UK executive jet operator Bookajet has unveiled a new business travel brand which graphically reflects its new fleet of Dornier 328Jet aircraft.
The first of the eight aircraft on order, a former AvCraft demonstrator, is on display in the Business Aircraft Park at Farnborough, bearing the livery of the 'Club328' concept, which the company says more closely reflects its innovative approach to business travel.
Bookajet chief executive Warren Seymour says: "Our new name embraces the club ethos; endorses our commitment to our new Envoy Executive Jets from AvCraft, and illustrates the role we are playing in bringing like-minded individuals to network and do business together.
"The introduction of AvCraft's fully-appointed Envoy Executive Jets later this year introduces a new dimension for the business traveller, with facilities for passengers to make inflight telephone calls; use power outlets for laptops and enjoy individual TV screens," he adds.
Bookajet Operations, headquartered at BAA-owned Southampton Airport, has grown dramatically over the past 12 months and strengthened its presence in Europe, providing individuals and executive clients with fast and secure air transport, tailored to their busy schedules, says Seymour.
The Club328 concept is clearly aimed at a select target market by Bookajet, which counts England football captain David Beckham among its customers.
"Club328 is also a lifestyle choice, because we transport people to their second homes, villas and yachts, from their airports of choice, in great comfort and with ample baggage space for skis and golf clubs," says Seymour.
A key part of the company's expansion to date has been its increased flying activity for members-only airline Club Airways of Switzerland. Private business flights between London Biggin Hill Airport and Nice commenced earlier this month, complementing regular members only flights between Paris Le Bourget and Geneva; Geneva-Milan; Nice-Geneva and Nice-Pisa.
There are plans for more European city links, including London-Moscow and Geneva-Moscow from 2005, to satisfy the requirements of Club Airways' now 1,300-strong membership.
Bookajet has been granted its own air operator's certificate (AOC) by the UK CAA and is now pressing to secure European third-party maintenance approval for business jets.
Seymour adds that the company is developing plans to undertake in-house and third-party maintenance on Hawker 125s at its Southampton hangar, adding: "We have applied for an EASA 145 licence in respect of this and await approval."
HUGH MCATEAR
Source: Flight Daily News
