Danish Air Transport (DAT), widely recognized as a passenger and cargo airline, has been a prominent player in the Scandinavian aviation sector since its inception in 1989. Renowned for its scheduled and charter flights across Denmark and Norway, DAT annually transports up to a million passengers. However, July 2018 marked a significant turning point for the airline as it broadened its operational scope to include services from three Sicilian airports to the picturesque neighboring islands of Lampedusa and Pantelleria.
This strategic shift from its traditional Scandinavian strongholds was propelled by securing a substantial €38.6 million Public Service Obligation (PSO) contract. This contract, awarded to DAT, authorized the airline to take over routes previously operated by Mistral Air. Spanning three years with an option for a fourth, the PSO agreement effectively grants DAT exclusivity on these routes, preventing other carriers from competing.
Luigi Vallero, the general manager of DAT’s Italian subsidiary, DAT Volidisicilia, explained to Routesonline the rationale behind this expansion: “We perceived it as a good opportunity to enter a major European regional market where we could potentially grow a number of further routes in the coming years.” This move signaled DAT’s ambition to establish a firmer foothold in the broader European aviation landscape.
Awarded the contract in April, DAT swiftly mobilized to launch its inaugural service on July 1st. Vallero emphasized the urgency of the timeline, stating, “Although DAT had already been flying in the past in Italy on behalf of other airlines, this was the first time it did so in its own commercial risk and everything had to be built from scratch.” This included establishing an Italian website, negotiating with suppliers, recruiting local crews, and finalizing all operational logistics.
DAT Volidisicilia deployed three ATR72-200 aircraft, sourced from the group’s Lithuanian subsidiary, to operate an extensive schedule of over 6,100 flights annually. These flights are crucial in connecting Lampedusa and Pantelleria with mainland Sicily, providing essential air links for the islands’ residents. Beyond serving the local population, the airline also aims to stimulate tourism growth to these unique island destinations.
Aerial view of Lampedusa coastline and harbor
Navigating Operational Challenges in the Italian Islands
Vallero acknowledged the initial months of operation as a valuable learning experience. Launching services at the peak of the tourist season, characterized by maximum flight frequency and passenger volume, presented considerable challenges. “Starting in the very peak of the season, with the maximum number of flights and passengers was not easy, but we managed to cope,” he noted. Initial logistical hurdles in procuring spare parts from Scandinavia and Lithuania were quickly addressed to ensure smooth operations.
Pantelleria Airport presented its own set of unique operational challenges. Situated on a plateau encircled by hills, the airport’s orography makes it susceptible to strong crosswinds, particularly during winter. Additionally, the “mountain cloud” phenomenon, a localized weather condition, can lead to airport closures lasting for days, impacting flight schedules and connectivity.
Lampedusa Airport also faces specific constraints. Its proximity to the island’s harbor means that when the main ferry from Sicily docks, the vessel’s height infringes on the flight path, necessitating temporary airport closures. These geographical and logistical factors demand careful planning and adaptable operational strategies.
Initial Success and Community Integration
Despite these operational complexities, DAT Volidisicilia transported nearly 90,000 passengers across its network between July and October in its first year. The airline projected an impressive figure of approximately 210,000 passengers within the first year of operation, indicating a strong initial uptake and demand for the new routes.
Vallero highlighted the positive reception from the island communities. While residents had previously encountered foreign airlines like Avanti Air and Darwin/Etihad Regional, DAT’s commitment to integrating with the local culture has been particularly well-received.
The branding of “DAT Volidisicilia,” translating to “DAT Flights of Sicily,” underscores this local focus. Aircraft serving these routes are named after the islands, fostering a sense of local identity and pride. Onboard services feature Sicilian soft drinks, and the airline actively engages with the community through sponsorships of local sports teams.
Further enhancing its integration, DAT Volidisicilia is pursuing an interline agreement with a major Italian airline, aiming to become a genuine ambassador for the islanders. Vallero stated, “We strongly believe there will be an increasing number of tourists in the coming years and we want to promote the destinations abroad with special focus in the Scandinavian market, where DAT is a well-known and respected brand.”
Exploring the Pearls of the Southern Mediterranean
Lampedusa and Pantelleria, often referred to as the “white” and “black” pearls of the southern Mediterranean respectively, offer distinct attractions. Lampedusa is celebrated for its “pristine beaches, white cliffs and crystal clear waters,” drawing tourists seeking idyllic coastal escapes. Pantelleria, in contrast, presents a unique volcanic landscape, characterized by numerous trails, distinctive local architecture, and a cuisine rich in local ingredients such as caper berries and Zibibbo and Passito wines.
DAT Volidisicilia’s network encompasses five key routes: connecting Lampedusa to Catania and Palermo, and Pantelleria to Catania, Palermo, and Trapani. During peak summer months, the airline operates an average of 22 sectors per day, reducing to 16 sectors in the winter schedule. Aircraft deployment is also adjusted seasonally, with two aircraft based in Lampedusa and one in Pantelleria during summer, shifting to one aircraft based on each island during the winter months to match demand and operational needs.
