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Garmin Unveils Revolutionary Autoland Automatic Landing System, Available Soon

Garmin Autoland Automatic Landing

Garmin Autoland demonstration in a Piper M600 turboprop.

The future is here, and it is… amazing.

Under tight wraps for eight years, Garmin just announced its new Autoland function, which can take over and land an aircraft completely autonomously.

The system is designed to rescue an airplane with an incapacitated pilot or save a pilot when weather conditions present no other safe option. Autoland should soon receive its first FAA approval, with certification expected shortly in the Piper M600 turboprop, followed by the Cirrus Vision Jet.

Autoland is currently available to manufacturers equipping their airplanes with the Garmin G3000 avionics and autothrottle.

The Garmin Autoland system is part of Garmin’s Autonomi family of automation products, which includes Electronic Stability and Protection and Emergency Descent Mode. The Autoland system is designed to safely fly an airplane from cruising altitude to a suitable runway, then land the airplane, apply brakes, and stop the engine. Autoland can even switch on anti-/deicing systems if necessary.

Garmin’s stock price jumped 10% on October 30, the day of the announcement.

A demo flight, and Garmin Autoland landing, with the press.

Edward C. Baig of the USA Today took a demo flight in a new $2.75M Cirrus Vision Jet outfitted with the Garmin Autoland automatic landing function which Cirrus has aptly branded Safe Return.  He is not a pilot of any type, yet he landed the jet.  Well, actually the plane landed itself.  He merely pressed a single red button on the roof of the main cabin, and watched and listened to the digital copilot as it navigated, communicated, landed the jet, braked to stop, and shut down the engine.

From his article in USA Today:

Safe Return has to able to solve two main problems, the most obvious of which is to return everyone to the ground safely.  It must also do so without disrupting the flight patterns or risking the safety of all the other planes in nearby airspace.

“When you automatically turn that plane into an autonomous vehicle, the plane starts acting as if the pilot were still doing things,” says Ben Kowalski, senior vice president for sales and marketing at Cirrus Aircraft.

Garmin Autoland in Cirrus Vision Jet

Garmin Autoland in the Cirrus Vision Jet is branded as Safe Return and expected to be available for 2020 deliveries.

The plane has databases of the terrain and possible obstacles (like mountains and cell towers).  It gets real-time weather and wind information. And it knows the weight, how much fuel remains, and all the nearby airports where an emergency landing is possible, including the lengths of all runways.

After determining the proper path based on all these considerations, the system uses text-to-speech software to broadcast its whereabouts to air traffic control.

Kowalski says it goes something like this: “Aircraft 149 Victor Bravo, we have an emergency onboard. The pilot is incapacitated. I’m 15 miles north of White Plains, and I’m going to land at JFK on runway 27.”

Garmin Autoland in the Piper M600 turboprop

Garmin Autoland in the Piper M600 turboprop is branded Halo and expected to be available for 2020 deliveries.

There’s no particular challenge to push the button – it’s easily reached by an adult in the cabin. (The plane seats five adults and two children.) But you can only assume that panic will set in during a real crisis in which the pilot has a heart attack, seizure or something else goes wrong.

The system tries its best to calm everyone down by mimicking what, well, a pilot might say: “Safe Return activated, landing in 13 minutes.” A moment later, “Safe Return activated, landing in 12 minutes.” And so on.

His article was published in the USA Today on October 30.

With a touch of a button, a passenger can land the airplane.  That is groundbreaking, and very different than what the world has known before.

Soon, an automatic landing function will be available for new versions of two GA turbine aircraft, enabling an autonomous critical sector of a flight, and is just the beginning.

What will tomorrow bring?  We have a glimpse, and it is… amazing.


Contributor:  Rick Colson, a business aviation entrepreneur, industry consultant, pilot, and family man. @rickcolson | LinkedIn | Instagram

A video by AVweb/Aviation Consumer:  Demo flight and landing the Piper M600 turboprop autonomously with Garmin Autoland.

Sources:  USA Today, Aviation International News, The Aviation Consumer

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line. 

Announcing Four Heavy/Ultra Long Range Jets Now Available for Charter in the U.S. and Europe

The FlightList PRO platform includes all 7,598 charter aircraft from 1,633 operators in the U.S., including 435 floating fleet aircraft search, and 16,631 aircraft from 3,419 operators worldwide.  Free trials are available.  More about FlightLIst PRO.

Announcing four heavy and ultra long range jet additions to charter availability in the U.S. and Europe.

Legacy 600

Legacy 600 charter now available based Chicago.

Legacy 600 charter now available based Chicago.

The only Embraer Legacy jet for charter within 250 miles of Chicago.  From ARGUS Gold rated operator Planemasters Jet Charter and based out of KDPA DuPage Airport:

  • Cabin Attendant available upon request
  • 12 passengers plus cabin attendant seat
  • ARGUS Gold
  • 6.5 hours nonstop range

Gulfstream G500

Gulfstream G500 for charter based in Florida.

Gulfstream G500 for charter based in Florida.

Based out of KOPF Miami Executive Airport, this new addition to Florida has a G550 cabin and a G500 range.  Operated by Presidential Aviation.

  • 18 passenger cabin
  • 2006 DOM refurbished 2016
  • ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman

Gulfstream V

Gulfstream V long range jet now for charter.

Gulfstream V long range jet now for charter.

Refurbished in 2018 this 12-passenger long range ship is based out of KAPF Naples, FL and is operated by Clay Lacy Aviation.

  • 12 passenger cabin
  • 1997 DOM refurbished inside & out 2018
  • ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman, IS-BAO Registered

Falcon 8X

Falcon 8X now for charter

Falcon 8X now for charter operated by Execujet UK Ltd.

