Bolzano-based regional airline Skyalps is fitting Tamarack Aerospace winglets to its de Havilland Dash 8-400 fleet. A corresponding declaration of intent has already been signed. The so-called “Eco Smartwing Winglet” is to be installed.
There are different names for wingtips, depending on the manufacturer. It's a technology that engineers "copied" from large birds that glide over long distances. Winglets not only ensure a more stable position in the air, but also help the operators save fuel and thus costs. The latter is also the main reason why many operators decide to retrofit.
For Skyalps, the fact that the wingtips should improve the climb performance of the de Havilland Dash 8-400 was also crucial. Due to the fact that the home base in Bolzano is surrounded by mountains on three sides, this is definitely an advantage. The regional airline also intends to carry out additional measures or upgrades that should ideally lead to a 50 percent reduction in noise and emissions.
This is to be achieved, among other things, by redesigning the cabins. Material should be used that weighs less. This should result in lower fuel consumption. Lighter avionics are also to be installed. The origin of the new parts is still tight and the only explanation is that, together with partners, they want to achieve particularly light, quiet and sustainable de Havilland Dash 8-400. In November of this year, the first converted machine is to go on a longer journey. The turboprop aircraft will be making demonstration flights in the United Arab Emirates and Japan, among other places.
Skyalps initially launched as a so-called virtual airline in cooperation with the Maltese airline Luxwing. Since the beginning of this year, it has held its own Italian Air Operator Certificate (AOC ). However, the aircraft remain registered in the Maltese aircraft register. The fleet currently consists of four de Havilland Dash 8-400s. Two more are expected to join the fleet shortly. The company plans to add up to ten more turboprop aircraft of this type and open bases outside of Bolzano . Skyalps also aims to secure wet lease agreements from larger airlines.