VA / TT Fleet departures

[Anthony Collins]

Hi everyone.
Now that it is official the 777/A330 and Tiger A320 fleet will be leaving our shores, do we have any information on the expected months they will depart. Certainly a tough market for aircraft leasing companies to find new operators, perhaps short term storage maintenance will continue in Australia for a while, or put into deep storage. I noticed 777 VH-VPH undertook a 15 minute circuit out of Tulla as VA9909 on the 23rd August.
Cheers,

[Brenden S]

YFG/I/N/P/Q will be the 1st 737's to leave our shores in the very near future.

[Anthony Collins]

VH-YFG is now registered 2-VYFG.

[Steve S... 2]

Interesting that the five are the younger sky interior aircraft. I'd imagine it is to do with leasing vs ownership etc.

[Steve S... 2]

I notice five of the older VA 738's (VOK VOO VUC VUE VUK) have returned to service, probably to replace the five mentioned YF* aircraft that were actually in operation and are now leaving the country.

[Greg Hyde]

Interestingly the ex-VA E190s that were deleted from the Aust. Reg in July have also joined the 2-REg.


2-HZPN Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW 19000312 03.07.20
Ravelin Jet Leasing 3 Designated Activity Company Ex. VH-ZPN
2-HZPO Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW 19000321 03.07.20
Ravelin Jet Leasing 3 Designated Activity Company Ex. VH-ZPO
2-HZPQ Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW 19000412 03.07.20
Ravelin Jet Leasing 3 Designated Activity Company Ex. VH-ZPQ
2-HZPR Embraer ERJ 190-100 IGW 19000424 03.07.20
Ravelin Jet Leasing 3 Designated Activity Company Ex. VH-ZPR

[Steve S... 2]

I don't know what to make of the regn's with the 2 and the way they are retaining the remaining letters in the regn's.

So I am now wondering if YFG, I, N, P, Q will end up with Rex.

[Dave J]

I don't know what to make of the regn's with the 2 and the way they are retaining the remaining letters in the regn's.

So I am now wondering if YFG, I, N, P, Q will end up with Rex.

They will be heading to Goodyear, Arizona soon

[Bob C]

And according to the CASA website, the Registration Holder for each of the 5 B737s to be withdrawn is the Wilmington Trust Company of Wilmington, Delawere, U S A.

[lloyd fox]

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/50280353072/in/dateposted/

2-VYFG Pic above.

Also 2-VYFQ is somewhere in BNE as well.:)

[Robert.M]

So I am now wondering if YFG, I, N, P, Q will end up with Rex.
Rumoured aircraft are VOY, VUA and VUT.

[Greg Hyde]

From the latest CASA update:

YFG 25/08 Exported to Guernsey
YFQ 25/08 Exported to Guernsey
YFN 27/08 Exported to Guernsey

[David C]

From the latest CASA update:

YFG 25/08 Exported to Guernsey
YFQ 25/08 Exported to Guernsey
YFN 27/08 Exported to Guernsey

They have been placed on the Guernsey register , but like most 2- registrations it’s unlikely their wheels will ever touch Guernsey tarmac . It’s a registration of convenience .

Dave C

[Yusef D]

I think JetTest will be ferrying the 738s to the US deserts.

[Radi K]

I think that looks likely.

https://i.imgur.com/fEfOJdU.png

[Greg Hyde]

2-VYFG The Boeing Company 737-8FE 40999 Wilmington Trust Company 25/08/2020
2-VYFN The Boeing Company 737-8FE 41009 Wilmington Trust Company 28/08/2020
2-VYFQ The Boeing Company 737-8FE 41010 Wilmington Trust Company 25/08/2020

[MarkR]

Now that Bain have been given the green light by creditors I expect to see some movements of assets no longer required.

[Yusef D]

Rex have advertised for 737 check captains. I've heard 4th hand that their first Boeing will be due in the paintshop very soon. Any idea which airframes they're getting?

[MarkR]

Rex have advertised for 737 check captains. I've heard 4th hand that their first Boeing will be due in the paintshop very soon. Any idea which airframes they're getting?

There is a suggestion up thread, feels like we back in the days of compass Mk1 and mk2, or impulse for that matter.

[Sean L]

VH-VPH currently airborne

[Greg Hyde]

From the latest CASA update:

YFI 30/08 Exported to Guernsey
YFP 01/09 Exported to Guernsey

[Radi K]

The first five VA 737s will be leaving for USA on the 16th at this stage.

[Anthony Collins]

Five will leave simultaneously next week. 11 Pilots and 1 Engineer will fly over in a Falcon 7X and ferry to GYR via HIR and HNL. Regos:
2-VYFG
2-VYFI
2-VYFQ
2-VYFP
2-VYFN

No quarantine required in BNE for the crew, in and out will not leave the ramp.

Source:@sgiordano77

[Adrian B]

Honiara to Hawaii on a single tank?

[David C]

HIR- HNL is 3,086 NM on a direct track , so shouldn’t be an issue for an empty 737-800 , particularly West to East with favourable winds .
Dave C

[MarkR]

ONU did BNE HNL direct in July IIRC On her ferry

[Max C]

ONU went via Pago Pago and possibly one other port prior

[MarkR]

ONU went via Pago Pago and possibly one other port prior

Roger that, HNL rare birds noted “Nauru Airlines is ferrying VH-ONU (c/n 28732, l/n 2966) from BNE to MIA, with a stop at HNL and ONT. This 737-3U3 arrived early this morning on a direct flight from BNE. It departed this afternoon ahead of Hurricane Douglas.“

[Max C]

The track on Flightradar24 has it climbing out of PAG.

You can’t track Nauru Air on flightaware otherwise you could just look up what flights were filed.

https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/vh-onu#2507793f

EDIT: Just scroll along and you'll see it on climb.

The problem with FR24 is that unless the flight is a known RPT flight, the ports won't be correct unless it sees the aircraft on the ground at each stop.