Based out of EGGW London-Luton Airport and new to charter, this flagship of the Dassault Falcon family is operated by ExecuJet UK Ltd.

  • 14 passenger cabin
  • 2016 date of manufacture
  • IS-BAO Registered, Wyvern Registered

The FlightList PRO platform includes all 7,598 charter aircraft from 1,633 operators in the U.S., including 435 floating fleet aircraft search, and 16,631 aircraft from 3,419 operators worldwide.  Free trials are available.  More about FlightLIst PRO.


Sources:  Charter operator fleet updates

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line. 

Announcing New to Charter in the U.S.; Challenger 650, Legacy 600, Challenger 350 and others

Announcing heavy, super-midsize and light jets new to charter in Florida, the Northeast and the West.  Popular charter aircraft models in popular locations from operators Jet Edge, Elite Air, Latitude 33 and Custom Jet Charters, they have added the following jets to their charter certificates and are currently available.  The below new additions all are ARGUS-rated Gold or Platinum.

All are available through the FlightList PRO sourcing platform, which includes all 16,631 aircraft and 3,419 charter operators, the world’s largest.

Legacy 600, based TEB Teterboro, NJ

  • Operated by Jet Edge
  • ARGUS Platinum
  • Wyvern Wingman
  • 4G Wi-Fi complimentary
  • 2015 Interior
New to charter, Legacy 600 based KTEB operated by Jet Edge

New to charter, Legacy 600 based KTEB operated by Jet Edge


  • Challenger 650, based ORL Orlando, FL

    • Operated by Elite Air
    • 11 passenger
    • ARGUS Platinum
    • Wi-Fi complimentary
    • 2018 Aircraft
New to charter, 2018 Challenger 650 based KORL Orlando, FL operated by Elite Air

New to charter, 2018 Challenger 650 based KORL Orlando, FL operated by Elite Air


Challenger 350, based SNA Santa Ana, CA

  • Operated by Latitude 33
  • ARGUS Platinum
  • Wi-Fi complimentary
  • 2018 Aircraft
    New to charter, 2018 Challenger 350 based KSNA Santa Ana, CA operated by Latitude 33.

    New to charter, 2018 Challenger 350 based KSNA Santa Ana, CA operated by Latitude 33.


    Legacy 600, based BDL Windsor Locks, CT

    • Operated by Latitude 33
    • ARGUS Gold
    • 13 passengers
    • 2004 aircraft, 2014 interior
New to charter, Legacy 600 based KBDL Windsor Locks, CT operated by Custom Jet Charters.

New to charter, Legacy 600 based KBDL Windsor Locks, CT operated by Custom Jet Charters.


  • Nextant 400XTI, based PIE Clearwater, FL

    • Operated by Elite Air
    • ARGUS Gold

  • Hawker 400XP, based PIE Clearwater, FL

      • Operated by Elite Air
      • ARGUS Gold

    Sources:  Charter operator announcements

    Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

    Leading air charter brokers and travel professionals use FlightList PRO’s full-market resources, economical rates and marketing opportunities to grow their service level, their business and their bottom line. 

Five Air Charter Brokers and Operators Named to 2018 Inc. 5000

Each year Inc. Magazine names the fastest-growing privately held small companies in the U.S., called the “Inc. 5000”.  The companies are ranked by overall revenue growth over the prior three-year period.  All 5,000 honoree companies are individually profiled on Inc.com.

Inc. also ranks the companies into sub-categories by industry, state, metro, city and others.

Five private air charter operator and broker companies were named to the 2018 Inc. 5000.  The below information is from the Inc. 5000, and shown in order of ranking, 3-year growth rate:

Luxury Aircraft Solutions
(charter broker) Provides private jet charter services, specializing in challenging itineraries at the industry’s lowest pricing.

  • 2018 Rank #2143
  • Leadership: Daniel Hirschhorn
  • 2017 Revenue $6.1M
  • 3-Year Growth 207%
  • Founded 2011 Employees 6

Premier Private Jets 
(charter operator) Specializes in chartered private aircraft, aircraft management, and pilot training.

  • 2018 Rank #2262
  • Leadership: Josh Birmingham
  • 2017 Revenue $6.3M
  • 3-Year Growth 195%
  • Founded 2003 Employees 20
  • A two-time Inc. 5000 honoree, 2017 – 2018

Paramount Business Jets
(charter broker) Offers private flights to and from any city in the world with as little as four hours of notice.

  • 2018 Rank #2550
  • Leadership: Richard Zaher
  • 2017 Revenue $15.4M
  • 3-Year Growth 168%
  • Founded 2005 Employees 20
  • A three-time Inc. 5000 honoree, 2013, 2014, 2018

Private Jets
(charter operator) Provides customer service worldwide in the aircraft charter industry. Serves as an aircraft charter operator for individuals as well as businesses nationwide.

  • 2018 Rank #2776
  • Leadership: Happy Wells
  • 2017 Revenue $17.4M
  • 3-Year Growth 149%
  • Founded 1987 Employees 50

Magellan Jets
(charter broker) Provides national and international charter jet flights. Offers private jet membership programs and other services for those who require a private jet when they are traveling. One of its perks is the low 10-hour notice that is required before a flight is booked.

  • 2018 Rank #3737
  • Leadership: Joshua Hebert
  • 2017 Revenue $38M
  • 3-Year Growth 98%
  • Founded 2008 Employees 35
  • A six-time Inc. 5000 honoree, 2013 – 2018

Sources:  Inc. 5000, Inc.com

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.  Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Gulfstreams V and IV-SP New to Charter, Prime Jet Fleet Grows to 12

U.S. charter operator Prime Jet has announced two Gulfstream additions to its charter fleet; a 14-passenger Gulfstream IV-SP newly available based at SDL Scottsdale, AZ, and a 16-passenger Gulfstream V available beginning this summer and based from PBI West Palm Beach, FL, according to the operator.

