VistaJet goes for the treble chance VistaJet goes for the treble chance

EUROPEAN 

BUSINESS AIR NEWS 

Icelandic 

launch as 

VLJ business 

gathers pace 

The launch of an Icelandic air taxi 

operation based on the Mustang and 

the Eclipse is planned as European 

companies report a good initial 

response to VLJ availability. AccelJet 

ceo Eimar Amarson says that the 

Reyjavik headquartered operator has a 

Citation Mustang lined up and that 

there are also two Eclipse 500s on order 

for delivery in 2009 and 2010. 

Meanwhile London Executive 

Aviation (LEA) says its Mustangs have 

swiftly found favour with customers. 

“The Mustang’s low acquisition and 

operating cost have enabled LEA to 

reduce its entry price for jet chartering 

by up to 30 per cent,” says George 

Galanopoulos, LEA’s md. “We expected 

a slower take-up for the Mustang, as it 

is a completely new type on the charter 

market. However, customers clearly 

love it and are entirely comfortable 

with the more compact cabin, which 

many have said feels more spacious 

than expected,” he says. 

LEA’s Mustang fleet manager 

Graeme Foley says: “The Mustang’s 

large-format flight displays and 

integrated sensors provide our pilots 

with outstanding situational awareness 

of weather, traffic and terrain.” 

The first five Mustangs are being 

based at Luton, Stansted, Biggin Hill 

and Farnborough. 

Smart Air S.A. has announced a first 

fractional ownership program in 

Europe for Diamond’s single-engine 

four-plus-one place composite D-Jet. 

The company has purchased eight 

D-Jets. Deliveries are scheduled for 

2010, and the company says it has 

options for more. 

Smart Air plans to operate the fleet 

from offices in Finland, UK, France, 

Benelux, Germany and Italy.” 

Job of the Month 

Charter Broker 

Air Charter Service 

See page 15 

Falcon adds more luxury 

to helicopter fleet page 3 

Prestige Jet to operate 

Lineage 1000 page 4 

EBAN reveals the top 

PrivatAir expands 

charter handling team companies page 5 

Lufthansa in and Europe DC Aviation – 

sport new look fleets 

as voted by you 

pages 6-7 

Executive See Aviation pages 10-21 Services 

(EAS) adds variety to fleet 

page 9 

For details of how to enter, see page 3. 

SPECIAL FOCUSES 

Czech Republic and 

Slovakia focus page 8 

Russia inspires long-term 

development plan page 10 

Big For charter details of how operators to enter, see have page 3. 

even bigger plans pages 11-13 

ISSUE 182 JUNE 2008 

VistaJet is trebling the size of its fleet. The Switzerland-based operator is acquiring Bombardier's Skyjet International and ordering 35 jets with options on 25 more. Celebrating the 

announcement are: Bombardier Business Aircraft svp Bob Horner; VistaJet owner and chairman Thomas Flohr; Bombardier Aerospace president Pierre Beaudoin; VistJet ceo Bing 

Chen and New Jet International president Valerio Zamboni. The full story is on page 3. 

Hawker 900XP heralds designs for 

expansion in the Czech Republic 

The Czech Republic’s Grossman Jet 

Service, which reports strong demand 

for its eight-passenger configured 

Hawker 900XP, is now negotiating 

further fleet additions. 

Mrs. Dagmar Grossmann, ceo, says: 

“The 900XP was chosen by the owner 

but it is one of the ultimate business 

aircraft. It will take you anywhere in the 

world with high level of efficiency and 

productivity.” 

She adds: “The Legacy offers 

exceptional benefits over its competitors 

in terms of performance and 

cabin size.” 

Grossman Jet Service has operated 

a Legacy since 2005 but it is a company 

that typifies the trend in the Czech 

Republic and Slovakia to take on board 

new ideas and look for bigger and 

better modern aircraft (See Czech 

Republic and Slovakia Regional review 

on Page 8). The company prefers to 

order new. 

“We focus mainly on business 

clientele and serve all the 

routes worldwide,” says Grossmann. 

Expansion has brought company 

vacancies for experienced type-rated 

pilots, cabin crew and in sales. 

Mrs. Dagmar Grossmann: foresaw the 

business opportunity. 

Grossmann cautions: “While our 

business is definitely growing, my 

personal guess is that after 2011 the 

overall market will dip. However we 

will be ordering new aircraft. For the 

new generation of rich people 

luxurious cars are passé; it is time to 

own a business jet. So business is 

booming and we will definitely take 

advantage of this positive environment 

for our further progress. I have many 

plans in my mind, including the 

acquisition of new aircraft, and I hope 

to realize them in the near future. 

VistaJet goes for 

the treble chance 

Grossman Jet Service was 

established in 2004 after Grossman 

foresaw the business potential of the 

private aviation sector in the Czech 

Republic and in eastern Europe. 

Grossman says: “The main reason for 

the launch was the business 

opportunity. The company has had a 

good run since it was launched and we 

have managed to double the turnover 

within the past two years.” 

She is very focused on aviation 

business but it is not an all-consuming 

interest. “Apart of my passion for 

aviation business I am very active in 

the real estate business and interior 

design,” says Grossmann. “ I also like to 

design my clothes.” 

While interior design is a 

hobby, Grossman takes a business 

interest in real estate acquisition 

and reconstruction. 

Grossman appreciates the 

advantages of private jet travel. But 

when she visits her family in Vienna, 

Austria, at weekends and for holidays, 

she tends to travel by car. “Driving is 

a form of relaxation for her,” says 

Alena Cheinovska who works in sales 

and marketing. 

For fuel, ground services and all your trip arrangements 

CONTACT dispatch@avcard.com 

RayaJet to 

boost its long 

range options 

Jordan’s RayaJet plans to acquire 

longer range jets to service rising 

demand for flights to the U.K. and 

mainland Europe. The Amman-based 

operator has brought a Citation 

CE650 into service to complement its 

Challenger 601. 

The company says it is building a 

larger fleet to accommodate short, 

medium and long range client 

preferences. It is examining both the 

new and pre-owned market. 

RayaJet says: “We have noted 

the growing demand for pointto-point 

services linking with 

commercial carriers.” 

It reports growing interest from 

young Jordanians in a career in 

executive aviation. “There have been 

enquiries since we were founded in 

2005 as a regional operator and 

especially since our Jordanian AOC 

was obtained in 2006.” 

Private aviation has expanded 

rapidly in the Arab Gulf countries with 

favoured hubs including Saudi Arabia, 

Dubai and Abu Dhabi. But RayaJet 

confirms demand is spreading 

throughout the Middle East.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS 

AIR AMBULANCE NEWS 

Operators invest 

in new bases, 

aircraft and 

equipment 

European air ambulances are 

expanding their services and 

modernising equipment. Medic'Air 

International has established a 

dedicated air ambulance aircraft 

based in Paris, available 24-7. “As the 

final result of a partnership between 

two corporate aircraft companies and 

a medical repatriation agency, a Beech 

King Air 1900C is registered in France,” 

says gm Dr H. Raffin. “It can take off in 

two hours with its English and French 

speaking medical team, with an 

emergency physician and a flying 

nurse, and equipped with full 

ICU devices.” 

The aircraft, based at Paris Le 

Bourget, can carry four ICU stretchers 

with six sitting passengers that can 

include medical crew and relatives and 

is focused on Europe and the 

Mediterranean region. 

Meanwhile the U.K.’s Devon Air 

Ambulance Trust expects the delivery 

of an EC135 in September. It replaces 

the current Bolkow 105DBS. 

And the DRF (German Air Rescue) 

and its partners in the Team DRF have 

ordered 30 new defibrillation and 

patient monitoring units for their 

air rescue centres. After extensive 

tests the air rescuers opted for a 

system from the manufacturer 

GS Elektromedizinische Geräte G. 

Stemple GmbH from Kaufering, 

Germany. The modular system 

combines several functions and helps 

thus to cut costs and weight, according 

to Dr. Jörg Braun, director medical 

services, DRF. 

DRF has acquired new defibrillation and 

patient monitoring units. 

Dr. Braun says: “In emergency 

rescue the crews have to work quite 

often under difficult circumstances. 

For example: an injured person is 

freed from his destroyed car by fire 

fighters. There is little space, heavy 

equipment is being used. In this 

situation the system offers us the 

possibility to leave a little measuring 

device with the patient and to clip off 

the rest of the system. 

Data is transferred via radio. The 

emergency physician can monitor the 

patient continually without any cables 

being in the way of the rescue team.” 

European Air Ambulance recently 

moved out of its Alert Centre in 

Stuttgart to newly renovated, 

customised Mission Control Centre 

(MCC) at Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden 

airport. The new centre belongs to EAA 

member DRF and is now complete 

with a hangar able to accommodate 

the air ambulance aircraft. 

Eight staff have so far been 

employed at the MCC, with four 

vacancies still open as EAA expands its 

operational teams to meet growing 

demand. The MCC is being run by 

DRF’s fixed wing operations manager 

Peter Huber and Sven Mertes, who is in 

charge of the fixed wing business at 

EAA member Luxembourg Air Rescue. 

The latest addition to the FAS fleet was celebrated at EBACE by (left) Francois Taverne, chairman Hermes interior and design; Capt. 

Salem Al Kayoumi (centre) and Philippe Harache Senior evp Eurocopter. 

FAS adds Hermes luxury to helicopter fleet 

Abu Dhabi based Falcon Aviation 

Services (FAS), which aims to have at 

least six Eurocopters in its fleet by 

the end of this year, at EBACE 

placed the first order for the EC135 

light twin in ‘l’Helicoptere par 

Hermes’ luxury style. 

FAS chairman Capt. Salem Al 

Kayoumi says the attractions include 

the luxury finish and the sliding glass 

partition between the passenger 

VistaJet has a fleet century in its sights after 

confirming huge Bombardier order 

Despite rapid expansion by a number 

of other operators, VistaJet believes 

agreed acquisitions will make 

it the second largest business 

aviation company outside of 

North America. The Austrian based 

charter operator has ordered 35 

Bombardier jets, with an option for 25 

more, and is acquiring Bombardier 

Skyjet International. 

The firm aircraft order is 

comprised of 11 Challenger 605s, 13 

Learjet 60XRs and 11 of the 

newly introduced Learjet 85s. “This 

is the second largest order of 

Bombardier business jets in history,” 

says Pierre Beaudoin, Bombardier 

president and ceo. 

But VistaJet's coming completion 

of formalities to acquire Skyjet 

International, Bombardier’s charter 

programme which has operations in 

Farnborough, Dubai and Hong 

Kong, could raise concerns (see 

Panel) among brokers according to 

Ocean Sky ceo Kurosh Tehranchian. 

However, at EBACE VistaJet was 

focused on highlighting an order 

and acquisition designed to triple its 

existing fleet to more than 100 

aircraft. “The bulk order and the 

private jet management 

•Hangarage, crewing, planning, regulatory 

•Turbo props, VLJs, Light Jets, Mid Size 

•The very best prices in the industry 

compartment and the cockpit. “The 

new addition will complement our 

three EC130s, EC135 and two AS365 

Dauphins,” he adds. 

The initial FAS target is to expand 

its helicopter fleet to 12. But Capt. Al 

Kayoumi, says: “We’re growing fast. 

Looking at the growth trend in this 

sector, we are aiming to have 

expanded our fleet to include another 

15 helicopters and corporate jets by 

purchase of Bombardier Skyjet 

International are in line with our 

plans to be the leader in this 

industry and accelerate our global 

expansion,” says Thomas Flohr, 

chairman. “With Skyjet and VistaJet 

joining forces we aim to become the 

foremost business aviation 

company in Europe, Middle East 

and Asia, coupling pure luxury with 

affordability.” 

Bing Chen, ceo, says: “We 

offer the advantages of fleet 

commonality and Bombardier’s 

strong commitment to customer 

support. The diversified fleet already 

meets the full range of customer 

needs and will soon be comprised of 

more than 30 medium to ultra-long 

range, state of the art jets with an 

average age of less than two years.” 

The current fleet includes Learjet 

40XR and 60XR, Challenger 300, 

604/605 and 850 and Global Express 

XRS aircraft. Flohr says that there 

will more than 100 aircraft available 

for charter by 2012. “The 30,000 

hours of 2008 will increase to 

100,000 hours in 2012,” he adds. 

Flohr says that VistaJet and 

Skyjet have natural synergy and 

•Transparent, accountable, dependable 

•Sales and brokerage 

•Early VLJ positions available 

t +44 (0)1202 670419 | nick@grangeaviation.com | www.grangeaviation.com 

the end of 2011, an investment of 

U.S.$192 million.” 

FAS says its overall business 

development is benefiting from 

an exclusive maintenance deal with 

Eurocopter. The agreement included 

the launch of a Eurocopter 

Maintenance Centre at FAS’s Al 

Bateen airbase which will service 

Eurocopter helicopters in the Arab 

Gulf region. 

fit with European and Asian 

operational strengths dovetailing 

and complementary business 

focuses. Chen adds: “Skyjet has 

strengths in Dubai and Hong Kong 

which VistaJet has not had. The 

products and business approaches 

also dovetail.” 

Beaudoin stresses that 

Bombardier’s American operations 

are excluded from the Skyjet deal. 

Launched in March 2002 as 

Flexjet Europe and later rebranded, 

Skyjet International promised a 

“truly global” business jet charter 

service. It said that, by consolidating 

some of the world’s leading charter 

operators into a single network, 

Skyjet International could provide a 

variety of innovative private jet 

travel options, each offering 

“unprecedented access” to more 

than 920 high performance aircraft. 

Tehranchian says that it makes 

sense for European operators to 

expand into Asia and other emerging 

markets. The combined VistaJet and 

Skyjet operations suggests a scale 

that would mean competing with 

NetJets. “Competition will be 

tough,” he adds, “It will be 

JUNE 2008 3 

Jetalliance 

responds to 

lifestyle demand 

The Jetalliance Group of Vienna 

has placed a new order for an ACJ 

and two A318 Elites. Jetalliance 

Holding ceo Lukas Lichtner-Hoyer 

says: “We manage aircraft for many 

customers and, for those that want the 

best, the Airbus ACJ family is the 

natural choice.” 

Jetalliance has ordered eight Airbus 

jets to date. One ACJ and one Elite 

have been delivered to owners and 

JetAlliance is looking at meeting 

demand for larger aircraft which 

might include aircraft in the A330 and 

A340 class. 

Lichtner-Hoyer says that clients are 

looking for turnkey solutions, an 

assertion which is borne out by EBAN 

research (see page 11). “They don't 

want to get involved in all the details, 

they just want to enjoy their aircraft 

through one contact company that 

offers service and economy,” Lichtner- 

Hoyer adds. “Clients want their aircraft 

to improve their lifestyle and business 

efficiency: they do not want to become 

bogged down in paperwork.” 

Jetalliance Group offers purchase, 

finance, operation and maintenance 

services. Its subsidiary, Jetalliance 

Flugbetrieb, operates dozens of aircraft 

with an average age of only three years. 

Lichtner-Hoyer predicts that 

demand for private aircraft travel 

in Russia, the Ukraine, Romania, 

Bulgaria and the former CIS countries 

will grow in the next ten years. 

“One issue will be training 

enough pilots and maintenance 

technicians which is why we have 

expanded our Vienna maintenance 

bases in anticipation of demand,” 

Lichtner-Hoyer says. 

