Category Archives: Private Aviation Industry News

JFI Jets Begins Service to Cuba

jfi jets charterJFI Jets, a global leader in private jet charter, aircraft management and maintenance, has begun providing on-demand charter service to Cuba from its aircraft bases in Southern, and Northern California, the New York metropolitan area Wilmington, Delaware and throughout the United States.

“Few private charter carriers have the necessary certifications to fly to Cuba presently and even fewer have the local knowledge and contacts on the ground that are key to executing a flawless trip,” says David J. Rimmer, president of JFI Jets, adding, “at JFI we have both. We can provide a level of convenience, customer service and expertise that is unparalleled in the private jet charter industry.”

While JFI Jets has all of the necessary clearances to land in Cuba, at the present time U.S. citizens are required to comply with U.S. Government restrictions for Cuban travel, which are outlined on the U.S. Treasury Fact Sheet. Flights to Cuba must also originate from U.S. Government-designated gateway cities.

Rimmer encouraged booking as early as possible to ensure availability, saying. “Our first flight on the heels of Secretary of State Kerry raising the flag at the U.S. Embassy in Havana recently was perfect.”

Courtesy Luxury Travel Magazine

 

Wheels Up Takes Delivery of “Pink Plane” In Time for October

Wheels Up King Air Charter

Wheels Up took delivery of a pink Beechcraft King Air 350i from Textron Aviation on August 28. It will serve as the flagship of the company’s Breast Cancer Awareness initiative. The Pink Plane is the 45th aircraft in the Wheels Up fleet and will enter revenue service beginning October 1, just in time for the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month. (Photo: Textron Aviation)

Charter membership firm Wheels Up took delivery of one-of-a-kind, pink Beechcraft King Air 350i from Textron Aviation on Friday that will serve as the flagship of the company’s Breast Cancer Awareness initiative. Dubbed the Pink Plane, it is the 45th aircraft in the Wheels Up fleet and will enter revenue service beginning October 1, just in time for the start of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The aircraft will support Wheel Up’s commitment to raising awareness and funds for the Dubin Breast Center at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Wheels Up will donate a portion of the fees for each new membership in October to the Dubin Breast Center. In addition, the company will have a fly-a-thon to encourage current Wheels Up Members to donate to the Dubin Breast Center for every revenue hour flown by the Pink Plane. Wheels Up Members will also be able to make a one-time donation or pledge a dollar amount of their choice for every revenue hour they fly in October.

Courtesy AIN and Wichita Eagle.

OneJet Expands to Nashville, More Cities Coming

OneJet is taking the next step in building its scheduled charter network with the addition of a route between its Indianapolis International Airport base and Nashville International Airport in Tennessee. OneJet, which offers service under Part 135 with DOT Part 380 economic authority, plans to add the new route beginning September 8 with flights from Indianapolis to Nashville in the morning and returning to Indianapolis in the late afternoon.

Pentastar Aviation CharterPentastar Aviation Charter, Inc. earlier this year was named the direct air carrier for OneJet, a provider of regional scheduled nonstop flights in the Eastern U.S.

Based at KMKE Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport and KIND Indianapolis International Airport, OneJet began service on April 6, 2015.  Pentastar Aviation Charter, Inc. operates a fleet of Hawker 400 aircraft on behalf of OneJet.

The addition of Nashville follows the introduction of flights to Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and Memphis earlier this year. The company uses three Hawker 400XPs for the service, with Pentastar Aviation operating the flights. OneJet said its load factors have increased to about 80-percent network-wide. “The addition of Nashville as a destination city is part of OneJet’s multi-phase expansion plan to grow our network of nonstop regional travel,” OneJet CEO Matthew Maguire said. “Nashville has been one of the key destinations demanded by both Indianapolis corporate and community leadership.” OneJet added that it already has received a strong reception, with companies such as Crowe Horwath booking.

Matthew Maguire, OneJet Chief Executive Officer, continued:  “To-date, OneJet has surpassed its 1000th passenger carried, serving the frequent business traveler as well as becoming a preferred vendor to numerous Fortune 500 companies. As we allocate additional capacity to our focus cities over the course of this coming year, and from those points to an increasing number of destinations, OneJet will continue to expand its network to deliver nonstop service in regional air markets across the country.”

OneJet plans to continue adding locations, with more announcements anticipated over the next year. The company is targeting markets within a 500- to 1,000-mile range that have strong local corporate bases and have “a meaningful demand to the other points already in the market.”