The pictured Gulfstreams join Prime Jet’s charter fleet which now grows to 12 aircraft- all Gulfstream jets, based across the U.S. and internationally.  The operator floats 8 of them with one-way pricing, and are included in FlightLIst PRO’s Floating Fleets section.

Large cabin jet charters are on the rise, and the category leads the increase in charter flying last month.  Large cabin jet charters were up a significant 15.1% year-over-year in March, despite a 20.4% decline in fractional ownership large cabin jet flying, according to data released by ARGUS.  Part 135 charter flying increased 7.7% overall for March year-over-year.

Charter Gufstream IV-SP based SDL Scottsdale AZ and operated by Prime Jet

Charter Gulfstream IV-SP based SDL Scottsdale AZ and operated by Prime Jet

According to the operator, features of the new GIV-SP include:

PHOTO, Gulfstream IV-SP cabin, new to charter and based at SDL Scottsdale AZ with operator Prime Jet

Gulfstream IV-SP cabin, new to charter and based at SDL Scottsdale AZ with operator Prime Jet

  • 14 Passenger Configuration
    • Berths 5-6
  • 2018 Full Interior Refurb 
  • Free Domestic Wi-Fi 
  • Soft Divided Cabin
  • Entertainment System
  • Full Service Aft Galley
  • Wyvern Wingman | AR/GUS Platinum
  • Charter Friendly
PHOTO Gulfstream V new to charter with operator Prime Jet

Gulfstream V new to charter with operator Prime Jet

PHOTO 16-passenger Gulfstream V cabin, new to charter with operator Prime Jet.

16-passenger Gulfstream V cabin, new to charter with operator Prime Jet.

According to the operator, features of the new G-V include:

  • 2018 Full Refurbishment
  • 16 Passenger Configuration
  • Wi-Fi Equipped
    • Free Domestic (GoGo Inflight)
  • Entertainment System
  • Full Service Galley
  • Separate Crew Rest Area
  • Charter Friendly

The Gulfstream V and IV-SP with Prime Jet carry ratings of ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman and ISBAO-registered.  FlightList PRO is the only charter platform that includes operator’s safety ratings from all four organizations; ARGUS, Wyvern, ISBAO and ACSF.


Source:  Company announcements

FlightList PRO, at $90 for 3 users no contract, is a favorite of the most experienced charter brokers and travel professionals; 80% of FlightList PRO users have been arranging charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.  Free trials available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

2017 Results and 2018 Projections from 15 Air Charter Companies

Jet Charter Fleet

Photo courtesy New Flight Charters

Air charter activity is up worldwide according to data and anecdotal reports.  US and global economies are favorable and consumer sentiment is improving.  Recent US tax law changes are providing incentive and resources for business growth in the US and helping fuel the upward trend of business aviation for 2018.

We will let the industry speak for itself; from 15 air charter companies, organizations and individuals- compiled here are their own results, projections and commentary on business now and looking forward.

Jason Middleton, CEO, Silver Air

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “For us at Silver Air, the outlook for 2018 is great in pretty much all areas.  We are seeing aircraft sales go up, aircraft charter volume is going up, and charter clients are stepping up in the size of aircraft as well. We are seeing a particularly strong upswing in the Super Mid category. Aircraft like the Citation X and Challenger 300 are in high demand for charter.

PrivateFly

From company website and several online articles:  (PrivateFly acquired US broker Bird Dog Jet in 2017)  “PrivateFly has grown over 50% again in 2017, and we are looking to continue that growth path in 2018, in large part by U.S. expansion. We’ve grown both top line revenue and bottom line EBITDA as a profitable online platform in the digital space proving true viability. After opening our first US office in 2016, we’ve expanded our team with the recent takeover of Bird Dog Jet and received several new awards and accolades. These steps are just the beginning of our American growth, and we have big plans for 2018.”

Jamie Walker, President & CEO, Jet Linx Aviation

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “Our Jet Card business is growing at a strong and steady pace as more individuals realize the need for private aviation both in their business and leisure travel. Our average growth rate over the past five years has been 30% or more for both revenue and flight hours. I expect that business growth and utilization will continue to grow at 30% or more in 2018.

Overall, we’re seeing tremendous opportunities for growth in 2018 and beyond and are looking to expand to new markets on the east and west coasts, including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Salt Lake City and San Jose.”

New Flight Charters

Leading charter brokerage New Flight Charters announced in a national release about current jet charter trends and results: 12.5% increase in charter business overall lead by growth in midsize, super-midsize and heavy jets (+16%), and also turboprops (+18%) in that growing charter market segment.  International charters increased by 40% in 2017, led by flights to the Caribbean and Mexico.  Drivers to the growth included improved pricing options with floating fleets, personnel/service level, and increased repeat clients.  January 2018, it reports, continued the same trends.  The company offers the industry’s only “best price guarantee” for jet charter pricing and quotes.

Sergey Petrossov, CEO, JetSmarter

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “Business is great. We grew over 100% in 2017 for revenue and over 150% in passengers flown. We expect to double again in size in 2018. For the market, we believe the sharing economy will consume private aviation all the way from aircraft ownership to single seat bookings, and consumers will use multiple biz jet solutions for their travel needs.”

Monarch Air Group

Monarch Air Group, an aircraft management company, charter operator and charter broker based in Texas and Florida, published predictions for 2018.

