LONDON – The Armenian National Interest Fund (ANIF) and Air Arabia Group, revealed in recent days that FlyArna, Armenia’s new airline, has obtained an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and also took delivery of its first Airbus A320.
The new national airline will operate as a low-cost airline with its main base at Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport (EVN).
The new carrier is expected to implement the strategic vision of Armenia’s rapidly growing tourism sector and will also contribute to the country’s economic growth.
The first Airbus A320 for FlyArna, the aircraft with registration EK-YRA and MSN 6782, was manufactured in September 2015. Its first user was the Indonesian carrier Batik Air. The aircraft is leased from the SMBC leasing company.
“The delivery of the first A320 for FlyArna is important progress in the journey towards launching the airline. This step also marks the beginning of a new era in the development of Armenia’s aviation sector, not only contributing to the country’s economic growth but providing reliable and affordable travel for its people”, said Adel Al Ali, Head of Air Arabia Group.
The brand name ‘Arna’ is derived from the company’s official name ‘Armenian National Airlines’ with ‘AR’ taken from Armenian, ‘N’ from National, and ‘A’ from Airlines.
Chosen following a public competition, the name ‘Fly Arna’ was identified to be most inclusive and reflective of the spirit of the joint venture company to transform the aviation sector of the country.
“Fly Arna’s brand identity is truly reflective of the inspiring spirit and ethos of Armenia. This is highlighted by the involvement of the public in deciding the name of the colors used for the brand identity and the values that Fly Arna will promote. The delivery of new aircraft is an inspiring move that brings us one step closer to the launch flights”, said David Papazian, CEO of ANIF.
With its colors inspired by the Armenia flag, the ‘Fly Arna’ logo and brand identity was designed to reflect the young, modern, and a value-driven national airline that strives to become the most accessible and sensible choice for air travel in Armenia and beyond.
Inspired by the logo and the brand ethos, the ‘Fly Arna’ aircraft livery reflects clarity and a forward-looking airline that is always on the move, with the letter “A” creatively displayed at the aircraft tail.
The bright outlook in the brand identity will also be reflected through the aircraft interior, staff uniforms, and across all customer touchpoints.
ANIF and Air Arabia Group announced the launch of Armenia’s new national airline in July 2021 and then revealed the name of the airline in September 2021 and in January 2022 to show the airline’s new identity.
The airline now has its social media channels and website www.flyarna.com.
About FlyArna and fleet
Fly Arna is Armenia’s national airline and a joint venture company between the Armenian National Interests Fund (ANIF) and Air Arabia Group.
Based at Zvartnots International Airport (EVN) in Yerevan, Fly Arna follows the successful low-cost business model operated by Air Arabia that focuses on offering comfort, reliability, and value-for-money air travel.
The airline’s fleet currently consists of one Airbus A320 (EK-YRA). Another A320 (EK-YRB) will be added in the near future.
The airline wants to own four Airbus A320s this year. Further aircraft will also be leased from SMBC.