OneJet Flights

 

Courtesy Aviation International News Contributing

Operator Meridian Names Chris Battaglia Director of Charter Sales

Meridian Air CharterCharter operator and private aviation company Meridian, based at Teterboro Airport in Teterboro, NJ, is pleased to announce that Chris Battaglia has been named Director of Charter Sales, according to a release from the company. Mr. Battaglia is a business aviation veteran with thirteen years of charter sales experience, six years of financial management experience, and is a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Mr. Battaglia will be responsible for executing the long-term sales strategy of Meridian Air Charter, managing the daily operations of charter sales, and developing the West Coast charter business, which will be based at Hayward Executive Airport (HWD) in Hayward, CA, once the FBO and hangar facilities are completed in 2016.

Chris began his aviation career in 2002 with TAG Aviation starting as a Charter Services Representative. Over the years, he was promoted to roles of increasing responsibility, until he left the company as Director of Charter Services. In 2009, he continued his aviation career at TWC Aviation, where he was eventually promoted to VP of Charter Sales. He was responsible for all charter activities in both the wholesale and retail sales areas, while managing a large team of charter sales directors and representatives.

Dennis O’Connell, President of Meridian Air Charter, had this to say, “Chris brings a wealth of charter experience and knowledge to our company. He is joining us during an exciting period of growth as we continue to expand our fleet and build our operation in California. We are looking forward to him helping us get to the next level, and we are very happy to have him on our team.”

All 22 Meridian charter aircraft are available only in FlightList PRO.

Texas’ All-you-can-fly Rise Adds More to Fly

Rise, a Dallas-based all-you-can-fly membership charter service, expanded its Beechcraft King Air 350 service to the entire Texas Triangle this week by adding eight more scheduled flights between Houston and Austin. It started service with the eight-passenger turboprop twin last month on the Dallas-Houston and Dallas-Austin routes.

The Rise-branded King Air is operated by Monarch Air, a Part 135 charter operator based at Dallas’ Addison Airport.

Rise King Air 200 Flight Service between Dallas, Houston, Austin and Midland Texas

Rise King Air 200, flight service is operated by FAA Part 135 charter operator Monarch Air

“It’s no coincidence that the ‘Texas Triangle’ is the starting point for Rise to create a new standard for business travel,” said Rise CEO Nick Kennedy. “There’s never been anything quite like Rise in Texas, and we’re seeing in real time what happens when you take the stress out of air travel and give people huge chunks of time back in their lives.”

Rise memberships, which start at $1,650 per month, are available in Houston, Austin, Midland and Dallas. The company offers three levels of individual memberships for its all-you-can fly model. It plans to offer “Rise Fun Flights” to Austin, Texas; Vail, Colo.; and other destinations on weekends.

Rise King Air 200 Cabin for flight service between Dallas, Houston, Austin and Midland Texas

Rise King Air 200 Cabin for flight service between Dallas, Houston, Austin and Midland Texas

Article Courtesy AINOnline.com

Air Partner Acquires Bains Simmons, Adds Aviation Safety Consulting to Services

air partnerAir Partner plc, the air charter brokerage and global aviation services group, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Baines Simmons Limited, a world leading Aviation Safety Consultant for a total net cash consideration of up to £6.0 million.

Founded in 2001, Baines Simmons is a trusted consultant and adviser to more than 750 aviation organizations and more than 40 aviation authorities and has helped develop the skills and expertise of more than 120,000 aviation professionals.

The business has grown to be recognized as a leading authority in Aviation Safety Consultancy, specializing in aviation regulation, compliance and safety management, advising clients across civil and military markets such as KLM, SAS, Thomas Cook, Thomson, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, The Isle of Man Government, BAE Systems, MoD, Rolls Royce, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Airbus, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and UK Military Aviation Authority (MAA).

bains simmonsThe reputation of the Baines Simmons brand and the expertise of its employees within the aviation sector are key elements which should enable the business to help shape the evolving safety requirements in the industry and in particular, the sub-sectors of aviation regulation, compliance and safety management performance. Baines Simmons will provide Air Partner with the opportunity to extend the Group’s service and product capabilities which will complement and enhance its existing brokering business.

The acquisition reiterates Air Partner’s commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards in aviation safety.   Baines Simmons brings with it an unrivaled client list built on a solid foundation of expertise coupled with a strong and credible industry reputation.

