Execaire Aviation Expands Operations to US, Eyes Global Growth

Execaire Aviation (Montréal Trudeau) is strategically exploring growth opportunities outside Canada, primarily focusing on the United States as the Canadian business aviation market approaches saturation. In an exclusive interview with ch-aviation at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas, President Michael Fedele shared the company’s plans to expand its footprint beyond Canadian borders, especially in the FBO and maintenance sectors.

Fedele explained that with Canada’s 600-business jet fleet nearing its practical limit, the most promising opportunities for expansion lie outside the country. Although the Canadian market still holds growth potential, the focus has shifted to the US, where Execaire already manages aircraft under Part 91 without requiring certification. The company is particularly looking to grow its fleet and expand its FBO and maintenance services in the US. Recently, Execaire also formed a partnership with the Avfuel network to enhance its fuel supply capabilities.

While Execaire had considered launching a European certificate, Fedele stated that those plans are currently on hold, though they may be revisited in a few years. In the US, growth will come through partnerships with other operators, as US ownership laws prevent Execaire from directly expanding into the market.

Execaire, which currently operates a fleet of 44 aircraft in Canada, is one of the largest business charter operators in the country. Fedele outlined the company’s comprehensive approach to supporting its clients, from aircraft acquisition and charter services to jet cards, ownership, management, refurbishments, and eventual sales or transitions of aircraft. Execaire is agnostic to charter availability, depending on customer needs, and has a flexible ownership model, adjusting its fleet based on market conditions.

The company currently owns one airframe but is open to acquiring more if the charter market strengthens. Execaire has aircraft under management that are not on its charter certificate, making it adaptable in meeting customer demands. Fedele also noted the company’s broad approach to aircraft types, with no firm preference but acknowledging that unique aircraft may present challenges in terms of pilot availability and support.

Execaire’s fleet includes a significant number of Challenger aircraft, which the company finds particularly easy to manage due to its extensive experience with the type. The company operates a fleet of ten Challenger jets, including the 300, 350, 604, 605, 650, and 800 models.

Despite facing challenges such as Canada’s 10% luxury tax on new aircraft, which Fedele says has hindered the industry, Execaire remains focused on long-term growth. He believes the tax policy has not achieved its intended goals and advocates for its change, although he concedes that no change is likely until after the 2025 elections.

Regarding the charter market, Fedele observed a slowdown in demand in the 2023-2024 fiscal year, which he views as a return to pre-pandemic levels. However, he expressed optimism that the situation is better than initially expected. International demand has been slower, as the post-pandemic surge in travel has tapered off.

Execaire is also looking to expand into the fractional ownership market, which is currently dominated by AirSprint Private Aviation in Canada. Fedele sees this as an opportunity, particularly with smaller aircraft, and plans to capitalize on this growing segment.

In addition to its charter fleet, Execaire operates four of its own FBOs at major Canadian airports: Toronto Pearson, Montréal Trudeau, Ottawa International, and Halifax. The company is also considering expanding its FBO network, particularly through acquisitions. The company has high hopes for its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services and is working on expanding its footprint in Canada and North America, despite ongoing supply chain challenges.

Execaire’s efforts to expand across North America and globally reflect its strategy to diversify and grow beyond the saturated Canadian market, ensuring long-term success in the competitive business aviation industry.

Related News : https://airguide.info/?s=Execaire+Aviation

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