[MarkR]

Five will leave simultaneously next week. 11 Pilots and 1 Engineer will fly over in a Falcon 7X and ferry to GYR via HIR and HNL. Regos:
2-VYFG
2-VYFI
2-VYFQ
2-VYFP
2-VYFN

No quarantine required in BNE for the crew, in and out will not leave the ramp.

Source:@sgiordano77

Looks like today they are leaving, the VH registered 7x is four hours out of BNE

[lloyd fox]

It's a brand new Fa7X as well Mark keeping the same reg as the previous aircraft.:)

[David C]

The 737’s will be using “ jet test “ as their radio call signs .

Dave C

[Greg Hyde]

Jettest is the company performing the ferry

https://www.jettest.aero/worldwide-aircraft-ferry

[Greg Hyde]

Just checked on in flightaware

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/2VYFG

Due to depart 12.10 local (today)

[Greg Hyde]

For those playing at home.

The flight numbers are: JTN259-272

Fair winds

[James Smith]

JTN258 & 269 are on their way to HIR and are about 12 minutes apart. They will possibly stagger the arrival and departure times in HIR to avoid overcrowding the ramp and refuelling facilities there.

[lloyd fox]

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/50343595753/in/dateposted/

:):)

[Radi K]

Even made the news! https://twitter.com/7NewsBrisbane/status/1305793963316576256

[lloyd fox]

Yes Ha Ha i am in that pic :(

[Greg Hyde]

All aircraft completed the ferry to HOT & SUNNY Goodyear arriving at various times on 16/09/2020 (local time)

[MarkR]

All aircraft completed the ferry to HOT & SUNNY Goodyear arriving at various times on 16/09/2020 (local time)

I’m shocked :rolleyes: Interestingly the owner of the planes did not appreciate the publicity and most of the tweets were deleted, pity, it was a good glimpse into a unique world of aircraft ferries. I don’t imagine the stars align too often to allow a ferry from point a to point b to help transport crew for five aircraft to do the reverse trip.

[Max C]

It wasn’t the owner that was unhappy, it was VA.

[Dennis McLean]

77W - VPH ferried from MEL to BNE on 18/9 and VOZ did a test flight yesterday. There are 4 in BNE now, those 2 plus VPD and VPF. VPE still in SYD.

[Radi K]

Some A330 movements:

XFJ ferried AVV-MEL as VA9903 on 16/9
XFD ferried BNE-MEL as VA9908 on 20/9

[Max C]

https://airwaysmag.com/interview/high-flyer-interview-seven-questions-to-ferry-pilot-steve-giordano-photos/

An article about one of the ferry pilots and includes a mention on the VA repo flights.

[Radi K]

VUR ferried BNE-WTB as VA9908 on 23/9 for storage (short term)

[Dave J]

VUR ferried BNE-WTB as VA9908 on 23/9 for storage (short term)

More to follow... this will likely be for long term storage also

[Dave J]

XFH on it’s way up to WTB from MEL shortly

[lloyd fox]

VOZ 9943 ...VH-VPH showing on Flightaware to depart BNE for HKG at 8am

[lloyd fox]

It is VH-VPD just departing this time.

[Radi K]

getting a new engine.

[Radi K]

VUF ferried to WTB today. https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVUF

Another 737 and 777 due in later this week/weekend.

[Dave J]

2 x 737s

[lloyd fox]

VOZ 9908..77W shows on Flightaware BNE-WTB at 1pm today..:)

[lloyd fox]

VH-VOZ just landed Wellcamp .

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 36606 3059 2-HVUR Shenton Aircraft Leasing ferried 23sep20 BNE-WTB, regd 29sep20 ex VH-VUR

[Radi K]

YFJ MEL-WTB 05/10/20 - https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VOZ9915/history/20201005/0230Z/YMML/YBWW

[Steve S... 2]

So are the VA aircraft at Wellcamp to be removed from the fleet? Particularly VUR?

[Radi K]

YFE went today - BNE WTB https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VOZ9918

[Radi K]

So are the VA aircraft at Wellcamp to be removed from the fleet? Particularly VUR?

yes- end of lease.

[Tristan S]

VUR has already been removed from the register
VUR THE BOEING COMPANY 737-8FE 36606 29/09/2020 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Guernsey

[Anthony Collins]

Went past the hangars at MEL today during work break, interesting to see nearly all VA/TT aircraft are missing one engine each, including an A320, I believe it was VNK, also one engine removed. Can't all require shop visits? Perhaps aircraft need to be re-fitted with original allocated engine if a swap took place at VA prior to return to lessor.

[Yusef D]

Yup, it's a big deal reuniting all of the airframes with the correct engines, radios, computers and other numbered parts.

To add to complexity it is not normal to change two engines on the same aircraft in one shift, in case a mistake is made on both.

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 2906 VH-VNB Virgin Australia Regional Airlines ferried 04oct20 PER-XSP, all wh, on return to lessor ex 9V-TAG

[Brenden S]

I heard it was off for maintenance.

[Tristan S]

VA B738 VH-YFH to be ferried from MEL to WTB tomorrow for storage as VA9915

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 33798 1391 VH-VOQ Virgin Australia ferried 18oct29 BNE-ASP for onward storage

[Tristan S]

VA A330-200, VH-XFJ currently en route to Sepang, Malaysia.

[Anthony Collins]

Yes, I managed to sight VH-XFJ departing at work today. I noticed it was already a white tail.

[Tristan S]

Yep, all white and going back to the lessor. Registered currently to Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

[Greg Hyde]

XFJ ended up in Tarbes, France.

[Sean L]

Last B777 in sydney departs in 30mins for toowoomba. VH-VPE

[lloyd fox]

VH-VPH just departed BNE for Wellcamp.
VOZ 9918 departed at 1018 am local.EST.:)

[Erik H. Bakke]

That's a pretty short flight for a 777, I'd think.

[Tristan S]

Ex-VA B777 VH-VPD is being re-positioned to Wellcamp tomorrow morning (26/10) as VA9918 DEP 1030

[Robert.M]

Interesting to see A332 VH-XFG (https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHXFG/history/20201025/2200Z/YBBN/YMML) re-positioning from BNE to MEL.

