Belgrade-based Air Serbia has taken delivery of its first widebody aircraft, an Airbus A330, which will be used to launch long-haul services between Belgrade and New York.
The Serbian carrier, which is 49%-owned by Etihad Airways, will launch the 5X-weekly transatlantic route on June 23. It has been 24 years since Serbia had a direct US link.
“This is a massive milestone for Air Serbia and for our nation. Our first widebody aircraft … the A330 is a sound investment choice that will reconnect Serbia and the United States in a few short weeks, opening new channels of tourism and trade for the economy,” Air Serbia chairman and mayor of Belgrade Siniša Mali said.
Over the coming weeks, the A330 will have its interior refurbished in Abu Dhabi. It will be configured with 18 business-class seats and 236 in economy. “The A330 is modern and fuel-efficient aircraft that opens up many growth opportunities for the airline,” Air Serbia CEO Dane Kondić said.
Upon arrival in Belgrade, the aircraft—which was captained by Air Serbia COO Davor Mišeljić—was greeted with a traditional water cannon salute.
Air Serbia was launched in October 2013. It has a network of 44 planned or active passenger and cargo destinations, served by its fleet of 14 narrowbodies and six turboprops.
Source; ATW
