Australian Corporate Jet Centres Revives Hawker 800XPi Ops
Australian Corporate Jet Centres (ACJC), based at Melbourne Essendon, has reintroduced the Hawker 800XPi to its fleet, resuming operations with this aircraft type after an 11-month break. The newly acquired jet, formerly operated by Red Dot Air Ambulance under Seletar Jet Charter, is expected to serve both aeromedical and passenger charter clients.
Hawker 800XPi Returns to Service
The Hawker 800XPi, registered as VH-OTK and soon to be re-registered as VH-8XP, arrived at ACJC following a general refurbishment. Originally delivered to NetJets Transportes Aéreos in Portugal, where it operated under Portuguese registration for 11 years, the 18.1-year-old jet then moved to the U.S. registry before its transition to Australia in 2022.
This acquisition marks the return of Hawker operations at ACJC, which paused in December 2023. ACJC CEO Sam Iliades confirmed the aircraft’s readiness for charter and aeromedical services after refurbishment, signaling the company’s renewed commitment to offering diverse charter options in the Australian market. The Hawker 800XPi’s versatility makes it well-suited for various charter services, including medical evacuations and corporate travel, adding flexibility to ACJC’s service offerings.
Expanding ACJC’s Fleet and Service Range
With the addition of the Hawker 800XPi, ACJC’s fleet now comprises seven business jets:
- One Challenger 604
- One Citation I/SP (Eagle II)
- One Citation Sovereign
- Two Embraer E145s
- One Global Express
- One Hawker 800XPi
In addition to its business jets, ACJC also operates a Beech 58 Baron and a Piper PA-31-350, enhancing its ability to serve various client needs, from private charters to emergency medical services. ACJC’s aeromedical capabilities are further supported through JetCity, its dedicated aeromedical division, which handles air medical evacuations and medical transport throughout Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
Integrated Services Across ACJC and Affiliates
Australian Corporate Jet Centres offers a comprehensive suite of services, including private jet charter, aircraft management, and maintenance through Australian Aircraft Engineering. Additionally, ACJC operates Melbourne Corporate Jet Centre, providing FBO (Fixed Base Operator) services at Melbourne Essendon Airport. The company also collaborates with Airstream Jets, a Florida-based firm, to offer jet card programs and brokering services for its international clients, thereby expanding its reach beyond the Australian market.
Red Dot Air Ambulance and Seletar Jet Charter
While the Hawker 800XPi has joined ACJC’s fleet, it marks the end of this aircraft type’s service under Red Dot Air Ambulance. However, Red Dot Air Ambulance, a subsidiary of Seletar Jet Charter, retains a diverse fleet for aeromedical services across the Asia-Pacific region. Their fleet now includes:
- One Hawker 800XPi(2)
- One Learjet 60SE
- One Learjet 60XR
Seletar Jet Charter, based in Singapore, continues to operate various charter services, including private jet charters, aircraft management, and acquisitions. Its fleet also includes a Challenger 604, a Citation Sovereign, and a Global 7500, catering to private and corporate clients across Asia and beyond.
Future Growth for ACJC’s Charter and Aeromedical Services
The reintroduction of the Hawker 800XPi underscores Australian Corporate Jet Centres’ commitment to expanding its offerings, meeting the needs of corporate clients and medical transport services alike. The versatile Hawker jet allows ACJC to enhance its charter and aeromedical service options, positioning the company as a key player in Australia’s private aviation sector.
As ACJC continues to strengthen its fleet and service range, it remains focused on providing comprehensive, reliable, and diverse aviation solutions tailored to the unique needs of its Australian and international clients. With a growing fleet and established partnerships, ACJC is well-positioned for continued growth in both charter and aeromedical services across the region.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com