  1. New clients will experience flying private
  2. Charters will lead the business aviation growth
  3. Bitcoin as a payment method will be a must
  4. Diversification as the key to withstanding shaky economies
  5. Consolidation of the very light jet segment

ARGUS

ARGUS through AIN Online 2/5/18:
For the first quarter, Argus predicts a 5 percent jump in year-over-year business aircraft traffic. January will lead the gains with a 5.4 percent increase, with February and March up 4.8 percent and 4.9 percent, respectively. Overall, business aircraft flights in the first quarter are expected to number 759,169.

Business aviation flights in the U.S. and Canada topped 3 million last year, reaching that mark for the first time since 2008, according to a 2017 Business Aircraft Activity Review released by Argus International. The 30-page review, which details Argus TraqPak flight activity data in 2017, reports that business aviation flights increased 3.9 percent overall and flight hours jumped 5.5 percent over 2016.

Year-over-year gains were posted in every month of 2017, Argus said, adding that the improvements were fairly consistent throughout the year. Activity in the first half of 2017 was up 3.9 percent over the same period in 2016, while activity in the second half of 2017 was up 3.8 percent.

Part 135 operations enjoyed the greatest gains, rising 9.2 percent last year. This improvement was driven by Part 135 large-cabin jet operations, which led all increases in 2017 with a 14.9 percent jump. Fractional flights ended the year up 4.7 percent, while Part 91 flights inched up 0.1 percent in 2017. Increased Part 91 large-cabin and midsize jet flights—up 2.9 percent and 1.2 percent, respectively—offset a slide in Part 91 light jet flights, down 0.7 percent, and turboprop flights, down 1.3 percent.

Joe Moeggenberg, CEO, ARGUS

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “For the first time since 2008, flight activity reached over three million flights in 2017, an upward trend we expect to see into 2018 as our TRAQPak analysis forecasted flight activity for Q1 in 2018 to increase 5% year over year. In 2017, Part 135 activity saw the largest year over year operation category increase of over 9% and large cabin aircraft saw the largest year over year increase across the industry, up almost 15%.

Steve Orfali, CEO, Jetset Group Inc. and Wholesale Jet Club

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “We believe 2018 will be another very strong year for our companies. Jetset Group saw a 30% increase in business in 2017, and we project about the same in 2018. The economy continues to flourish, and we are seeing more and more people shift to private jet travel as a result of it. I believe we will see some rising fuel prices in 2018, which could bring up the pricing on charters, but that’s why many people opt for our jet cards. They have guaranteed rates with no fuel surcharges.”

Stratos Jet Charter

Charter broker Stratos Jet Charter is calling for growth in charter, 5 trends for 2018:

  1. New aircraft models hitting the market in 2018
  2. Busy weekends for air traffic
  3. More air travelers become jet card program members
  4. Continued growth in charter market

Gary Hammes, President, Delta Private Jets

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “Business is strong, and with current economic conditions and stock market patterns we are anticipating another record year in 2018. We continue to see strong demand for our product, especially in the corporate space.  We expect to grow our charter business 15-20% and we expect a 20% increase in Jet Card sales. As 2018 progresses, we will continue to expand our fleet by about 15 aircraft to meet growth targets and demand. We are developing an enhanced jet card product, and we recently launched our Sky Access membership program which offers access to empty legs and fixed hourly rate private jet travel.”

ACI jets

ACI Jet is an FBO, aircraft manager and charter operator based in Southern California with a charter fleet of 11 midsize through ultra long range jets.

From article in Paso Magazine:  “Known for its work as a Fixed Base Operator (FBO), ACI Jet has locations at airports in Orange County, Oceano, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles, but the company began when Bill Borgsmiller fueled his Piper Seneca III as the company’s first charter aircraft in 1998.

ACI Jet now employs 190 people, operates a fleet of private jet aircraft, and celebrates a banner year in 2017 with a 20-year anniversary and more growth in 2018.

“In this last year, one of the most exciting things is a new location in Orange County,” Borgsmiller said. “We are adding new aircraft to the fleet. There is big growth.”

In concert with the expansion at the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, ACI Jet is building a 35,000-square-foot office complex, and an adjacent 25,000-square-foot hangar as its corporate headquarters on the grounds.”

Andrew Collins, CEO, Sentient Jet and Skyjet

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “We had an incredibly strong year at both Sentient Jet and Skyjet. Each brand saw growth in many of our key-performance measurements. We moved into new headquarters, launched new products, and pushed our brand and partnership visibility up a few notches.

I feel relatively bullish on 2018 within the major client markets that we serve, especially those in the financial sector. We’re projecting significant growth at both brands and seek to continue to push into new product categories and client segments.

Lastly, it feels like a number of upstarts that pursued significant growth models will continue to have industry visibility. However, unlike perhaps the past few years, they will have to mature their models to meet investor requests and demands and provide real insight into how they will scale and how they plan on truly impacting the private aviation buying segment.”

Greg Raiff, CEO, Private Jet Services (PJS) Group

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “Our corporate and leisure business was up year over year more than 100% when we compare 2016 to 2017. We expect that dynamic growth to continue in 2018, as the geometric increase in the number of private flyers globally, and the price efficiency of our solution gains broad recognition.”

Kenny Dichter, Founder and CEO, Wheels Up

From January 18 Forbes.com:  “Wheels Up is celebrating its 5th anniversary in 2018. We expect another banner year and to exit with 6,000 active members and a $400 million run rate with over 100 aircraft. We took delivery of our first three Citation Xs so we are now a three airplane type fleet. Wheels Up is revenue growing at over 35% per year, and we expect that kind of growth rate moving forward.”

 


Sources:  company announcements, press releases, articles, online media

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Long Range Falcon 7X Newly Available For Charter, Only 7X in California

Newly available Falcon 7X long range jet available for charter from Southern California, operated by CI Jets.