Mark Briffa, Chief Executive of Air Partner, said: The acquisition of Baines Simmons is an exciting step for Air Partner. We look forward to working with the team at Baines Simmons on a range of strategic and complimentary growth opportunities from new regulatory changes, busier skies, greater organisational complexities, geographic expansion and new performance products and services.”

Following acquisition, Baines Simmons will continue to be managed by its current executive team led by Managing Director, Andrew Parker and founders, Keven Baines and Bob Simmons.

Broker Skyjet Launches Private Jet Booking App Integrated with Apple Pay

skyjetSkyjet, an air charter broker and holding of Directional Aviation, announced the release of the Skyjet app for iPhone. The app is the first of its kind in the private jet charter industry to integrate with Apple Pay, allowing users to book a private jet with a touch of the finger.

“We’re extremely proud to see Apple Pay take flight with the Skyjet mobile app, which creates an unparalleled booking experience for travelers that’s faster, safer and more efficient than traditional charter booking.”

Skyjet brings a seamless booking experience and provides users with an intelligent MPR (Market Price Range) tool for real-time price estimates. Within seconds of entering a user’s desired trip itinerary into the app, price estimates are displayed on-screen based on current market pricing and what other clients recently paid for their trips. Users also have direct access to aircraft specs, a detailed trip itinerary and instant access to a Skyjet dedicated aviation expert.

The private jet booking screen on Skyjet's new app for iPhone

The private jet booking screen on Skyjet’s new app for iPhone

“The Skyjet mobile app bridges our 18 years of industry experience, smart technology and exceptional service to make the process of booking private jets as smooth as possible,” said Skyjet’s President Greg Richman. “We’re extremely proud to see Apple Pay take flight with the Skyjet mobile app, which creates an unparalleled booking experience for travelers that’s faster, safer and more efficient than traditional charter booking.”

Security and privacy is at the core of Apple Pay. When you add a credit or debit card to Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are not stored on your iPhone, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the Secure Element on your iPhone, and each transaction is authorized with a one-time unique dynamic security code.

To celebrate the launch of the mobile app, Skyjet is offereing the first 50 new clients to book a trip with the Skyjet app an Apple Watch Sport* or iPad Air.

Flexjet Accelerates Deliveries of Gulfstream G450 to Meet Strong Market Demand

Flexjet is a holding of Directional Aviation, along with Sentient Jet, Flight Options, Nextant Aerospace and several other private aviation holdings.

Flexjet LLC yesterday announced that it has accelerated deliveries of the Gulfstream G450™ business jet in response to heavy market demand. With the accelerated delivery schedule, six G450s will be flying in the Flexjet fleet by the end of this year, bolstering Flexjet’s ability to serve international routes nonstop.

“With the G450, G650 and other advanced new aircraft entering our fleet, we are well-positioned to meet the needs and expectations of today’s fractional fliers.”

FexjetAccording to a release from Flexjet, the G450 is part of an order Flexjet placed in October 2014 for up to 50 aircraft, also including the G500™ and G650™, from Gulfstream’s iconic line of business jets. Through its close partnership with Gulfstream, Flexjet will closely monitor demand and collaborate with the manufacturer to accelerate deliveries and exercise any of the additional 26 options whenever possible.

“Since we took delivery of our first Gulfstream G450 aircraft in June, the response to these new long-range aircraft has been so robust that we have asked Gulfstream to move up delivery of our next two G450 aircraft to this fall, rather than mid-2016, as previously agreed to,” said Flexjet Chief Executive Officer Michael Silvestro. “Our sales for the year are up 20 percent and the marketplace clearly is hungry for extended-range products from Gulfstream. Stepping up our delivery schedule will help us to satisfy this appetite.”

Gulfstream G450

Flexjet Gulfstream G450

The entry into service of Flexjet’s version of the G450 positions Flexjet as the only fractional provider offering the newest and most advanced version of this aircraft, featuring the LXi cabin design and configuration. Capable of being configured to carry up to 16 passengers, the G450 can travel 4,350 nautical miles/8,056 kilometers with eight passengers, easily enabling nonstop trips from the U.S. to European and South American destinations. Fortune 500 corporations and other large business flyers, including flight departments in need of supplemental capacity, have shown the strongest interest in the G450.

Editor’s note – Currently 43 Gulfstream G450’s are available for charter in the US, with 22 different charter operators.  All 43 are available and shown in air charter directory service FlightList PRO.