[Sean L]

Getting its titles removed

[Tristan S]

Then to WTB? or departing the country as XFJ did?

[Sean L]

I believe all the a330s are heading back to the lessors.

[Robert.M]

ex Tigerair B738 VH-VOR (https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVOR) is due to depart Melbourne to Alice Springs

[Greg Hyde]

10th ex-Virgin aircraft lands at Wellcamp for storage

The 10th former Virgin Australia aircraft arrived at Wellcamp Airport on Monday for storage.

The Boeing 777-3ZG(ER), VH-VPD msn 37938, departed Brisbane Airport as VA9918 on 27 October at 10:19am and landed at Toowoomba at 10:45am.

The arrival of the VH-VPD brought the number of 777s in storage at the airport to four, joining one A330 and five 737s.

https://australianaviation.com.au/2020/10/10th-ex-virgin-aircraft-lands-at-wellcamp-for-storage/

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 33799 1462 VH-VOR Tigerair Australia ferried 28oct20 MEL-ASP for onward storage (+ 34015/1594 VH-VUD 29oct20) ex ZK-PBF

VOR & VUD to ASP

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 41004 3861 VH-YFK Virgin Australia ferried 28oct20 BNE-DRW-XSP

[Greg Hyde]

VH-XFJ was deleted from Aust Reg on 30/10 as exported to Guernsey

[Greg Hyde]

VH-XFJ was re-registered 2-HXFJ on 30/10

[Greg Hyde]

VH-VUI/J deleted from reg on 06/11

[Sean L]

I've been told that the Tiger 320s are being flown up to TWB, get their titles removed there and then they will be flown to Dublin to be returned to lessors.

[MarkR]

I've been told that the Tiger 320s are being flown up to TWB, get their titles removed there and then they will be flown to Dublin to be returned to lessors.

Hope not, they will break the runway at TWB, as opposed to WTB

[Sean L]

Hope not, they will break the runway at TWB, as opposed to WTB

Haha sorry for the mistake :p

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 3734 VH-VNH Tigerair Australia ferried 10nov20 MEL-WTB for onward storage ex F-WWDN

Boeing 737 -8FE 34441 2015 N341CG Aviation Capital Group regd 09nov20, parked at ASP ex VH-VUI

[Brenden S]

VH-FZH departed Perth and up to XSP for scrapping.

[Robert.M]

VH-VUU and VH-VUV are off to CGK, both were/are rumoured to go to REX. Will be interesting to see where these two birds head to.

[lloyd fox]

Heading to Seletar i believe.:)

[Erik H. Bakke]

For end of lease inspection and repaint, perhaps?

[Steve S... 2]

That's approximately 15x 737-800's that have left the VA fleet so far - crazy!

Plenty of growing space for Rex, and even Alliance, to take advantage of the dead Tiger and the missing limbs off Virgin.

The Covid vaccine will roll out and domestic travel will recover in 2021 especially if international travel is reduced/restricted.

[Robert.M]

Well looks like VH-BZG might be going to REX according to Executive Traveller

[Greg Hyde]

Three Fewer Fokkers in the VA fleet

FND exported to Comoros
FNN & FNZ Scrapped

[Tristan S]

Three Fewer Fokkers in the VA fleet

FND exported to Comoros
FNN & FNZ Scrapped

FZO rather?

[Greg Hyde]

FZO rather?

Thanks Tristan, my typo

Should read FNN & FZO

They won't be the last

[Tristan S]

Thanks Tristan, my typo

Should read FNN & FZO

They won't be the last

All good.

Yeah, given they are all close to 30 years old!

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 38708 3875 VH-YIE Virgin Australia ferried 17nov20 BNE-DRW-XSP

[Max C]

ATR's FVN and FVP will ferry to Mareeba from MEL via BNE over the next few days.

[Tristan S]

ATR's FVN and FVP will ferry to Mareeba from MEL via BNE over the next few days.

What will happen to them in Mareeba?

[MarkR]

What will happen to them in Mareeba?

Storage one imagines

[Tristan S]

Storage one imagines

Interesting place for them to be stored though.

[Dave J]

Boeing 737 -8FE 38708 3875 VH-YIE Virgin Australia ferried 17nov20 BNE-DRW-XSP

Heavy Check

[Steve S... 2]

VOP also ferried from Melbourne to Jakarta on 14th November to join VUU & VUV in Jakarta.

VOP possibly for Rex also then?

VOM is also noted to leave the fleet.

[Greg Hyde]

I had read recently that 2 X ATR (ex VA & unidentified) had been re-leased in the region

[Dave J]

VOP also ferried from Melbourne to Jakarta on 14th November to join VUU & VUV in Jakarta.

VOP possibly for Rex also then?

VOM is also noted to leave the fleet.

All these airframes are bound for REX

[Steve S... 2]

Thanks Dave - we now know the first five for Rex.

6th is 'possibly' BZG.

[Dave J]

YVA

ML - TL tomorrow for repaint. I presume back into VA colours

[Tristan S]

YVA

ML - TL tomorrow for repaint. I presume back into VA colours

Highly likely, registered operator has been changed back to VA.

[Brenden S]

VARA VH-VNP left Perth today for Clarke Field.

[Radi K]

Tiger A320 VH-VNO departed - MEL-PPG-HNL https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVNO

[lloyd fox]

Virgin ATR72 VH-FVN MEL-BNE just landed so i guess to Mareeba tomorrow for storage?

[Tristan S]

Virgin ATR72 VH-FVN MEL-BNE just landed so i guess to Mareeba tomorrow for storage?

Yep: https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHFVN

FVP is already there.

