Flight Level Aviation Retires Old Jets
Flight Level Aviation has officially retired its only Citation II and Citation Ultra jets from its Part 135-certified fleet, according to recent ch-aviation research. The move marks a significant fleet transition for the operator, which has been updating its aircraft inventory in response to evolving market demands and operational needs.
The Citation II, registered as N391DT (msn 550-0620), was last active on October 18, flying between Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport and Reno/Tahoe International Airport. This 34.9-year-old jet, operated by Flight Level Aviation since 2021, has now been removed from its Part 135 certificate. Although it once provided essential services on key regional routes, the retirement of N391DT reflects the carrier’s broader strategy to modernize its charter fleet and focus on more efficient, updated aircraft that can better meet current standards.
Alongside the Citation II, the operator also retired its only Citation Ultra, registered as N131RR (msn 560-0366). This jet had been part of the company’s Part 135 certificate since April 2024. Despite being recently removed from the certificate, the Citation Ultra continues to fly regularly within the United States. However, like the Citation II, it is no longer listed as Part 135-certified with any other operator. With both aircraft now retired from certification, Flight Level Aviation is consolidating its operational fleet and streamlining its services to ensure greater safety and efficiency.
With these retirements, Flight Level Aviation’s Part 135 fleet is now left with a single Citation S/II, registered as N509RP (msn S550-0030). This 39.6-year-old jet represents the operator’s remaining certified asset. The Citation S/II has served as a reliable workhorse for the company; however, its advanced age highlights the transitional phase Flight Level Aviation is experiencing as it updates its fleet in alignment with modern regulatory requirements and performance expectations.
The retirement of these older jets is part of a broader trend in the aviation industry, where operators are phasing out legacy aircraft in favor of newer, more efficient models. This fleet rationalization is driven by several factors. Safety concerns, increasingly stringent regulatory standards, and the need for enhanced fuel efficiency are among the key motivators prompting airlines to retire older aircraft from their operating certificates. By focusing on a modern fleet, operators like Flight Level Aviation can better ensure reliability, reduce maintenance costs, and provide an improved flying experience for passengers.
While the recent retirements signal a move toward modernization, Flight Level Aviation’s current situation is further complicated by communication challenges. The operator’s website is currently down, and contact emails have been undeliverable. Attempts by ch-aviation to reach the company through alternative channels have so far been unsuccessful. This lack of response leaves industry observers and clients seeking clarification on the company’s long-term fleet strategy.
The decision to retire the Citation II and Citation Ultra underscores Flight Level Aviation’s commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant fleet. As the operator looks ahead, industry experts anticipate that additional fleet adjustments may be on the horizon, particularly as the company seeks to align with evolving Part 135 requirements and market trends.
For those interested in following developments at Flight Level Aviation, staying updated through industry news sources is recommended, as the company’s communication channels may resume soon. The retirement of these aging jets marks a clear step in the carrier’s efforts to prepare for a future built on efficiency, safety, and modernized operations.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com