“In the fractional jet industry, you hear a lot about orders for new planes being delayed or cancelled – not accelerated. Not only have we had strong demand for the Gulfstream G450, but we also are seeing tremendous enthusiasm for the G650. We are pleased to be able to take delivery of the G650 early next year, making us the only fractional provider offering this aircraft,” said Chairman Kenn Ricci. “With the G450, G650 and other advanced new aircraft entering our fleet, we are well-positioned to meet the needs and expectations of today’s fractional fliers.”

Flexjet Gulfstream G450 Cabin

Flexjet Gulfstream G450 Cabin

In addition to the Gulfstream G450 and G650, Flexjet will be the North American launch customer, and exclusive fractional provider, for the Gulfstream G500 expected to be delivered in 2018. The G500 will offer the finest in speed, wide-cabin comfort and efficiency. Outfitted for 12 passengers, the G500 will be capable of flying 5,000 nautical miles/9,260 kilometers.

Gulfstream’s G450, G500 and G650 will become part of Flexjet’s LXi Cabin Collection, which also includes the Learjet 75, the Challenger 350, Bombardier’s Global Express aircraft and the Embraer Legacy 450 and Legacy 500.

All Hail New Customs Office at VNY

Today at KVNY Van Nuys Airport a celebration was held for the return of customs service at the airport.  It’s been 8 years since customs was removed from local airports and centralized only at LAX.

A new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility opened two months ago as part of the Signature Flight Support west FBO.  Signature paid around $225,000 to build the new customs addition which includes an interview room, inspection room, office space and security features.  The celebration today was attended by many local officials, airport association officials and the President of Signature Flight Support.

Local air operators, pilots and aircraft owners are happy to see international clearances return to Van Nuys.

“The addition of CBP services at VNY will add significant convenience for travelers entering the United States from abroad,” said Curt Castagna, president of the Van Nuys Airport Association, an airport tenant organization that supported the launch of customs service. “Clients will be able to fly directly to VNY without an additional stop at another airport to clear customs.”

In addition to saving private jet travelers time and money, the service will benefit the environment by reducing emissions from repositioning flights and decreasing overall operations within the Los Angeles basin’s congested airspace.  Although customs service is available at Los Angeles International Airport, regional general aviation airports have been without CBP service since 2007 when support was withdrawn.

Gina Marie Lindsey, Executive Director for Los Angeles World Airports said, “Having U.S. Customs and Border Protection Services at Van Nuys Airport is a great example of how local support can produce improved services at airports across the country. Working with our partners, Signature Flight Support and the Van Nuys Airport Association, Los Angeles’ business airport will now be even more appealing and convenient for international travelers.”

Gulfstream V Point-to-Point Charter Pricing

Prime Jet CharterCharter Operator Prime Jet announced yesterday it is now offering point to point pricing with its 16 passenger G-V, with international and Domestic Wi-Fi.

The 2000 G-V is floating between South Florida, New York, Southern California and Europe, available for reduced one-way pricing.

This is the only Gulfstream V available for point to point pricing, and joins the company’s G-IV in point-to-point pricing in the U.S.

The full array of 13 floating fleet operators and 208 aircraft is available in the FlightList PRO Floating Fleet section.

Prime Jet operates 9 heavy jet Gulfstreams for charter.

Gulfstream V point to point charter pricing by operator Prime Jet

Gulfstream V point to point charter pricing by operator Prime Jet

2014 Accident Rates: Charter Decreased While Overall GA Increased

Air Charter Safety NTSBThe National Transportation Safety Board released preliminary aviation accident statistics for 2014 showing a slight increase in fatal general aviation accidents, which increased from 222 in 2013 to 253 in 2014.

The overall number of general aviation accidents decreased slightly from 1,224 in 2013 to 1,221 in 2014. Despite reporting fewer accidents, the accident rate for general aviation aircraft increased from 6.26 per 100,000 flight hours in the previous year to 6.74 in 2014.

There were 28 accidents involving Part 121 operations (commercial air transport).

The number of accidents involving scheduled Part 135 (commuter) operations decreased from seven in 2013 to four in 2014.

“The On-demand Part 135 accident rate decreased from 1.30 per 100,000 flight hours in 2013 to 1.02 in 2014.”

On-demand Part 135 operations, which include charter, air taxi, air tour, and air medical flights, reported 35 accidents in 2014, down from 44 in 2013. The accident rate decreased from 1.30 per 100,000 flight hours in 2013 to 1.02 in 2014.