[Greg Hyde]

Tiger A320 VH-VNO departed - MEL-PPG-HNL https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVNO

Airbus A320 -232 4053 VH-VNO Tigerair Australia ferried 21-22nov20 MEL-PPG-HNL-SBD on return to lessor ex 9V-TAL

[Dave J]

VUQ - will be off to HKG in the next few days

[Radi K]

BZG departed to WIII. https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHBZG

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 6749 VH-XUH Tigerair Australia ferried 26-29nov20 MEL-DRW-KUL-BOM-CAI-LDE on return to lessor ex D-AXAI

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 4053 VH-VNO Tigerair Australia ferried 21-22nov20 MEL-PPG-HNL-SBD on return to lessor ex 9V-TAL

http://hnlrarebirds.blogspot.com/2020/11/tigerair-australias-vh-vno.html

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 36605 2710 VH-VUQ Virgin Australia ferried 02-03dec20 MEL-DRW-HKG on return to lessor ex ZK-PBL

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 3674 VH-VNG Pembroke Aircraft Leasing ferried 04-06dec20 MEL-HLP-BOM-AUH, Tigerair cs ex 9V-TAJ

[lloyd fox]

Boeing 737 -8FE 38708 3875 VH-YIE Virgin Australia ferried 17nov20 BNE-DRW-XSP

Due back into BNE tonight around 0030 hrs.:)

[Dylan Hardie]

Boeing 737-8FE VH-YVD ferried BNE-DRW-XSP 7th Dec for maintenance

Boeing 737-8FE VH-YIB will ferry BNE-DRW-XSP 9th Dec for maintenance

ATR72-500 VH-FVQ will ferry MEL-BNE-MRG (Mareeba) 9th Dec for storage

[lloyd fox]

VH-FVQ into BNE yesterday arvo

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/50698129451/in/dateposted/

[Dennis McLean]

I understand that FVQ is a 600 not a 500 as indicated by Dylan

[Greg Hyde]

Both Flightaware & Flightradar24 show FVQ as an AT76

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

[MarkR]

Both Flightaware & Flightradar24 show FVQ as an AT76

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

I wouldn't be relying on that source when you have the definitive answer in Lloyds photo from the post above :eek:

[Dylan Hardie]

That one I apologize should of said ATR72-600 don’t know how I mixed them two up. Sorry all

[Brenden S]

I thought all the ATR72-500's were in storage in New Zealand.

[Tristan S]

I thought all the ATR72-500's were in storage in New Zealand.

Some where..
VH-FVI now VT-FBA with Flybig Airlines
VH-FVL FVU and FVX now all stored in CNS

[Dylan Hardie]

Airbus A320-232 3296 Tigerair VH-VND ferried MEL-ASP 10th Dec on return to Lessor

[Dylan Hardie]

Virgin ATR72-600 VH-VPI (1107) due into Brisbane on 17th Dec from Nelson

[Radi K]

Ex VUI and VUJ departed today for the USA. Out of Melbourne for Majuro and Hawaii. JTN335, 336.

https://flightaware.com/live/flight/JTN336

[James Smith]

VH-YVA recommenced flying with Virgin on 18 December, 2020 flying BNE-SYD.

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing 737 -8FE 34441 2015 N341CG Aviation Capital Group ferried 19-20dec20 MEL-MAJ-HNL-GYR (+ 34443/2056 N343CG ex VH-VUJ) ex VH-VUI

[Dylan Hardie]

Boeing 737-8FE VH-VUQ returned from Hong Kong via Cairns on the 31st Dec. Conducted test flight out of Brisbane this morning before re entry back into service tomorrow

[MarkR]

YVD is currently on its way back from Seletar and will be back in service tomorrow.

[Dylan Hardie]

VUG flew BNE-DRW-XSP on the 2nd Jan but diverted to Changi due weather

[James Smith]

It looks as though VUQ was having maintenance in HKG and did not return to lessor as posted earlier.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-VNC AIRBUS INDUSTRIE A320-232 3275 08/01/2021 11.130 - Cancelled - Registration Holder Request - Exported to Bulgaria

[lloyd fox]

Tigerair VH-VOY flew MEL-BNE today.

I believe it is for TSV for repaint to VA?

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/50834314696/in/dateposted/

[Tristan S]

Tigerair VH-VOY flew MEL-BNE today.

I believe it is for TSV for repaint to VA?

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/50834314696/in/dateposted/

VH-VOY is no longer registered to Tiger/VA, it is now registered to "SMS Solvings" Guessing its heading to storage.

[Dylan Hardie]

Was due to head to Townsville tonight as VA9901 and return in a couple of days as 9900 but has since been cancelled

[Steve S... 2]

VOS & VOT are also registered to SMS Solvings and their current status is 'stored'.

[Greg Hyde]

EI-GVA Airbus A320-232 3674 15.12.20 ex VH-VNG

Should appear on this weeks deletions

[Dylan Hardie]

After a month in Darwin VH-VUC ferried to Jinan, China via Clark

[Steve S... 2]

Hope it doesn't hit a ba ba ba bad storm.

[James Smith]

Is VH-VUC in Jinan for maintenance or has it returned to lessor? I see that its operator is SMS Solvings P/L, the same operator as VOS & VOT which have been in storage since March, 2020.

[Dylan Hardie]

Tiger A320 VH-VNK will be leaving Melbourne tomorrow to Nadi and most likely onwards from there

[Stuart McCarthy]

Was due to head to Townsville tonight as VA9901 and return in a couple of days as 9900 but has since been cancelled

Just had an email from a mate in the UK who says VH-VOY has been re-registered 2-VVOY.

[Tristan S]

Just had an email from a mate in the UK who says VH-VOY has been re-registered 2-VVOY.

Makes sense given its no longer registered to VA/Tiger.

[Stefan Perkas]

Tiger A320 VH-VNK will be leaving Melbourne tomorrow to Nadi and most likely onwards from there

Departed to Alice Springs.

[Dylan Hardie]

VOY departs Brisbane on Sunday morning to DRW

YIY will also depart Brisbane Sunday morning for HKG via DRW

[Tristan S]

Ex-Tiger VH-VOY due to depart DRW for CRK this afternoon.

[James Smith]

Does anyone know if VH-YIY has gone to HKG for maintenance or is it returning to lessor? It flew on a VA flight number so I am thinking it is there for maintenance.