Roger Whyte, Cessna svp sales 

and marketing says: “Jetalliance is 

opening up markets all over Europe 

for Cessna.” 

interesting to see how it turns out.” 

Big and getting bigger on all 

fronts: see EBAN's round-up of some 

of Europe’s expanding charter 

operators on Page 11. 

Exciting for 

industry but a 

worry for brokers, 

says Tehranchian 

Ocean Sky ceo Kurosh 

Tehranchian says that VistaJet's 

news is very exciting for the 

industry but the takeover of Skyjet 

International may not please the 

broker fraternity. 

"It will seem to the brokers that 

VistaJet is getting into the Jet Card 

market and looking to establish a 

more direct link with more 

customers. The challenge will be 

to ensure that brokers are 

comfortable with this." 

Tehranchian says brokers who 

deal with Ocean Sky have 

expressed concerns to him.

4 JUNE 2008 EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS 

Jet Aviation 

selects Falcon 

900EX 

and G-550 

Switzerland’s Jet Aviation is to add a 

Falcon 900EX and a G-550 to its 

managed fleet. The company’s Martin 

Bernegger said at EBACE that the 

900EX, configured for 13 passengers, 

will be based in Zurich while the G- 

550, designed for 14 passengers, will 

be stationed in Zurich and Tokyo. 

“The G-550 will enable us to offer 

long range services to charter 

customers both in Europe and in 

Asia,” says Bernegger. “The Falcon 

900EX is a much sought after aircraft 

for charter to destinations in the U.S., 

Africa and the Middle East.” 

Bernegger says the aircraft are due 

to come into service in July. 

Separately NetJets Europe 

announced at EBACE that it had 

increased its order of Falcon 2000LX to 

30 with 20 new orders. The NetJets 

Europe’s fleet will expand to include 

the Falcon 2000, Falcon 2000EX, Falcon 

900B and Falcon 900EX. “Taking into 

account all orders, over the next eight 

years, the NetJets Europe fleet will have 

a total of more than 80 Dassault 

aircraft,” says Mark Booth, chairman 

and ceo NetJets Europe. 

The 30 new aircraft will be 

delivered over the next eight years, 

with the first expected in September 

2008. Booth says: “With its range and 

increased fuel efficiency, we know this 

aircraft will be a big hit.” 

This is not 

a King Air 350. 

Go ahead, count the windows. 

Now taking pre-certification orders for King Air 90s 

800.257.4847 US & Canada 

425.353.6591 International 

www.BLRaerospace.com 

davemarone@BLRaerospace.com 

Prestige Jet regards Lineage 1000 

acquisition as a ‘real coup’ 

Abu Dhabi’s Prestige Jet, which has 

signed a letter of intent for five 

Gulfstream G650s, plans to operate 

the world's first Lineage 1000 

aircraft. Faris Deeb, md says the 

G650 will add a new dimension to 

the company's operations but that 

he regarded the ultra-long range 

Lineage 1000 as a real coup. 

“The developments demonstrate 

our unyielding commitment to 

building one of the foremost private 

air charter companies in the 

region comprising a young fleet 

with some of the most advanced 

aircraft available in the world that 

meet virtually all passenger needs," 

Deeb says. 

“The G650 is a one-of-a-kind, 

high-tech, state-of-the-art airborne 

office that features an unmatched 

combination of characteristics: the 

largest and quietest cabin, the 

longest range and fastest speed and 

the most technologically advanced 

aircraft systems. It will allow us to 

carry between 15 and 18 passengers, 

non-stop to destinations such North 

America or Australia.” 

The Lineage 1000 is smaller than 

the BBJ and ACJ but bigger than 

those currently rated as mid-size 

aircraft. Deeb says: “It will provide 

Prestige Jet with a competitive 

advantage in terms of flexibility in 

the number of passengers that can 

This King Air 200 could easily be mistaken for a King Air 350 

thanks to the addition of a new Winglet System by 

BLR Aerospace. Winglets have taken the industry by storm, 

delivering a range of benefits that include dramatic 

increases in climb rate, cruise speed and fuel savings 

— plus striking good looks. So keep your airplane. 

But change your performance. 

Do you have your winglets yet? 

BLR Aerospace 

Performance Innovation 

Tony Gilbert, vp Duncan Aviation, and Faris 

Deeb, md Prestige Jet, formalise the 

agreement between the two companies. 

be carried and the charter rates.” 

Prestige Jet plans that its fleet 

will grow to ten aircraft by the 

end of 2008 and to 26 by 2013 

at a cost of around US$1.5 billion. 

Deeb also says that Prestige Jet is 

investing in a multi-million dollar 

investment programme for facilities 

and services. 

“In April we opened a new 

dedicated passenger lounge within 

Al Bateen City Airport,” he says. And 

Prestige Technique, the recently 

formed maintenance division of 

Prestige Jet, signed an agreement 

Prestige Jet is also expanding its fleet. 

with Duncan Aviation of the U.S. for 

the provision of a wide range of 

maintenance services including 

airframe and engines. 

“While we might be embarking 

on an unparalleled growth 

programme, at the heart of our 

plans is the safety and reliability of 

each and every one of our 

growing and diverse range of 

aircraft,” said Deeb. “This 

association with Duncan Aviation 

means we can draw on over 50 years 

of experience and the highest 

reputation in the industry.” 

Prestige Jet, formed in early 2007, 

also announced that it was seeking 

to acquire a facility at Al Ain 

international airport to establish a 

dedicated maintenance hangar. 

Deeb says that, in the first 

quarter of 2008, utilisation of its 

then fleet of four dedicated aircraft 

was on average running at 30 per 

cent above target. 

HondaJet sales have got off to a 

racing start in Europe. The first 

customer in the region is Formula 1 

racing driver and business 

entrepreneur Jenson Button. Button 

will purchase two HondaJets for a 

new air charter company he is 

establishing. The US$3.9 million 

HondaJet he says “is the fastest, most 

fuel efficient, and most spacious jet 

of its size and incorporates many 

advanced technologies that offer 

reduced noise and emissions levels 

relative to other similarly sized jets.” 

Button, who has just suffered a 

frustrating Monaco grand prix, says 

that the HondaJet will help him meet 

his busy racing itinerary efficiently 

and help ensure frustration-free 

travel outside the racing arena. 

“Unfortunately, I will still need 

luck as well as efficiency during 

races. Monaco was a messy race for 

Boutsen 

Aviation reports 

growing ACJ 

demand 

Boutsen Aviation of Monaco has 

taken delivery of the first of two 

ACJs and one A318 Elite ordered on 

behalf of undisclosed customers. 

The Airbus ACJ has yet to be 

outfitted but its cabin, which will be 

installed by Jet Aviation in Basle, 

Switzerland, will feature a vip 

interior based on the Prestige 

cabin concept, which comprises 

a large sitting and dining 

room, private office, bedroom and 

en suite bathroom. 

Boutsen, three times Formula 1 

Grand Prix winner and president of 

Boutsen Aviation says the ACJ’s 

modern design means that it is well 

placed to go on winning clients. 

Airbus’ Corporate Jet Centre 

(ACJC) in Toulouse has completed a 

vip interior for the A320 of a 

private customer. The company 

says the first cabin outfitting of 

its type features a vip lounge, 

business class seating and an area 

for support staff. 

The company reports a growing 

demand for customised interiors 

from high net worth individuals 

across Europe. 

Charter operators, including 

Austria’s JetAlliance (see page 3) and 

Germany's DCA Aviation (page 6) 

are expanding their ACJ fleets. 

Michimasa Fujino (left) presents Jenson Button with a ceremonial scale model of the 

HondaJet at EBACE. 

Jensen Button helps 

HondaJet sales get off to 

racing start in Europe 

me,” says Jenson, “and what made it 

even more frustrating was that the 

pace of the car was good. I should 

have come away from here with 

points, but unfortunately we have 

nothing to show for our efforts.” 

The HondaJet, however, will give 

him and his charter passengers 

predictable and consistent reliability. 

Michimasa Fujino, Honda Aircraft 

Company president and ceo says that 

Honda will establish a new European 

network of three HondaJet exclusive 

sales and service centres. 

Fujino says: “Honda’s decision 

to expand sales of its advanced 

light jet to the rapidly growing 

European market is in response 

to strong demand for the aircraft 

from customers throughout the 

region. We have received a 

steady stream of inquiries from 

interested customers.”


VLJ start-up 

chooses the 

Phenom 100 

Monarch Airlines Airbus A320 captain 

David Fletcher is changing career to 

spearhead the launch of a Phenom 100 

based air taxi charter operation 

targeting business throughout Europe. 

VLJ Consultancy Ltd will be based 

at the U.K.’s Oxford Airport and its air 

taxi charter operation will cover 

mainland Europe plus UK domestic 

cities including Manchester, 

Birmingham, Newquay, other south 

west destinations, and cities in 

Scotland and Ireland. 

“Oxford airport will be the centre of 

the wheel and we are looking forward 

to adding the spokes,” says Fletcher, 

the company’s md. “The air taxi 

company, whose name we will 

announce at this year’s Farnborough 

Air Show, will operate with the first 

Phenom 100 from May 2009. We hope 

to pick up traffic to a number of inter- 

European sporting events and short 

leisure breaks.” 

Fletcher says: “We are convinced 

this is the right time for an operation 

like this, but being a small player in the 

lucrative business aviation market can 

make or break you if you don’t have the 

right aircraft, or the right airport base. 

We are convinced we have the right 

base and will have the right aircraft at 

the right time and are very confident of 

doing well.” 

Ready for launch are David Surley, Oxford 

Airport (left); David Fletcher, VLJ 

Consultancy (centre) and James Dillon 

Godfray, Oxford Airport. 

The company will be looking to 

recruit personnel, including several 

pilots later this year. “Discussions will 

also soon commence with chauffeur 

car companies, catering organisations 

and boutique hotels in the Oxford 

area,” Fletcher adds. 

He says investors in the start up 

business are private professionals who 

have committed to one Phenom 100, 

plus an additional two on option for 

delivery in 2012. The company is also 

looking at the larger Phenom 300 or 

possibly the Embraer Legacy 500 for 

future growth. 

CJ2+ and Grand 

Caravans appeal 

Private Flight GmbH is taking delivery 

of a Citation CJ2+, the 101st unit of the 

upgraded version. The aircraft will be 

based in Bayreuth, Germany, and 

Private Flight says it will be used by a 

vip for private travel. The Citation CJ2+ 

seats up to eight passengers, has a 

range of 1,613 n.m. and a maximum 

cruise speed of 418 knots. 

Separately six 208B Grand 

Caravans, a 172 Skyhawk and 182 

Skylane have been ordered by Air 

Alliance GmbH, one of Europe’s most 

active Cessna Caravan dealers. Pana 

Poulios, Cessna regional sales 

manager in Europe says: “We have 

increased Caravan production for 

2008 based largely on international 

orders such as this. Our single-engine 

piston sales are also doing very well in 

2008.” Based in Burbach’s Flughafen 

Siegerland in Germany, Air Alliance is 

also an authorised service centre for 

Cessna turboprop aircraft. 

PrivatAir is expanding its charter sales team after reporting a 30 per cent rise in charter revenue in 2007. "The worldwide demand for 

charter of both large cabin aircraft and smaller jets shows no sign of abating," says Richard Koe, vp charter and aircraft management. 

But he adds: "Improved organisation, new charter products, precise pricing, strong operational support and specific marketing initiatives 

have all played their part along with hard work from the team." Members of the expanded team, clockwise from left, are: Marina Enina- 

Texier, Verena Guibaud, Richard Koe, Corinne Kolter, Lucie Kunz-Harris, Dominic Sandell, Nathalie Beuchard and Lille Muniesa. 

Safety is everyone’s responsibility at Owens 

Corning, a world leader in building materials 

systems and composite solutions. Company 

President and CEO David Brown considers safety 

a key metric by which to measure success. 

Owens Corning’s commitment to safety is 

evident in the exceptional record of the corporate 

flight department, operating for 60 years without 

an accident. For more than 50 of those years, 

Owens Corning has relied on FlightSafety for 

professional, safety-centered training. 

“Safety isn’t just the job of the safety people. 

It is the responsibility of every employee throughout 

our company. Getting fully involved in all aspects 

of the company’s safety performance means 

exposing it, owning and acting upon it. We 

have one objective: zero injuries,” Brown says. 

DAVID T. BROWN 

President and CEO, Owens Corning 

CEOs on Training 

A SERIES 

“Owens Corning’s 

commitment 

to safety is 

unconditional. 

That’s why 

we train at 

FlightSafety.” 

Dave Brown, a graduate of Purdue University, joined Owens Corning in 1978. 

He was appointed to the board of directors in January 2002 and became president 

and chief executive officer three months later. Brown also has served as executive 

vice president and chief operating officer, and as president of several company 

divisions. He serves on a number of boards, including the Toledo Museum of 

Art and the Dean’s Advisory Council for Purdue’s Krannert School of Management. 

“Regular training with FlightSafety helps 

prepare our flight department for the unexpected. 

The value and quality of training provided by 

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For more information, please contact any of our Learning Centers or call 

Scott Fera: 636.532.5933. Our headquarters are at the Marine Air Terminal, 

LaGuardia Airport, New York 11371-1061. Email: fsi.sales@flightsafety.com 

flightsafety.com 

Albinati orders six of the best 

JUNE 2008 5 

Albinati Aeronautics, the Genevabased 

charter, management and 

aircraft sales organisation founded in 

February 2001, has six aircraft on order. 

The company, established in 

2001 by Stefano Albinati, an aviation 

veteran with over 20 years' flying 

experience, brought a CJ2+ into 

operation in February followed by 

Hawker 900XP in March. 

Albinati says: “We have two new 

Falcon 2000LX, two new Global XRS 

and two new Falcon 7X on order. We 

are underpinning our strategy of being 

able to offer a range of small, medium 

and large aircraft.” 

The ordered aircraft will join a fleet 

that includes a CJ2+, Hawker 900XP, 

Challenger 604, Falcon 2000, Falcon 

900EX, and Global 5000. “The aircraft 

will be deployed for leisure and 

business and both CJ2+ and Hawker 

900XP will be operated from our 

Geneva base,” Albinati adds. The 

aircraft were chosen for their cabin size 

and range. Recently the company, 

which now employs 42 people, was 

looking to recruit three.


Lufthansa launches ‘phone and fly’ point-to-point private 

jet service to dovetail with intercontinental first class 

Lufthansa pledges that booking its 

private jets could not be made any 

easier. “It is very simple, just a ‘phone 

call,” says Dr. Gerald Wissel, global 

head, Lufthansa Private Jet (LPJ) 

which was officially launched on 1 

June this year. “The credit card 

generates an electronic ticket. This 

ticket is the contract between 

Lufthansa and client and this 

contract is completely valid under 

European law. In fact, as a passenger, 

you have many more rights with this 

“airline’ ticket than with a charter 

contract.” Wissel also pledges that 

there will be one price for each pointto-point 

travel within Europe. 

Lufthansa showcased a private jet 

service aircraft, a CJ3, at EBACE but it 

will be one of nine aircraft entering 

LPJ service in the coming months. 

The airline will also utilise the aircraft 

of private charter partners who will 

include DC Aviation. Cabin size and 

luggage capacity were among the 

selection priorities. LPJ says seven 

Citations will fly point-to-point in 

Europe and Russia will be served by 

two Canadair CRJ200s converted to 

Challenger 850 configuration. 