The 2014 statistical tables showing accidents, fatalities and accident rates for major segments of U.S. civil aviation can be found at: http://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/data/Pages/Accident-data-review.aspx

Beacon Launches Northeast in September, Partners with Charter Operator Dynamic Aviation

Update 8/7/15:

Beacon Flight ServiceMembership-based private flight service Beacon, announces they are launching service September 15, with unlimited access to its fleet for prices starting at $2,000 per month, with flights between Boston and New York, as well as seasonal trips to Nantucket and the Hamptons. Reservations, changes and cancellations can be made as little as 20 minutes before departure, the company says.  Surf Air, based in California, operates its own Pilatus PC-12 turboprops, but Beacon has partnered with charter operator Dynamic Aviation, based in Virginia.

Under its $400 million agreement, Beacon says, Dynamic will deliver 27 mid-sized executive aircraft over the next three years, and is contracted to maintain and operate the aircraft for Beacon over the next 10 years. Dynamic Aviation will provide commuter passenger services on an exclusive basis to Beacon. “We are excited to announce this partnership between Dynamic Aviation and Beacon,” said Wade Eyerly, Beacon’s CEO and co-founder.

Prior news post 2/11/15:
Former Surf Air CEO Wade Eyerly and his co-founders have started a very similar private flight operation called Beacon.  The new subscription service, Beacon passengers will pay $2000 per month for unlimited flights on a maximum 10-passenger aircraft.  Different from Surf Air, Beacon does not own or operate its own aircraft, instead it connects is members with certified air carriers.  Typical aircraft are similar to the Pilatus PC-12 and Beechcraft King Air 350i.  Cities served for the launch include New York(White Plains) and Boston, with seasonal service to Nantucket and the Hamptons.

story info courtesy Avweb by Mary Grady

Delta’s First Upgrade to Private Jet

A Cincinnati couple became the first people to receive the ultimate in Delta upgrades: from commercial airplane to a private jet.

Bruce and Jeanette Rogovin are Delta SkyMiles Medallion members and were originally booked on a Delta flight from the Cincinnati airport to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, until they received an email the night before their Friday flight offering an upgrade to a private plane.

Delta private jets charter fleet

First upgrade to private jet for Delta’s new program

The couple, who were traveling to Atlanta to visit their son, were upgraded to a Falcon 2000, a large cabin jet that seats up to 10 passengers. They even had their own flight attendant, who provided them with complimentary champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries and lunch during the flight.

The couple said they loved the roominess of the private jet.

“I would have to say that it was the most relaxing, enjoyable flight I’ve ever had,” Bruce Rogovin said. “From the lack of lines to the spacious, beautiful cabin, everything was truly enjoyable.”

Delta Private Jets President Erik Snell and David Sneed, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Delta Private Jets, were on hand in Cincinnati to greet the first passengers, and accompanied them on their flight.

upgrades to private jet with Delta Private Jets charter fleet

Ohio couple upgrades to private jet with Delta Private Jets charter fleet

The program is offered by Delta Vacations and allows Medallion status passengers traveling on select Delta commercial flights to upgrade their tickets to travel via Delta Private Jets. Customers are contacted via email and offered the upgrade for an additional fee, which includes transportation to and from the private airport and the main commercial terminal, and complimentary on-board catering.

“Delta Private Jets is proud to operate this innovative program offered by Delta Vacations and Delta Air Lines. As the only Part 135 operator (offering non-scheduled charter flights) in the United States owned by a major airline, we are uniquely able to operate such a program,” said Sneed.

“Delta Private Jets was the first private jet operator to offer the convenience of a Jet Card (see below) and continues to revolutionize the industry with new products such as offering Delta Air Lines Medallion customers elite access to private jet travel.”

Source: Delta Air Lines

New To Charter Learjet 45XR w/Wi-Fi Based Dayton, OH

Solairus Aviation jet charterCharter Operator Solairus Aviation has added new to charter, N117WH, a low time 2006 Learjet 45XR which is based at KDAY Dayton, Ohio and is currently available.

The aircraft features Wi-Fi on board, forward galley with microwave oven, cabin climate control, and seating for up to 8 passengers in the desirable Learjet 45 double-club configuration.

This is Solairus’ first Learjet 45 model for charter.  Solairus operates 37 aircraft for charter based throughout the U.S., 13 of which are available ONLY in FlightList PRO.

The full Solairus fleet is a diverse variety from the King Air B200 executive turboprop to the new Gulfstream G650 long range jet.

