Alerion Aviation Targets Fleet Growth with Midsize Jet Focus
Alerion Aviation, based in Long Beach, is focusing on expanding its fleet by adding more aircraft types it already operates, particularly in the super-midsize and large jet categories. Chairman Bob Seidel emphasized that operating familiar aircraft like the Gulfstream G280, Challenger 300 series, and Global 5000 improves efficiency, especially in today’s tight crew market.
The operator’s current fleet includes a Challenger 300, Global 5000, three Gulfstream Vs, four G200 variants, and additional aircraft such as a Citation XLS+, Citation Sovereign, Citation X, Hawker 900XP, and a Learjet 60. While the Citation X is being phased out due to reduced demand, Seidel highlighted the G280 and Challenger jets as ideal for charter due to their popularity and cost-efficiency.
Alerion prioritizes long-haul charter operations, noting that larger jets deliver better margins per flight hour than light jets, which have higher overhead for shorter routes. The company’s fleet is managed rather than owned, taking 10–15% of charter revenue, making high-volume, low-margin segments less attractive.
Although Seidel personally admires turboprops like the PC-12, Alerion has no plans to enter that market due to administrative complexity. The company sees potential growth through acquisitions in regions like Texas or Chicago but is currently pursuing organic expansion based on recent strategic initiatives.
Seidel also noted optimism in the business jet market, particularly with the potential return of 100% bonus depreciation, which could spur aircraft purchases. However, concerns remain over possible tariffs affecting aircraft and parts imports.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com