On September 29, 2025, Braathens International Airways AB and Braathens Crew AB filed for bankruptcy at Sweden’s Solna District Court, abruptly halting operations of their Airbus fleet.
The Swedish carrier was launched in 2022 for charter and ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance) services.
It faced insurmountable financial challenges, leading to the immediate grounding of its five Airbus jets, comprised of two A319s and three A320s.
This move impacts around 200 employees and disrupts travel plans for passengers, particularly those booked with Scandinavian tour operators like Ving and Apollo.
However, the company’s ATR 72-600 turboprop operations remain unaffected, offering a glimmer of stability for the Braathens Aviation group.
A Sudden Financial Collapse
Braathens International Airways was established to cater to the growing demand for charter and ACMI flights in Scandinavia. The airline aimed to serve tour operators with flexible, high-quality services. However, it quickly encountered obstacles.
Delayed aircraft deliveries, unexpectedly high startup costs, and declining demand from tour operators strained the company’s finances.
The broader Braathens group underwent a court-supervised reorganization in 2023, identifying the Airbus division as a significant financial burden. Despite efforts to stabilize operations, the collapse of financing for the Airbus fleet forced the bankruptcy filing.
Per G. Braathen, chairman and majority owner, expressed deep regret over the decision. “It is with great sadness that the Board of Directors tonight has been forced to file for bankruptcy for the Airbus business,” he said.
The company had sought bridge financing to phase out Airbus operations gradually by 2027, but these efforts failed. Braathen emphasized a shift in focus: “Now we have no choice but to focus on the part of the business that can achieve long-term profitability.”
Impact on Passengers
The bankruptcy directly affects passengers booked on Braathens’ Airbus-operated flights, particularly to popular destinations like Greece and Turkey. Tour operators are scrambling to rebook affected travellers on alternative carriers.
If you’re impacted, contact your tour operator immediately for re-accommodation options. For employees, the news is bittersweet.
Approximately 200 staff members tied to Airbus operations are eligible for Sweden’s state wage guarantees, providing some financial relief during this transition.
ATR Operations: A Lifeline for Braathens
While the Airbus fleet is grounded, Braathens’ ATR 72-600 turboprop services continue uninterrupted. These operations, managed by separate entities like Braathens Regional Airlines AB and Braathens Regional Airways AB, are seen as the group’s path to profitability.
The ATR fleet supports regional flights, charters, and ACMI services, which have proven more resilient amid the company’s financial struggles.
This strategic pivot underscores Braathens’ commitment to restructuring around its stronger assets.
Looking Ahead
The bankruptcy filing marks a pivotal moment for Braathens International Airways. By focusing on its ATR operations, the company aims to stabilize and rebuild.
Aviation analysts suggest this move could position Braathens as a leaner, more sustainable player in the regional market.
However, the loss of Airbus operations highlights the volatility of the aviation industry, where financing, demand, and operational costs can make or break a carrier.
