KATE SARSFIELD / LONDON
The commercial operation to New York would be a first for a business aviation specialist
PrivatAir is planning to launch a scheduled transatlantic service between Geneva and New York next year using a 48-seat Boeing Business Jet (BBJ). If successful, the move will mark what is believed to be the first dedicated commercial transatlantic service offered by a business aviation service provider.
PrivatAir says the timetable for start-up will depend on the future position of ailing national carrier Swissair, a refinancing plan for which was was finalised by the Swiss Government and private industry last week.
Dave Kinson, PrivatAir commercial director says: "We have been looking at launching our own commercial transatlantic service for some time, but the recent collapse of Swissair left an immediate gap in the market. We have been inundated with requests mainly from the Swiss business community as well as Geneva international airport to continue where the airline had left off."
PrivatAir believes that demand will remain strong enough for both operations. Kinson adds: "Following the events of 11 September business class passengers are re-evaluating their travel priorities and are looking for a secure, efficient and convenient method of transportation. We are getting the infrastructure in place and tailoring our service to meet their needs."
PrivatAir would deploy its BBJ on the route, with its 47-seat Boeing 757 as back-up.
The company also operates two further BBJs and a Boeing 737-300 from its Geneva base. A six day a week return service will be offered linking business aviation terminals at Geneva and probably New York Kennedy, Kinson says. PrivatAir currently has designated Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 129 foreign carrier approval for charter operations and has applied for scheduled carrier approval. "This could take a few months to obtain," concedes Kinson.
Source: Flight International
