Yes, N706BL is still the tail number. However, Baltia was granted by the FAA a callsign, BTL101. It is the first time they got to use it today. For example, United Airlines has UAL### or American Airlines, AAL### as a callsign instead of a tail number. It's a common practice for ATC to communicate while the aircraft is in the air. Start tracking BTL101 on flightaware from this point on.
The FAA gave them the callsign a few months ago, which can be found on www.faa.gov.
The short trip from YIP to OSC is to prepare for proving flights. The FAA got with Baltia to give them the go ahead to get ready, because once the FAA gives the thumbs up, they will have very little time to prepare.
Everybody is asking why is N706BL going up there...honestly, I don't know for sure. Is it the landing gear change? Is it to go over everything that can't be done at YIP? But I know this...it is a very good thing. There is no repossession as that rumor is false. The plane is not being stored away and it is not concern about the upcoming weather. These planes are designed to withstand cold temperature and heavy weather. My guess is that the facility does have the right equipment to lift the plane and swap out the landing gear to take in heavy loads.
It is becoming apparent that proving flights are happening in December.
