SkyAlps Dash 8-400 Fleet Grounded by Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) Amid Maintenance Certification Issues
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The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has grounded seven De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 turboprops operated by regional carrier SkyAlps due to maintenance certification issues. The decision follows an audit conducted by ENAC inspectors at SkyAlps' headquarters in Bolzano, Italy, from February 26- to 28, 2025.
ENAC's audit, which involved documentary checks and physical inspections of the aircraft, revealed a series of non-conformities related to the aircraft’s maintenance certifications. These discrepancies violated EU Regulation 1321/2012 governing flight safety regulatory requirements. Specifically, the regulatory authority found deficiencies in the maintenance certifications provided by a SkyAlps technician responsible for the aircraft's upkeep. As a result, ENAC has banned technicians from accessing all airports where SkyAlps operates.
Following the audit, ENAC, in collaboration with the Maltese Civil Aviation Directorate (CAD), immediately suspended the seven Dash 8-400s from flying. The suspension is a precautionary measure taken in light of the incorrect maintenance certifications. According to ENAC, the turboprops can only return to service once the regulatory bodies have completed and approved the necessary corrective actions.
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The airline, which primarily operates aircraft managed by Maltese operator Luxwing, remains committed to resuming operations as swiftly as possible. SkyAlps is actively working to replace the grounded Dash 8-400s with other aircraft in its fleet to ensure continued flight operations.
ENAC has pledged to remain in close contact with SkyAlps’ technical staff and is monitoring developments to ensure the airline can resume operations smoothly and without delay. The situation highlights the importance of rigorous compliance with maintenance and certification standards in ensuring flight safety.
