PlaneSense Plans to Expand Pilatus Fleet Beyond 100

PlaneSense, a leading fractional ownership specialist based in Portsmouth, is set to significantly expand its fleet of Pilatus Aircraft, aiming to exceed 100 units—an increase of approximately 50% from its current numbers. George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, revealed this ambitious growth plan during an exclusive interview at the NBAA-BACE convention in Las Vegas, as reported by ch-aviation.

Currently, PlaneSense operates a diverse fleet comprising forty-four Pilatus PC-12-47Es and fourteen PC-24s under its Part 135 certificate through the Cobalt Air brand in the United States. Antoniadis emphasized that the decision to focus on Pilatus aircraft is driven by their cost-effectiveness and superior performance capabilities. “Our fleet is approximately 60 aircraft, and we can definitely grow to exceed 100. We definitely need to grow the PC-24 fleet more because we want to accomplish economies of scale,” he stated.

The company initially launched with the turboprop PC-12 variant and has recently expanded into the light jet segment with the PC-24. This strategic diversification allows PlaneSense to meet the evolving demands of its customers, who seek both versatility and efficiency in their aircraft options. The PC-24, known for its short runway capabilities, enables PlaneSense to offer services from a broader range of airports compared to many competitors, enhancing accessibility for its fractional owners.

Antoniadis highlighted the importance of maintaining a modern fleet, explaining that PlaneSense rotates its aircraft to keep the average age around four years. This approach ensures that the company operates the latest technology in both turboprop and light jet categories, providing enhanced safety, reliability, and performance for its clients. The emphasis on regularly updating the fleet aligns with PlaneSense’s philosophy of delivering cost-effective transportation while maintaining high operational standards.

Despite receiving numerous requests for larger jets, PlaneSense remains focused on the PC-24 category. Antoniadis noted that expanding beyond the PC-24 would require selecting another OEM, as Pilatus does not manufacture larger jets. “We have evaluated many aircraft types, but we’re not ready to give a timeline. In this project, we have a lot more growth with our current aircraft,” he explained. This disciplined approach allows PlaneSense to concentrate on optimizing its existing fleet without overextending resources or compromising its financial model.

PlaneSense’s business model centers around fractional ownership, which has gained popularity as aircraft owners seek more flexible and cost-efficient alternatives to full ownership. By offering shares in aircraft, PlaneSense enables clients to optimize their fleet usage without the financial burden of owning multiple types of aircraft. “It’s very good for the customers because they can fully optimize the quality of their fleet,” Antoniadis said, highlighting the benefits of fractional ownership in meeting diverse travel needs.

Geographically, PlaneSense has expanded its reach from its original base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to cover the entire eastern United States, the central region, and as of June, the Pacific. The company now serves over 1,172 airports, leveraging the short runway capabilities of Pilatus aircraft to provide comprehensive coverage and convenience for its fractional owners.

Maintenance remains a critical focus for PlaneSense, which operates two in-house maintenance facilities in Portsmouth and Boulder City, Nevada. These facilities make PlaneSense the world’s largest maintenance services provider for Pilatus aircraft, ensuring high standards of upkeep and operational readiness. Antoniadis acknowledged the challenges posed by supply chain issues, particularly the slow delivery of Pratt & Whitney engine parts, but assured that PlaneSense effectively manages these hurdles to keep its fleet flying smoothly.

Looking ahead, PlaneSense plans to continue its growth trajectory by adding new Pilatus aircraft and potentially exploring opportunities to expand into larger jet categories when feasible. The company remains committed to maintaining a disciplined financial approach, ensuring that growth is sustainable and aligned with its core values of cost-effectiveness and exceptional service.

PlaneSense’s strategic expansion of its Pilatus fleet underscores its commitment to providing flexible, reliable, and efficient fractional ownership solutions. By focusing on aircraft that deliver both performance and value, PlaneSense is well-positioned to meet the growing demands of the business aviation market and maintain its leadership in the fractional ownership sector.

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