed on seven Boeing 737NG aircraft. Over the last 12 months since its re-launch, Virgin Australia has announced it will grow its 737 fleet by over 45 per cent, from 58 aircraft to 84 aircraft with the additional aircraft announced today. An additional two A320s also have been recently added to VARA, the group’s West Australian resource operation, bringing VARA’s total A320 fleet number to seven, along with a number of F100 aircraft."

https://newsroom.virginaustralia.com/release/virgin-australia-soaring-one-year-after-re-launch

Any word on where they will come from?
Also any notes on the two A320s VARA took delivery of?

[Bob C]

Hi Tristan

I don't think that VARA has taken delivery of the two A320s as there's been nothing mentioned on any of the W A sites. However, I did read that VH-VNT will join the fleet early in 2022 and I presume the second one sometime later. I have no idea where they're coming from.

[Tristan S]

Hi Tristan

I don't think that VARA has taken delivery of the two A320s as there's been nothing mentioned on any of the W A sites. However, I did read that VH-VNT will join the fleet early in 2022 and I presume the second one sometime later. I have no idea where they're coming from.

Yeah, there was nothing mentioned on PlaneSpotters.net yet either (not even in the 'future' fleet)
VH-VNT presumably is registered somewhere else at the moment?

[MarkR]

Yeah, there was nothing mentioned on PlaneSpotters.net yet either (not even in the 'future' fleet)
VH-VNT presumably is registered somewhere else at the moment?

I wonder if it’s the former XUH, currently under maintenance in Malta as 2-HXHU

[Dylan Hardie]

IWQ's first commercial service on Saturday to HTI VA1493

[Tristan S]

The only additional info is that it has been sold into Europe.

I expect it would be one of the two in Cairns under maintenance preparing for the ferry flight.

Looks like 3 of the -600s have been sold to Aegean Airlines

https://www.proactiveinvestors.com.au/companies/amp/news/966338

[Yusef D]

Any sign of where the newly announced 7 NGs are coming from? I note they are described as "737NG", fair assumption that they're -800s. No indication that they are more Silkair/SQ airframes?

[Tristan S]

IWQ's first commercial service on Saturday to HTI VA1493

It didn't eventuate, flight was operated by YIL.

[Steve S... 2]

On 20/11/2021 IWQ instead entered service as VA367 BNE-TSV

[Tristan S]

On 20/11/2021 IWQ instead entered service as VA367 BNE-TSV

Ahh so it did, my brain must have seen BNE TSV and assumed it was the painting flights.

[Steve S... 2]

Don't worry my brain is doing that lately :)

I believe it has been up to TSV three times now. Two were for paint and one was its first revenue flight.

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like 3 of the -600s have been sold to Aegean Airlines

https://www.proactiveinvestors.com.au/companies/amp/news/966338

The Lease holders of VH-FVH,L,M,P,N,Q,R were all changed to Aviation PLC, Singapore on 20-21/11/2021.

From Aviation PLC,

SALE OF THREE ATR 72-600 AIRCRAFT

Avation PLC (LSE: AVAP) the commercial passenger aircraft leasing company announces that, further to the announcement of 30 September 2021, it has signed agreements for the sale of three ATR 72-600 aircraft to Aegean Airlines S.A. of Greece (“Aegean”).

These aircraft are three of the five ATR 72-600 aircraft returned to the Company following the voluntary administration of Virgin Australia in 2020. They will be delivered to Aegean over the coming months following maintenance and preparation. The sale and purchase agreements remain subject to customary conditions precedent to be satisfied on each delivery.

That will keep the boys/girls in Cairns busy.

[Tristan S]

The Lease holders of VH-FVH,L,M,P,N,Q,R were all changed to Aviation PLC, Singapore on 20-21/11/2021.

From Aviation PLC,

SALE OF THREE ATR 72-600 AIRCRAFT

Avation PLC (LSE: AVAP) the commercial passenger aircraft leasing company announces that, further to the announcement of 30 September 2021, it has signed agreements for the sale of three ATR 72-600 aircraft to Aegean Airlines S.A. of Greece (“Aegean”).