Learjet 45XR charter

Learjet 45XR N117WH with charter operator Solairus Aviation, based KDAY Dayton, OH

Allegiant Execs at Controls of Jet that Ran Low on Fuel

Flying Magazine
By Stephen Pope / Published: Aug 04, 2015

Photo: Eric Salard via Creative Commons

Photo: Eric Salard via Creative Commons

There are many more questions than answers surrounding an in-flight low fuel emergency involving an Allegiant Air MD-80 arriving in Fargo, North Dakota, last month, with fingers variously being pointed at the pilots, the airline’s management and the Fargo Tower controller.

The drama unfolded when Allegiant Air Flight 426 from Las Vegas to Fargo, being piloted by two of the airline’s executives, arrived with a load of passengers and minimum fuel. The Fargo airport was due to close 12 minutes before Flight 426’s scheduled arrival for a five-hour Blue Angels practice session, but the flight was delayed in Las Vegas for over an hour. For some reason the pilots decided to take off anyway.

The pilot told the tower that he didn’t have enough fuel to make it to his alternate airport, so he was forced to declare an emergency to clear airspace for a landing at Fargo’s Hector International Airport, according to a recording of the incident on LiveATC.net.

At one point, the Fargo Tower controller rebuked the pilots for their apparent ignorance of the airport closure. “Your company dispatch should have been aware of this for a number of months,” the controller said.

“We don’t have enough fuel to go anywhere else,” the pilot told the controller. “And our guys are trying to get in touch with the tower manager right now to coordinate our landing or I’m going to have to declare an emergency and come in and land.”

Fargo Tower gave the pilot a phone number to try, and then told him the airspace would be clear to land if he could wait another 20 minutes. Otherwise, they would have to try their luck with Minneapolis Center.

“Yeah, I don’t have 20 minutes,” the pilot said.

The tower then recommended another airport 70 miles to the north, the recording shows.

“Yeah, listen, we’re bingo fuel here in about probably three to four minutes and I got to come in and land,” the pilot said.

Minutes later the pilots declared an emergency with Minneapolis Center. They made a safe landing shortly after 1 p.m. after Blue Angels jets were cleared from the runway.

It will now be up to the FAA to try to determine why the pilots took off with minimum fuel headed for an airport they should have known was closed and, subsequently, why the controller in Fargo took an unhelpful and even apparently adversarial approach in handling the unfolding emergency.

Flying Magazine Online Article

Airnet Acquired by Kalitta Charters

Columbus Business First
By Evan Weese, August 4, 2015

Kalitta Charters Cargo Passenger AmbulanceYpsilanti, Michigan-based Kalitta Charters LLC has purchased operational assets of Columbus-based AirNet Systems Inc., a specialized cargo carrier that has struggled to overcome a plunge in demand for flying canceled bank checks over the past decade.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“We’re buying the people,” said Doug Kalitta, president of Kalitta Charters. “They’ve been in business for 40 years. They’ve scaled down and they really kept their best people.”

Kalitta provides air charter services for passenger, cargo, and medical transport.

AirNet operated under a court-appointed receiver since early 2014.  Founded in 1974, the company was publicly traded from 1996 through 2008, when it was taken private.

AirNet employed more than 1,000, many in Columbus, until its main source of business dried up when banks were authorized in 2004 to clear checks by sending digital images instead of physically transporting canceled checks.

“From the check side of things, obviously none of that exists anymore,” said Mark Simone, an executive with AirNet who spearheaded the sale of assets out of receivership.  “(Now) it’s radioactive pharmaceuticals, auto parts, getting parts to airplanes, organs for procurement.”

Kalitta Charters, which operates a fleet of 40 aircraft for flying passengers and cargo with quick response times, also was drawn to the company’s aircraft maintenance operations.  “That’s one of the things we’re real excited about,” Kalitta said.

Kalitta plans to begin hiring.  “We’re looking for definitely another dozen pilots,” Kalitta said.

Katlitta’s full fleet for passenger, cargo and ambulance is available ONLY in FlightList PRO.

AirNet’s full fleet for cargo charters is available ONLY in FlightList PRO.

Columbus Business First

Donald Trump’s Aircraft – Meet The Fleet

New York (CNN) Donald Trump is known for his larger-than-life personality, a trait visible from his fleet of aircraft: A large airliner sized plane, a corporate jet and two helicopters.

The largest is a Boeing 757-200 and emblazoned with “Trump” in golden letters and a huge red “T” on the four story tall tail.

