BRATISLAVA, Slovakia — As the European summer travel season approaches, AirExplore — Slovakia’s largest airline and part of global aviation giant Avia Solutions Group — has announced that nearly all of its fleet has been leased to European clients, with just one Boeing 737-800 remaining available for summer 2025.
The leasing move reflects a broader resurgence in aviation, with IATA forecasting a 3.8% average annual rise in global passenger traffic over the next two decades. This rebound, fuelled by pent-up demand and steady international connectivity, is driving regional carriers to seek agile fleet solutions.
Europe alone is set to record a 4.3% year-on-year increase in total passenger numbers in 2025. Airlines are responding by turning to ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) arrangements to scale capacity without the long-term financial burden of aircraft ownership.
AirExplore, which operates a fleet of eight Boeing 737-800s — each configured for up to 189 passengers — has emerged as a key seasonal partner for European carriers. Its adaptive leasing model offers both damp lease (crew-only) and wet lease (full operational support), tailored to suit the operational strategies of client airlines. Leasing agreements for summer 2025 span from April through November, covering key high-traffic routes to popular holiday destinations across the continent.
“As we approach the busy summer season, our fleet will play a vital role in supporting our airline partners while delivering seamless travel experiences for all passengers,” said Martin Stulajter, CEO of AirExplore.
Beyond flexibility, the ACMI model provides measurable financial and environmental advantages. With reduced fixed costs and usage-based fees, airlines benefit from a leaner operational structure. Moreover, modern aircraft help lower airport noise charges and other levies — a growing concern as sustainability and regulation tighten across Europe’s major hubs.
Stulajter underscored the loyalty of returning customers: “Every one of our clients is returning from previous seasons, reflecting the trust and reliability we’ve built. These ongoing partnerships highlight our dedication to providing dependable, high-quality ACMI solutions that adapt to the evolving needs of airlines across the continent.”
About AirExplore
AirExplore is Slovakia’s largest airline, specialising in both passenger and cargo ACMI solutions. It is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, with 221 aircraft operating across six continents. The group employs over 14,000 aviation professionals and includes more than 250 subsidiaries offering MRO, pilot training, ground handling, and a range of aviation services.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: AIR EXPLORE
