Braathens International Ceasing Airbus Operations

‍STOCKHOLM — Braathens International Airways AB (TT) has filed for bankruptcy at Solna District Court, immediately ceasing all Airbus operations.

Nearly 200 employees working at Braathens International Airways AB and Braathens Crew AB lost their jobs following bankruptcy proceedings; the state wage guarantee covers all of them.

“It is with great sadness that the Board of Directors tonight has been forced to file for bankruptcy for the Airbus business. Unfortunately, the funding we have attempted to secure for a controlled phase-out has not been secured, and I understand that those affected are feeling sad, shocked, and disappointed. Now we have no choice but to focus on the part of the business that can achieve long-term profitability,” said Per G. Braathen, Chairman of the Board and majority owner of Braathens.

Braathens International Airways AB

Braathens was established in 2022 to offer Airbus flights to tour operators. Increased establishment costs, delayed aircraft deliveries, and higher startup and operational expenses led to financial challenges.

In 2023, Braathens Group companies underwent a reorganization; however, declining demand, despite cost-saving measures, was too low to sustain operations.

Decision to Discontinue Airbus Business

On August 27, 2025, the Board of Directors will gradually phase out Airbus operations and focus on ACMI operations with ATR turboprops.

Braathens required significant additional financing to ensure the smooth phasing out of the Airbus fleet; however, securing additional funds was unsuccessful. Since the pandemic, over SEK 300 million has been invested in the Airbus business, yet profitability has yet to be achieved.

As a result of lacking additional financing, the Board of Directors was forced to file for bankruptcy of Braathens International Airways AB and Braathens Crew AB, affecting approximately 200 employees.

Union negotiations and other processes, primarily related to redundancies in the administration resulting from the situation at Airbus operations, are now underway.

Focus on ATR Operations

Companies not related to Airbus operations, including Braathens Regional Airlines AB, Braathens Regional Airways AB, Braathens People AB, and Braathens Support AB, are not subject to bankruptcy proceedings and continue operations as planned. 

The ACMI flight with an ATR72-600 turboprop aircraft will continue as planned, as the company sees long-term success in ATR operations.

The Board of Directors and management are working on implementing measures to safeguard parts of the business that demonstrate demand and long-term viability. The goal is to continue fulfilling existing agreements and safeguarding jobs within the company.