Trump Boeing 757In a commercial configuration it could carry as many as 228 passengers if it were filled with economy seats, but there’s nothing “economy” about this plane.

Trump’s 757 is designed to carry 43 passengers secured with 24 caret gold plated seat belts, according to a video tour of the aircraft his company posted in 2011. It features a dining room, big screen TVs, a master and a guest bedroom and even a shower.

Trump’s plane was built in 1991 and one of his companies took ownership in 2010, according to FAA records.

The 757 replaced Trump’s older and more costly to fly 727 built in 1968 and originally flown by American Airlines.  It was sold to a charter company which now flies it in Asia.

Trump also owns a Cessna Citation X corporate jet.

Trump Citation X business jetPainted white the plane features the Trump family crest in gold near the passenger door, but unlike his larger plane does not prominently display Trump’s name.

The plane’s FAA registration number, N725DT, does include his initials and the address of New York’s Trump Tower (725 5th Ave).

Trump also owns two Sikorsky S-76B helicopters built in 1989 and 1992.

Trump Sikorsky S76Four aircraft is actually a major downsize for Trump who once owned an airline with a fleet of 17 planes.

The billionaire bought Eastern Airline’s shuttle service for $380 million dollars in 1989 and offered frequent flights between cities in the northeast, but soon faced financial difficulty.

The Trump fleet is based conveniently at New York airports, one of the country’s most popular regions for corporate and private charter aircraft.  The region contains hundreds of corporate jets and New York jet charters based across the metro area at four New York metro general aviation airports – Teterboro, White Plains/Westchester, Farmingdale and Islip.

sources:  New Flight Charters and http://www.cnn.com/2015/07/23/politics/donald-trump-airplane-details/

Operator Neptune Aviation Starts Scheduled Flights On Membership Basis

Neptune Aviation, a Part-135 charter operator based at KMSO Missoula, MT, has gained FAA approval to offer scheduled flights between Missoula and Billings.  Montana’s two largest cities will be connected by direct round-trip flights twice a week, starting in September.

The service will be a membership-based flight program with their King Air 100, and will depart Missoula every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:45 a.m. and get to Billings at 9 a.m., then depart Billings at 4:45 and arrive in Missoula at 6:15 p.m.

“Our current FAA 135 Charter Certificate limits the number of ‘scheduled’ flights we can offer each week,” explained Neptune CEO Ron Hooper. “When we launch flights to Billings in September, we will start with two round trips per week, with limited seating on each flight. Based on FAA rules, we have the option to offer two additional ‘scheduled’ flights per week, which we hope to add to the membership program later in the year.”

Kevin Condit, a spokesperson for Neptune, said that memberships for Neptune’s service to Billings will start at $750 per month and go up, depending on how many flights a customer wants.

King Air B100 Charter

Neptune Aviation’s King Air B100 in charter service and scheduled flights between Missoula and Billings.

“This is not a commercial airline-type situation where people are calling up and saying I need to go to Billings next month,” he explained. “This is really designed for people who travel to Billings frequently and need to go there and back on the same day.”

Neptune conducted community surveys with the help of the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce and the Missoula Economic Partnership to gauge the market for these flights.

“Basically, people said, ‘We need this as soon as you can,’ ” Condit said. “The folks at the Missoula Airport get calls saying, ‘Hey, I need to get to Billings, what’s the best option?’ This will connect the two largest cities in the state with really efficient air travel.”

When Big Sky Airlines of Billings went out of business in 2008, it left a big hole in the transportation options in the state, Condit noted.

“When you think about Missoula and Billings, there is not an easy way to get back an forth,” he explained. “You can either drive six hours or fly commercial through Seattle or Salt Lake or Denver, and that takes as much time as driving. There’s a real need.”

Charter Flight Service Montana

Ron Hooper, CEO of Neptune Aviation, describes the company’s plan for charter air service to Missoula Economic Partnership investors Wednesday morning

Hooper said that frequent travelers to Billings should act quickly to sign up for a Neptune membership.

“Our first round of memberships will be limited to 25 individuals and companies,” he said. “Based on the input of the Missoula community, memberships will sell out quickly.”

http://missoulian.com/business/local/neptune-aviation-to-offer-roundtrip-flights-from-missoula-to-billings/article_d0e67547-3e3c-50f8-8fe1-8be90e584cbc.html

Neptune Aviation also operates a Falcon 50 and Falcon 10 on their 135 certificate.  Operator and fleet details are available in FlightList PRO.