“The clients are essentially 

corporate customers who want 

a one-stop shop for their requirements,” 

Wissel adds. “They want 

point-to-point travel coordinated 

with first-class scheduled travel. 

We will provide everything they 

need including limousine transfer 

as necessary.” 

Lufthansa intends that the private 

jet service mentality is found in First 

Class as well. Wolfgang Mayrhuber, 

chairman of Lufthansa’s executive 

board, says: “First Class guests who 

spend many days of the month 

aboard an aircraft and at airports 

expect to be able to decide for 

themselves how they spent their time. 

We would like to create an 

environment similar to that of a 

journey by private jet.” 

He adds: “Passengers arriving on 

long haul flights in Frankfurt, Munich 

and Zurich can conveniently take a 

private jet to fly on to their final 

destination, connecting to more than 

LPJ clients will be ushered through the formalities and can take a limousine across the tarmac to their private jet. 

1,000 airports throughout greater 

Europe. The private jet service can 

also be used for point-to-point flights 

between European airports.” 

Mayrhuber claims: “LPJ complements 

Lufthansa’s worldwide 

network by adding up to 1,000 

individualised flight options.” 

He says that all clients will be 

looked after by their own personal 

assistant. “In the background an 

events manager coordinates the 

journey before and during the flight 

and also takes care of any of the 

clients’ individual requests.” 

At Frankfurt, Munich and Zurich, 

passengers arriving aboard Lufthansa 

long haul flights are taken through 

formalities by the personal assistant 

and can be directly limousinechauffeured 

across the tarmac to the 

LPJ aircraft. Seamless transit of 

MAZ Aviation chairman Mohammed Al-Zeer (centre) finalises the XWB deal with Airbus 

evp Eduoard Ullmo (left) and svp Christian Robach. 

Saudi Arabian clients confirm 

the first Prestige orders 

Saudi Arabian private customers 

have ordered six A350 XWB Prestiges 

through MAZ Aviation. “The kind of 

private customer that buys a vip 

widebody wants the very best,” says 

MAZ Aviation chairman Mohammed 

Al Zeer. “The A350 XWB offers more 

cabin space, more range and a more 

modern design.” 

All six XWBs will feature vip 

cabins and be powered by Rolls- 

Royce Trent XWB engines but the 

choice of cabin outfitters has yet to 

be announced. Al Zeer says it is the 

first agreement signed for this type 

of aircraft in the Middle East. Selling 

points included the XWB’s range 

enabling it to fly non-stop to the 

world as well as the wide cabin and 

extra floor space. Other pluses 

included the advanced and efficient 

aerodynamic design with more 

than 50 per cent of the airframe is 

made up of weight-saving carbon 

fibre composites. 

Airbus coo customers, John Leahy 

says: “The deal is the largest single 

deal ever for Airbus corporate 

jetliners, and comprises one A350- 

800 and five A350-900s.” 

Wolfgang Mayrhuber: 1,000 bespoke 

flight options. 

baggage is part of the deal. 

Lufthansa actually began ferrying 

first-class passengers from airline 

hubs to their final destination but it 

says feedback confirms they want a 

point-to-point service. This was a 

different concept to the service that 

was provided by NetJets and 

DC Aviation will expand its Airbus 

Corporate Jet fleet to four as it 

simultaneously builds its already 

sizeable all-round fleet. The Stuttgart 

operator, the first confirmed selected 

partner for Lufthansa Private Jet, 

will become the largest operator 

of ACJs in the German business 

aviation market, according to ceo 

Dieter Heinen. 

“Our goal is to become the largest 

premium operator of private jets in 

Europe. With the purchase of the first 

Airbus 319 CJ, We are giving the green 

light for further corporate jets on this 

scale”, Heinen adds. 

The company’s first Airbus 319 CJ 

was previously in operation for the 

Daimler corporation but is now 

being offered exclusively by DC 

Aviation for executive charter 

market. Three more Airbus of 

type 319 CJ fitted to take up to 22 vips 

will be added to the fleet over the 

next 12 months and will most likely 

be operated in Europe and the 

Middle East. 

Heinen says: “Apart from 

comfortable business seating for 48 

passengers and generous seat pitch 

of 152 cm, the ACJ excels especially 

when it comes to long haul flights 

with its maximum cruising range of 

Lufthansa decided to offer its own 

operation. DC Aviation, which was 

used to meet some of the demand, 

and will be among the few selected 

partners as Lufthansa responds to 

what it says is growing demand. 

Lufthansa reports that the 

number of private jet flights operated 

in 2007 rose by 26 per cent. 

“Customer demand strongly 

outstripped capacity over the year by 

an average of around 25 per cent and 

in peak months by as much as 60 per 

cent,” says Wissel. 

Demand for aircraft, especially 

mid to large accommodating seven to 

12 people, rose disproportionately in 

the past year, Wissel adds. “It was 

strongest among customers from 

Germany, Scandinavia, France and 

Italy, who used the LPJ service 

primarily for point-to-point flights.” 

up to 4,320 n.m. Four additional 

tanks make it possible for the 

Execuliner to fly nonstop in 9 hours, 

for instance from London to Chicago 

or from Munich to Bangalore.” 

He adds: “Our many years of 

transatlantic operational experience 

with the A319 CJ and the great 

demand for this type of aircraft, is the 

key reason for our further expansion 

in this market.” 

But Heinen says the expansion of 

the fleet is not restricted to the A319. 

“We are building up our capacities 

from the Learjet to the Airbus. In 

2008 alone we expect a total of 12 

new additions of the types G550, 

G450, G150, Challenger 850, Legacy 

600, Citation XLS and Learjet 40.” 

Stefan Buschle, md, says: “With 

our extremely young modern fleet 

structure and our unique concept for 

service and safety, we are winning 

new partners all over the world.” 

DC Aviation, a member of the 

Cirrus Group, was formed by the 

merger of Cirrus Aviation and the 

former DaimlerChrysler Aviation. 

The company is concentrating on 

aircraft management, charter and 

maintenance of business jets. 

It employs more than 380 and its 

fleet includes the A319 CJ, two Global 

LPJ service 

is in for the 

long haul 

An LPJ flight from Munich to 

Lugano will costs €4,550 or 

€5,650, depending on aircraft 

type, and Dublin to Bilund will be 

€9,530. Flights can be booked a 

few hours before departure or up 

to 365 days in advance. However, 

LPJ says it recommends that 

passengers book two to three days 

in advance. LPJ says that almost 

any connection is possible. 

“Passengers can choose from 

more than 1,000 destinations 

in Europe and the Russian 

Federation,” says Dr. Gerald 

Wissel, global head, LPJ. 

“Overseas customers used the 

service mainly in combination 

Lufthansa says that First Class will 

also offer service at private jet level. 

with long haul flights operated by 

Lufthansa and Swiss through the 

Frankfurt, Munich and Zurich 

hubs.” In the future Lufthansa and 

Swiss passengers will be able to 

choose four different aircraft 

types. These are: Three CJ+ (light, 

seating four passengers); two CJ3 

(small, six passengers); two XLS 

(mid, seven passengers) and 

two converted CRJ 200s similar to 

the Challenger 850 (large, 12 

passengers). Lufthansa envisages 

a maximum of three private jet 

partners that might be called on 

to supply aircraft. 

DC Aviation orders ACJs and Learjets as it 

builds huge modern charter fleet 

550s, two Global Express, a Global 

5000, a Falcon 900 DX, two 

Challenger 604s, five Legacy 600s, a 

Challenger 300, a Gulfstream 150, a 

Citation X, five Citation XLS, two 

Learjet 60s and four Learjet 40s. 

Detailed fleet expansion plans 

include upgrading the DC Aviation 

fleet of Citation XLS to seven with the 

immediate addition of two more 

aircraft. Marc Ambrosius, cfo, says: 

“This will make DC Aviation the 

largest operator of the Citation XLS in 

Europe.” The company’s plans to 

operates more than 30 modern 

private jets of various sizes with an 

average age that is less than 2.5 years 

are well on the way to fruition. 

“We place great value on our 

young dynamic fleet structure, which 

is maintained by experienced experts 

in our own state of the art 

maintenance facility. Thanks to the 

two new additions we will be able to 

offer our customers one of the safest 

and most modern fleets in Europe”, 

asserts director of sales and 

marketing Jonas Kraft. 

He says businessmen particularly 

appreciate the advantages of the XLS 

including its non-stop cruising range 

of 1,944 n.m, and maximum speed of 

almost 800 km/h.


Charter operators tune in to Europe’s big event 

music, football and racing extravaganzas 

Europe’s big charter operators, 

including DC Aviation, are investing 

in large private jets as the 

growing market in big music 

and sporting events complements 

buoyant corporate demand. 

DC Aviation, together with its 

charter brokerage partner, Premier 

Aviation, flew Bruce Springsteen and 

the E-Street Band aboard DC Aviation’s 

Airbus 319 CJ from the U.S. to Europe 

for their current tour. Premier 

Aviation and its partner Airworks Inc., 

charter brokerage partner companies 

specialising in music business clients, 

arranged the band’s full tour on an 

A319CJ throughout Europe during 

June and July. “In the future DC 

Aviation and Premier Aviation are 

planning to strengthen their 

partnership for further engagement,” 

Jonas Kraft, DC Aviation’s vp sales and 

marketing, says. The aircraft’s 48 seat 

configuration is ideal for bands and 

sport teams, he says. “The ACJ is 

perfectly designed for flights during 

the European Football Championship 

this summer or for road shows and 

concert tours. We are in the tender 

process and discussing for some flights 

for the European Championship. Due 

to the play-off format in the 

preliminary round, there will be also 

an additional short-notice demand for 

flights to the quarter-finals, semi-finals 

and of course the final.” 

A convertible Boeing 757 ‘Combi’, 

created by independent UK-based 

airline Astraeus, has completed its 

world tour with the rock group Iron 

Maiden, whose lead singer Bruce 

Dickinson is a pilot for the airline 

(EBAN March 2008). For the Iron 

Maiden tour it featured 20 business 

class seats, 54 premium economy seats 

and a cargo area where the last ten 

rows of seats would have been in the 

rear compartment of the aircraft. 

Capt. Bruce says: “It cut days off 

the turnaround time between 

concerts on the tour, because the 

band, crew and essential equipment – 

up to 12 tons of it – all travelled 

together, meaning a two day road or 

Austrian police wanted new helicopters 

in time for the policing of the European 

football championship. 

sea trip was despatched in hours or 

even minutes.” The tour visited India, 

the Far East, Australasia, the Americas 

and Europe in February and March 

2008. “But the conversion is not 

something that’s going to be Iron 

Maiden-only. It is designed such that 

we can convert the aircraft one 

way or the other from Combi to 

100 per cent passenger aircraft in 

three days,” says Shaun Monnery of 

Astraeus. “That opens up a whole new 

area of opportunity for other touring 

bands, as well as orchestras, for 

product launches, company events 

and conferences.” 

However, big events also bring in 

business for smaller aircraft including 

helicopters. Paris and French Rivierabased 

Aviaxess has built up a raft of 

private aviation services dedicated to 

the international circuit of Formula 1. 

“Over the years Aviaxess has 

successfully developed solutions to 

meet the exacting demands of the 

Formula 1 business world,” says Steve 

Comlux Aviation expands its 

network and adds two XRS 

Comlux Aviation has ordered two 

Global Express XRS. The deal was 

finalised at EBACE (above). Ettore 

Rodaro, coo and head of the vip charter 

division says: “The aircraft will increase 

Comlux Aviation’s young and modern 

fleet to a total of nine Bombardier 

business jets.” 

The current fleet also includes two 

widebody Challenger 605, two 

Challenger 850 and a Global 5000. “The 

new XRS is the definitive business jet 

offering superior comfort, advanced 

technology and efficient layout of the 

new flight deck,” says Rodaro. “There 

has also been particular attention to 

detail. These new aircraft are part of 

our strategic development plan to 

reinforce our position as a leading long 

haul charter services provider in 

Europe, central Asia and the Middle 

East and will complement our Airbus 

corporate jet fleet.” Comlux is 

establishing Comlux KZ, a new 

operation in Almaty, Kazakhstan, to 

complement existing offices in Zurich, 

Monaco, Moscow and Malta. It has also 

set up a new division, Comlux 

Creatives to offer aircraft design 

covering activities such as exterior and 

interior design and decoration, art 

concepts, completion management 

and supervision. It will be able to call 

on the newly-established Bahrain 

Comlux Creatives. Comlux Creatives, it 

says, will be led by Isabelle Bevilacqua. 

Whittell, organiser of the Motor Sports 

Business Forum in Monte Carlo. 

“Aviaxess looks after all the details that 

drivers, team principals, sponsors and 

VIP guests are so sensitive about. 

Aviaxess removes the stress of travel 

where time is at an absolute 

premium.” Aviaxess is working with 

the organisers of the Motor Sport 

Business Forum to offer its services to 

the executives and vips attending this 

year’s event in December in Monaco. 

Formula 1 also provides business for 

airports. A Dassault Falcon 7X owned 

and operated by the Formula 1 

Management Team, touched down at 

London Ashford (Lydd). The aircraft’s 

pilot and crew carried out ‘touch and 

go’ flight training, completing six 

circuits before returning the aircraft to 

its base at Biggin Hill. 

Meanwhile Eurocopter has fulfilled 

its pledge to deliver EC135s in time 

for the UEFA European Football 

Championship (Euro 2008). Austria’s 

minister of the interior, Gunther 

Platter inaugurated the first three of 

four new EC135 helicopters destined 

for the country's air police at the flight 

operations base in Innsbruck on 5 

May. The new EC135s were also 

publicly presented in Salzburg, Vienna 

and Klagenfurt: each city is an 

important venue for Euro 2008. 

The sheer volume of vip and official 

travel needs will ensure heavy business 

for charter operators. Around 120,000 

guests including vips and sponsors will 

08 09 

HANDbook of 

business aviation 

in Europe 


08 09 

HANDbook of 


in ASIA PACIFIC 

global business jet 

YEARBOOK 

be welcomed, fed and entertained by 

the hospitality team. And every day 

about 2,700 journalists and 

photographers will be reporting via TV, 

Internet, radio, e-mail and telephone. 

Some 5,000 Euro 2008 volunteers have 

already attended events in the host 

cities. Almost two-thirds come from 

Austria and Switzerland, while over 75 

nations are represented in all, with 

many from Germany, some from Italy 

and France and a few from as far away 

as Costa Rica, Togo, Uganda, Indonesia 

and Nepal. 

Air Charter Service (ACS) organised 

a ‘fleet’ of private aircraft to fly to 

Moscow for the Champions League 

final between Manchester United 

and Chelsea. To save on hotel 

accommodation, Chelsea fans 

chartered a 148 seat B737-300 from 

ACS to fly to Moscow, wait at the 

airport and return post match. Four 

Chelsea and eight Manchester United 

fans together chartered a 14 seater G4 

to get to the match. 

But ACS reported: “The Russian 

location made this event a logistical 

nightmare. Landing and parking 

permissions as well as traffic rights 

were difficult to obtain, aircraft 

parking slots at Moscow airport were 

restricted and the actions of the 

authorities and local hoteliers were 

seen by some as ‘an excuse to 

make money’.” The volume of calls 

received by ACS for quotes to fly to 

Moscow was extremely high for over 

three weeks. 

Charters operators and brokers 

reported that the Heineken Cup in 

Cardiff brought so many enquiries and 

bookings in for all aircraft types that 

Cardiff and Bristol airports were 

virtually full. But the UEFA Cup Final 

in Manchester had a lesser impact 

because of Glasgow’s proximity to 

Manchester although scheduled travel 

options sold out fast and private 

charter operators benefited. 

