Mountain Aviation Retires Citation X Fleet as Wheels Up Modernizes Operations
Mountain Aviation, based in Denver’s Rocky Mountain region, has officially ceased operations of its Citation X aircraft under its Part 135 certificate in November 2024, according to recent findings from ch-aviation research. As a subsidiary of Wheels Up, Mountain Aviation has been integral in providing specialized charter services, leveraging a diverse fleet to meet various client needs. The retirement of the Citation X marks a significant shift in the company’s fleet strategy, aligning with Wheels Up’s broader initiative to modernize its aircraft lineup.
The decision to retire the Citation X fleet involves four remaining aircraft, each averaging 23 years of service. These jets, identified by their registrations N908UP (msn 750-0144), N938TX (msn 750-0183), N975TX (msn 750-175), and N988TX (msn 750-0203), were pivotal components of Mountain Aviation’s operations. Initially, N908UP and N938TX were transitioned to Wheels Up’s Part 135-certified fleet, ensuring their continued utilization within the parent company’s expanding network. However, N975TX and N988TX have been removed from any certified operator listings and are currently parked at Statesville, marking their permanent retirement from active service.
These Citation X jets ceased operations with Mountain Aviation between May and September of this year. Following their retirement, N908UP and N938TX have been actively flying under the ‘WUP’ code since November, contributing to Wheels Up’s enhanced service offerings. Meanwhile, the remaining two aircraft, N975TX and N988TX, remain inactive, reflecting the consolidation efforts within the fleet to prioritize newer and more efficient models.
Post-retirement, Mountain Aviation’s charter fleet has been streamlined to include fourteen Citation Jet 3s, two Citation Jet 3+ models, and one Gulfstream GIV-SP. This restructuring reduces the fleet size from an impressive forty-five Citation X jets, which were either retired or transferred to Wheels Up over the past year. The first units of the Citation X to join Wheels Up’s fleet were integrated in July, further cementing the strategic alignment between Mountain Aviation and its parent company.
Wheels Up has recently unveiled a comprehensive fleet modernization strategy aimed at phasing out older aircraft types such as the Citation Excel, Citation Jet 3, Citation X, and Hawker 400XP. The company plans to replace these with newer models including the Phenom 300, Phenom 300E, Challenger 300, and Challenger 350. This transition is designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and provide clients with state-of-the-art aviation solutions that meet contemporary demands for comfort and performance.
In light of these changes, ch-aviation reached out to Wheels Up to inquire about the future plans for Mountain Aviation’s Part 135 certificate and the remaining fleet under its management. Wheels Up responded by stating that no definitive decisions have been made at this time, indicating that the company is still evaluating its options in line with its long-term strategic goals.
The retirement of the Citation X fleet and the ongoing modernization efforts reflect a broader trend within the aviation industry towards upgrading to more advanced and efficient aircraft. For Mountain Aviation, this move not only streamlines its operations but also positions it to better serve its clientele with a modern, reliable, and versatile fleet. As Wheels Up continues to evolve, the integration of newer aircraft models will likely play a crucial role in maintaining the company’s competitive edge and meeting the evolving needs of the private charter market.
In conclusion, Mountain Aviation’s retirement of its Citation X fleet signifies a pivotal moment in its operational history, aligning with Wheels Up’s strategic vision for fleet modernization. By transitioning to newer aircraft and phasing out older models, the company ensures that it remains at the forefront of the private aviation sector, delivering exceptional service and maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency for its clients.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com