[Steve S... 2]

I'm guessing maintenance as some of the other's went to HKG for maintenance.

Also none of the VH-YI*'s have left the fleet.

[Tristan S]

I'm guessing maintenance as some of the other's went to HKG for maintenance.

Also none of the VH-YI*'s have left the fleet.

I'd agree with that.
All of the VH-YI* aircraft are in service, with the exception of VH-YIW (stored BNE since March) and VH-YIZ (stored in BNE July-Jan, reposition to MEL in Jan)

[James Smith]

Thank you for your advice, gentlemen.

Another question. Do you know if VH-VUC which was in DRW for a month and flew to Jinan in China on 17/1/21 was returning to lessor? I don't know of Jinan being used for Virgin maintenance.

[Tristan S]

Thank you for your advice, gentlemen.

Another question. Do you know if VH-VUC which was in DRW for a month and flew to Jinan in China on 17/1/21 was returning to lessor? I don't know of Jinan being used for Virgin maintenance.

My assumption is lessor return as it's no longer registered to VA, now registered to SMS Solvings Pty Ltd and was flown with its rego as its callsign.

[Tom PER]

Freighter conversion perhaps, there’s several lines operational in China now and have read elsewhere that -VOY is undergoing conversion.

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 3986 VH-VNK Avolon Aerospace Tigerair cs, ferried 21jan21 MEL-ASP for storage ex 9V-TAK

Boeing 737 -8FE 33996 1551 VH-VOY Bocomm Ltd ferried 27jan21 DRW-CRK-TNA, for freighter conversion ex ZK-PBD

[Dylan Hardie]

Boeing 737-8FE VH-VUG due to return back from XSP tomorrow to BNE

[Greg Hyde]

Airbus A320 -232 3275 LZ-GNG Genesis Lease ferried 28-30jan21 CRK-CMB-MCT-CAI-KUN, for ITA Transportes Aereos as PS-JCP ex VH-VNC

[James Smith]

VH-VUZ also returned to BNE from maintenance in XSP on 20/1/21. Does anyone know of any further VA 738s that have been sent to XSP for maintenance?

[Dave J]

VH-VUZ also returned to BNE from maintenance in XSP on 20/1/21. Does anyone know of any further VA 738s that have been sent to XSP for maintenance?

YFL

YFC Next

[Tristan S]

Does anyone know what is happening with VH-VUW?
It was stored in ADL from April last year to January this year, when it was moved to MEL.
Today (the 5th) it was moved from MEL to BNE.

[Dave J]

Does anyone know what is happening with VH-VUW?
It was stored in ADL from April last year to January this year, when it was moved to MEL.
Today (the 5th) it was moved from MEL to BNE.

Maintenance

[Greg Hyde]

F100 FZH was deleted from the reg on 01/02 after being scrapped in Singapore

[Dave J]

VUW

Will position to HKG (via DRW) for maintenance in the next couple of weeks

[James Smith]

Thank you for the information you have been providing on Virgin movements, Dave. It is very helpful to us spotters trying to determine the future Virgin fleet of 56 B738s.

Are you or anyone else able to advise which of the Virgin B738 fleet that is currently inactive is being retained by Virgin for future return to service and which have been or are to be returned to lessor or sold?

I have the following Virgin and Tiger B738s as inactive and in storage at present - VH-VOR, VOQ, VOS, VOT; VH-VUA, VUB, VUD, VUE, VUW (to return to service after maintenance in HKG?), VUX, VUY; YFE, YFH, YFJ, YFL; YIW, YIZ; YVC.

VH-VUC and VOY are in Jinan for freighter conversion, so it is assumed they have been returned to lessor.

Maybe other B738s have been earmarked for lease to REX to achieve the additional aircraft they wish to have in service over the next 12 months.

[Tristan S]

Reviewing the CASA register, a number are now registered to other parties, so likely returned to lessors/financiers:
VOR, VOQ, VUD, YFH, YFJ: De Lore and Associates.
VOS, VOT, VUA, VUB: SMS Solvings
YFE: MACQUARIE AIRFINANCE ACQUISITIONS (UK) LIMITED

The following are still registered to VA, I am interested to know what their fate is:
VUE, VUW, VUX, VUY, YFL (MX in XSP), YIW, YIZ, YVC

My understanding is that BZG, VOM, VUU and VUV are destined for REX

Cheers.

[Steve S... 2]

I reckon the below are the future 56 VA fleet based on 'piecing bits together'. I may be wrong so someone at VA may be able to correct/confirm:

20 17 13 3 3 = 56

IA OK FC WA VA
IB OL FF WD VC
ID ON FK WE VD
IE OO FL
IF UG FR
IG UH FS
IH UK FT
IJ UL FU
IL UO FV
IM UP FW
IO UQ FX
IQ US FY
IR UT FZ
IS UW
IT UX
IU UY
IV UZ
IW
IY
IZ

I don't believe any of the "VH-YI*" are going!?

[Tristan S]

20+18+13+3+3 = 57, not 56.
Plus the two 737-700s - VBY and VBZ.

[James Smith]

Tristan, it was 20+17+13+3+3=56. Yes, my question was also about the two B737-7s that are currently flying for Virgin.

Just because the aircraft now have new owners, does that affect the operation of the aircraft with the airline? New lease probably, although the ten that you mention are all still in storage, as far as I can tell. Are they in storage for future operations with Virgin or awaiting future leases with other operators?

The four aircraft that you mention are going to REX and are still in CGK for maintenance, repainting and readiness.

Interesting list, Steve. A few that you have mentioned are in long-term storage, such as VUX & YIW.

Do you think that the B737-7s will leave the fleet? Virgin look to be operating them frequently from BNE to ADL and north along the QLD coast.

[Kent Broadhead]

VA announced last September that the 56 would include the 737-700s

https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/virgin-australia-to-relaunch-with-56-boeing-737s

[Tristan S]

Tristan, it was 20+17+13+3+3=56. Yes, my question was also about the two B737-7s that are currently flying for Virgin.