Music and sport events, says 

analysts, will continue to be big 

business for small as well as large 

private aircraft operators. 

Essential reading 

wherever you are 

Handbook of Business 

Aviation in Europe 

The reference book for fixed wing and rotary business aircraft 

owners and operators in Europe and the Middle East. 

2008/09 edition available now! 

www.handbook.aero 

Handbook of Business 

Aviation in Asia Pacific 

The reference book for fixed wing and rotary business 

aircraft owners and operators in the Asia Pacific region. 

Available June 2008. 

www.handbook.aero 

Global Business Jet Yearbook 

The reference book for long range business jet 

owners and operators worldwide. 

www.gbjyearbook.com 

JUNE 2008 7 

Double boost 

for Multiflight 

operations 

Multiflight, based at Leeds Bradford 

International Airport, has added an 

AS355 F2 single pilot IFR, to its fleet 

and is awaiting the arrival of a 

second nine-seater Dauphin AS365 

helicopter. The new charter aircraft 

join Multiflight’s existing fleet, 

which includes an AS365, AS350 and 

an R44. 

Steve Borrowdale, md, says: “The 

investment in the fleet goes in 

tandem with the investment in 

facilities. Multi-million pound 

investment has totally transformed 

the south side of the airport. It 

offers a one-stop shop for flying 

enthusiasts, professionals and 

charter customers, with its own 

FTC and specialist engineering, 

charter, aircraft management and 

sales and executive aircraft 

handling departments.” 

Multiflight's fleet is expanding. 

Multiflight says facilities cater for 

all sizes of aircraft, and features a 

dedicated taxiway from the apron 

and hangar space totalling 10,000 

sq. m., including two barrel-vaulted 

hangars able to house four Boeing 

737-800 sized aircraft. 

EBAN JULY 2008 

The July EBAN will enjoy bonus 

distribution at the Farnborough 

Airshow. In-depth focuses will 

include a fleet review of the 

Netherlands.


CZECH 

REPUBLIC/ 

SLOVAKIA 

REVIEW 

When EBAN last interviewed charter 

operators in the Czech Republic for 

the regional review many were 

uncertain about what would happen 

over the coming years and some were 

unsure that joining the European 

Union had even had a positive effect 

on business levels. Many were 

predicting that either they or some of 

their competitors might not be 

around for much longer. 

Four years on, and the business 

aviation sector is looking much more 

promising. Operators are continuing 

to add aircraft to their fleets and many 

are busy developing the service they 

provide at the base for a more ‘allround’ 

business offering. 

The Czech Republic’s main exports 

comprise car and transport 

equipment, manufactured goods and 

beverages and thousands of tourists 

flock to its capital Prague every year to 

experience its famous architecture 

and art history, something that charter 

operator VIP Helicopter Czech has 

been wise to exploit. 

“We provide regular Prague 

sightseeing tours and are working with 

companies in the Czech Republic 

marketplace,” says managing director 

Marek Kratky. 

Last year, VIP Helicopter Czech 

added useful revenue to its private 

charter income with additional 

services to tourists provided by a 

managed Bell 206. Its managed fleet of 

helicopters has grown since the 

company launched in 2004, with 

good demand for its BO 105 and 

Robinson 44. Its fleet also comprises a 

Schweizer 300, R22, R44, Bell 206 and 

AS355. Furthermore, the company 

leases a number of Cessna aircraft 

including a Citation X and a light twin 

Cessna 340. 

Demand for its aircraft is split 

50/50 between business missions and 

tourism. Kratky says: “Business has 

been OK for us. We’ve increased sales 

by 35 per cent and we’re expecting 

growth to continue at the same pace at 

around 30 per cent a year. 

“Real estate is a key business sector 

for us. There are a lot of houses being 

built here at the moment. Flying by 

helicopter is a great opportunity to 

check your acquisition before putting 

your money on the table. Eighteen 

months ago we took the president of 

08 09 

HANDbook of 


in Europe 


The new edition is out now. 

Czech Republic and 

Slovakian charter, 

handling and 

maintenance 

The 2008/09 EBAN Handbook of 

Business Aviation in Europe, now 

available, covers the Czech Republic 

and Slovakia, and contains useful 

details about charter operators. It also 

details business aviation facilities and 

services including airports, FBOs and 

maintenance centres. The details can 

be accessed through a search of 

aircraft operated or the airport bases. 

For more information please visit 

www.handbook.aero. 

Czech Republic and Slovakia look to new ideas 

and better aircraft to keep the business fresh 

VIP Helicopter Czech provides regular sightseeing tours of Prague. 

Hyundai out in one of our aircraft. The 

company wanted to survey the prime 

spot in which to locate a new 

automotive factory. More and more 

people are counting time as money 

and people are trying to like more 

luxury and freedom.” 

New ideas, new horizons 

As well as operating a healthy charter 

business, VIP Helicopter Czech has 

also been working on another project 

to develop a new way of extinguishing 

fires using helicopters. The company 

has already patented the technology 

and has exhibited the product on a 

number of occasions. 

“We’re working on a new way of 

extinguishing fires that would work 

well in cities which have a lot of high 

buildings and which will need 

helicopters to extinguish the fires. 

We’re still at the testing stage but we’ve 

had a positive response and we’re 

waiting to sign contracts with 

potential clients that include the 

mayor of New York,” Kratky explains. 

Aerotaxi operates a range of Piper 

aircraft including a Seneca and a 

Cheyenne III, with plans to acquire 

more aircraft later this year if business 

continues to fare well. The company 

confirmed that its first year of 

operations was not as busy as 

expected but over the coming year it is 

determined to increase the number of 

flight hours from 300 to 400 hours for 

the Cheyenne and 250 to 350 hours for 

the Seneca. 

Acquiring an AOC for operating a 

single-engine aircraft has not been 

easy however, a spokesman explains. 

“It’s something that the Czech 

authorities are not familiar with so it 

has caused us a few problems but we 

have been working with them to sort it 

out. We’re hoping that operating such 

an aircraft will be cheaper and will 

help us to attract new clients.” 

Silesia Air operates a Citation 560, 

560 XL and a CitationJet 525 for 

charter and air ambulance missions. 

Its most recent acquisition is a 

luxuriously outfitted Citation Excel. 

The aircraft are solely owned 

and operated by Silesia, which 

allows total operational control and 

continuous availability for charter. 

This latest addition is performing 

extremely well and is a favourite 

All Seagle Jet aircraft have moved to 

VIP Air. 

amongst industry brokers for both 

business and private missions. 

ABS Jets operates out of both the 

Czech Republic and Slovakia, with 

bases in Prague and more recently 

Bratislava. In business since 2004, ABS 

provides handling and hangarage at 

Prague Ruzyne airport. Its fleet 

consists of four Legacy 600s, two 

Citation 550/551s and a Learjet 60XR. 

Commercial director Jan Vana says: 

“Prague Ruzyne airport is very wellequipped 

for business and general 

aviation. ABS Jets is building its own 

FBO capability at the airport, which 

we expect to open in 2009.” 

On the move 

PonyExpres is currently located at 

Prague Kbely airport but at the request 

of its customers the company is 

planning to reposition its aircraft at 

Prague Ruzyne airport. PonyExpres 

performs a number of services 

including aerial works, freight and 

passenger charter. Most recently, the 

company acquired a Cessna 421 

Golden Eagle. Says flight operations 

manager Michal Bures: “It fits all our 

requirements – it is fast, reliable and 

spacious enough for passengers and 

cargo and the big positive is that its 

very economical.” 

So how busy is the charter market 

for the company at present? 

“The charter market is still in the 

phase of development and grows by 

tens of per cent every year. We have 

special marketing activities on the 

basis of the work with selected 

companies and regular customers, but 

we are also working on projects to 

increase the overall awareness of the 

public and respective clients about 

business aviation. One of the most 

memorable flights recently was to 

Europe's highest airport in Samedan, 

Switzerland. This airport not only 

offers unusual visual procedures in the 

deep alpine valley, but provides 

passengers with unbeatable views on 

approach and departure.” 

According to Bures, there are plans 

to develop Kbely airport further and 

despite the company's planned 

repositioning, he is supportive of the 

plans. “For the future, there are 

development plans for Kbely airport, 

which has the ideal position to 

become the secondary business 

aviation airport for Prague. Its unique 

position and development plans 

promise to serve industrial zones on 

the eastern part of Prague, but it can 

also be used as a cargo airport for the 

close production plants,” he says. 

At the heart of Europe and with a 

history strongly-linked with that of its 

closest neighbours, Slovakia also 

joined the European Union in 2004. Its 

modest size and close proximity to 

other European countries means that 

operators must compete for business 

within Slovakia and abroad. 

Fortunately there are few competitors 

compared with other parts of Europe 

and some tend to use older, well-used 

aircraft rather than brand new jets. 

Air Transport Europe operates five 

Agusta K2s and an AS355N Ecureuil 

helicopter. With five bases spread 

across the country including its main 

site in the capital, Bratislava, the 

company performs a range of services 

from emergency medical services and 

repatriation to aerial work and 

sightseeing, mostly within Slovakia. 

Emergency medical services fly for 

around 1,000 hours per year. It also 

performs a few sightseeing trips, 

though this is mostly seasonal, and 

conducts occasional repatriation 

missions in Hungary, Poland and the 

Czech Republic. 

Twelve pilots currently work for the 

company, eight full-time and four 

part-time but every pilot works only 

for Air Transport Europe, according to 

chief pilot Wiliam Kriwak. As part of 

the company’s plans to acquire 

another base, taking their offering to 

six, and ultimately a 24-hour 

operation, Kriwak said the firm may 

have to recruit more staff. At this stage 

however, he is not sure when that 

might be. 

“Yes, of course we would like to hire 

more people. It depends on the 

Cessna 421: PonyExpres’s latest aircraft. 

situation with the emergency medical 

market. We’d like six bases and we 

want to have a 24-hour operation 

instead of 12-hour so for that we may 

need an additional five pilots, 

perhaps.” 

As well as increasing the number of 

bases Air Transport Europe would also 

like to acquire additional aircraft. 

“Our Agusta has accrued more than 

3,000 hours total flight time so perhaps 

we will acquire more aircraft in the 

future. Once again it depends on the 

market and the economy. We’d like 

more aircraft but it's hard to say when 

that will be and which aircraft we 

would choose.” 

A necessary change 

Staying competitive in any market is 

difficult and Slovakia is no exception. 

Seagle Jet recently merged with VIP Air 

to form a new, independent company. 

From 1 May, all aircraft and some of its 

personnel and pilots will be operating 

former Seagle Jet aircraft under VIP 

Air’s AOC. 

Dusan Blascak left his post as sales 

manager at Seagle Jet when the 

company was sold, along with most of 

the former Seagle Jet management 

team. He began a new role one month 

ago as commercial director of a 

different company called Seagle Air. 

According to Blascak the company 

recently acquired a B737 aircraft and 

has plans to acquire four more similar 

aircraft over the coming two years. He 

explains: “Lots of people at Seagle Air 

are former employees of Slovak 

Airlines and have great experience 

flying with 737s so we have the know- 

Business and tourism demand split 

50/50, says Kratky. 

how to operate them effectively. We 

might consider operating other 

aircraft in the future but for now our 

type rating is with 737s and that’s what 

we know best.” 

Arpad Agocs is sales executive with 

the revised VIP Air. According to 

Agocs, all aircraft listed in the Seagle 

Jet fleet have moved to VIP Air. It now 

consists of three Citation jets, three 

King Air aircraft and a Piper 

Cheyenne. At the end of June, the 

company is also hoping for a Hawker 

800XP to join the fleet. 

“There are also plans for additional 

aircraft deliveries, however no exact 

decision was made if the Cessna or 

Raytheon Hawker types would be 

preferred. Just this year we delivered 

three brand new aircraft and are 

hoping to purchase new types in the 

future. With the mixed fleet of 

turboprops and jets we will have no 

limits to our operations.” 

Agocs also confirmed plans to 

develop a rebranding and marketing 

action, that may include a name 

change, to mark the last step of this 

fusion of companies.


EAS extends charter scope with fleet additions 

that bring shorter runways within reach 

Executive Aviation Services (EAS) has 

recently added a Citation Bravo, a 

Super King Air 350 and a Britten- 

Norman Islander to its management 

and charter fleet. 

“With the addition of the King Air 

350, one of only two available for 

charter in the U.K., we can offer our 

charter clients an eight seat 

configuration in a larger cabin as well 

as access to airfields with shorter 

runways, increasing flexibility 

while enabling them to make the 

most of their time at their 

destination. For those really out of the 

way airfields the Islander is a 

tremendous alternative for up to 

eight passengers,” says Capt. Peter 

Turner, ceo. 

The EAS fleet also includes two 

Citation Bravos and a Citation II 

based at the U.K.’s Gloucestershire 

airport. These are complemented by 

two King Air 200s based at Cardiff 

airport and a further King Air 200 

deployed from Retford/Gamston. 

The latest additions, based in 

Gloucestershire, are available for 

charter within western and near 

eastern Europe, Scandinavia and 

North Africa. 

Capt. Turner says: “We are 

currently sourcing a further Bravo for 

a regular charter customer. As an 

aircraft management company the 

decision whether to order new or 

pre-owned aircraft is fully dictated by 

the requirements of the owner in 

respect to utilisation, range, capacity 

and price.” 

Kirstie Turner, operations director, 

says: “The majority of our charter 

requests are through charter brokers, 

increasingly through Avinode.com, 

but we are experiencing increasing 

levels of enquiries from direct 

clients through our new website, 

www.exas.co.uk.” 

Capt. Jason Bishop, Capt. Peter Turner and Capt Ken Wilson are enjoying flying new 

aircraft. 

She adds: “As we are only 30 

minutes flying time from all the 

major London airports a large part of 

our charter work is for the business 

sector with all aircraft having London 

City approval. 

Celebrating successful corporate conversions are (left to right): Steve Buckingham, md 

of Inflite Engineering Services, Andy Whelan, sales, BAE Systems Regional Aircraft and 

Gary Doy, director, Design Q. 

“Over the last year we have 

noticed an increase in the number of 

charter requests from Birmingham, 

Manchester, East Midlands and 

Leeds Bradford, all within 40 

minutes of our main Gloucestershire 

Bulgaria’s Hemus Air has acquired an 

RJ70 for conversion into a full 

corporate interior for use by its parent 

company, the Varna-based diversified 

industrial group TIM. The group has 

extensive business interests across 

banking, insurance, pension funds 

and oil and gas prospecting. 

“It is one of at least six Avro 

business jets that will enter service this 

year with five vip operators,” says 

Andy Whelan, sales executive for BAE 

Systems Regional Aircraft. “There are 

around 23 BAe 146/Avro RJs that are in 

service or being converted for a variety 

of corporate roles - some six per cent 

base. In the case of charter clients 

in the north of England our King 

Air 200 based at Gamston is a 

useful option.” 

Capt. Ken Wilson, EAS’s chief pilot, 

says: “The Citation Bravo is one of the 

most popular and reliable business 

jets presently operating at present 

with the ability to comfortably 

reach all major European capitals.” 

EAS is a Cessna Citation Type Rating 

Training Organisation. 

