Frustrated Romanian carriers clash with regulator over hold-ups to fleet expansion

Romania’s civil aviation regulator is dismissing frustrations from two expanding carriers over delays to aircraft approval, insisting that the hold-ups result from incomplete documentation and findings from safety inspections. Both Dan Air and Fly Lili are seeking to expand their fleets. Dan Air is aiming to introduce a second Airbus A320 while Fly Lili, which also uses A320s, wants to add an A319. Each has referred to a lack of specialised personnel while remarking about delays in bringing the aircraft into operation. Dan Air stated in mid-July that registration of its second aircraft (YR-RAM) was being “abusively delayed” by civil aviation regulator AACR and causing daily financial losses. “Our entire flight programme, planned with two aircraft at Bacau, is turned upside-down,” the carrier said, claiming that it had followed all procedures and provided the necessary documentation. Fly Lili said in early July that the introduction of its additional aircraft was “taking longer than we had estimated”. “Our team has made great efforts to have the aircraft fit for flight, but it was not possible,” it added. “We have tried to lease other aircraft for regular operation until [air operator’s certificate] entry is complete, but there is no availability in Europe.”<br/>