GallopAir, a newly established airline based in Brunei, is currently in discussions with potential investors and aims to commence operations after receiving its first aircraft from China in the latter half of next year, according to the company's CEO. Last month, GallopAir revealed a $2 billion agreement to purchase 30 regional and narrow-body jets from the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), making it the first non-Chinese carrier to order COMAC's narrow-body C919 jet.
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CEO Cham Chi stated in an email to Reuters that the airline is exploring collaboration and investment opportunities with the Brunei government and local businesses. The airline, owned by Chinese entrepreneur Yang Qiang, anticipates receiving its first ARJ21 aircraft in the third quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals. The delivery of the 30 aircraft will be phased over several years and will depend on production schedules, regulatory approvals, and operational readiness.
GallopAir plans to initially operate short-haul flights with the ARJ21 aircraft, which Chi believes is well-suited for their target market and initial routes. The airline then plans to expand to medium-haul routes serving Southeast Asia, North Asia, and the Southwest Pacific regions. Despite Brunei's small population and limited tourism industry, GallopAir aims to transform the country into a regional aviation hub. The airline was incorporated in January this year and is owned by Yang through a Singapore-based entity. Yang's connection to China influenced GallopAir's decision to source its planes from COMAC.
Upon commencement of operations, GallopAir will be Brunei's second airline operator after national carrier Royal Brunei Airlines. Chi also mentioned that some lessors and banks have shown interest in financing the COMAC purchase. However, before operations can begin, GallopAir must obtain safety and airworthiness certificates for the COMAC aircraft from Brunei’s Department of Civil Aviation.
