Belavia is in advanced negotiations to add three A330-200 aircraft that are currently stored at Minsk National under Gambian registrations assigned to “Magic Air.” The aircraft were previously stationed in Muscat and Cairo International before being ferried to Minsk National on August 19, 2024. Upon arrival, they required extensive maintenance due to their deteriorated condition and have not been operational since.
The aircraft in question, registered as C5-TAB, C5-TAC, and C5-TAD, were originally delivered to Emirates in 2002-2003. They were later transferred to Onur Air in 2017-2018, which was their last commercial operator. Subsequently, they were re-registered in the Cayman Islands under different designations before being transferred again under Magic Air’s registration. If the deal is finalized, these A330-200s would mark a significant expansion of Belavia’s fleet and its first introduction of widebody passenger aircraft.
Belavia aims to bring these aircraft into service for the Summer 2025 season, which would represent a substantial fleet upgrade. The addition of long-haul aircraft could enable the airline to expand its international network, potentially targeting destinations in Asia, the Middle East, or other regions where demand for direct, long-haul flights exists.
Magic Air has previously facilitated aircraft deliveries under similar circumstances. In 2024, an A320 registered as C5-TAA was ferried from Istanbul Atatürk via Minsk to Damascus, where it was transferred to Cham Wings Airlines and re-registered as YK-BAC. The aircraft has been actively serving routes for Cham Wings since its acquisition.
Belavia currently operates a fleet consisting primarily of narrowbody aircraft, including two B737-300s, one B737-8, five B737-800s, one E175, and four E195s. The airline does not currently operate widebody passenger aircraft, though it does have a B767-300ER dedicated for government use, along with a B737-800(BBJ) and a Challenger 850.
If confirmed, this transaction would mark the largest fleet expansion for either Belarusian or Russian airlines since the implementation of Western sanctions in 2022. The move reflects an ongoing effort to circumvent restrictions imposed on aircraft acquisitions and leasing, as airlines in these countries have faced difficulties in sourcing new aircraft from traditional markets. By leveraging alternative intermediaries and registries, airlines have managed to maintain fleet renewals and expansions despite the broader geopolitical challenges.
The A330-200 is a versatile and widely used widebody aircraft capable of serving medium- and long-haul routes efficiently. Its addition to the fleet could signify a shift in Belavia’s operational strategy, allowing the airline to compete more effectively on intercontinental routes. However, integrating these aircraft will require considerable investment in maintenance, training, and regulatory compliance.
While Belavia has not issued an official statement regarding the acquisition, industry observers will be closely monitoring developments as the airline prepares for its potential fleet expansion. The move could provide new opportunities for the carrier to enhance its market position, offering more connectivity and capacity for passengers traveling to and from Belarus.