Newly available Falcon 7X long range jet available for charter from Southern California, operated by CI Jets.

Now available, the only Falcon 7X from California, and one of just 9 for charter in the United States, CI Jets has announced their recent addition.

The charter operator, headquartered in Southern California at KCMA-Camarillo Airport, has added the 2008 long range 13-passenger Falcon 7X to their Part-135 certificate and it is currently taking charter bookings.

The Dassault Falcon 7X is currently the flagship business jet for Dassault.  The 7X is a large-cabin, 5,950 NM range business jet, the largest of its Dassault Falcon line in current production. The model’s first flight was in 2005 and it entered service in 2007.  It is the first fully fly-by-wire business jet.  The cabin is 8 feet longer than the Falcon 900, seats 13 passengers and is capable of converting to sleeping accommodations for 6.

Cabin interior of the Falcon 7X newly available for charter from Southern California.

Cabin interior of the Falcon 7X newly available for charter from Southern California.

Updated cockpit and avionics of Falcon 7X available for charter.

Updated cockpit and avionics of Falcon 7X available for charter.

 

 

 

 

 

 

All 9 Falcon 7X for charter are automatically included in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform, the only source with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide, automatically.

Features of this newly available Falcon 7X:

  • Refurbished 2015
  • Forward Galley
  • Seats 13 Passengers
  • Sleeps up to 6 Passengers
  • Free Domestic WiFi
  • International WiFi
  • GoGo Vision Entertainment Service
  • Cabin Host
  • Argus/Wyvern Crew

CI Jets has acquired the ARGUS Gold rating and has been in recent growth mode adding aircraft, and now offers three light jets for charter in addition to the large Falcon.


Source:  company announcement

FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

 

Charter Operator Prime Jet gets Safety Audit Trifecta

Prime Jet CharterU.S. charter operator Prime Jet, announced today the completion of all three leading safety audits and registries in one week, according to a release from the operator.

Prime Jet successfully renewed the Wyvern Wingman and ARG/US Platinum ratings and completed an ISBAO Stage II upgrade.  Prime Jet has maintained the Wyvern Wingman rating since 2006 and the ARG/US Platinum rating since 2009.  As a result of this audit Prime Jet upgraded from an ISBAO Stage I operator to a Stage II operator.

ISBAO is an International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations is an industry code of best practices, developed by the international business aviation community for the benefit its members.  Recognition for implementation of and conformance to the standards is available via an auditing process that results in an International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) certificate of registration.

All 4 industry safety ratings and registries are included ONLY in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform along with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 operators worldwide.

CEO Cheryl Janke States “We have an incredible team of pilots and cabin hostess operating at a high level of safety and professionalism backed by the pre and post flight analysis procedures of our Safety Management System.”

Prime Jet is a privately held, Part 135 operator of exclusively Gulfstream aircraft, in business since 2001.

The company offers management models from part 91 to fully dedicated charter aircraft. With a fleet size of 15 aircraft Prime Jet maintains a boutique operation, allowing each client access to senior management.


Source:  company announcement

All four main industry safety program ratings and registries are included by operator ONLY in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform, which includes all worldwide 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Charter Floating Fleet Operator flyExclusive Plans Rapid Growth

After Delta acquisition, aviation entrepreneur charts growth with new airline

Seven years after selling his private jet service to Delta Air Lines, aviation entrepreneur Jim Segrave is “getting the band back together” in Kinston.

His new charter company, LGM Enterprises, is doing business as flyExclusive at Global Transpark. And it involves many of the same employees that helped him build Segrave Aviation, purchased by Delta subsidiary Delta AirElite in 2010 for an undisclosed sum.

This time, however, Segrave is doing things a bit differently. “We own all our own planes, for one,” he says.

To cover the costs, LGM has closed on $315,000 in debt capital, part of an offering capped at $2.5 million, according to a securities filing disclosed May 3rd.

flyExclusive and its 20-aircraft fleet are included in the Floating Fleets section of FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all 232 floating fleet aircraft and 14 operators.  Get your free 30-day trial here.

The 2-year-old firm already has a fleet of more than 20 airplanes, according to Segrave. He says flyExclusive adds a plane every two to three weeks.

While the first company had 17 different types of jets in its fleet, the new firm has just two. He says standardization means all of his pilots can fly all of his planes – giving him scheduling flexibility.

Editor note: The fleet currently includes 7 Citation CJ2 light jets, and 13 Citation Excel/XLS aircraft, all model year 2000-2008.  flyExclusive was recently highlighted in a previous charter alert as now being approved for the ARGUS Platinum rating.

Segrave says the business model is working. FlyExclusive targets high net-worth individuals, business executives and families. Already, the company averages about 1,500 hours per month in the air, with about a $60 million annual run rate, he adds. The goal is to increase the fleet to 50 airplanes “as fast as I can do it,” he explains. “It will probably take me two years.”

The firm has 110 employees.

Article in Triangle Business Journal here


Previous Charter Alert about flyExclusive, 7/14/17


Sources:  Article in Triangle Business Journal, public information

All 20 flyExclusive charter aircraft are available in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

VistaJet Launches Membership for Empty-leg Flights

VistaJet officially launched VistaJet Direct, its new digital membership offering priority access to one-way and empty-leg flights at preferential rates.

For a $10,000 annual fee, VistaJet Direct members can request bookings on all available VistaJet aircraft before they are offered to the charter market, according to a release from the company.

Bookings via the VistaJet Direct smartphone app are guaranteed and come with all of the company’s typical services. Through the app’s geo-location feature, members can receive a push notification when a flight near them or from their favorite cities is available.

