UK charter and management company Bookajet has unveiled a new corporate identity, designed to raise its international profile and shed its image as a UK-centric firm.

“While we have a recognised brand in this industry, we felt it was time to renew our image with a new corporate design that reflects our international standing,” says Bookajet co-founder and director Chris Rooney.

“We have been in operation for 13 years now, and while many of our customers are UK-based, a growing portion of the business is in mainland Europe and the Middle East.”

To support its growth, the Farnborough-headquartered company is seeking to set up new bases. “Some aircraft owners like to have their assets managed by a company which has a presence in their home country,” says Rooney. “We will probably start with a base in Europe and then add a second in the Middle East at a later date.”

With a fleet of 12 aircraft ranging from the entry-level Beechcraft Premier I to the long-range Bombardier Global XRS, Bookajet is one of the UK’s largest independent charter and management providers.

It would also make an attractive target for one of Europe’s acquisition-hungry business aviation services companies. For example, Luxembourg-based Luxaviation has snapped-up six charter and management companies in the past five years and has made no secret of its desire to further broaden its portfolio.

“We have been approached, but we are not interested in selling,” Rooney insists. “Despite the tough environment, our business is growing. We plan to build the fleet to around 20 aircraft, and continue to service our clients for a long time to come.”

Source: Flight International