Just because the aircraft now have new owners, does that affect the operation of the aircraft with the airline? New lease probably, although the ten that you mention are all still in storage, as far as I can tell. Are they in storage for future operations with Virgin or awaiting future leases with other operators?

The four aircraft that you mention are going to REX and are still in CGK for maintenance, repainting and readiness.

Interesting list, Steve. A few that you have mentioned are in long-term storage, such as VUX & YIW.

Do you think that the B737-7s will leave the fleet? Virgin look to be operating them frequently from BNE to ADL and north along the QLD coast.

My apologies, I think I need to put my glasses on....
I believe my mistake came about because I had VUE in my list as well, making 57, VUE wasnt in Steve's list.

**Edit** Steve must have edited his post as it did previously have '18' in the second column .. makes me feel a little less mad.

[Steve S... 2]

My list is just a guide of how I see it so far based on what is known. The list should be altered as new information comes to hand.

I believe the 2x VA 737-700's are owned by VA and that is why they are still in the fleet. So who knows.

On another note, the ex VH-VBP was scrapped in the USA at a young age.

[Zac M]

VBV was also broken up recently in the UK

[Tristan S]

Ex-Tiger A320 VH-VNH positioned WTB to ASP today for further storage.

[James Smith]

B738 VH-YFC flew BNE to XSP via DRW on 8/2/21 for maintenance, while VH-YFL is currently en-route to BNE after maintenance in XSP.

[Dave J]

VUA
VUB
VOT
All parked in Melbourne by lessor. No longer part of VA fleet.

VUE, VUX also in MEL however remain in storage with VA.

YIW will position from BNE to MEL next week.
YIZ will likely to service next week ex MEL.
YIG to XSP later in the month.

[Tristan S]

VUA
VUB
VOT
All parked in Melbourne by lessor. No longer part of VA fleet.

VUE, VUX also in MEL however remain in storage with VA.

YIW will position from BNE to MEL next week.
YIZ will likely to service next week ex MEL.
YIG to XSP later in the month.

That's great, thanks Dave.
Are you aware of what will happen to VUW, YVC and VUY? Will they remain in storage in BNE?

Cheers.

[James Smith]

VUW

Will position to HKG (via DRW) for maintenance in the next couple of weeks

Tristan, in post #171 of this thread Dave advised that VUW was going to HKG for maintenance so will probably be returning to active service with VA.

[Tristan S]

Tristan, in post #171 of this thread Dave advised that VUW was going to HKG for maintenance so will probably be returning to active service with VA.

You're absolutely correct! ..
So the question is then just on YVC and VUY.

Cheers.

[Dave J]

Thank you for the information you have been providing on Virgin movements, Dave. It is very helpful to us spotters trying to determine the future Virgin fleet of 56 B738s.

Are you or anyone else able to advise which of the Virgin B738 fleet that is currently inactive is being retained by Virgin for future return to service and which have been or are to be returned to lessor or sold?

I have the following Virgin and Tiger B738s as inactive and in storage at present - VH-VOR, VOQ, VOS, VOT; VH-VUA, VUB, VUD, VUE, VUW (to return to service after maintenance in HKG?), VUX, VUY; YFE, YFH, YFJ, YFL; YIW, YIZ; YVC.

VH-VUC and VOY are in Jinan for freighter conversion, so it is assumed they have been returned to lessor.

Maybe other B738s have been earmarked for lease to REX to achieve the additional aircraft they wish to have in service over the next 12 months.

YFE, YFH, YFJ - All released from VA fleet
YVC - Will remain, however in storage for now
VOR, VOQ, VOS - All released from VA fleet

[Dave J]

I reckon the below are the future 56 VA fleet based on 'piecing bits together'. I may be wrong so someone at VA may be able to correct/confirm:

20 17 13 3 3 = 56

IA OK FC WA VA
IB OL FF WD VC
ID ON FK WE VD
IE OO FL
IF UG FR
IG UH FS
IH UK FT
IJ UL FU
IL UO FV
IM UP FW
IO UQ FX
IQ US FY
IR UT FZ
IS UW
IT UX
IU UY
IV UZ
IW
IY
IZ

I don't believe any of the "VH-YI*" are going!?

Correct all YI* remaining

[Dave J]

Tristan, it was 20+17+13+3+3=56. Yes, my question was also about the two B737-7s that are currently flying for Virgin.

Just because the aircraft now have new owners, does that affect the operation of the aircraft with the airline? New lease probably, although the ten that you mention are all still in storage, as far as I can tell. Are they in storage for future operations with Virgin or awaiting future leases with other operators?

The four aircraft that you mention are going to REX and are still in CGK for maintenance, repainting and readiness.

Interesting list, Steve. A few that you have mentioned are in long-term storage, such as VUX & YIW.

Do you think that the B737-7s will leave the fleet? Virgin look to be operating them frequently from BNE to ADL and north along the QLD coast.

700s remain in fleet

[James Smith]

Thank you for all the VA information you have been able to provide, Dave.

Can you please advise whether VH-VUD and VH-VUY are no longer in the VA fleet?

[MarkR]

Thank you for all the VA information you have been able to provide, Dave.

Can you please advise whether VH-VUD and VH-VUY are no longer in the VA fleet?

VUD no VUY yes if you base it on rego data

[Tristan S]

As noted by Dave, VH-YIW is currently repositioning to MEL as VA9902.

[Dave J]

YIZ not returning to service just yet

VUD - going
VUY - will stay in storage for now

[Tristan S]

Thanks Dave for the info.

[James Smith]

Tristan, in post #187 Dave advised the following about YVC:

YVC - Will remain, however in storage for now

[James Smith]

Dave or anyone else, are you able to provide any information on VARA and whether it is to continue operating as a Virgin subsidiary or is it still to be sold off?

I have A320s VH-VNB, VNF, VNJ & YUD as operating with VARA in WA at present with FNP in storage at PER since April, 2020 and VNP at CRK since November, 2020. Have FNP & VNP returned to lessor and are they no longer part of the Virgin or VARA fleet?

