After two years of the pandemic, we’re getting a clearer view of how airlines around the world are faring. While much of the focus has been on big carriers, there have been stories of resilience and success from their smaller counterparts. One such airline is Legends Airways, which has managed to turn its fortunes around by tweaking its business strategy according to the need of the hour.

Passenger to cargo

Not too long ago, US regional airline Legends Airways would fly passengers around on charter flights using its Jetstream 31 aircraft. However, the COVID pandemic put brakes on the business with the sudden onset of travel restrictions.

With even legacy carriers struggling to stay afloat and resorting to state aid, smaller regional airlines were more vulnerable to the unprecedented damage done to the aviation sector by the viral outbreak. Legends Airways, too, was on the verge of closing down, but an idea given to its founder Daryl Hicks by a colleague not only saved the airline but, in fact, boosted its revenue.

With passengers abandoning air travel at the height of the pandemic, Legends Airways temporarily shifted its focus from passenger service to cargo. However, the make-shift business strategy proved so successful that the airline is now planning to add ten more freighter jets to its fleet.

Saab 340 does the job

As reported by ch-aviation, Legends Airways initially carried freight by converting its Jetstream 31s but subsequently retired them in favor of converted Saab 340 airplanes. The carrier signed a deal with C&L Aviation Group, an aerospace company that supplies, converts, and customizes airplanes according to client specifications.

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Last year, C&L Aviation Group signed a contract for the sale of 6 Saab 340 Aircraft to Legends Airways, of which it has received five. Commenting on the deal, Jon Hierl, CEO of Legends Airways, said,

“We came to C&L not only because they had the aircraft inventory we needed, but also because they have the in-depth knowledge and experience needed to support the Saab 340. It just made sense to partner with the world’s leader in Saab 340 sales and support.”

In January 2022, C&L also signed a multi-year agreement with Legends Airways to provide power-by-the-hour services for its fleet of Saab 340 B+ cargo aircraft. Along with the PBH, Legends committed to a supply agreement that includes rotables, engine LRUs, and expendables.

Now, almost halfway into the year, the airline is witnessing such robust cargo demands that it is considering investing in 10 Boeing freighters, both narrow and widebodies.

About Legends Airways

Founded in 2018, Legends Airways is based in Lakeland, Florida. Initially starting as a passenger charter airline, it now operates a fleet of five converted Saab 340B airplanes and offers customizable cargo flights to any part of the US, Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas. Apart from cargo operations, it also runs a flight training school.

According to reports, the carrier has not given up on the idea of passenger transport completely. It appears to be flexible in its outlook and could return to flying passengers if it senses enough demand.

What do you think about Legends Airways’ business strategy? Do share your opinions below.

Source: ch-aviation