The UK branch of Avia Solutions Group, Ascend Airways, has updated its AOC and been issued a Category A operating license by the Civil Aviation Authority of the United Kingdom.

The Avia Solutions Group has taken over a previous business jet operator. There were already existing permits, but these had to be adapted to future machine types. This step has now been completed, meaning Ascend Airways is officially allowed to fly commercially.

Initially, the company is launching with a fleet consisting of two Boeing 737s. These are intended to be used on behalf of tour operators, but also other airlines. The fleet is expected to be significantly expanded this year. The aim is to meet the increasing demand for wet leases in the UK.

The establishment of a UK branch is necessary because the Avia Solutions Group's existing EU AOCs can be used to carry out ACMI orders for British carriers between the EU and the United Kingdom, but not when it comes from the UK to non-EU countries goes. Due to Brexit, this requires approval from either the United Kingdom or the destination country to which the flight is heading. The decision was therefore made to buy a business jet operator with UK AOC and to convert it into a new ACMI and charter provider.

Since wet lease and charter demand is also highly seasonal in the United Kingdom, Ascend Airways Malaysia is being set up in parallel. The contrasting seasonality is intended to ensure that the aircraft can be used economically successfully throughout the year. The Avia Solutions Group practices something similar under its other brands in various markets.

The Avia Solutions Group moved its headquarters to Ireland some time ago. There are currently 12 airlines, each of which has its own AOCs and operating licenses. Some of these were built in-house and some were purchased. Additional airline subsidiaries are scheduled to launch in Brazil, Thailand, Malaysia and the Philippines this year. These will also be specialized in the ACMI and charter business.