The King Air 350 has a spacious 

interior with an accessible baggage 

allowance of up to 550 lbs carrying, as 

an example, eight passengers from 

London Luton to the Côte d’Azur in 

two hours and 20 minutes. 

“The aircraft’s ability to utilise 

shorter runways than those for a 

similar size jet allows access to a great 

number of airfields offering increased 

flexibility to the customer,” Capt. 

Wilson adds. 

EAS recruits all staff through 

open application derived from 

advertisements in trade publications. 

The company currently employs five 

administrative personnel and 

operates with a pool of 22 pilots. 

“Our recruitment situation is 

currently under review in light of 

the new additions to our fleet,” says 

Capt. Wilson. 

The main revenue stream is 

through charter but there is a major 

focus on providing aircraft 

management and consultancy to 

owner clients. 

Capt. Wilson says: “Our utilisation 

of aircraft is growing by demand. We 

look for a minimum of 400 hours 

annual utilisation per aircraft.” 

Formed in 1982, EAS, a family 

owned and run aircraft management, 

consultancy and charter company, 

has grown over the years to operate 

eight aircraft on its AOC. 

of total production of the aircraft. BAE 

Systems is working on several other 

potential ABJ deals.” 

There is interest from vip operators 

of aging converted jet airliners, 

high net worth individuals and 

entrepreneurs, large corporations with 

a demanding travel profile, charter 

companies and airlines that require 

executive operations. “The upsurge in 

demand looks likely to continue for 

the forseeable future,” Whelan says. 

TIM says that the interior has been 

designed by Design Q of the U.K. 

There is a dining and divan area with 

separate 12-seat business class seating 

JUNE 2008 9 

Keith McMann: Plans for more aircraft. 

Twinjet broadens 

business thrust 

in Middle East 

Twinjet Aviation Group, in keeping 

with its change of name from 

Twinjet Aircraft, is broadening its 

range of activities in the Middle 

East. “We plan to base a second 

aircraft in the region from later this 

year and are also intending to open 

a sales office in a major city in the 

next six months,” says Keith 

McMann, ceo. 

The company, which operates a 

Challenger 604 from Bahrain, was 

established in 1982 and has a client 

base that includes Royal families, 

heads of state and sports and 

entertainment personalities. 

McMann says: “The next 12 

months will be an exciting time for 

Twinjet as we extend our operations 

and activities. We continue to see a 

growing demand for our services 

and plan to introduce further 

aircraft by the end of this year.” 

Twinjet also plans to expand its 

programme of executive jet cabin 

crew training courses to include 

safety and emergency procedures, 

first aid and crew resource 

management in addition to cabin 

protocol, handling vip clients and 

menu planning. 

Hemus Air and First Kuwait in the vanguard 

of growing demand for corporate RJ70s 

cabin for company support staff. 

Inflite Engineering Services, based at 

London Stansted, believes it will 

complete the conversion by the third 

quarter of this year. 

First Kuwait Trading & Contracting 

has acquired a BAe 146-200 which will 

be used as a corporate shuttle for 

company personnel servicing 

construction projects in the Middle 

East and Asia. The company says that 

pluses include the operational 

performance, large cabin and 

competitive pricing. Whelan says: “A 

European operator has also purchased 

an RJ70 for charter.”


Mustangs ride hard to catch buoyant Moscow air taxi 

demand as western manufacturers target Russia 

Russia is a country where private 

aviation can equate to business 

survival. Nobody sees an easing off 

in demand for either air taxis or long 

haul service in the foreseeable 

future. There is a favourite story, 

apparently true and unvarnished by 

legend, about a businessman in the 

far east of Russia who needed to fly 

just 400 kilometres north. Because 

there was no direct flight available 

his route lay over thousands 

of kilometres via Moscow and 

back with the frustrations of 

delays, cancellations and an 

overnight stopover. And, when the 

businessman’s scheduled flight 

finally approached the destination 

days later, weather conditions were 

so bad the aircraft was diverted back 

to his starting point. 

That’s why Eugene Andrachnikov, 

ceo of Dexter Air Taxis, says with 

quiet understatement and absolute 

certainty: “There is rapid expansion 

of business aviation in Russia. We 

expect that to continue.” 

There is a telling transport price 

comparison. Andrachnikov says: 

“We charge 140 rubles per km per 

aircraft regardless of the number of 

passengers on board. If we assume 

that a group of eight people decides 

to pay for the trip jointly it means 

17.5 rubles per km per each 

passenger which is lower than 20 

to 25 rubles per km for a ground taxi 

in Moscow.” 

Dexter Air Taxis already operates 

PC-12s, is expanding that fleet to 

more than a dozen, and has signed 

a fleet management programme 

with Pratt & Whitney to cover 

maintenance for eight engines. 

Significantly Dexter has ordered 20 

Citation Mustangs for 2011 delivery. 

It already operates its PC-12 air taxis 

on routes ranging up to around 1,000 

kilometres and is expanding services 

into Scandinavia, the Baltic region, 

Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, the 

north Caucases and the former 

Soviet republics. But Andrachnikov 

says: “All 20 Mustangs will be 

allocated across Russia to support 

the nationwide network we are 

building. This is still a virgin market 

but three or four years from now it 

will be very different.” Key base 

locations will include St. Petersburg, 

Rostov and Vladivostock. 

He adds: “Air-taxi is ideal for 

point-to-point logistics within 

Russia, where 90% of air traffic 

generates through Moscow and 

St.Petersburg,” says Andrachnikov. 

Executives with plans to feed the hunger for private aviation in Russia. From left to 

right: Sergey Reus (Oboronprom general director); Giuseppi Orsi, AgustaWestland ceo; 

and Aaron Frenkel, Loyd's Investments president. 

Get Inside 

Eugene Andrachnikov, ceo of Dexter Air Taxis (right) with Roger Whyte, svp sales and marketing of Cessna celebrate Dexter's order of 

20 Mustangs, which will be used to provide air taxi services. 

Know More. 

800.553.8638 +1.315.797.4420 JETNET.COM 

Worldwide leader in aviation market intelligence. 

RUSSIA BUSINESS REVIEW 

“Dexter is a hassle-free and 

affordable tool for optimising 

corporate travel budgets.” 

Says Roger Whyte, svp, sales and 

marketing for Cessna: “Dexter’s 

order is a sign of the strength of the 

business jet market in Eastern 

Europe, particularly within Russia. 

We designed the Mustang to be every 

bit as reliable and robust as any 

other Citation in the stable, and 

that makes it quite suitable for the 

high utilisation operations it will see 

at Dexter.” 

Manufacturers are getting ready 

to produce their aircraft in Russia as 

well as export to the country in large 

numbers as soon as permissions and 

production schedules and order 

backlogs allow. 

Cessna expects certification for 

the Citation Mustang by Russian 

authorities in early 2010. Eclipse 

Aviation has received the U.S. 

government’s go-ahead to export the 

Eclipse 500 and its components to 

Russia. Pratt & Whitney also have 

Canada’s permission to export the 

PW610F engine to Russia. “These 

significant milestones are major 

steps towards establishing an 

assembly facility in Ulyanovsk, 

Russia,” Eclipse says. On the 

helicopter front, Oboronprom 

Corporation and Agusta Westland 

envisage a joint production 

agreement. Andrey Reus, general 

director, Oboronprom, says: “A joint 

team of experts is working in order to 

define how to best implement this 

project and will select a production 

site in the European part of Russia. 

The helicopters produced will be 

Oleg Shougaley: targeting a market boom. 

marked both within Russia and CIS 

area, and, through Agusta Westland, 

all over the world." 

Giuseppe Orsi, ceo Agusta 

Westland, says: “We see the 

Russian and CIS markets as very 

important with the potential to 

generate significant future business 

opportunities. Already, prior to this 

agreement, we have won orders for 

14 AgustWestland vip-configured 

helicopters from various Russian 

customers.” The orders are for five 

AW119 Ke, five AW109 Power and 

four Grands. 

There is also a business 

opportunity to train pilots for the 

pent-up demand for private aviation 

services. Oxford Aviation Academy 

(OAA) has appointed Oleg Shougaley 

as regional sales manager for 

the Baltic and Russia and other 

CIS countries. Based in Moscow 

and Stockholm, Oleg’s initial 

responsibilities include setting up 

OAA as a registered business entity 

in Russia as well as representing 

OAA’s sales efforts within the 

region. Shougaley confirms: “Today 

Russia, CIS and Baltic is a booming 

aviation market.” 

Russian investors back the Eclipse 

Roel Piper's European Technology 

and Investment Research Center 

(ERITC) says it has recently 

invested more than US$100 

million, mainly from Russian 

investors, in the Eclipse. Piper says 

the ‘sky cab fleet model’ is well 

suited to Europe. 

ETIRC plans to open Eclipse 

service centres in southwest, east 

and northern Europe. Both Russia 

and Turkey are seen as key markets. 

However, Russia will also be central 

to production plans. A Russian 

assembly plant is planned 

convenient to the Ulyanovsk- 

Vostochny airport. Ulyanovsk's 

aviation complex builds the 

Antonov An-124 Ruslan and 

Tupolev Tu-204. There are also 

engineering schools in relatively 

close proximity. Piper says: “We 

Dexter's PC-12s are already veterans 

in the Russian air taxi arena. 

Rising demand 

brings training 

and development 

opportunities 

FACTS Training, a division of 

AirCare Solutions Group, recently 

completed its first emergency 

procedures training exercise in 

Russia. “Our goal is to be 

the frontrunner in providing 

new and challenging training 

experiences for corporate 

crewmembers,” says Doug 

Mykol, ceo, of the AirCare 

Solutions Group. 

Corporate and vip transport 

demand is also generating 

orders. Five AW119 Kes have been 

ordered by Russian customers. 

One will feature a Versace-style 

interior and be outfitted with a 

six-seat cabin. 

But, for now, Dexter, funded 

by two Russian private equity 

groups, Industrial Investors and 

Kaskol, both with strong 

expertise in the transportation 

sector, seems to have a head start 

on most potential business rivals. 

“Since our first flight in 

2006, our Moscow-based 

operation is the first air 

taxi in the country offering 

the intelligent alternative 

for business travelers,” says 

Andrachnikov. “The company 

created an entirely new 

‘low cost business aviation’ 

mode of transportation that 

complements travel by car, train 

and traditional air carriers 

in Russia.” 

Dexter executives conducted 

extensive research involving 

visits to VLJ sites in both North 

and South America before 

selecting the Mustang. “We 

are very happy with our 

decision,” says Andrachnikov, 

“and so are the customers 

who also had an input. There 

was also the consideration 

that infrastructure is relatively 

under-developed and the aircraft 

needed to be robust.” 

evaluated potential manufacturing 

sites based on aviation history, 

tradition, engineering schools and 

manufacturing.” 

Vern Raburn, founder and 

president of Eclipse Aviation, says 

the cash hungry start-up is 

adequately financed and poised to 

meet the challenge of becoming an 

internationally-focused company 

with a global order book.


Large charter operators mount big ‘one stop shop’ 

challenge on the FBO and maintenance fronts 

There are concerns that the 

slowdown in the U.S. market will 

feed through to orders for jets and 

helicopters and that this will affect 

the growth of business aviation 

services. But there are no such 

worries in Europe and the Middle 

East where the emphasis is on rapid 

expansion with the “one-stop shop” 

approach favoured by many 

companies and private charter 

operators among those expanding 

their own maintenance and 

handling services. 

Avitat, which is celebrating its 

40th anniversary, believes that the 

European part of its global network 

of independent FBOs will expand 

from nine to 14 or 15 in the next 

18 months to two years. Members 

must meet strict standards for 

safety, service, training and facility 

amenities to become part of the 

ExxonMobil Aviation Avitat network 

which has more than 600 aviation 

locations worldwide. However that 

has not discouraged interest and the 

network’s current growth reflects 

the continuing high demand for 

business aviation services in Europe, 

the Middle East and Russia. Avitats 

in Dublin, Istanbul, Naples and Nice 

are among the most recent additions 

while others in Cologne and Rome 

are also coming on stream. 

But as traditional FBO players 

such as Avitat seek new business, they 

are facing strong competition from 

private charter operations that are 

fast expanding their own FBO 

facilities and networks as well as their 

own maintenance operations. The 

increasing ‘one stop shop’ challenge 

is being mounted by companies 

including Gestair, FlyingGroup, Aero- 

Dienst and Ocean Sky. 

Gestair expects to start operating 

its first FBO outside Spain in the near 

future. Jose Ramon Barriocanal, gm 

private aviation, says that the 

company is also setting up a 50:50 

joint venture with Iberia to supply 

executive jet maintenance at 

Madrid. The company, Gestair 

Maintenance Support (GMAS) will 

operate from a new hangar. 

Gestair’s recently announced 

joint venture with Assistair at El Prat 

airport in Barcelona, based at the 

new corporate aviation terminal, 

Service providers such as Universal 

Weather and Aviation are focusing more 

closely on private aviation according to 

Pete Lewis. 

covers two years but may be 

extended to 2010. “Madrid and 

Barcelona account for about 80 per 

cent of business aviation activity in 

Spain so these agreements are very 

important,” says Barriocanal. “We 

only moved into the new facility in 

March but the company has serviced 

more than 300 operations and 

expects to serve more than 60 per 

cent of the business aviation traffic 

there this year.” 

SPECIAL FOCUS: PRIVATE AIRCRAFT SERVICES 

PremiAir has big plans based on fixed-wing aircraft maintenance at Oxford airport. Pictured are (left) Steve Jones, md, Oxford airport 

and David McRobert, group md, PremiAir. 

Barriocanal is assessing potential 

FBO acquisitions in Europe. Gestair, 

opening within weeks at Valencia, 

expects to acquire its first FBO 

outside Spain in the near future. “We 

have the largest number of FBOs on 

the Iberian peninsular and it makes 

sense to add an international 

dimension,” says Barriocanal. 

FlyingGroup of Belgium has 

acted to bring certainty into its 

handling operations. Flying Service, 

one of its companies, has signed an 

agreement with AviaPartner Belgium 

which means that FlyingGroup will 

perform all third party ground 

handling services at Antwerp until 30 

September 2010 when AviaPartner’s 

handling license expires. Ben 

Paindavin, marketing director, 

says: “The agreement enables 

FlyingGroup to reinforce staff, know 

how and experience in business 

aircraft handling. We have good 

experience as self handler for its fleet 

of about 20 business aircraft. We 

expected that FlyingGroup will 

handle at least 800 third party flights 

per year at Antwerp.” 

FlyingGroup will also offer 

aircraft cleaning, hangarage, EASA 

Part 145 maintenance and Part-M 

engineering services on Citations, 

Falcons and Challengers plus JAR- 

OPS/EU-OPS compliant flight 

support services to third parties. 

Paindavin says: “Antwerp airport is 

the second base, after Paris Le 

Bourget, where FlyingGroup provides 

third party handling activities.” 

Ocean Sky says its engineers 

currently service up to 400 aircraft a 

year. Its ceo Kurosh Tehranchian 

says: “It is anticipated that this 

number will increase rapidly by as 

much as 300 per cent now that our 

Manchester maintenance facility has 

become a Bombardier authorised 

service facility. The facility employs 

65 people and is the airport’s only 

FAL Aviation: reports rising fuel demand. 

high-end private aviation 

maintenance operation.” The 

company’s two hangars cover more 

than 3,000 square meters and can 

accommodate four long range jets. 

Ocean Sky also has a jet 

maintenance centre at Glasgow 

Prestwick, a base in London and 

offices in Manchester, Salzburg, 

Zurich and Moscow. 

