Capital Partners launches Air Italy Polska

Industry observers have long pointed to a shortage of charter capacity in Poland as demand for tourist flights soared, and AIP hopes to tap this growing market operating both long- and short-haul flights. In 2007, it will offer flights to Egypt, Kenya and Thailand, flying with one 220-seat Boeing 757-200. In 2008, AIP will add two more aircraft to its fleet and launch flights to Latin American destinations. AIP wants to have 150,000 passengers in its first year, rising to 700,000 within three years. AIP will also fly from other regional ports, starting with Katowice or Kraków. So far, the only two companies offering similar services in Poland are Prima Charter (formerly Fischer Air) and Centralwings, but Centralwings recently announced it will scale down its charter flights. A 20% stake in AIP is owned by private-equity firms, Capital Partners and Bridge Fund. (Puls Biznesu, p. 9)  R.M.