These aircraft are three of the five ATR 72-600 aircraft returned to the Company following the voluntary administration of Virgin Australia in 2020. They will be delivered to Aegean over the coming months following maintenance and preparation. The sale and purchase agreements remain subject to customary conditions precedent to be satisfied on each delivery.

That will keep the boys/girls in Cairns busy.

Indeed! :)
Looks like they are close to selling / leasing all the remaining VA ATR 72s then.
Guessing this sale will be 3 of the 4 -600s in Australia (CNS/MRG), leaving 1 here in AU and the 1 in Nelson.
The last -500 is due to Hevilift.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-FVP/Q are still yet to find a new home. (ie: Available for lease)

[Tristan S]

VH-FVP/Q are still yet to find a new home. (ie: Available for lease)

Interesting, that would mean they have sold FVR (in CNS), FVN (in MRG) and FVY (in NSN) .. be some work to get FVY back up and flying.
Can I ask where you found your info? (not disputing, just interested :) ) - "I have a guy" is perfectly valid ;)

Cheers.

[MarkR]

Interesting, that would mean they have sold FVR (in CNS), FVN (in MRG) and FVY (in NSN) .. be some work to get FVY back up and flying.
Can I ask where you found your info? (not disputing, just interested :) ) - "I have a guy" is perfectly valid ;)

Cheers.

FVN, FVX and FVP are advertised for lease https://www.myairtrade.com/available/ATR_72

While neither Avation nor Aegean Airlines responded to ch-aviation's request for clarification, the ch-aviation fleets advanced module indicates that Avation owns five ex-Virgin Australia ATR72-600s:

VH-FVN (msn 1039) and VH-FVP (msn 1025) stored at Mareeba,
VH-FVQ (msn 1053) and VH-FVR (msn 1058) stored at Cairns, and
VH-FVY (msn 1073) stored at Nelson.
https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/109925-greeces-aegean-airlines-secures-three-atr72-600s

[Tristan S]

FVN, FVX and FVP are advertised for lease https://www.myairtrade.com/available/ATR_72

https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/109925-greeces-aegean-airlines-secures-three-atr72-600s

Interesting.. thanks...

FVX is listed on an earlier CH-Aviation article also going to Hevilift
https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/107241-hevilift-australia-opens-perth-base
This is from September, so perhaps it didnt eventuate.

If FVN / FVP are still listed, then this would suggest FVQ/FVR/FVY are those sold. Would probably make sense for the two in CNS, FVY is interesting as it hasnt flown since 2019 but is younger.

[Tristan S]

The next of the Silk Air 738s for VA (9V-MGP) is due today into BNE at 1837L
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/9VMGP

[MarkR]

Interesting.. thanks...

FVX is listed on an earlier CH-Aviation article also going to Hevilift
https://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/news/107241-hevilift-australia-opens-perth-base
This is from September, so perhaps it didnt eventuate.

I think they went with FVL instead

[MarkR]

Grabbed a shot on my phone as we took off today

https://photos.app.goo.gl/DSoFQSyphxCQmw1J9

Got a closer look today as both were parked in line, FVQ is close to finished while FVR is still sans engines, both appear to have had the leading edge of the tail replaced pretty much obliterating the Virgin logo

[Dylan Hardie]

IJU back to BNE from TSV tomorrow as VA9932

[Damian N]

Got a closer look today as both were parked in line, FVQ is close to finished while FVR is still sans engines, both appear to have had the leading edge of the tail replaced pretty much obliterating the Virgin logo

My suspicion is that just the paint has been replaced on the leading edge of the tail - maybe with the deliberate aim of obliterating the Virgin logo. Temporarily painting the rudder might be slightly more complicated due to weight and balance issues (for what would be a temp paint job anyway until a new operator is identified) hence my suspicion the front section was painted for the purpose of removing the Virgin name.

Just my educated guess.

[Dylan Hardie]

IJQ enters service tomorrow operating VA1396/1403

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGP was added to VH reg as VH-IWX on the 24/11

[Yusef D]

Word is that the 7 latest 737s announced will be -700s. Interesting.

[MarkR]

Word is that the 7 latest 737s announced will be -700s. Interesting.