Phil Maltby, group md for 

engineering at Ocean Sky, says 

obtaining the additional aircraft 

types for our Aircraft Service 

Facility (ASF) with Bombardier will 

see a doubling of the 26-strong 

engineering workforce at the 

Manchester facility “within the next 

six to twelve months.” 

Maltby promised some tough 

targets for his team. “Many facilities 

could take three days or more to 

undertake a scheduled 400 hour 

check on a Challenger aircraft, we’re 

aiming to cut that down to less than 

24 hours. Because we also operate our 

own fleet, we know that a jet on the 

ground isn’t earning any money, so a 

fast maintenance turnaround is vital. 

We’d expect to see at least a 50 per 

cent increase in the throughput of 

aircraft for maintenance as a result of 

our enhanced relationship with 

Bombardier.” 

Aero-Dienst, one of the largest 

service providers for business 

aviation in Europe, is expanding 

aircraft maintenance, operations, 

sales and management. It has been 

appointed as an authorised service 

centre for the Falcon 900EX and 

900EX EASy and its new 3a hangar 

starts operations in July. 

The company operates nine 

aircraft including the recently added 

Falcon 900EX trijet and Learjet 45 XR 

were registered in the AOC and it is 

commissioning a new third hangar 

to take its total operations area at 

Nuremberg airport to over some 

5,500 square metres. Its 50th 

anniversary was marked with the 

‘Safety of Flight Award Gold’ from 

the European Business Aviation 

Association (EBAA). 

JUNE 2008 11 

Phil Maltby: setting tough targets. 

New charter management 

team reflects business boom 

Service providers are also focusing 

strongly on increasing business from 

private aviation. 

Universal Weather and Aviation 

has created a new charter 

management team dedicated to 

providing bespoke services. Pete 

Lewis, vp trip support services, says: 

“Anticipating client needs from the 

charter management industry, 

and taking into account feedback 

from clients, we determined that 

the best way for Universal to 

meet the evolving needs of our 

charter management clients was 

to create a specialised group 

composed of teams dedicated 

exclusively to them.” 

He points out: “Charter management 

is unique in how it operates and 

has a high demand for rapid 

turnaround on aspects including 

trip cost estimates. Our new 

CMT integrates key trip support 

functionality into one team, 

centralising all trip-critical aspects 

and related personnel which 

translates into even greater 

personalised services and attention.” 

Preston Hesselgesser, CMT 

manager, says: “The CMT model has 

given us a more intimate knowledge 

of each charter management client's 

unique preference, and improved 

the accuracy of data generated as 

well as our responsiveness and 

communication with clients.” 

Some organisations are focusing 

on developing reputations for 

regional expertise. 

“Planning a trip into the Middle 

East or Africa has always been a 

difficult experience,” says Mazher 

Hussain, gm Fliteport. 

Fliteport, based in Dubai has 

been established to assist flight 

operations departments around the 

world in planning their trips into 

the Middle East, Asia and Africa 

region. “We are witnessing an 

increasing demand for trip planning 

services,” Hussain adds. “Operations 

departments are experiencing 

increasing workloads, and we can 

assist them in utilising their current 

resources more effectively. By taking


the burden off the operator for 

flight planning, flight permission 

applications, handling and fueling 

requests, they are able to focus on 

the aircraft, crews and passengers.” 

Fliteport, he says, intends to 

capture significant market share of 

the trip support industry in line with 

the continued growth in business 

aviation around the world and in 

particular in the Middle East. Key 

markets will include the UAE, Saudi 

Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kenya, 

Sudan, Ghana, Libya, Syria, Iran, 

India and China. 

Palm Aviation is another provider 

that recognises the potential growth 

of on-demand flight support in the 

Middle East. “The company has set 

itself the goal of achieving 35 per 

cent growth per annum through 

extending its services to air traffic 

inbound to the Middle East and 

Africa originating in Europe and the 

CIS states,” says Samer Dabbagh, 

executive vp and ceo. “Palm Aviation 

is internationally certified to obtain 

global over-flight and landing 

permits, in addition to global 

fuelling and ground handling, 

weather forecasts, computerised 

flight plans, and ATC flight plans.” 

Palm Aviation has already 

announced a series of service 

contracts, covering ground handling 

services and logistical support with 

Middle East regional operators, 

including the Empire Aviation 

Group. “We will operate the first FBO 

at Dubai World Central (DWC) 

Aviation City, which is home to the 

world’s largest maintenance repair 

operation (MRO) centre. The FBO 

investment will total around US$ 12 

million,” Dabbagh adds. 

According to DWC Aviation City, 

the aviation sector is expected to 

grow at more than 30 per cent 

annually for the next five years, 

with growth of more than nine per 

cent for the Middle East MRO market 

expected to continue over the 

same period. 

Palm Aviation, he points out, 

entered the aviation market to offer 

clients a ‘one stop shop’ and a high 

level of customised service provision 

for all clients’ flights and ground 

handling needs. 

AMAC, founded in the autumn 

of 2007 by a group of 

aviation specialists, is launching 

maintenance, refurbishment and 

completion services for corporate 

and private aircraft from its base in 

Basel. Heinz Köhli, ceo of AMAC 

Aerospace Switzerland says: “The first 

aircraft will be in the new hangar at 

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Fliteport has big Middle East ambitions. Pictured (left to right) are: Mazher Hussain, gm; Ghizlane Khalif and Asser Ahmed, flight operations; 

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A 

Preston Hesselgesser: anticipating needs. 

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg 

for maintenance, refurbishment and 

completion work in September this 

year.” He adds: “The business aviation 

market has seen annual growth of 5.8 

per cent over the last 30 years. 

Forecasts indicate that this growth is 

set to accelerate. The positive outlook 

means there is room for a new 

company offering high quality 

services to enter this attractive market 

alongside the established players.” 

AMAC is building a 4,200 square 

metre double hangar. Operational 

work will begin in the aircraft halls, 

workshops and offices in September 

2008. During the first phase, 

maintenance will be offered on 

Gulfstream, Boeing and Airbus 

aircraft. The second phase of 

construction will see the erection of 

a wide-body hangar with a floor 

space of around 8,200 square 

metres. “This will be big enough for 

wide-bodied aircraft such as a 

Boeing B747-400 or two Airbus 

A320. From 2009 services will 

also be offered for aircraft made by 

Dassault, Bombardier and other 

manufacturers,” says Köhli. 

Skilled technicians and 

managers have been appointed 

Gulfstream IVs are regular visitors at Newquay airport. 

to key positions in maintenance 

and completion, production 

organisation, quality assurance, 

aircraft management and charter. 

Airports expand business 

aviation facilities 

Airports also confirm the rise in 

demand for private aircraft services. 

Oxford Airport says Oxfordjet, a new 

private aviation terminal is on 

schedule for its July opening. Steve 

Jones, md, says: “The facility will 

cater for private jet traffic crew and 

passengers and will have triple the 

space of the existing general aviation 

terminal, with a fresh, modern 

design and amenities akin to a smart 

boutique hotel.” The new terminal 

represents the first phase of a major 

investment by Oxford Airport’s joint 

owners, international property 

developers the Reuben Brothers and 

Dawnay Day, who purchased it last 

summer from BBA Aviation. 

Business aviation at the airport, says 

newly appointed customer services 

manager David Surley, who joins 

from Air Mauritius, has doubled over 

the past three years. 

Oxford Airport has already built a 

new 3,500 square metre high bearing 

strength apron suitable for larger 

business aircraft up to the size and 

weight of the Boeing Business Jet 

and Airbus A318 Elite. “We are able 

to accommodate heavier business 

jets such as the Global Express and 

Gulfstream V (550), together with 

regional aircraft such as the BAe 146 

family and the Bombardier Q400,” 

says Jones. “The new high 

bearing strength apron will allow us 

to accommodate aircraft with 

maximum weights in excess of 77 

tonnes.” he said. “Throughout 2008, 

there will be further enhancements 

at the airport, specifically for the 

business aviation sector, including 

more hangar facilities to add to the 

170,000 sq.ft. already established.” 

PremiAir says Oxford will be the 

new home of its fixed wing 

maintenance operations. Work on 

Hawker Beechcraft business 

aircraft, for which PremiAir is an 

Authorised Service Centre, will move 

from PremiAir’s headquarters at 

Blackbushe, Surrey, from September 

this year, making Blackbushe a 

dedicated base for rotary wing 

maintenance, says md David 

McRobert. “PremiAir no longer 

had sufficient capacity to 

grow its maintenance any further 

at Blackbushe. The airport’s 

comparatively short runway length 

and lack of ILS always constrained 

fixed wing operations. It was 

therefore logical to find a new base 

for our fixed wing business 

and thereby create much needed 

space for further helicopter 

maintenance activity.” 

St. Gallen-Altenrhein executives 

says that discretion, privacy and 

efficiency is why royals, celebrities 

and executives use the airport 

as a gateway to Switzerland 

and Liechtenstein. “The airport is 

experiencing a tremendous upward 

trend in business aviation 

movements,” they add. 

Newquay Cornwall airport and 

its FBO Midwest Executive report 

that, during 2007, business jet 

movements were up 11 per cent to a 

total of 903 aircraft. In 2008, it is 

forecast to grow 10 per cent, which 

will push movements up to the 1,000 

a year mark, says md Nick Weston. 

“Because of the airport’s westerly 

and coastal position and its long 

runway it is increasingly popular as 

a technical stop for transatlantic 

flights,” he adds. “Fuel prices 

at Newquay are very competitive 

too and we saw a 28% increase 

in fuel sales last year.” Midwest 

Executive Aviation opened its 

executive/business aviation facility 

at Newquay in 2003. With additional 

U.K. FBO locations at Birmingham 

International Airport and Durham 

Tees Valley Airport, Midwest 

Executive Aviation is now the second 

largest FBO chain in the UK in terms 

of locations. 

Newquay points out that it can 

accommodate a range of jets from 

VLJs to the heavier jets such as the 

Airbus ACJ/A319, Boeing BBJ, 

Embraer Legacy and Bombardier 

Challenger Series. 

London Biggin Hill markets itself 

as London's only non-slot-restricted 

airport. Airport director, Peter 

Lonergan and business development 

manager, Robert Walters, says there 

is huge potential. FAL Aviation, an 

FBO based at London Ashford 

(Lydd), Kent, reports a record 

number of movements and fuel sales 

since its opening in September 2005. 

Jet fuel sales, it says, almost doubled. 

The rapid expansion has led 

operators to focus on maintaining 

standards, an issue that led to a lively 

debate during the EBACE forum for 

FBOs and business airports. The 

forum's panel included Kerry 

Besgrove, gm Harrods Aviation, 

London Luton, Kim Dimetro, 

customer relations manager, Avitat 

FBOs, U.S., Brandon O’Reilly, ceo 

TAG Farnborough, London U.K. and 

Graham Stephenson, group FBO 

manager, ExecuJet, Zurich. The 

narrowing of differences between 

FBOs in the U.S. and Europe were 

among discussion highlights. 

Construction group Balfour 

Beatty has agreed to buy Blackpool 

airport for £14 million from MAR 

Properties, a Northern Ireland-based 

property developer. Analysts say 

there is scope to add business 

aviation facilities to diversify 

activities currently undertaken by 

low cost carriers Ryanair and 

Jet2.com.


Lonely Beech Baron era is far from 

forgotten as Gama goes global 

Gama Aviation, which began 

commercial operations with one 

Beech Baron in 1983, is finalising the 

launch of an operation based at the 

heart of the booming Middle East 

private aviation market. “The first 

step was to fulfill our commitment 

to develop a UAE-based company,” 

says gm Dave Edwards. “We are 

ready to push the whole project 

forward and I will be flying out this 

month to finalise the details.” 

Marwan Khalek, ceo, adds: 

“Expansion within the GCC region 

is an exciting step in Gama’s 

development but it will be 

done in tandem with our growth in 

our other markets. We are looking at 

more acquisition opportunities 

throughout Europe.” 

The UAE is among the most 

favoured locations for private 

aviation bases to target business in 

the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) 

countries which also include Saudi 

Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and 

Qatar. Gama will be operating 

from Dubai and Sharjah in the 

UAE where it has already built 

business contacts. 

Khalek says: “We should have our 

own UAE AOC within months. The 

plan is to develop a full FBO and 

maintenance operation in the 

emirates. However, we currently 

manage a UK registered business 

jet which is semi-permanently 

based in Dubai, and we have built 

up a knowledge of the region. 

Therefore, we are well-placed 

to recognise a good business 

opportunity should it arise.” 

In the U.S. Gama has acquired 

PrivatAir Inc., the U.S. arm of the 

Swiss-based PrivatAir Group. Now 

branded as Gama Aviation Inc., the 

company remains based in Stratford 

with operating bases at Teterboro, 

New Jersey; West Palm Beach, 

Florida; Norwich, New York and at 

15 other satellite bases. 

But Khalek recalls: “It was in 1983 

that Gama Aviation first saw the 

light of day at Fairoaks airport, a 

small aerodrome with an 800 metre 

runway 30 miles from central 

London.” Co-founders Khalek, and 

Steve Wright, now operations 

director, shared responsibility for 

everything from finding the 

customers to flying the aircraft. 

“What a 25 years it has been,” 

says Khalek. “We come from a lowly 

Baron at Fairoaks to a fleet of more 

than 65 aircraft based around the 

world, a team of nearly 300 pilots, 

and a round-the-clock operation 

Marwan Khalek: founder of a small company that became a global player. 

that is borne of relentless growth.” 

Now headquartered at 

Farnborough, Gama has bases in 

Moscow, Geneva, Zurich, Aberdeen 

and Glagow. Khalek says: “As a 

fundamentally British company our 

traditions are European. However, 

the time is right for us now to branch 

out into the Middle East and 

American marketplaces and these 

are opportunities that excite us.” 

Gama is a prime example of a 

charter operation expanding into a 

multi-service provider or a one-stop 

shop for private aviation services 

(see focus on Pages 12 and 13). 

Organic growth and strategic 

acquisitions have broadened 

Gama’s services to include Gama 

Support Services, its aircraft 

engineering division; Gama Leasing 

Ltd., which specialises in the 

acquisition, sales and leasing of 

aircraft; Gama Aviation, its Swissregistered 

aviation services provider 

and Gama Aviation Inc. that covers 

the U.S. market and an FBO is now 

in the offing. An agreement with a 

private equity group has enabled 

Gama, a name chosen and formed 

by putting together the initials of 

names of four of Khalek’s immediate 

family, to accelerate its expansion 

programme. The group has acquired 

a 33 per cent stake but Khalek 

retains overall control. 

From Europe, Gama now 

operates a BBJ, Global Express, 

Global 5000, Gulfstreams including 

the G550, Challengers, Hawkers 

including the 4000 and Learjet 45s 

and 60s. These are complemented 

by the Beechcraft 1900, 200C, 

Sikorsky S76C++ and a range of 

Eurocopters. But: “We intend to add 

to the quality of our fleet where 

necessary,” says Khalek. 

And the hard-working early days 

in 1983 when Gama survived by 

taking contracts to ferry orphan 

animals to surrogate mothers, are 

far from forgotten. “We are still 

hungry for business and focused on 

service,” says Khalek. 

