Andorra Official Defends Chalair Airport Contract Over Weaker Rival Bid

David Forné, Andorra's Secretary of State for Energy Transition, Transport and Mobility, has defended the selection of Chalair Aviation for expanding flight routes at Andorra-la Seu Airport, arguing that Andorra Connected's bid was so deficient the tender would have been declared void if it had been the only entry.

Addressing reporters on Friday, Forné outlined multiple flaws in Andorra Connected's proposal. He noted its economically weaker terms, with higher ticket prices and fewer flight hours than Chalair's offer. The rival bid also promised a 24-hour aircraft replacement time, compared to Chalair's two-hour guarantee, and featured an underdeveloped business plan with inconsistencies about the aircraft type—mentioning one model in reports but another in the plan, leaving uncertainty over operations.

Forné described the setup as a high-risk partnership between an inactive Andorran trading firm and a wet-leasing provider, which would expose the government to excessive liability. He emphasized that no formal challenge has been filed, only allegations that the administration is now reviewing—a standard step in such processes.

The secretary expressed frustration over Andorra Connected leaking tender details prematurely, despite having highlighted the bids' differences when announcing Chalair as the winner. Chalair's stronger financial and operational proposal secured the contract for services set to begin next year, as public interest in the process continues.

Andorra Connected has indicated dissatisfaction and may pursue further steps, including legal action.