GECAS Birds ex Westjet maybe?

[Greg Hyde]

Also as part of the latest announcements was an additional two A320s for VAR.

[Tristan S]

Also as part of the latest announcements was an additional two A320s for VAR.

There are two ex-TT 320s in ASP, wonder if they would use those for VARA

[Yusef D]

GECAS Birds ex Westjet maybe?


They'd be at least 10 years old, but then so are almost all -700s.

[Greg Hyde]

They'd be at least 10 years old, but then so are almost all -700s.

GECAS leases B737-76N to SAS, some of these are coming off lease and going into storage.

Could VA get some ex-SAS (originally VB/VA) birds back ?

[lloyd fox]

VH-IWX is currently squawking on fr24 at BNE.:)

[Tristan S]

VH-IWX is currently squawking on fr24 at BNE.:)

Heading to TSV soon you'd think.

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737s Down Under: The Virgin Australia Fleet In 2021

Virgin Australia’s fleet of Boeing 737s is steadily growing. After a substantial downsizing and a decision to become an all 737 airline in 2020, Virgin Australia is now rebuilding. With incoming jets in the pipeline, Virgin Australia is on track to become the biggest 737 operator in Australia.

https://simpleflying.com/virgin-australia-fleet/

[lloyd fox]

VH-FVY due any day ex Nelson to BNE .Probably this weekend ?

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX off to TSV on Monday morning VA9927

[Greg Hyde]

Ferrying VA aircraft

A Tale of 7 Virgins

https://www.youtube.com/c/speedtapefilms/featured

[lloyd fox]

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51727691443/in/dateposted/

Today's departure VH-IWX.

[Yusef D]

heard that the 700s are coming from the Netherlands, KLM I believe. High spec aircraft, not cheapies. And I don't know why VA is getting 700s instead of 800s, or Max 8s.

[MarkR]

heard that the 700s are coming from the Netherlands, KLM I believe. High spec aircraft, not cheapies. And I don't know why VA is getting 700s instead of 800s, or Max 8s.

Leases on older aircraft are probably cheap while the 700 makes more sense on skinnier routes, Virgin cannot rely on Alliance anymore to fill in on those routes.

[Greg Hyde]

9V-MGH is on the way as SA8892 (thanks LLoyd)

ETA 18:54

[lloyd fox]

9V-MGH Diverted to OOL due BNE storms.

[Steve S... 2]

An 8 hour 46 min flight :eek: after all the holding and diverting

[Tristan S]

Left OOL at 23:20 arriving BNE at 23:37.

[Yusef D]

and what a flight they had! I count at least 5 holding patterns

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/9VMGH/history/20211209/0100Z/WSSS/YBCG

[Tristan S]

How about VA616 ��
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VOZ616/history/20211209/0735Z/YBMK/YBSU

[Tristan S]

FVY is about to undertake a test flight in NSN, its first flight in just over 2 years.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHFVY

[Steve S... 2]

Wow VA616 seriously, dizzy.

[Dennis McLean]

ATR 72-600 VH FVY due to depart NSN Saturday at 05.30 NZDT and arrive in BNE at 08.20am.

[Dennis McLean]

It has arrived

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX on return to Brisbane painted all white

[Steve S... 2]

Why white..... :)

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX first flight on Monday operating to Launceston

[Tristan S]

On IWX....

https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/10404021

Its now no longer scheduled to operate BNE LST

[Tristan S]

Judging by this pic
https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/10384880

2-VVOT (VH-VOT) hasn't actually been converted to an (F)
According to PlaneSpotters, its due to World Star Aviation, another aircraft leasing company.

[Zac M]

Interesting that it’s still in full VA livery


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Tristan S]

Ex-TT VH-VUB reported to be leaving today or tomorrow from MEL destination/fate unknown.. unless anyone has any further info?

[Greg Hyde]

Judging by this pic
https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/10384880

2-VVOT (VH-VOT) hasn't actually been converted to an (F)
According to PlaneSpotters, its due to World Star Aviation, another aircraft leasing company.

2-VVOT ferried to Lasham UK as SXI2159 last month.