[MarkR]

Dave or anyone else, are you able to provide any information on VARA and whether it is to continue operating as a Virgin subsidiary or is it still to be sold off?

It was announced there would be some changes but staying as a commitment to regional Australia by the new CEO

[Radi K]

VUW off to HKG today.

[James Smith]

VH-VUW has just left BNE for HKG via DRW as VA9945 for maintenance. It will probably return to service with VA on return.

[Dave J]

YIY positioning back to BNE from HKG via CNS

[James Smith]

It looks as though VH-YIY as VA9944 is now heading non-stop to BNE, a total flight of 8 hours 53 minutes following maintenance in HKG. It has no payload but must have max fuel load to fly that long a sector in a B738.

[MarkR]

It looks as though VH-YIY as VA9944 is now heading non-stop to BNE, a total flight of 8 hours 53 minutes following maintenance in HKG. It has no payload but must have max fuel load to fly that long a sector in a B738.

5500nm is the max ferry range, so could have gone to AKL

[Dave J]

5500nm is the max ferry range, so could have gone to AKL

Not correct Mark. VA 738s can only carry a little over 20T of fuel. The 5500nm is predicated on over 30T of fuel which would therefore require ferry tanks to be installed. Something VA do not do.

HKG to BNE nonstop is one hell of a journey in standard configuration!

[MarkR]

Not correct Mark. VA 738s can only carry a little over 20T of fuel. The 5500nm is predicated on over 30T of fuel which would therefore require ferry tanks to be installed. Something VA do not do.

HKG to BNE nonstop is one hell of a journey in standard configuration!

I stand corrected, wasn’t aware they were limited to 20T

[Tristan S]

VH-YIG currently en route to XSP as VA9949 for maintenance.

[James Smith]

It also looks as though VH-YIZ is due to return to service tomorrow 24/2/21 being scheduled to operate two return MEL-SYD-MEL flights.

[Dave J]

VH-YIG currently en route to XSP as VA9949 for maintenance.

YFC will return Friday

[Dave J]

At this stage, VUW back from HKG end of first week of March.

[Tristan S]

Ex-VA 738s VH-VUU (now VH-REX) and VH-VUV (now VH-PAG) due to arrive in BNE from CGK tonight on delivery to REX.

[James Smith]

Tristan, I took the liberty of adding your post to the REX thread.

[Tristan S]

Tristan, I took the liberty of adding your post to the REX thread.

No worries.

Looks like the info was wrong, they are due in tonight / tomorrow morning.

[Tristan S]

VH-YFC currently en route back to BNE from XSP as VA9948
Scheduled then to operate VA785 BNE CNS tomorrow.

[Dylan Hardie]

Ex VA B777 VH-VOZ looks to be departing Wellcamp today for Singapore

[Dave J]

VUW departing HKG to BNE via CNS tomorrow.

Will re-enter service after to SYD on morning of 16th. It’s last RPT flight was VA227 on 4th April 2020.

YIG will also return to BNE from Singapore on 17th

VUH going to Singapore from BNE for maintenance on 16th

[MarkR]

Looks like a few won’t be leaving:

Virgin Australia is in advanced discussions to lease eight or nine more Boeing 737s to boost capacity in anticipation of a rapid recovery in Australia’s domestic travel market.

The move comes after Virgin cut its domestic fleet from 84 planes to just 58 following its bankruptcy in April last year, and spells trouble for Qantas’ plan to grab the market share Virgin vacated in its restructure.

More at https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/virgin-australia-to-boost-fleet-on-hopes-of-rapid-travel-recovery-20210315-p57ax4.html

[Tristan S]

Looks like a few won’t be leaving:



More at https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/virgin-australia-to-boost-fleet-on-hopes-of-rapid-travel-recovery-20210315-p57ax4.html

Interesting...

Well there are plenty still in Aus that are still in VA livery..
By my count, 4 in WTB, 1 each in BNE and ASP plus 2 in MEL (plus another 3 Tiger birds in ASP and MEL)

[Steve S... 2]

They all account for the 2 Rex want (and why not VOR & VUD since they have to be painted out of TT livery anyway), and the 8 Virgin needs.

[Tristan S]

They all account for the 2 Rex want (and why not VOR & VUD since they have to be painted out of TT livery anyway), and the 8 Virgin needs.

Thanks Steve. VOR/VUD would make sense for REX...

Any word on when we'll see movement?

[Dave J]

Looks like a few won’t be leaving:



More at https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/virgin-australia-to-boost-fleet-on-hopes-of-rapid-travel-recovery-20210315-p57ax4.html

Entered in error

[Dave J]

**

[Tristan S]

Reading that ex-VA B773 VH-VPF is on the move tomorrow (HKG via BNE)
Nothing yet, though, on FlightAware.

[Tristan S]

As noted in my previous post, ex-VA B773 VH-VPF has departed BNE in route to join VH-VOZ in SIN (not HKG)
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VHVPF

[Dave J]

YFG/I/N/P/Q
YFE/H/J
VUE

[James Smith]

YFG/I/N/P/Q
YFE/H/J
VUE

Dave, are these eight B738s, excluding VH-VUE, the additional ones that it has been reported will return to service with Virgin?

From your earlier posts we still have VH-VUE, VUX, VUY, YIW & YVC as originally remaining with Virgin but still in storage. Is there any change to these aircraft returning to service?

[Dave J]

Dave, are these eight B738s, excluding VH-VUE, the additional ones that it has been reported will return to service with Virgin?

From your earlier posts we still have VH-VUE, VUX, VUY, YIW & YVC as originally remaining with Virgin but still in storage. Is there any change to these aircraft returning to service?

VUE will remain and will come out of storage at some stage in the near future.
VUX is still in TT colours and in storage.
VUY as per VUE
YIW will be back towards the end of next week.
YVC as per VUE

[Tristan S]

VUE will remain and will come out of storage at some stage in the near future.
VUX is still in TT colours and in storage.
VUY as per VUE
YIW will be back towards the end of next week.
YVC as per VUE

Thanks Dave, love your work!

