Danish Air Transport (DAT), based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is exploring options for fleet renewal by acquiring used Airbus A320s and ATR aircraft. DAT currently operates a fleet comprising ATR 42s, ATR 72s, Airbus A320s, and an A321, with a roughly balanced split between scheduled ATR operations and wet-leasing arrangements.
The airline’s CEO, Jesper Rungholm, stated that they are interested in used aircraft and are considering buying a few younger ATRs over the coming year. He mentioned that DAT has several older ATR models that need to be retired within the next three to five years, possibly including the oldest ATR in production serial number 36.
A Danish Air Transport ATR 72 prepares for departure from Copenhagen Airport.
Rungholm commented, “We are looking at fleet renewal,” and emphasized that they would consider aircraft that are well-priced and in good condition, regardless of whether they are currently needed in their fleet. The airline recently returned one of its Airbus aircraft to the lessor and re-acquired it, maintaining a fleet of six Airbus aircraft. The company plans to retire two A320s over the next two years and replace them with suitable aircraft, including potentially larger A321s if larger options appear at the right price.
He clarified that the airline does not aim for expansion but emphasizes fleet replacement. DAT’s maintenance process involves in-house teardown with almost all parts reused after aircraft retirement. Regarding future plans, Rungholm stated, “We’re not looking to grow. We are quite happy as it is, but we need fleet replacement.”
Victoria Moores, the European Editor/Bureau Chief of Air Transport World, added that DAT’s strategy reflects a focus on cost-effective fleet management and modernization without expansion goals.
