The U.S regional carrier Mesa Air Group confirmed this week that it is looking to grow internationally! The firm wants to embark on a joint venture with Gramercy Associates Ltd, based in London, that could see Mesa aircraft flying in Europe.
The joint venture will apply for a new Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) in the European Union using CRJ-900 aircraft with the goal of introducing a Capacity Purchase Agreement or ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) in passenger or cargo services in Europe.
Under the agreement, Mesa will own 49% of the partnership once the Air Operator’s Certificate is obtained. The current plan is to begin operations by the end of 2021.
“We are very excited at the potential to expand our regional business overseas. As Mesa continues to diversify, we are looking forward to working with Gramercy on this new European venture,” said Jonathan Ornstein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
“We are looking forward to teaming up with Mesa to help bring the CPA and ACMI models that have been so successful in the US to Europe,” said Tony Davis, Managing Director of Gramercy.
With a European market saturated with airlines with more than half their fleets grounded due to lack of demand and travel restrictions, it might not be the best time to start operating a new ACMI business. Only time will tell if the demanded is there for small capacity aircraft in the volatile European market, many have tried and failed during times where there wasn't a pandemic when demand was high. 
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