NetJets Europe has clinched approval from the UK Civil Aviation Authority to operate its Embraer Phenom 300 light-cabin business jet at London City airport, in the heart of the UK’s financial community.
The Berkshire Hathaway-owned company is the largest private operator at the site, responsible for over 50% of all business aircraft traffic. In 2014 alone, NetJets says it flew from City to over 370 destinations worldwide, with Paris Le Bourget one of the most popular routes.
NetJets Europe
“Over 50% of NetJets’ European customers come from the London finance industry,” the company says, adding that private equity and hedge fund management clients have grown the most over the past 12 months.
Mark Wilson, president and chief operating officer, says: “Private aviation continues to play a key role in the city, especially with London emerging as the economic growth engine not only for the UK, but also Europe.
“Our customers have access to over 100 aircraft across Europe, serving more than 900 airports across the continent. Commercial airlines are unable to offer the same level of flexibility and choice – meaning NetJets Europe is more relevant than ever before.”
NetJets placed an order in 2010 for 125 Phenom 300s – including 60 firm orders – as part of a $17.6bn top-to-tail overhaul of its 700-strong global fleet.
The operator has taken delivery of 35 of the seven-seat twinjets, five of which are based in Europe. All the aircraft are equipped with the company’s Signature Series bespoke interior.
The Phenoms form the backbone of the operator’s light-cabin fleet, replacing the Hawker 400XP and Cessna Citation Bravo in service.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
