Air Serbia’s decision: No more collaboration with Marathon Airlines

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Regarding flight JU 324 from Belgrade to Dusseldorf on Sunday evening, February 18, 2024, where the Embraer E195 operated by Marathon Airlines, Air Serbia promptly engaged with the relevant authorities, including the Civil Aviation Directorate (DCV) of Serbia and the Center for Investigation of Accidents in Transport (CINS).

Air Serbia places the safety of passengers and crew as its highest priority and is fully cooperating with the authorities in their investigations. Concurrently, Greek aviation authorities will conduct their own inquiry.

Irrespective of the investigation outcomes, Air Serbia has informed Marathon Airlines of the termination of their cooperation effective February 21, 2024. Henceforth, no Air Serbia flights will utilize aircraft from Marathon Airlines. Alternative aircraft from Air Serbia’s fleet will be deployed to ensure seamless continuity of service for affected routes.

Marathon Airlines, a Greek airline adhering to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations and affiliated with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), commenced a collaborative partnership with Air Serbia in June 2023 through a short-term wet-lease agreement. This widely embraced industry practice entails partner airlines taking on complete responsibility for the recruitment and training of flight and cabin crew.

Air Serbia extends apologies to all passengers of flight JU324 on February 18, 2024, for any inconvenience caused. Despite the flight being operated by Marathon Airlines, Air Serbia acknowledges the passengers’ discomfort and assures full compliance with regulations regarding compensation. Passengers can claim compensation via a dedicated form on the Air Serbia website, with priority processing assured. Additionally, all passengers, including those from the postponed flight on February 19, are entitled to full ticket refunds in light of the circumstances.

Air Serbia will refrain from making any disclosures concerning the specifics of flight JU 324 on February 18th as the investigation continues. Nonetheless, the national carrier of Serbia reiterates its acknowledgment of the inconvenience faced by passengers during that incident. Therefore, Air Serbia has opted to promptly implement all feasible measures within its authority. Additionally, it remains open to considering further actions in the near future to preserve the trust established with its passengers over decades of service.

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