Tempair International Airlines
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Tempair International Airlines Ltd, more commonly known as Tempair, was a UK-based aircraft lease operator, founded in 1972.[1][2] The airline was headquartered in Windsor, Berkshire.[2] Mounting financial difficulties led to the liquidation of the company in late 1976.[3]
| |
| Founded | 1972 |
|---|---|
Ceased operations | 29 November 1976 |
| Parent company | Templewood Aviation International |
| Headquarters | Windsor, Berkshire, England |
History
The company was formed in 1972 as a subsidiary of Templewood Aviation Ltd.[1] Since its main activity relied upon wet-leasing aircraft to other airlines, the company never operated services in its own right, but did so on other carriers' behalf; it also provided operating expertise and flight crews as required.[1] Although Tempair was a UK-registered airline, it had neither an operation certificate nor a license from that country.[4] Biman Bangladesh Airlines, DETA Mozambique Airlines, Merpati Nusantara and Somali Airlines were among the customers of Tempair.[2][5][6][7]
In June 1973, a Tempair Boeing 707-320 operated on behalf of Biman Bangladesh Airlines inaugurated the Dhaka–London route for the recently created Bangladeshi flag carrier.[8][9]
In 1974, two Boeing 707-320s previously operated by Türk Hava Yollari were acquired.[10] Throughout its history, Tempair operated Boeing 720Bs, Boeing 707s (-320 and -320C series), and Vanguards.[2][4][5]
In November 1975, Tempair won a contract worth US$1,500,000 (equivalent to $8,974,954 in 2025) to fly pilgrims from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia and back, during the Hajj season, on behalf of Nigeria Airways.[11] In December the same year the airline, competing with Qantas, Trans Australia Airlines and Ansett, won a contract for operating a Boeing 720B on Air Niugini's behalf, as well as for providing the cabin and flight staff, and the maintenance of the aircraft.[4]
Following financial difficulties, the company ceased operations in late 1976, when a board meeting held on 29 November that year decided to liquidate the firm.[3][12]