European Aviation Air Charter (EAAC), based at the U.K.'s Bournemouth airport, kept a few key parts and features before it arranged 

the demolition of a Boeing 747-236B. The aircraft was scrapped after the removal of the airliner’s cockpit and tail and the salvage of 

the wheel assemblies.General Demolition was engaged by GJD Services, a specialist aircraft decommissioning and asset recovery 

company, to assist in the demolition. European Aviation was founded in 1989 by Australian entrepreneur Paul Stoddart, former owner 

of the Minardi Formula One racing team, and specialises in charter services and vip flights. 

Abu Dhabi headquartered Royal Jet, 

chaired by HE Sheikh Hamdan Bin 

Mubarak Al Nahyan, has taken 

delivery of a Learjet 60. 

President and ceo Shane O’Hare 

says it will join Royal Jet’s managed 

aircraft programme. “The addition 

of the Lear 60 supports the 

company's second five year plan 

which sees the amount of aircraft 

in our fleet expanding to around 24,” 

he adds. 

The plan calls for Royal Jet to 

achieve a five-fold revenue increase 

by 2013. 

The Lear 60 has seats for a 

maximum of seven and there is an 

option, depending on the number of 

passengers, for a full hot catering 

service. Capt. Chris Norgill, who will 

be in charge of the aircraft, says: 

“The Learjet 60 has a greater range 

capability than its predecessors 

allowing it to fly for up to five hours 

without refuelling.” 

Royal Jet’s growing fleet includes 

five BBJs, which makes Royal Jet 

the world’s largest single BBJ 

operator; two G-300s and a G-IVSP, 

Avro RJ85 premier short-haul jet, a 

medevac Lear 55 and two twinengined 

Lear 35s. 

Royal Jet held a special ceremony 

to celebrated its fifth birthday and 

made the announcement that it had 

captured 16 per cent of the region’s 

charter market. “Our client portfolio 

includes government officials, 

decision makers, the business and 

corporate community, sporting 

and show business celebrities, 

major event organisers, high 

JUNE 2008 13 

Royal Jet seeks five-fold 

revenue increase within 

the next five years 

end bespoke travel providers, 

insurance companies, the health 

care sector and so on,” Sheikh 

Hamdan says. “Abu Dhabi is 

showing rapid growth and settling 

its position as a prime business 

and tourism hub, which will have 

a major impact on the fortunes 

of the international aviation 

market,” he adds. 

O’Hare says: “Last year, the 

number of aircraft handled at Royal 

Jet’s Abu Dhabi terminal grew by 

some 90 per cent. And in the 

last financial year, we contracted 

over 30 new charter customers. We 

believe we can keep progressing in 

the same vein.” 

HE Sheikh Hamdan: reports progress in 

the international aviation sector. 

He adds: “Royal Jet’s FBO 

currently receives around 150 

aircraft per month, offering a fast 

turnaround service, as well as 

allowing clients a technical stopover 

on their way from Asia to 

America or vice-versa.”


AGUSTA 

A109 Power Elite 

Marketplace 

S/N 11667: 490 TT. Advanced avionics, 

seven LCD displays. Dual coms, dual 

navs, 406 ELT, radio altimeter, AFCS 3- 

Axis duplex. Air conditioning, five 

passenger VIP interior, TCAS, KDM-550 

digital map, RDR-200 Radar. Tel: +1 954 

771 1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 

www.aerotoystore.com. Email: 

sales@aerotoystore.com 

AW139 Executive 

S/N 31047: Immediate delivery. Full 

factory warranty. Honeywell Primus Epic 

System, Sagem ICDS multifunction 

display, ESIS, Dual AHRS, TCAD. 

Electronic approach plates and en-route 

IFR charts. Cocoon Generation II noise 

reduction. Tel: +1 954 771 1795 Aero Toy 

Store Inc. Web: www.aerotoystore.com. 

Email: sales@aerotoystore.com 

AW139 Executive 

2008, S/N 41016: Brand new, 3rd quarter 

delivery. Full Warranty and training. 

Exclusive Pininfarina paint/interior. Six 

pax interior w/nine pax capacity. Full 

Cocoon by ACI, four camera system, 

Sagem Fifth Display & more. Trades 

Welcome. Tel:+1 954 771 1795 Aero Toy 

Store Inc. Web: www.aerotoystore.com. 

Email: sales@aerotoystore.com 

Grand 

Contact Mark Ranger on: +44 (0)1279 714509 mark@ebanmagazine.com 

Aircraft for sale 

Individual pre-owned aircraft may be advertised for sale here with up to 40 

words and a colour photograph for a discounted price of UK£50 Sterling. 

Full details and picture are also included on the EBAN magazine web site. 

2007, S/N 22043: 100 hours TT. Factory 

Warranty, Single Pilot IFR, Honeywell 

Three Axis Duplex AFCS SP71, 

Bendix/King KMD Moving Map, 

Copilot LCD, EADI & EHSI, Honeywell 

AAS300 Radar Altimeter, 406 ELT, Five 

Passenger VIP Interior. Tel: +1 954 771 

1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



BELL 

407 

4th Quarter, 2008 delivery. Full factory 

warranty, King KT70 TPX, high “Skid 

Gear” w/FlightSteps, particle separator, 

quiet cruise mode, dual controls. Aux 

fuel tanks provisions & equipment, five 

pax VIP interior, Tel: +1 954 771 1795 

Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



BOMBARDIER 

Challenger 601-1A 

S/N 3022, 15,208 hours TT, Eng 

TSMPI 1730/1273, APU TSHSI 250, 

15,000 hour inspection, RVSM, 

Branson extended range fuel tanks. 

Winglets, thrust reversers, 6 pax, 

aft lav. Tel: +1 403 637 2250 John 

Hopkinson & Associates Ltd.. Web: 

www.hopkinsonassociates.com. Email: 

sales@hopkinsonassociates.com 

Challenger 601-1A 

S/N 3020, 15,181 TT, Eng TSMPI 

500/868, APU TSHSI 912, 15,000 

Hr Inspection, RVSM, Branson 

extended range fuel tanks. 

Winglets, thrust reversers, 6 pax, 

aft lav. Tel: +1 403 637 2250 John 

Hopkinson & Associates Ltd.. Web: 

www.hopkinsonassociates.com. Email: 

sales@hopkinsonassociates.com 

Challenger 604 

S/N 5309. TT 5,385 engines & APU on 

JSSI 100%. Dual FMS-6000’s, dual Litton 

IRS’s, Fairchild F-1000 FDR, Artex 406 

ELT, Collins SATCOM, dual Collins RTU’s, 

RVSM, 8.33/FM immunity, TCAS-II Ch 7. 

Tel: +1 954 771 1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. 

Web: www.aerotoystore.com. Email: 



S/N 5735: Brand new! JAR-OPS/EASA 

compliant New warranty. Collins Pro- 

Line 21 avionics suite, Dual FMS’s, Dual 

IRS’s. Lightning detection. Galley and 

cabin touch screen control panels, TIA 

microwave oven, high temp oven Tel:+1 

954 771 1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 




S/N TBD, delivery position, options can 

be specified. Completion September 

2009 John Hopkinson & Associates Ltd.. 

Web: www.hopkinsonassociates.com. 

Email: sales@hopkinsonassociates.com 

CRJ-200ER 

S/N 7508: Convert to 14 pax VVIP. 

TT 3,791, 100% GE Engine Program, 

JAR-OPS, Four Tube EFIS, Dual Collins 

FMS-4200’s, Dual Collins GPS-4000’s, 

EGPWS, TCAS II v/7, Digital FDR, L3 

CVR, CAT III-A Certified. Tel: +1 954 771 

1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



Global Express 

S/N 9120: TT 1910. Smart Parts, Heads 

Up Display, EVS MAX-VIS, Triple FMS’s, 

Triple IRU’s, Triple ADC’s, SATCOM for 

Cockpit, Magnastar C-2000 with Office 

in the Sky, Iridium Four Channel System 

for Cabin, FDR/CVR, Artex 406 ELT. Tel: 

+1 954 771-1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



Global Express XRS 

S/N 9254: Brand new, HUD, EVS, Triple 

FMS’s, Triple IRS’s, SATCOM, ACARS, 

LSS, dual channel high speed data 

system. AC outlets & data ports at each 

seating group, crew rest area Tel: +1 954 

OUR NEXT 

ISSUE: 

JULY 2008 

FINAL BOOKING 

DATE: 

JUNE 18th 

Training 

EBAN’s Marketplace section has been broadened to include 

advertisements from companies offering training for business 

aircraft operators. Companies can advertise here at the rate of 

£39 per single column centimetre. The minimum space is five 

centimetres. To find out more, email Mark Ranger 

mark@ebanmagazine.com or call +44 (0) 1279 714509 

e are a Part 147 training 

Worganisation offering bespoke 

training solutions to 

operators and maintenance 

organisations. We continue to add 

to our portfolio of aircraft types 

and work closely with our 

customers to provide training 

solutions for them. 

Current aircraft types for which 

we hold a Part 147 approval are:- 

Embraer 145/135 Legacy 

Bombardier Challenger 601 604 

605 (2B16) 

771 1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



File Photo 

Learjet 40XR 

2008, 3rd quarter. Guaranteed European 

charter work. JAR-OPS/EASA/London 

City compliant. Full warranty, Smart 

Parts+ programme, tail illumination & 

aircraft locking package, wireless 

iridium telephone system, audio with 

Ipod docks, Airshow410, forward & aft 

video monitors, beige/cream interior, 

plated trim package. LDF Investments 

Ltd. Email: info@ldfinvestments.co.uk. 

File Photo 

Learjet 45XR 


charter work. JAR-OPS/EASA/London 

City compliant. Full warranty, Smart 

Parts+ programme, tail illumination & 

aircraft locking package, wireless 

Iridium telephone system, audio with 

iPod docks, Airshow410, forward & aft 

video monitors, beige/cream interior, 

plated trim package LDF Investments 

Ltd. Email: info@ldfinvestments.co.uk 

Learjet 60XR 

S/N 361: 4th quarter delivery. JAR- 

OPS/EASA compliant. Warranty. 

Dual KHF-1050 long range comms. 

Collins TWR-850 enhanced weather 

radar. Dual Collins ADF-462, CVR, 

Digital FDR, Dual FSU w/Electronic 

charts & enhanced map overlays. Tel: +1 

954 771 1795 Aero Toy Store Inc. Web: 



File Photo 

Learjet 60XR 


charter work. JAR-OPS/EASA compliant. 

Full warranty, Smart Parts+ programme, 

tail illumination & aircraft locking 

package, wireless Iridium telephone 

Embraer 170/190 

BAe 146 / RJ 

Dornier 328 Prop & Jet 

Airbus 320/A330 series 

B737 CL/NG 

In addition we can offer general 

familiarisation for all of the above 

plus Hawker 125-800XP. 

CT ONLINE is a new service from 

MAS by which aviation companies 

can manage their continuation 

training ON-LINE 365 24/7. By 

removing the need for staff to be 

absent from work, travel and 

system, audio with Ipod docks, 

Airshow410, forward & aft video 

monitors, beige/cream interior, plated 

trim package LDF Investments Ltd. 

Email: info@ldfinvestments.co.uk 

CESSNA 

Citation CJ2 

TT: 1,724 hours, 100% JSSI, 3-Tube EFIS, 

dual Garmin 530A, EGPWS, TCAS I, 

UNS-1L, 3-frequency ELT, 8.33 KHz 

spacing/FM immunity, RVSM/JAR 

OPS1/EASA approved. Doc 10 c/w 

August/2006, 62 Hours SHS, Cescom. 

One owner. Tel: +1 713 681 0075 or +1 

201 445 5660 Par Avion Ltd. Web: 

www.paravionltd.com. Email: 

info@paravionltd.com 

GULFSTREAM 

G150 

S/N 202: Produced 2006 with warranty 

start date of June 2007. Paperless cockpit 

with dual file servers. XM Nexrad radar, 

2-channel SATCOM, enhanced flight ID, 

Dual FMS-6100. Seven passenger 

configuration. Tel: +1 713 681 0075 or +1 

201 445 5660 Par Avion Ltd. Web: 

www.paravionltd.com. Email: 

info@paravionltd.com 

PIPER 

Malibu Meridian 

Stop press 

ONLINE 

continuation 

courses now 

available. Reduce 

your training costs! 

HOTAC etc cost can be reduced. 

With experienced and committed 

staff MAS offers a bespoke service 

at a price that offers real value for 

money. For more information on 

any of our courses, please contact 

Darren Wilson or Amy 

admin@manhattan-aviation.co.uk 

Tel: +44 (0) 1624 829681 

Fax: +44 (0) 1624 829682 

www.manhattan-aviation.co.uk 

2004, TT 624 Hours. UK based, FAA 

Registered fully loaded Meridian 

with all 2004 model year upgrades 

which including Higher Gross Weight 

and 1500 A/P. Dual Meggitt EFIS, IHAS 

8000. USD$1,425,000 (+VAT where 

applicable). Tel: +44 (0)1747 82537 

Derrick Ings Aircraft Sales. Web: 

www.derrickings.com . Email: 

DerrickIngsDIAS@aol.com 

Mirage JetProp DLX 

1998, N560MP, S/N 4636171. Low gross 

takeoff weight of 4,300 lbs. TTSN 2,350


hours. Chelton Flight Logic system Glass 

Panel, Shadin Trend Monitoring. Seller 

willing to deliver to Europe at his 

expense. J.P. Hanley: +1 561 433 3510 

Corporate Airsearch International . Web: 

www.caijets.com . Email: jp@caijets.com 

SIKORSKY 

S76C 

1995, TT 6,520 hours, 13,654 landings. 

Corporate 6 seat VIP Cocoon, SPIFR. 

Paint/interior 2006, SPZ 7600, floats, aux 

tank fittings, UNS, EGPWS, EFIS,WX 

radar, Sikorsky & Turbomecca hourly 

programs, Honeywell contract, CofA Jan 

08, offers in region 4,100,000. Simon 

Fletcher. Tel: 00 353 162 59100 Ballymore 

Properties (Ireland) Ltd.. Email: 

SFletcher@Ballymoregroup.com, 

skychopper@eircom.ne 

Career opportunities 

All advertisements in EBAN 

Marketplace (other than pre-owned 

aircraft) are available at a cost of 

UK£39 per single column centimetre, 

the minimum depth being five 

centimetres. Advertisers can provide 

artwork, or we can design the 

advertisement from pictures, words 

and logos you supply, free-of-charge. 

Job opportunity advertisements are 

also included on the EBAN web site 

free-of-charge. 

Commercial executive 

With the addition of our new facilities at Barcelona, 

Assistair is looking for an experienced business 

aviation professional to join our friendly team, based 

in Palma de Mallorca. 

Spanish and English are essential, as is a thorough 

knowledge of business aviation. 

Please send your CV to Catherine Gaisenband. 

E-mail: catherine@assistair.net 

www.assistair.net 

Captain 

Irish based business jet operator wishes to recruit 

one Captain for a new position. 

Candidates must meet the following: 

• JAA ATPL 

• Class 1 Medical 

• 4,000 hours as Pilot in Command of a 

Jet aircraft 

Also the role demands as a minimum the 

following skills: 

• Flexibility 

• Attention to detail 

• Motivation 

• Excellent communicator 

The position carries with it a generous 

remuneration package. 

Please respond by email only to: 

box0801@ebanmagazine.com 

Captains/FOs for 

Challenger CL-300/ 

Hawker HS-125 

AeroJet Flight Service GmbH is currently one of the 

fastest growing business aviation companies in 

Germany. 

