As the e-commerce revolution sweeps through the aerospace industry, online service providers have begun to exploit a gaping niche in the business aviation industry.
Internet companies such as FlightTime, eJets, TransJet, Flightserv and Indigo have each brought their own distinctive brand to the US market, bringing consumers a new medium for accessing business aircraft.
Respective players predict that the potential for online activity in the USA is huge, and the companies plan to cast their nets wider, with Europe next in line for this new breed of business aircraft service providers.
Online charter broker FlightTime.com plans to launch its European service at Farnborough International this month, while fledgling on-demand corporate charter operator Indigo plans to start selling seats on its Dassault Falcon 20 business jets by the end of next year to compete with the European airlines.
High levels of comfort
Tickets will be priced competitively with a standard business-class fare, while passengers will enjoy high levels of comfort and service.
Indigo plans to link city pairs in an area bounded by London, Warsaw, Rome and Madrid. For example, a round trip from London to Milan will cost around £800 ($1,200), while London to Geneva return will cost around £200 less.
The fares on the same routes with British Airways Club Class cost £550 and £515 respectively.
Indigo chief executive Matt Andersson says: "Europe, with its defined geographic area and population density, represents an opportunity equal to - if not greater than - the USA." The company seeks to acquire up to 50 new generation business jets for its international programmes, capable of carrying between 12 and 17 passengers in forward facing seats, and in corporate levels of comfort.
The US online service providers believe the oversupply of national carriers, slot restraints and congestion at the major airports could eventually bring the European air transportation system to its knees.
Indigo's Andersson concedes: "Business jet penetration is small and the need for a customised lift service is urgent."
Source: Flight International
