Airlines

Tracing the History of Air Explore: The Rise of Slovakia's Leading Airline





Air Explore is a Slovakian airline that was founded in 2004 by Lubomir Luciak and Pavel Sedlak. It is a charter airline that operates scheduled and charter flights throughout Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The airline is based in Bratislava and has a fleet of five Boeing 737-400s, four Boeing 737-500s, and two Boeing 737-800s.

Air Explore’s history began in April 2004 when Lubomir Luciak and Pavel Sedlak founded the airline with the goal of offering charter flights to destinations throughout Europe. The airline began operations on June 15, 2004 with a charter flight from Bratislava to Prague. The airline’s first scheduled flight was from Bratislava to Barcelona on July 2, 2004.

Air Explore has grown quickly since its founding and now operates flights to over 30 destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. The airline’s fleet has also grown to include five Boeing 737-400s, four Boeing 737-500s, and two Boeing 737-800s. The airline has also expanded its services to include charter flights, cargo flights, and aircraft management services.

Air Explore has accomplished many milestones since its founding. In 2005, the airline was the first Slovakian airline to join the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). In 2007, Air Explore became the first Slovakian airline to be awarded an operating certificate from the European Union. The following year, the airline achieved ISO 9001 certification for its quality management system. In 2012, Air Explore achieved IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, becoming the first Slovakian airline to do so.





Air Explore has also had some notable incidents in its history. In 2013, an Air Explore Boeing 737-400 was involved in a birdstrike incident at Bratislava Airport. The aircraft was able to land safely, but suffered extensive damage and was written off. In 2016, an Air Explore Boeing 737-400 was involved in a ground collision with a small plane at Bratislava Airport. The aircraft was damaged and the passengers were evacuated, but no injuries were reported.

Air Explore has come a long way since its founding in 2004. The airline has grown to become a major player in the European market and has achieved many milestones. With a fleet of five Boeing 737-400s, four Boeing 737-500s, and two Boeing 737-800s, the airline is well-positioned to continue to grow and expand its services.