ECA resumes partial operations

NEWS FLASH

Europe's first scheduled sea plane service, European Coastal Airlines, has resumed some of its operations today after its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) was reinstated by Croatian regulators. The carrier will fly between Split and Mali Lošinj, as well as Pula and Novalja twice per day. All of its other aircraft are still undergoing checks and have not been cleared to fly. "In the meantime, we are working on releasing our Twin Otters with registrations 9A-TOA, 9A-TOB and 9A-TOC for operations, but cannot yet foresee when this will occur, as it is not solely on us and in our power. In order to avoid giving false information, we, unfortunately, cannot confirm an exact date when the second, third and fourth Twin Otter will resume operations", ECA said. The Croatian Civil Aviation Agency grounded the airline two weeks ago after evidence emerged of poor maintenance. Its AOC was temporarily suspended a week ago. "We have decided to close sales for all routes related to the above mentioned Twin Otters until we can ensure that they will be released for operations. This has been one of the toughest decisions we have had to make, however, the well-being and impression we are giving to our passengers is of great importance to us", ECA said in a statement.