This two-phase strategy is based on Luxair Luxembourg Airlines’ need to increase its capacity in order to ensure its growth whilst cutting unitary costs.

The first step consists in purchasing twin-turbo prop Bombardier Q400s which will replace the current Embraer ERJ-145s. Luxair will commission three Q400s from the Canadian aircraft manufacturer and will put an option on two more Q400s.

The second phase consists in Luxair purchasing new generation jet aircraft, which are still being developed by the manufacturers. These larger capacity jets should be introduced between 2018 and 2020.

After the scheduled delivery in 2016 of the Bombardier Q400s, the Luxair fleet will be composed of at least ten Bombardier Q400s and a Boeing 737-700, flown by Luxair Luxembourg Airlines, alongside three Boeing 737-800s and a Boeing 737-700 dedicated to LuxairTours.

Paul Helminger, Chairman of LuxairGroup’s Board of Directors commented: “Luxair is a regional airline which has to face strong competition. For its development, it needs planes with the best available seat cost per passenger in order to regain its financial balance whilst continuing to grow. The two-phase strategy which we have adopted today is part of a clear vision for the company’s development.”

“Thanks to their reduced operating costs, the Bombardier Q400s which we will acquire alongside those we already use will constitute a homogenous fleet which will allow us to develop our air transport business and be  competitive,” Adrien Ney, President and Chief Executive Officer, said. “This decision will greatly strengthen our capacity to cope with the strong competition we face on all our markets”.