Slate Aviation Converts 35 CRJ Jets for VIP Travel
Slate Aviation, the luxury division of Tri-State Charter, is set to revolutionize its fleet by converting 35 CRJ200-family aircraft into high-end VIP charter and shuttle configurations. The transformation is part of the operator’s strategy to enhance its service offerings in the competitive private aviation market while bolstering its brand reputation for luxury and exclusivity.
The conversion process will be executed at Slate Aviation’s new 80,000-square-foot (7,432-square-metre) maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) and cabin conversion facility located at Macon Regional. This facility, previously occupied by Bombardier Aerospace and Stevens Aerospace, now stands as a state-of-the-art center where Slate Aviation will manage all aspects of the conversion process in-house. “We’re going to be taking those airplanes, removing the interiors, and installing all-new cabin configurations. Everything from the behind-the-scenes engineering work to manufacturing the components will be handled in-house,” said Heather Maguire, co-owner of Slate Aviation.
This ambitious project is part of a broader plan to optimize the operator’s fleet for luxury travel. In addition to the 35 scheduled conversions, Slate Aviation has indicated that 22 more CRJ aircraft are in the queue for conversion under its Slate CRJ Acquisitions entity. These additional conversions underline the company’s commitment to expanding its fleet capabilities to meet growing demand for premium charter and per-seat shuttle services.
Slate Aviation’s approach is tailored to serve distinct market segments. For its shuttle services, the converted CRJ200 jets will feature an 18-seat all-business class configuration designed to offer a refined and comfortable travel experience for corporate clients and high-net-worth individuals. On the other hand, jets intended for charter and owner operations will adopt a 19-seat layout that closely resembles the Challenger 850 type. These configurations will include 16 executive chairs and a three-place divan, ensuring that passengers enjoy an environment that is both luxurious and practical.
This fleet conversion initiative is strategically timed to support Slate Aviation’s recent expansion moves. Notably, the company has taken over the East Coast shuttle operation of XOJET Aviation, a part of the Vista America group. This acquisition not only broadens Slate Aviation’s operational reach but also reinforces its commitment to providing seamless, premium travel experiences across key domestic markets.
Slate Aviation currently operates its Part 135 fleet under Tri-State Charter’s certificate. Its existing fleet comprises a mix of Challenger 800 (CRJ200)s, Challenger 850s, CRJ200ERs, CRJ200LRs—recently added to its lineup—and a CRJ200XR. The decision to convert the CRJ200-family aircraft reflects a strategic move to align its fleet with evolving market trends that prioritize enhanced passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and brand differentiation in a crowded marketplace.
The plan is to complete approximately 10 aircraft conversions per year until 2026. This steady rollout is expected to solidify Slate Aviation’s position as a leader in luxury charter services while driving growth in its per-seat operations. As the aviation market continues to evolve with an increasing demand for premium travel, Slate Aviation’s comprehensive fleet upgrade is positioned to capture new business opportunities and cater to a discerning clientele seeking superior comfort and service.
With these transformative upgrades, Slate Aviation is set to offer a significantly improved travel experience that combines luxury, innovation, and reliability. This strategic fleet enhancement not only boosts operational capacity but also underlines the company’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the high-end aviation sector.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com