New Broker Offers Pay-As-You-Go Card And Consulting Services

Launched in May 2015, Horizon Air Charter rolls out what it calls the industry’s first monthly Flight Equity pay-as-you-go jet card program.

According to a company release, Horizon’s “flyNEXT” program allows retail clients pay a nominal monthly fee from which they accrue “Flight Equity” (usable flight hours), and pay for flight or consulting services as they require them.

Horizon’s “flyCORP” program allows corporate travel clients to earn unlimited cash back through their bookings much like a mileage-rewards or cash back credit card.

Horizon Air Charter CEO Luis Barros and Managing Partner Robert Rosenberg, both have histories at charter operator Starbase Aviation.  Beginning with a small but expert set of charter brokers, a marketing support team and a few dedicated investors, Barros says: “Horizon Air Charter is determined to become the varsity level purveyor of charter aviation for knowledgeable flyers.”

Air charter broker Horizon

Luis Barros, Horizon Air Charter CEO

Mr. Barros devoted his early career to true operational, first-hand working knowledge within the aircraft industry. He spent many years on the operational side of the industry before moving to sales, which is a unique trait among professionals on the brokerage side of the industry. It has provided him valuable insight that helps to set Horizon’s vision and service apart from almost all other private charter companies.

“I have built my foundation upon delivering the finest quality service by focusing on the operational aspect of air charter,” Luis Barros said. “Many other brokers focus on sales as their first priority but my goal has been to ensure that each and every trip runs smoothly and delivers the highest level of service and safety for every client.”

Rob Rosenberg began his aviation career after years helping build his family’s business, where he developed exceptional sales and management skills. Upon entering the private aviation industry Rosenberg quickly became one of the top charter sales executives in the central U.S. Rob and Luis met during Rob’s early years in private aviation and formed a partnership that is set to establish a new framework for the private charter industry.

“Every client deserves the utmost respect, quality, safety, and comfort with their private charter experience,” Rob Rosenberg says. “Understanding FAA safety standards, industry best practices, and general trip practicality is what sets Horizon apart and I’m proud to be part of this team.”

http://www.horizonaircharter.com

Cessna/Beechcraft Moving Forward With New Single-Engine Turboprop

Textron Aviation which owns Cessna and Beechcraft among others announced last week it is moving forward on a new single-engine turboprop which appears to be aimed squarely at the Pilatus PC-12 market.

The goal is to have a range of 1,500 NM and fly at 280 kts with the ability to operate out of rough fields according to the Textron spokesperson.  Before it’s acquisition by Textron, Beechcraft had plans in 2012 for a single-engine turboprop based on the composite Premier jet fuselage but ultimately did not have the funding at that time to pursue it.

Textron has resurrected those plans and is moving forward with a development team to bring it to market.  A spokesperson at EAA Airventure in Oshkosh, WI last week said they were planning to have something to show next year at this time.

Textron Beechcraft single engine turboprop

Beechcraft mock-up image of the proposed single-engine turboprop in 2012 based on the Premier jet fuselage.         Image courtesy of AOPA News

“As a pilot and aircraft owner, and also as someone involved in the air charter market, this is exciting,” remarked Rick Colson, founder and president of New Flight Charters, a large nationwide leader with a wealth of experience in the charter market over the past 12 years.  “The diminishing demand and market of piston twins is largely a result of the introduction and growth of more capable and reliable single-engine turboprops, albeit more costly as well.  With a family of 5+ for example, the step up from single and twin engine pistons is steep but also are the gains in reliability, comfort and safety, not to mention performance.”

These gains combined with attractive costs comparative to other turboprops and light jets provide for a popular private charter aircraft choice as well.

Textron’s Cessna track record of speedy new product development and launches, along with the Beechcraft legacy King Air line up and support, clear the skies for a successful new aircraft and perhaps a new category leader.

The Pilatus PC-12 has climbed in popularity over the past 10 years and has taken considerable share of, and expanded, the turboprop market as one of the most popular turbine powered business aircraft.  Having arguably the most reliable aircraft engine in the world in the Pratt & Whitney PT-6 lends confidence and supports the category-leading performance, capability and operating cost of the PC-12.

It was only a matter of time before a rival product joined the market.  And the Textron/Cessna/Beechcraft family is perfectly positioned.  Bring on the new addition, it’s exciting news on many fronts.

Source:  New Flight Charters