It's new owner is OAKSTAR CARGO OPPORTUNITES NO.1 DAC.

[lloyd fox]

VH-IJW flew BNE-TSV earlier this morning as VOZ9925 ex Silk Air.:)

[Tristan S]

VH-IJW flew BNE-TSV earlier this morning as VOZ9925 ex Silk Air.:)

Shall be interesting to see if she's given the full VA treatment, or becomes all white as IWX is.

[Tristan S]

IJU is currently scheduled to operate its first flight tomorrow BNE MEL as VA314

[James Smith]

IJU is currently scheduled to operate its first flight tomorrow BNE MEL as VA314


The first flight of IJU now looks to have been re-scheduled to tomorrow, Friday 17/12/21 on VA775 BNE-CNS. Obviously, subject to change. :(

[Yusef D]

is anyone else here suspicious that the all-white 737 (IWX) is blank for a reason... such as Star Alliance titles?

[Tristan S]

is anyone else here suspicious that the all-white 737 (IWX) is blank for a reason... such as Star Alliance titles?

Intriguing - given the recent announcements, its not that far fetched.

[James Smith]

IJU did enter service this morning for Virgin and IWX is scheduled to enter service tomorrow, Saturday 18/12/21 operating VA1384 from BNE-ADL. Always subject to change. ;)

[Tristan S]

All white IWX has entered service operating VA942 BNE SYD today.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-IJW flew BNE-TSV earlier this morning as VOZ9925 ex Silk Air.:)

IJW was added to the register on 14/12

[Tristan S]

It would appear that ex-TT B738 VH-VOY is now an (F)
Boeing 737 -8FE(F) 33996 1551 2-VVOY Bocomm Leasing ferried 19-20dec21 TNA-FRU-RIX-QLA ex VH-VOY

[Greg Hyde]

It would appear that ex-TT B738 VH-VOY is now an (F)
Boeing 737 -8FE(F) 33996 1551 2-VVOY Bocomm Leasing ferried 19-20dec21 TNA-FRU-RIX-QLA ex VH-VOY

Joining 2-VVOT which ferried to QLA last month

[lloyd fox]

Photo of VH-IJW today TSV-BNE straight after paint.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51761199229/in/dateposted/

This one is painted.

[lloyd fox]

VH-IJU yesterday at BNE

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51774939602/in/dateposted/

[lloyd fox]

Next Silk Air flight SIN-BNE is showing a daylight arrival today for the first time eta 1640 hrs.:)

SQ 8892 ..9V-MGQ

[lloyd fox]

Finally got my first 9V registered Silk Air,but what a surprise when i saw the hybrid tail.:D

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/51785978492/in/dateposted/

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX off to XSP via DRW VA9949

[Tristan S]

Interesting.... It's only been in service since last month... Issues?

[Radi K]

Interesting.... It's only been in service since last month... Issues?

maybe getting it's special paint job ;)

[Tristan S]

Ex-TT VH-VUB reportedly leaving MEL tomorrow, destination unknown.

[Tristan S]

ATR72 VH-FVR has left CNS and is currently in Indonesia on its way to Greece.

[Dylan Hardie]

Ex-TT VH-VUB reportedly leaving MEL tomorrow, destination unknown.

First stop was Kupang but now turning back to Melbourne

[Tristan S]

She has turned back to MEL with FlightAware showing a divert to MEL, guess that's what happens when you dont fly for 2 years.

[Dylan Hardie]

Going for a test flight at 2:30pm

[Tristan S]

Reportedly an APU issue, heading out tomorrow.

[Dennis McLean]

VH FVR, appears to have arrived at Mangalore around 5.00pm IST, Saturday.

[James Smith]

VUB as SXI2203 has successfully left MEL at 9:17 this morning for KOE.

[Greg Hyde]

SXI is getting plenty of work in/out of Oz at the moment

SXI2163 VH-FVR to Greece
SXI2203 VH-VUB to ???
SXI2204 N953QQ to Brisbane

[Dennis McLean]

FVR departed Mangalore "IXE" at 08.14IST for ??????? heading west.

[Yusef D]

Oh, the Indian Mangalore! Now continuing west from UAE.

