Europe's first helicopter block charter operator Aviaxess is close to adding fixed-wing aircraft to its managed fleet as part of its expansion plans.
Founded two years ago, Aviaxess has around 30 customers for its c25,000 ($30,300) 25h programme, says managing director Fr‚d‚ric Aguettant. The programme uses downtime for the company's fleet of four Eurocopter AS350-B2 Twin Squirrels, one EC130 and one EC135 under management contracts for the block charter and ad hoc charter work.
Aviaxess acts as a sales agent for the Bombardier Flexjet block charter programme when its customers require fixed-wing aircraft, although Aguettant says the company expects to sign a management contract for up to two business jets before the end of the year. "We have some opportunities to enter the aircraft management market in Paris, starting from scratch, as there are no companies with jets to acquire," he says. Aviaxess would add a new facility at Paris Le Bourget airport in addition to its base at Paris Porte de SŠvres heliport, he adds.
Aguettant says he aims to add two helicopter management contracts this year, and 10 block charter customers, but admits it is hard to promote helicopter use to European businesses. Aviaxess has access to over 35 helicopters from 10 operators across Europe, Brazil and the USA, but Aguettant says the scheme may require a dedicated salesperson. A Los Angeles agent is likely to be appointed this year, he adds.
Source: Flight International
