AirX Charter Eyes Fleet Growth as Aircraft Market Stabilizes

AirX Charter (AX) is considering expanding its fleet as the pre-owned aircraft market begins to stabilize. In an interview at EBACE in Geneva, CEO Friedrich Baldinger discussed the company’s plans in light of recent market shifts. “The market has started to stabilize after a period of volatility,” Baldinger noted. He explained that the past two years saw soaring asset prices and unpredictable bank financing, making fleet expansion challenging. However, with prices now trending downward, he anticipates better opportunities for growth this year.

The airline plans to focus on expanding its current fleet types, particularly heavy business jets, while also exploring the long-range business jet segment, where it currently lacks presence. Although discussions have taken place, no deals have been finalized. Baldinger emphasized that while the heavy jets in their fleet are effective, acquiring long-range jets could enhance their ability to operate routes like London to Dubai more efficiently.

AirX Charter’s existing fleet includes seven Challenger 850s, three Legacy 600s, and five Lineage 1000s. Despite the Lineage 1000 being out of production, Baldinger has no plans to retire these aircraft. He noted that their similarity to the E190 ensures an adequate supply of spare parts. The airline is not currently looking to order new aircraft from manufacturers but is keeping an eye on the pre-owned market. Additionally, the company is evaluating Airbus Corporate Jets types, such as the A220-100CJ, although pricing remains a crucial factor in their decision-making process.

Previously, AirX Charter operated a significant bizliner fleet, which peaked at seven aircraft in 2021. However, this fleet has since been reduced to two: an A340-300 configured for up to 100 passengers and a Boeing 737-700(BBJ) with a seating capacity of up to 19. The A340 serves high-capacity niches such as sports teams and large corporate events. Despite the potential benefits of replacing the A340 with a more fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft, Baldinger highlighted the cost advantages of retaining the current fleet. The company has also retired two A340-600s and three 737-500s due to market oversaturation and reduced demand during the pandemic.

The charter market is currently strong, prompting AirX Charter to refine its operational efficiency. Baldinger explained that the company is working to optimize flight operations by reducing ferry times and increasing revenue. Despite a planned reduction in annual operating hours, AirX Charter’s utilization remains significantly above the market average, reaching up to 1,200-1,300 hours per aircraft per year. The company’s substantial in-house maintenance capabilities have also helped mitigate supply chain issues that have affected third-party providers.

After its restructuring during the COVID-19 pandemic, AirX Charter discontinued its German AOC in 2020. The airline is satisfied with its single Maltese certificate and has no immediate plans to acquire additional AOCs.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com