According to VistaJet, the app offers real-time fixed pricing and the entire booking process can be completed “in minutes.” Members can also request flights through the app, as well as order catering and arrange other ground services.

VistaJet released this statement from company Chairman and Founder, Thomas Flohr:

“This launch is all about giving our customers, and all business travelers, as much flexibility and choice as possible. With the addition of VistaJet Direct, flying with us is easier than ever.  We’re always looking for new opportunities to make travel as memorable as possible, and make our customers’ flight an experience they will never forget. VistaJet Direct is the fastest and most convenient way to fly VistaJet. Customers can now book a flight and access the full array of our services no matter where in the world they are, at a time that suits them.”

Source:  Company press release


Past Charter Alerts about VistaJet:

VistaJet US Flight and Pax Traffic Grows Triple Digits, Worldwide Double Digits

VistaJet Adds Jet Charter Service in China


The FlightList PRO multi-search platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of those using FlightList PRO have been arranging charters more than 10 years, and a full 1/4 – more than 20 years.  Currently 30-day free trials are available.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

New Long Range Intl Jet Charter Operator W/Fleet G650s, Global 6000s, Falcon 7X

Enter Phenix Jet International, LLC, and it’s charter fleet of – currently 5 – long range jets.  With ARGUS Platinum and Wyvern Wingman ratings backing up it’s intercontinental aircraft capabilities.

  • 2014 Gulfstream 650ER
  • 2011 Gulfstream G650
  • 2012 Global 6000
  • 2011 Global 6000
  • 2014 Falcon 7X

Editor’s note: Along with many other U.S. operators, Phenix Jet International aircraft are available only in the FlightList PRO platform, with all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  $90/mo., free trials here.

U.S.-registered and operated, the long range jets are based between Tokyo, Japan and Kong Kong, positioned for Asian transport as well as U.S./Asia nonstop luxury transports.

Asian based aircraft with U.S. operators, and holding ARGUS and Wyvern ratings are a rare availability in the far East.  Just 10 other operators out of 51 with aircraft in China, Hong Kong or Japan hold ARGUS or Wyvern ratings.  4 of the 10 are U.S. operators Avjet Corporation, Executive Jet Management, Jet Aviation and Zetta Jet.  Source- FlightList PRO


By TAMIYUKI KIHARA/ Staff Writer, The Asahi Shimbun Aug. 5, 2017

Charter Gulfstream G650 jet operated by Phenix Jet. Photo: Sojitz Corp.

Gulfstream G650 jet operated by Phenix Jet.  Photo: Sojitz Corp.

Major trading house Sojitz Corp. has set up a company to operate jet planes for wealthy individuals and corporate customers outside Japan in the rest of Asia.

Sojitz set up the subsidiary firm Phenix Jet International LLC in the United States, and has opened an office in Hong Kong, with the aim of offering “business jets” that can accommodate between four and 20 passengers.

The company is hoping to tap into demand for similar aircraft, which is expected to grow among wealthy people in China and Southeast Asia.

In operating the business, Sojitz will keep the jet planes on behalf of their owners and undertake centralized management of their maintenance, arrangement of pilots and operation of flights.

The company has already invested several hundred million yen (several million dollars) in the firm, which will be operated under the “Phenix Jet” brand.

Sojitz is not new to the business sector. It has been operating business jets, mostly in Japan, since 2003, and currently has about 10 jet planes available for the business.

The operation of business jets is flourishing in Western countries. Japan Airlines Co. began operating similar aircraft in France in May.

Demand for the mode of transport is also rising in Asia, partly because they allow efficient mobility in areas that are not served by regular flights. Sojitz expects there will be new demand for 1,000 more business jets in Asia alone over the next 10 years.

Source:  Public news article / The Asahi Shimbun / company materials


Phenix Jet charter aircraft are available only in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

How To Make Money With Airplanes- Management, Jet Cards, Charter: Operator Jet Linx Reaches 100 Aircraft at 14 Bases, 38 Added in 2016

Jet management company and charter operator Jet Linx reaches 100-aircraft milestone

Jet Linx charter operator management company

“A hundred airplanes is a phenomenal benchmark,” said Jet Linx President and CEO Jamie Walker. Photo: Matt Miller/The World-Herald

The trick to making money with airplanes is to not own them.

Jet Linx learned that lesson four years after the Omaha company started in 1999, giving up ownership of its jets and shifting to aircraft management and a private jet travel card service.

Now, Jet Linx is celebrating its 100th managed jet — actually, the fleet stands at 101 today — and ranks No. 3 in the highly fragmented industry of managing and renting out expensive air vehicles as a service to their owners.

“A hundred airplanes is a phenomenal benchmark,” said Jet Linx President and CEO Jamie Walker.

He hosted about 400 clients, staff members, vendors and others for supper at downtown Omaha’s Blatt Beer & Table restaurant, followed by a private concert by the band Smash Mouth at Slowdown.

No. 1 in managed fleet size is Executive Jet Management, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway’s NetJets. No. 2 is Gama Aviation, based in Hampshire, England.

Jet Linx added 38 aircraft last year and is headed for 110 by the end of 2017. Walker attributed that growth, about 30 percent a year in revenue, to the people running its network of 14 local private airport terminals, alongside the 95-member staff at its operational headquarters in Omaha.

From pilots to airplane polishers, Jet Linx has 485 employees.

Members of the Jet Linx local Omaha FBO team, with their Hawker 800XP midsize jet and crew.  Photo: Jet Linx

Joe Moeggenberg, president and CEO of air travel data company ARGUS International of Cincinnati, said Jet Linx’s local network is a unique structure in private jet management, an industry with 2,300 businesses, nearly all of them tiny, that manage private jet airplanes.

