JUSTIN WASTNAGE / GENOA
Italian manufacturer Piaggio Aero Industries is to launch its own block charter scheme after acquiring a majority stake in Italian charter operator Foxair. Piaggio has taken a 75% share in the Bologna-based company, which operates five P180 Avanti twin turboprop pushers, in an effort to widen its customer base.
Josè Di Mase, Piaggio president, says the cost of the acquisition is "insignificant" and that the real investment will start with the expansion of the company. Genoa-based Piaggio will establish a block charter programme, based on a 50h membership scheme such as those operated by Marquis Jet or Bombardier FlexJet Europe. Details have yet to be finalised, but it is understood that the all-inclusive charge for 1h is likely to be around €2,100 ($2,300).
"There are lots of customers who have expressed an interest and need for the aircraft, but who will only use around 100h, and don't want the trouble of maintenance and pilots," says Di Mase. The scheme will start in Italy, but will be expanded across Europe, he adds.
Piaggio America is also in discussions with several regional airports to start similar schemes in small communities in North America, but there are not yet enough P180s in the USA for such a programme, says Di Mase.
Piaggio is also keen to gain access to a local fleet of Avantis to use as demonstrator aircraft, says the company. Currently, orders are being filled at the rate of production and the company has to borrow aircraft from operators for air shows and demonstration flights in Europe.
Source: Flight International
