Austria’s MJET Retires Gulfstream G650 from Fleet Amid Operational Shift

Austria-based private jet operator MJET has officially retired its only Gulfstream G650, marking a strategic shift in its ultra-long-range aircraft operations. According to ch-aviation data, the 6.5-year-old aircraft, registered as OE-IKA (msn 6322), was last flown under MJET’s ‘MJF’ code on March 2, 2025. The final flight journeyed between the company’s primary base in Vienna and Basel/Mulhouse/Freiburg, Switzerland.

The G650 had seen significantly reduced utilization since April 2024. Its recent flight history was limited mostly to test or repositioning flights conducted in and around Vienna, Bratislava, Brno, and Linz Blue Danube during sporadic months—specifically in June, July, November, and January 2025. The aircraft’s phase-out is part of MJET’s evolving fleet strategy, focusing on a more diversified mix of midsize, large, and ultra-long-range jets.

Despite the retirement of the G650, MJET continues to maintain a strong presence in the business aviation market with several Gulfstream models still in active service. These include a Gulfstream G200, a G450, and a newer GVII-G500. The company is also enhancing its fleet diversity with the recent addition of a Learjet 60, as well as continued operations of a Bombardier Challenger 650 and an Embraer Legacy 600. Notably, an Airbus ACJ319-100 remains in storage at Dubai World Central since 2022, potentially indicating future plans or leasing opportunities.

MJET’s fleet strategy reflects a broader trend within the private aviation sector, where operators are increasingly optimizing aircraft usage based on range, operating costs, and client demand. While the Gulfstream G650 is a popular choice for ultra-long-range missions, its high operating costs may not align with evolving market preferences for more fuel-efficient or versatile models.

Sister company Alpi Jets, also operating out of Austria, complements MJET’s offering by maintaining a fleet of high-performance jets. Alpi Jets currently operates a Gulfstream G450, a G550, and a GVII-G600—offering a range of long-range solutions. Additionally, its fleet includes lighter aircraft such as the Embraer Phenom 300E and the Pilatus PC-24, expanding the group’s service range from regional to intercontinental.

MJET’s decision to retire the G650 may be strategic, allowing the operator to reallocate resources or prepare for potential fleet upgrades, especially as newer models like the Gulfstream G700 and G800 begin entering the market. This could position MJET to remain competitive in offering tailored luxury jet services to high-end clientele across Europe and the Middle East.

With a reputation for operating premium business jets and providing charter and aircraft management services, MJET remains a key player in European business aviation. The retirement of the G650 is not a step back, but rather a realignment of its fleet to meet current market demands while maintaining operational efficiency and luxury service standards.

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