Russia’s Saratov Airlines to phase out Yakovlev Yak-42s

Saratov Airlines is getting rid of Yak-42s as part of a fleet renewal strategy (Aero Icarus // Wikimedia)

Russian carrier Saratov Airlines will phase out its entire fleet of Yak-42s by mid-2019, the carrier announced. This step is a part of a development and fleet renewal strategy the airline is currently inplementing in light of recent difficulties. This spring Saratov’s fleet will be joined by two Embraer ERJ 190-200 reginal jets and a new type for the carrier — the narrowbody medium-haul Boeing 737-800 will be introduced.

In 2019 Saratov Airlines plans to take on two more E195s and one 737-800, which it will lease from GECAS. In total the carrier plans to expand its fleet by six Embraers and two Boeings.

Also in the cards for Saratov Airlines is a name change; the company told Russian Aviation Insider that by the end of this year all new aircraft joining the carrier’s fleet will carry the new brand name Ivolga Airlines.

Saratov Airlines is currently facing financial troubles — the carrier’s air operators certificate has been restricted until April 27, by which all budget deficiencies identified by Russia’s Federal Air Transport Agency (FATA) must be addressed.

Currently Saratov’s fleet consists of two Embraer E195s, five An-148-100Bs and five Yak-42Ds. The company’s An-148s have been grounded by the FATA as a result of the February crash of one of the type and the resulting investigation.