Jet Linx — an ARGUS customer — has a cost advantage because most of its flights start or end at its network cities, Moeggenberg said, meaning fewer expensive empty-cabin flights.

Aside from a few jets managed exclusively for their owners, Jet Linx’s card customers can book any of the airplanes made available at the owners’ discretion.

Jet Linx handles fueling, maintenance, safety checks, hangar storage and other services, including employing pilots, as well as scheduling and tracking flights for Jet Linx’s card members, more than 200 in Omaha and 1,300 total.

All 79 Jet Linx charter aircraft nationwide are included in FlightList PRO‘s multi-search platform along with all all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  Free 30-day trials available here.

Card members are guaranteed hourly rates — $3,500 to $8,500, depending on the size of the plane — as well as flight access and safety standards, Walker said. Their travel fees cover Jet Linx’s costs and supply revenue for the aircraft owners, often cutting net operating costs by 50 percent.

But no matter how well you manage costs, Walker said, there’s an industry truism: “You cannot make money owning an airplane.”

Besides operating expenses, aircraft prices are high, especially for long-range aircraft.

Jet Linx’s fleet includes seven-passenger Beechjet 400s that can travel 1,400 miles on a tank of fuel, often priced around $700,000, and 14-passenger, $20 million-plus Gulfstream 450s with a 5,000-mile range.

Walker said some businesses would end their company flight operations if they had to absorb all the costs. By bringing in revenue from travel card customers they can keep the convenience and time savings that jets offer.

Besides Omaha, Jet Linx’s local offices are in Atlanta; Dallas; Denver; Detroit; Forth Worth, Texas; Houston; Indianapolis; Nashville, Tennessee; St. Louis; San Antonio; Scottsdale, Arizona; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Dulles Airport in Washington, D.C.

Jet Linx is majority owner of each location, with a local partner as minority owner.

“We need somebody locally who gives us that credibility and trust and support in that community,” Walker said, plus contacts to recruit as travel card members.

Besides reduced “dead-head” flight costs, he said, the terminals provide local-style, personalized service for card members and aircraft owners. The local Jet Linx partner typically becomes “the jet guy” in each city, he said.

Later this year Jet Linx’s local offices will celebrate the 100-aircraft landmark. Jet Linx was founded by Denny Walker, Jamie’s father and now chairman. He is former head of MemberWorks Inc., an Omaha-based card membership company. Jamie Walker said Jet Linx has room to grow, with plans to open about two locations a year. He said another dozen or so U.S. cities meet Jet Linx’s requirements for airport services and other standards.

The Omaha World-Herald is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Inc.

By: , 6/26/17.  Article in the Omaha World-Herald here.


All 79 Jet Linx charter aircraft are available in the FlightList PRO multi-search platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of users have arranged charters more than 10 years, 25% more than 20 years.

Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

Announcing New To Charter – Hawker, Gulfstream & Challenger Jets for New York, Florida and Las Vegas

Announcing midsize and heavy jets new to charter in New York, Florida and Las Vegas.  Popular charter aircraft models in popular locations – operators Voyager Jet Center, Prime Jet and Air Fuga have added the following jets to their charter certificates and are currently available.  The below new additions all have complimentary Wi-Fi, recent refurbishments and are ARGUS-rated Gold or Platinum.

All are available through the FlightList PRO sourcing platform, which includes all 16,631 aircraft and 3,419 charter operators, the world’s largest.

Hawker 800XP, Based KTEB

  • Operated by Voyager Jet Center
  • ARGUS Platinum
  • Wi-Fi complimentary
  • Updated paint and cabin interior, January 2017
New to charter, Hawker 800XP based KTEB operated by Voyager Jet Center

New to charter, Hawker 800XP based KTEB operated by Voyager Jet Center

Have you tried FlightList PRO yet?  Free 30-day trials now available, no credit card, risk or commitment. Then choose to add it for just $90/month, includes 3 users, cancel any time.  Join the most experienced charter brokers –  80% of users have arranged charters for more than 10 years.  A full 1/4 more than 20 years.  Request YOUR free trial here.

Gulfstream IV, based KLAS

  • Operated by Prime Jet
  • ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman
  • Wi-Fi complimentary
  • Full interior and exterior refurbishment 2014
  • 16 seats
New to charter, Gulfstream IV based KLAS Las Vegas, operated by Prime Jet

New to charter, Gulfstream IV based KLAS Las Vegas, operated by Prime Jet

Challenger 601, based KSFB

  • Operated by Air Fuga
  • ARGUS Gold
  • Wi-Fi complimentary
  • Full refurbishment 2017
  • 10 seats
New to charter, Challenger 601 based KSFB Orlando, operated by Air Fuga

New to charter, Challenger 601 based KSFB Orlando, operated by Air Fuga


Air Charter Alerts by FlightList PRO, are the latest announcements in the private air charter industry about operators, brokers and charter aircraft, and geared towards active participants in the industry.

The FlightList PRO multi-search platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.  FlightList PRO is used by the most successful and experienced brokers and travel professionals in the industry; 80% of those using FlightList PRO have been arranging charters more than 10 years.

First Two HondaJets Available for Charter in US

Much anticipated, HondaJets are rolling off the Honda Aircraft production line in Greensboro NC, and for the first time are now available for charter.  Two new 2016 HondaJets are now available for charter in the US.

Compared to it’s Very Light Jet (VLJ) category competition, the Citation Mustang and the Phenom 100, the HondaJet betters the field in important ways.  The faster, lighter and more fuel efficient 4-passenger jet has a cabin 20% larger cabin than its competitors, more baggage space, a faster airspeed at 420 kts, and higher cruise altitude at 43,000 feet.  In many ways, the HondaJet is a better fit up in the light jet category.