[Dylan Hardie]

VUB spending the night in KL

IWY off to Townsville in the morning as VA9927

[Greg Hyde]

VH-IWY was added to reg on 05/01/22

[Greg Hyde]

ATSB investigates possible hypoxia incident onboard Virgin Fokker

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has launched an investigation after the cabin crew onboard a Virgin Australia Regional Airlines flight reported symptoms of mild hypoxia in-flight.

On 27 December 2021, the Fokker 100, registration VH-FNU msn 11373, took off from Newman, Western Australia, and headed for Perth, with three cabin crew, two pilots, and seven passengers onboard as flight VA1896.

During cruise at 34,000 feet, one member of the cabin crew reported they had begun to feel unwell, and was soon treated with portable oxygen, according to the ATSB.

The flight crew then climbed to the aircraft’s maximum cruise altitude of 35,000 feet.

Shortly after, the other two cabin crew onboard also began feeling unwell with similar symptoms, and alerted the flight crew that they believed the symptoms could be caused by hypoxia – or insufficient oxygen.

The first officer later reported that they had similarly experienced symptoms of hypoxia, including light-headedness and slight nausea, at the time.

As a precaution, the crew fitted themselves with oxygen masks, and manually deployed the overhead passenger oxygen masks for the seven passengers to use.

Simultaneously, the flight crew conducted an emergency descent to 10,000 feet.

The flight landed safely at Perth Airport and one member of the cabin crew was taken to hospital for assessment.

https://australianaviation.com.au/2022/01/atsb-investigates-possible-hypoxia-incident-onboard-virgin-fokker/
“Upon becoming aware of a reduction in cabin pressurization, appropriate steps were taken by the flight crew, in line with protocol, to descend to a lower altitude and the aircraft conducted a normal landing in Perth,” a Virgin Australia statement said.

[Tristan S]

VH-IWY was added to reg on 05/01/22

And has headed to TSV for repaint.

[Tristan S]

FVR has arrived in Athens, Greece (ATH)

[Sean L]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=uE7TYm2HnZA
Video of VUB departing Subang

[Greg Hyde]

Virgin cuts a quarter of flights as Omicron hits crew and travel demand

Virgin Australia has cancelled almost one-in-four of its flights scheduled for January and February as the Omicron COVID-19 outbreak disrupts crew availability and dents travel demand.

The airline said it would operate at reduced frequency on busy routes and temporarily suspend 10 routes from late January, as it continues to lose staff who are forced into isolation due to COVID-19 rules.

https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/virgin-cuts-flying-by-a-quarter-as-omicron-hits-crew-and-travel-demand-20220110-p59n5k.html

[Greg Hyde]

From Skyliners (note: Rego)

Boeing 737 -8FE 34013 1572 2-VVUB Bocomm Leasing ferried 09jan22 MEL-KOE-SZB ex VH-VUB

[Dylan Hardie]

VUB final destination will be Lasham in the UK

[Tristan S]

VUB final destination will be Lasham in the UK

Joining VOT and VOY

Likely to be scrapped?

[Phil Stevens]

VH-VUB in descent for Lasham at 10.20 GMT.

[Greg Hyde]

ATR 72 -212A(600) 1058 SX- Aegean Airlines delivery 07-09/15jan22 CNS-KOE-SZB-BTJ-IXE-AAN-HRG-ATH-SNN, VH-reg, for paint into Olympic Air cs ex VH-FVR

[Dylan Hardie]

FVR currently bound Shannon as SXI2205

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX back from XSP on the 23rd

[Dylan Hardie]

IWX returned still painted all white

[Yusef D]

IWX returned still painted all white

Hmmmm

I'm still going with my *A theory.

[Greg Hyde]

Hmmmm

I'm still going with my *A theory.

Promo (and paint) postponed due to down turn due to Covid ?

[Greg Hyde]

Has IJW gone back to Townsville for a repaint ?

Looks like IWY is heading back to Brisbane shortly

[Dylan Hardie]

IWY in VA livery

[Yusef D]

Promo (and paint) postponed due to down turn due to Covid ?

Maybe but I doubt it. Continuing to watch this (blank) space.