[Tristan S]

Ex-VA VH-VUC has been cancelled from the CASA register (Exported to Guernsey). The aircraft is in TNA reportedly for a freighter conversion.

[Dylan Hardie]

VA A320 VH-YUD ferried PER-MEL over the weekend for an engine change

[Dave J]

YVC heading to HKG for maintenance early next month

[James Smith]

Is Virgin Australia planning to return to the SYD to CBR route with ATR72s? The reason I ask is that from Monday 26/7/21 the Virgin booking site shows nine direct flights per day on the route operated by ATRs. Prior to this date there are no direct flights available, the system offering flights only via MEL.

The flights have what look to be genuine flight numbers but are only operated by ATRs. I presume that Virgin may either operate the services themselves, defying their one aircraft mandate, or lease some of their ATRs in storage to Alliance or another airline to operate the flights on Virgin's behalf.

Any comments from any other members on the likelihood of Virgin returning to this route? Competition for REX who also intends to operate the route.

[Tristan S]

Is Virgin Australia planning to return to the SYD to CBR route with ATR72s? The reason I ask is that from Monday 26/7/21 the Virgin booking site shows nine direct flights per day on the route operated by ATRs. Prior to this date there are no direct flights available, the system offering flights only via MEL.

The flights have what look to be genuine flight numbers but are only operated by ATRs. I presume that Virgin may either operate the services themselves, defying their one aircraft mandate, or lease some of their ATRs in storage to Alliance or another airline to operate the flights on Virgin's behalf.

Any comments from any other members on the likelihood of Virgin returning to this route?

VA have no ATRs in their fleet - so no chance of it happening. Likely a glitch in the matrix.

[James Smith]

According to Flightaware B738 VH-YIW is resuming services for Virgin on Friday 26/3/21 operating return flights from MEL to OOL, NTL & ADL. According to my records, the B738s flying for Virgin will then total 55, including one at XSP undergoing maintenance.

It is presumed that after VH-YVC has maintenance in HKG in April it will also return to service with Virgin.

[James Smith]

I have attached a link to the dummy booking to CBR I inputted for 26 July, 2021 flying direct on a Virgin ATR. It still looks as though Virgin is the designated operator for the ATRs they have in storage.

https://book.virginaustralia.com/dx/VADX/#/flight-selection?date=07-26-2021&INF=0&destination1=SYD&origin=SYD&destination=CBR&channel=vaa-flightsto-browser&awardBooking=false&icmpid=&activeMonth=07-26-2021&date1=07-26-2021&ADT=1&journeyType=round-trip&pos=au-en&tbOption=2&promoCode=&class=First&CHD=0&origin1=CBR&execution=e3s1

[James Smith]

Australian Aviation has confirmed that Virgin is to re-enter the SYD-CBR route in a story titled "REX rivals QANTAS to fly Sydney-Canberra as row deepens."

The route is currently operated only by Qantas after Virgin pulled out, though Virgin does intend to restart the route soon in a collaboration with Alliance.

Link to the item: https://australianaviation.com.au/2021/03/rex-rivals-qantas-to-fly-sydney-canberra-as-row-deepens/?utm_source=AustralianAviation&utm_campaign=25_03_2021&utm_medium=email&utm_content=1&utm_emailID=dfa7850f0658e2454538c9149f4eb6ffdf6405 efd2fe6b29774d2632df0284e3

[Tristan S]

Almost 1 year to the day since it last flew an RPT flight, VH-YIW is back in the air operating VA1293 MEL CNS.

EDIT: Interestingly only at 25,000ft - wondering if that was planned as part of the return to service or for some other operational reason.

[James Smith]

It is good to see another Virgin B738 back in the air. Yes Tristan, VH-YIW has planned to CNS at 24,000 and is now at 25,000, so it could be an operational height limitation for the flight or he could just be trying to avoid forecasted turbulence or reported winds at higher levels on the route. It'll be interesting to see if the return leg plus the legs to SYD and back later in the day are at similar lower levels.

[Steve S... 2]

No test flight after sitting on the ground for a year?

This makes my arm hairs raise. Not good no matter how intense the ground checks are.

[Tristan S]

No test flight after sitting on the ground for a year?

This makes my arm hairs raise. Not good no matter how intense the ground checks are.

It ferried BNE MEL in February.

[Steve S... 2]

Thanks :) That explains it.

[James Smith]

YIW is currently on its return flight from CNS to MEL and is again cruising at its planned level of 25,000. BTW, the ferry flight in February was at 40,000.

[Tristan S]

VARA A320 VH-FNP on route to Hambantota Int'l - HRI as VA9947, reportedly to be parted out.
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/VOZ9947

[Greg Hyde]

Thanks Tristan

Check out "The Story Behind The World's Emptiest International Airport"

Hardly anybody goes to Sri Lanka’s Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) because they have a flight. No, the air transport hub is currently a daily flight or two away from being completely defunct, and the people who do go there tend to be tourists making a side trip from the nearby wildlife parks to see the stunning, fully modern airport in the middle of the jungle for themselves.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/wadeshepard/2016/05/28/the-story-behind-the-worlds-emptiest-international-airport-sri-lankas-mattala-rajapaksa/?sh=343e1aa07cea

The article is 4 years old but it like no much has changed

https://flightaware.com/live/airport/VCRI

[MarkR]

YIW is currently on its return flight from CNS to MEL and is again cruising at its planned level of 25,000. BTW, the ferry flight in February was at 40,000.

Probably had one air con pack U/S

[Dave J]

Probably had one air con pack U/S

Correct

[Dave J]

Probably had one air con pack U/S

Correct

[Dave J]

Watch this space.

Thread title will need to be amended soon!

[James Smith]

Maybe VA Fleet Arrivals?

[Dylan Hardie]

YFF for XSP tomorrow

[Dylan Hardie]

FNP now on the ground at Sharjah SHJ

[Tristan S]

FNP now on the ground at Sharjah SHJ

The furthest away from Australia a VA callsign has been for some months...

I wonder if it was a VA/VARA crew? .. be an interesting trip back home.