Aleutian Airways operates rare Saab 2000s in Alaska
Alaska's Aleutian Airways is one of the world's last passenger operators of the Saab 2000 turboprop, using four of the aircraft to serve remote communities
Aleutian Airways began scheduled flights in November 2022, linking Anchorage with remote Alaskan communities using Saab 2000 turboprops. The airline, a joint venture operated by Sterling Airways, now flies to destinations including Dutch Harbor, Cold Bay, Sand Point, King Salmon, and Homer.
For passengers, aviation is often the only practical way to reach these isolated settlements. The airport at Dutch Harbor on Amaknak Island, for instance, features a short runway surrounded by water and mountains.
A Rare Fleet of Saab 2000s
Aleutian Airways currently lists four Saab 2000s in its fleet, making it a rarity for scheduled passenger service. Only 63 of the type were built before production ended in 1999. Developed as a faster, larger evolution of the Saab 340, the aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce AE 2100 engines and cruises at about 360 knots, typically carrying around 50 passengers.
The source notes the aircraft arrived at an unfortunate time for its manufacturer. Regional airlines were shifting towards jets like the Bombardier CRJ and Embraer ERJ, while the ATR family dominated the turboprop market.
Operational Suitability and a Past Accident
The Saab 2000's speed is useful for covering Alaska's vast distances, and its small cabin suits routes with limited demand. Aleutian Airways configures its aircraft for between 41 and 50 passengers. The airline states the Saab can operate between Anchorage and Dutch Harbor nonstop in both directions without a refueling stop.
Operating into Dutch Harbor carries historical weight due to a serious accident in 2019. The source is careful to clarify this did not involve an Aleutian Airways aircraft. Peninsula Aviation Services operated PenAir Flight 3296, a Saab 2000 (registration N686PA), which overran the runway at Unalaska after landing with a tailwind. One passenger was killed and another seriously injured.
When Aleutian Airways planned to restore Saab 2000 service to Dutch Harbor, it underwent an extensive Federal Aviation Administration approval process. The airline worked with Saab, Rolls-Royce, and specialist AeroData to analyze operations and demonstrate safety, also recruiting pilots with relevant experience. FAA approval was granted in 2022.
Fleet Expansion with an ATR 42-600
In 2025, Aleutian Airways announced the acquisition of its first ATR 42-600 through a partnership with lessor Azorra. The aircraft has since joined the fleet, which now consists of one ATR 42-600 and the four Saab 2000s.
While slower than the Saab, the ATR offers excellent short-runway performance and good economics. Aleutian says this will allow it to consider serving communities previously inaccessible to its Saab fleet. The airline has not confirmed if the ATR will replace the Saab 2000, stating both types currently form part of the fleet.
For aviation enthusiasts, Aleutian Airways represents a rare opportunity. With very few Saab 2000s still in passenger service, the airline performs demanding regional flying in a challenging environment, connecting Anchorage with isolated communities across spectacular and unforgiving terrain.
