NetJets Europe expects to sign up 200 customers and acquire 50 aircraft in the next five years as the fractional ownership concept catches on locally. In the four years since the launch of the programme, Executive Jet has signed 100 customers across its fleet of 15 business aircraft.
The Woodbridge, New Jersey-based company is investing heavily in its European programme, which has been slow to gain acceptance. The first of 12 large-cabin Dassault Falcon 2000s was added to the Zürich, Switzerland-based scheme in April. The rest are set to enter service over the next 24 months.
NetJets Europe chief executive Daniel Lutolf says: "We continue to offer entry-level aircraft in Europe [Cessna Citation S/11], but our real growth is spurred by the mid-sized Citation VII and Raytheon Hawker 800XP and now the large cabin Falcon 2000."
Executive Jet hopes to expand the NetJets brand beyond the USA, Middle East and Europe. It is evaluating the South America and Asian markets, particularly China.
Chairman Richard Santulli declines to reveal a launch date, however, until the company develops a greater understanding of the country's infrastructure.
Source: Flight International