Due to continued expansion of our fleet we offer the 

following positions (permanent employment): 

• Type rated Captain and F/O for 

Challenger CL-300. 

• Also Captain and F/O for Hawker HS-125. 

Annual Salary above average excluding additional 

allowances, 35 days holiday entitlement. 

Please apply with CV to: 

AeroJet Flight Service GmbH 

Franz-Rennefeld-Weg 6 

40472 Düsseldorf 

Germany 

e-mail: axel.hangebrauck@aerojet-holding.de 

SOCATA 

File Photo 

TBM 700 A 

1992, Guaranteed under factory 

maintenance contract, plus ECTM. Full 

IFR with co-pilot panel. 2 XPR, one with 

mode S. 8.33, King Avionics with 

KLN90B. Colour radar. New 

interior/paint 2002, folding table. USD 

1.4m. Fax owner +33 1 464 74800, or +44 

122 789 5709 

TBM 700B 

SN 274. TBMC2, maintained by Socata 

Distributor, air conditioning, beige 

Charter Broker – Cargo Division 

leather interior. Avionics include 

EHSI/EADI EFIS 40, KX165A, KX155A, 

KMD850 MFD, IH8000 TAS, Stormscope, 

ADF, DME, KFC. USD 1,985,000 (plus 

VAT if applicable). Tel: +44 (0) 1959 

579710 Air Touring. Web: 

www.airtouring.com. Email: 

sales@airtouring.com 

TBM 700C2 

2004, S/N 304: TTSN 1,095 2-Tube 

EFIS-40, Dual Garmin 530’s, WAAS 

Enabled, Garmin GMX-200 (w/TAS & 

TAWS) MFD, Garmin GTX-330 & GTX- 

327 Xpnders, Garmin GDL-69A Real 

Time Wx,WX-500 Stormscope. 

Increased Gross Weight 7,394 lbs. 

NDH. J.P. Hanley: Tel: +1 561 433 3510 

Corporate Airsearch International . 

Web: www.caijets.com . Email: 

jp@caijets.com 

Air Charter Service is looking for outstanding individuals who are driven, determined and 

eager for an opportunity to succeed as a Broker in the fast-paced world of charter aviation. 

Suitable applicants will have substantial proven sales experience and a passion for aviation. 

Fluency in English and at least 1 other European language is also essential. 

Awarded the Times 100 Best Companies to work for “Company to watch” accreditation in 

2008 we offer: 

• Regular opportunities to travel worldwide 

• A modern, professional working environment 

• Excellent remuneration and benefits package 

• A growing company with offices in London, New York, Moscow, Dubai, Hong Kong.. 

Interested applicants can apply in confidence via email: careers@aircharter.co.uk 

Or post: HR, 45C High Street, Hampton Wick, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey, KT1 4DG 

Candidates must have the right to live and work in the EU. 

The recruitment 

Specialists 

www.businessjetpeople.com 

EUROPEAN 


JUNE 2008 15 

For the latest job 

opportunities, see: 

www.ebanmagazine.com/mag_jobs.html 

EUROPEAN 


Publisher/Editor: ......................David Wright 

Sub editor ................................Kate Woods 

Reporter: ................................. Rod Smith 

Technical Editor: ................. Malcolm Wright 

Designer: .................................. Chris Carr 

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Pilatus makes 

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Page 4 

Swedes launch website 

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Squirrel hops between 

Greek islands 

Geneva managers add 

604 to roster 

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EBAN has teamed FAX THIS up FORM with TO: +44 Executive (0) 1279 Display 714519Models 

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Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 3BQ, England. 

Portuguese delighted 

with Citation X addition 

Plus: Where and who to 

charter in Ireland 

Page 5 

Page 9 

Pages 12-13 

Sloane 

proves that 

one Bell beats 

two halves 

Page 4 

PC12 fractional scheme 

grows apace 

Venerable helicopter 

operator clocks up 

three million 

German broker offers 

Cheyenne II for sale 

Page 6 

Page 8 

Page 10 

Plus our full 

Danish review 

Page 16 - 18 

Air Entreprise 

offers long haul 

flights with its 

Falcon 900 

Page 14 

EUROPEAN 

ISSUE 117 July 2002 

Sloane Helicopters has added a Bell 

206B helicopter to its AOC in the UK 

after what operational services 

director Paul Forster described as a 

“very long, laborious and painful reregistration.” 

The company first spotted the 

potential addition in Greece 12 

months ago. “We were over there 

on a trip and noticed a charter 

company had started to cannibalise 

two aircraft to keep one of their fleet 

flying. We then put a silly bid in for 

both machines and they took us up 

on it,” he said. 

The project to make one aircraft 

out of the parts was initially 

designated for any spare-time that 

Sloane’s engineers had. 

But after a particularly busy year 

it was decided that a couple of 

workers should be dedicated to 

the completion. “From the builders’ 

point of view it went very 

smoothly, particularly as there wasn’t 

any real urgency. 

“It was only after the work had 

finished around four months ago 

that it became a nightmare due to 

Greek bureacracy regarding the 

documentation. In fact we eventually 

thought it wouldn’t happen, but then 

miraculously it came through,” 

explained Forster. 

The Bell will mainly be used for 

flight training and charter. “It just 

came on the fleet 10 days ago, so it’s 

only done some self-fly hire with 

some of the members down here but 

they’ve all reacted positively to it,” One of Europe’s largest real estate us to start selling and delivering marketplace. We’re delivering two 

said Forster. 

developers has placed an order airplanes in Europe. We’re also airplanes into Europe this year which TAG Aviation used this year’s EBACE 

The company didn’t start to with Embraer for a Legacy aircraft. delivering our first airplane into may not seem like much but for us, to showcase its new handling and 

promote the aircraft until the paper Spain’s Fadesa made the announce- Europe next month and although it’s a beginning and we think it's going office facilities at Geneva Airport. 

work was completed, so now was the ment at this year’s EBACE, adding we’re unable to disclose the to grow substantially. 

The FBO moved just ten metres from 

time to start: “It’s a nice machine – that the aircraft would replace the customer’s name, the operator will be “At the current time, the US is still its old premises, which was 

there’s a brand new interior and it’s company’s existing Hawker 700 in GV Executive of Zurich.” 

the largest market, followed by South considered too small to handle the 

been completely resprayed. 

September of this year. 

America, where we’ve had some increase in traffic passing through. 

“It charters at £480 per hour and The Legacy will be based in La 

sales in Brazil.” 

The company moved into the 300- 

fills the niche for those wanting to go Coruña, where the company has its 

An extra incentive for operators metres-squared handling facility and 

down to the races (Ascot, Epson), the headquarters, and will carry out 

in Europe to buy Legacy aircraft is 1,500-metres-squared European 

Grand Prix and an advantage of corporate missions to Spain, 

the announcement of the Total administrative headquarters in April, 

having floats is that it can also go to Portugal, Romania and Morocco, 

Legacy Care (TLC) maintenance a month after completion. 

Battersea,” he added. 

where Fadesa is currently active. 

programme. The programme covers Handling supervisor John 

This is Sloane’s only Bell 206B and “We were looking for a larger 

scheduled and unscheduled airframe Christian said: “We moved because 

complements its range of Agusta aircraft,” said Jose Luis Macia, Fadesa 

maintenance during the five-year it’s important to have brand new 

109s. “After this I’d like to put a Twin financial director. “Our main criteria 

period after the delivery of a facilities in Geneva. PrivatAir and Jet 

Squirrel on the fleet (which I know I were reliability, cabin volume and 

customer’s aircraft. 

Aviation were also going to move 

could find some good business for) value. The Legacy very quickly 

When selecting the TLC program, here, so it was important to be in this 

and also an EC-120,” said Forster. became the best, that is to say the 

the customer or operator of a Legacy business centre.” The facilities 

only choice.” 

pays a fixed hourly rate for the include a quick departure lounge and 

Speaking to EBAN's Richard Evans 

airframe maintenance based on the a larger private lounge with DVD, 

at the show, Embraer vice chairman Embraer is now waiting for JAA hours flown and operational refrigerator, coffee machines and 

Sam Hill said: “Most of Fadesa's certification, which Hill says he parameters. Said a spokesman: “This internet access. Along with this is 

missions will fall in the category of expects next month. While the Fadesa covers virtually all the airframe line, another spacious lounge with the 

2,000nm or under although they will order brings the total order book for base and heavy maintenance same equipment, which can 

occasionally need to fly 3,000nm. the Legacy to 74 firm orders and 94 operations leaving the customer free accommodate a group of twenty. The 

They’ve already got several trips options, we asked Hill about the to concentrate on the best utilisation crew lounge has a direct view of the 

planned to the US. 

Legacy’s popularity specifically in of his Legacy.” 

passengers arrival in order to 

“We’re delighted with the order Europe. He said: “We’ve just started TLC is based on a minimum of 400 maximise time efficiency. “We are 

and see it as a real breakthrough for making inroads into the European 

An EBACE press conference provides the setting for Signature Flight Support to join forces with the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in establishing a handling facility at 

Toulon-Hyeres Airport. (L-r) Jonathan Soper (Signature), Bernard Lecat, Bernard Stouff (both CCI), Louis Demarque and Peter Whitehead (both Signature). Full story, page 14. 

Spanish developer ready to 

deploy Europe’s second Legacy 

JAA certification is expected imminently 

for Embraer’s Legacy. 

www.ebanmagazine.com 

Continued on page 16 

ISSUE 108 SEPTEMBER 2001 

Adamantis has purchased a Falcon 

900, which is currently managed 

by charter and sales broker 

Air Entreprise. 

Vice president Arnaud Poisson 

said: “The owner chose the 900 

because he wanted a long range 

aircraft with a large cabin. We were 

also keen to have such an aircraft 

available in our charter fleet, as many 

of our customers were asking to 

charter a long range aircraft.” 

So far the Falcon’s destinations 

have included Africa, the West Indies 

and the US. 

Air Entreprise also manages a 

Falcon 50 and owns a twin jet 

Aerospatiale Corvette. Poisson 

added: “The Falcon 900 is very good 

for our image. We have a mixture of 

private individuals, company 

presidents and show business stars, 

so obviously such an aircraft will 

attract a great deal of interest.” The 

aircraft is an addition to the 

existing fleet. 

Air Entreprise has a large 

hangar and a private terminal at 

its Le Bourget, Paris base, 

combined with handling and 

maintenance departments. 

Poisson said: ”We are currently 

working on expansion plans, but have 

yet to decide what level of investment 

to put in. 

“The French charter market is 

More than two and a half years have With regard to the vip market, and if you consider the square area of Air Taxi has purchased a King Air 200 

strong and not particularly affected 

elapsed since Muk Air started putting Werjefeld says one of the aircraft’s the plane, it’s only beaten by the BBJ from Regourd Aviation. Ground 

by economic variables, so we don’t 

a VFW-614 aircraft on the Danish main strengths lies in its ability to and ACJ.” 

operations manager Jean Pierre 

feel that the investment will be 

register. With TCAS recently installed, land on short runways. He told EBAN: Asked whether potential charter Florent said: “The company chose the 

affected by the US slow down.” 

the aircraft is now available for freight “In an 18-seat configuration fully customers may fret over the safety of King Air because it suits our needs 

The company has found that the 

and passenger charter but says owner loaded, I can land at any airport that a an old aircraft, Werjefeld said: "The perfectly. The range of the aircraft is 

market has remained stable, Poisson 

Ruben Werjefeldt, he’d never have Citation II can land at. We can get aircraft has been maintained in the around 1,500 nautical miles and the 

explained: “The private jet market is 

tried in the first place if he’d known down as short as 800 metres if we are same way as the British Queen’s cabin holds between seven and nine 

very special, as it only concerns a 

how long it was going to take. 

Flight; everything has been half- passengers, depending upon our 

small number of people world wide. 

He said: “It’s been a long and 

normal life-cycle.” 

configuration.” 

Consequently it’s difficult to 

somewhat political fight. Early on, 

In terms of economics, Muk Air is Air Taxi is based in Tours, France 

introduce new ideas onto the market, 

problems which we had to overcome 

confident that for the right customer, and operates as a charter company 

although fractional ownership 

included both support and 

the 614 could present a huge saving. concentrating solely on a French 

appears to be succeeding.” 

maintenance issues. 

Werjefeld explained: “If you compare client base. The company has already 

The company has found the sales 

“It took me a year and a half to 

it with business aircraft which offer made a number of domestic and 

market to be relatively buoyant also, 

convince Airbus to cooperate but 

similar capability and space, and you international flights, particularly 

and believes it will continue to grow. 

since then, over the last year and a 

want to go somewhere where the size cross-channel, including: Oxford, 

“The price of aircraft is currently 

half, they have been very supportive. 

of the runway might be an issue, then Inverness and Farnborough. 

being pushed down by the deflated 

“During the certification process, 

the price is half what others would Customers are generally vips, ranging 

US market, which has knocked onto 

an educated crew went elsewhere and 

ask. A Global Express, Gulfstream or from corporate executives to private 

Europe and increased demand,” 

the loss of revenue went into seven- light – which is unheard of for a Falcon 900 would all have a challenge individuals and celebrities. “The 

he said. 

digit numbers. If I’d known it was 46,000 pound aircraft.” 

getting down on La Maule in St French charter market is not very 

going to take this long, I’d never have The incentive for vips to fly in a Tropez. I don’t have any problem and strong at the moment. I don’t really 

tried to do it. There are more 614, says Werjefeld, does not end I’m half the price. 

know what has led to the present 

attractive things you can do.” 

there. “It has a fully stand-up cabin,” “Conversely, if you’re considering climate but it is possibly the influence 

Muk Air’s 614 aircraft can be he said. Helmut Kohl preferred the an international trip, we couldn’t of the US market,” explained Florent. 

configured to accommodate 18 or 44 614 a lot more before the Challengers. compare with any of these When asked why the company had 

passengers or for the purposes of “You have a big first class seat, you three aircraft. With 1,300 nautical chosen a particularly slow time to 

freight. It is the latter which Muk Air have a hot oven, refrigerators, large miles, we’re way too short purchase an aircraft, Florent replied: 

hopes to pursue the most. Said stand-up toilet and big mahogany for intercontinental range but “If a company cannot offer a 

Werjefeldt: “There’s less trouble in tables where you could play roulette if for intra-European trips, we’d be sufficient number of aircraft for 

freight. If you’re delayed, you don’t you wanted. 

very competitive.” 

charter then customers will look 

have to book hotel rooms for 44 “In the business jet market, it’s for Muk Air has another 614 which has elsewhere. We bought the aircraft 

passengers; if it is a little bumpy, no people who want the extra space. It’s been on a US register for two despite market conditions, because 

one vomits; and if you fly in a more than you have in a Dornier 328 years and will soon be added to the we are hoping and expecting for a rise 

turboprop, no one wants a refund.” JET, it’s larger than the Gulfstream Danish register. 

in demand in the foreseeable future.” 

Leeds Leeds awaits awaits 

UK’s UK’s first first BBJ2 BBJ2 

Leeds-Bradford based Multiflight will be the first UK owner of a BBJ2 when the green aircraft is handed over at the end of September. See full story on page 12 

‘Supremely-maintained’ VFW-614 

finally joins Danish register 

An example of the VFW-614, now offered 

by MukAir for charter. 

All for one 

at Toulon 

TAG reacts 

to competition 

at Geneva 

Continued on page 10 

www.bizjet.com/eban 

Air Taxi starts 

fleet build-up 

with King Air 200

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