airBaltic (BT, Riga) has confirmed it is in the process of returning its fleet of seven A220-300s to commercial service following their grounding on the evening of Wednesday, October 11.

The Pratt & Whitney-powered jets were withdrawn from active duty to allow for inspections to their PW1524G-3 engines' "external engine accessory".

An airline statement said it was currently working in close cooperation with Pratt & Whitney and Bombardier Aerospace to resolve the problem.

"As the launch customer of CS300, airBaltic is aware that during the introduction stage of the aircraft additional upgrades are yet to be expected," it said.

"Similarly, to other technology sectors, also in aviation there are certain technical nuances that are characteristic to new equipment that require additional attention and upgrades during the initial stages of exploitation.

"The CS300 is not an exception and similarly, as with all new aircraft, their introduction requires additional attention concerning the harmonization between different manufacturer parts and systems."

The Latvian carrier also operates an in-house fleet of six B737-300s and five B737-500s (one of which is in service for Thomas Cook Airlines Belgium) as well as a wet-leased fleet of one Fokker 100 (sourced from Carpatair).