Cutter Flight Management is first to operate the 4-seat VLJ under US Part-135 charter regulations.  Two are currently available, based in the southwestern US at KPHX Phoenix, AZ and KSDL Scottsdale AZ.  Cutter is a Wyvern Registered operator, and maintains fleet, crew, and insurance information as well as verified regulatory documentation within the Wyvern’s system.  Cutter Flight Management is the aircraft management and charter arm of Cutter Aviation, provider of aviation related services and FBO operations in the Southwestern US and Colorado.

HondaJet private jet for charter

HondaJet available for charter, operated by Cutter Flight Management.

Leading the way again, FlightList PRO is the only charter sourcing platform with the HondaJet and also the full Cutter Flight Management fleet of 9 charter aircraft which includes turboprops, light, midsize and heavy jets.

The HondaJet being uniquely Honda, instead of using engines from other manufacurers, the company began developing its own engine in partnership with GE Aviation ultimately creating the GE-Honda HF20 turbofan engine.  The HA-420 HondaJet is powered by two over-wing mounted HF120 turbofans, each producing 1,997 pounds of thrust.  The engine mounts atop the wings are constructed of metal.  The natural laminar flow wings terminate in sizable winglets. The HondaJet’s fuselage is made of carbon fiber, and its flight deck is built around Garmin’s touchscreen-capable G3000 suite.

The HondaJet cabin and baggage capabilities:

The cabin area is a 12.1-foot-long space that provides plenty of room for passengers. The club seating arrangement gives ample legroom and is spacious for a VLJ, with opposing passenger knees completely out of range.  The hum of the  HF120s can be heard with the lavatory doors open, but with them closed, it is significantly quieter than almost any other light jet.

The lav is also far superior to that of many light jets, some of which section the toilet area off with a simple curtain.  While the HondaJet’s lavatory is not huge by any stretch, it provides complete privacy, a nice sink with a faucet activated by a motion sensor, and two skylights providing natural light and a unique perspective of the skies above.

One benefit of having the engines mounted on the wings is that the HondaJet has an exceptionally large luggage compartment for an airplane in the light-jet category.  The rear compartment is 57 cubic feet and holds up to 400 pounds, which is more than many light jets and some midsize jets.  There is plenty of space to load large suitcases without trouble.

The aircraft also has a 9-cubic-foot cargo area in the nose, capable of carrying up to 100 pounds. Neither of the cargo spaces is pressurized, however, so toothpaste and any liquid materials may want to stay inside the cabin.

Charter a HondaJet light jet

HondaJet operated by Cutter Flight Management, one of the first available for charter worldwide.

There is no question HondaJet’s very light jet  competes directly with the Cessna’s Citation Mustang, Embraer’s Phenom 100 in the charter market, and even some Citation and Learjet light jets.

There are now 25 aircraft on the production line at Honda Aircraft’s facility at the Piedmont Triangle International Airport in Greensboro, NC, which now employs 1,700. Honda expects to have delivered between 40 and 50 aircraft by the end of 2016, ultimately ramping up to 75 aircraft in 2017.

All HondaJets for charter as well as the full Cutter Flight Management charter fleet are available in the FlightList PRO platform which includes all 16,631 charter aircraft and 3,419 charter operators worldwide.

Sources:  Cutter Flight Management, Flying, Forbes online

Two New Jet Charter Operators, Four Aircraft Now in Florida

Two new Part-135 certificate holders have begun operating based in Florida, their aircraft are now available for charter.  Both have acquired an ARG/US Gold rating.  The operator and fleet details are included in FlightList PRO.  The two light jets and one midsize jet are newly available for charter from southern and central Florida.


Treasure Air Charters, LLC operates a Learjet 35A light jet, and a Piper Chieftain 7-passenger twin piston.  Both are based at KTMB Miami Executive Airport.  Now five jet operators have a total of nine aircraft based at KTMB.

Learjet 35A light jet available for charter from Treasure Air Charters in Miami, FL

Learjet 35A light jet available for charter from Treasure Air Charters in Miami, FL


Rennia Aviation, LLC operates a Citation II light jet and a Falcon 20 midsize jet.  Both are based at KGNV Gainsville, FL.  Rennia is the third jet charter operator now at Gainesville Regional Airport.

Falcon 20 midsize jet available for charter from Rennia Aviation, Gainsville, FL.

Falcon 20 midsize jet available for charter from Rennia Aviation.

Falcon 20 passenger cabin seating 9, available for charter from Rennia Aviation in Gainesville, FL

Falcon 20 passenger cabin seating 9, available for charter from Rennia Aviation in Gainesville, FL

Source:  The FlightList PRO resource includes every certificated operator and aircraft in the US, and equivalent worldwide.  Free 30-day trials are available online. 

Three Midsize Jets Added to Florida and Midwest with Jet Access Aviation

jet-access-aviation-logo-newCharter operator Jet Access Aviation has added 3 Wi-Fi equipped midsize jets to its charter fleet available immediately.

A new-to-fleet Hawker 800XP and Citation III are based in the midwest (JVY) near Louisville, KY.  The third is a Citation VII based West Palm Beach, FL (PBI).  All are equipped with Wi-Fi internet.

Jet Access Aviation‘s full fleet of 15 aircraft is ONLY available in FlightList PRO.

The Jet Access Aviation charter fleet has grown to 15 aircraft total, light cabin through heavy jets.  The majority are based in the midwest and Florida, with a midsize Citation Excel in Atlanta, GA.

The company has an ARG/US Platinum rating.

Source: company announcement