Presidential Aviation Expands Fleet and Streamlines Operations

Presidential Aviation Charter, based at Fort Lauderdale Executive, is in the process of expanding its Part 135-certified fleet with the addition of three new aircraft, according to COO Yoharner Echemendia. The expansion includes two Challenger 604s and one G650, although the exact registrations remain undisclosed as the aircraft are still being added to the operator’s certificate.

Echemendia explained that the company focuses on acquiring certain aircraft types to simplify the integration process with the FAA. By analyzing each aircraft individually, the management company can determine if a particular unit is a viable addition to its charter operations. This selective approach has led to a diverse fleet, which now includes aircraft from ten to twelve different types. The new additions mark a return for the Challenger family, as the last Challenger 604 was phased out in 2015. In contrast, the G650 is a new type for Presidential Aviation’s Part 135 fleet, reflecting a strategy to incorporate modern, high-performance jets.

Currently, Presidential Aviation’s Part 135-certified fleet includes two GIV-SPs, one Hawker 800XP, one Learjet 60, one Citation X, two G550s, one G200, one Phenom 300E, one Falcon 7X, and one Falcon 900LX. The company also operates under Part 91 for aircraft management, with a separate portfolio that includes a G450, a G200, and a formerly operated G550 which has since been sold. This multi-faceted fleet enables the operator to meet a wide range of charter demands while maintaining operational flexibility and efficiency.

Discussing the challenges of working with the FAA and addressing the ongoing pilot shortage, Echemendia noted that streamlining the certification process is crucial. He highlighted inconsistencies in current FAA rules, such as the requirement for commercial pilots to undergo training under a specific certificate even when flying the same type of aircraft they are already experienced in under Part 91. He believes that such policies contribute to the pilot shortage and disproportionately benefit training centers rather than experienced pilots.

In addition to pilot shortages, Echemendia pointed out that there is also a shortage of technicians, which can delay aircraft repairs and affect operational readiness. Supply chain issues are another challenge, particularly for older aircraft that are no longer manufactured. He explained that while parts for mass-produced models like the GIV are more readily available, newer aircraft like the Phenom 300 are easier to maintain because they are still in production. However, he expressed dissatisfaction with Embraer’s support for the Phenom 300, suggesting that the manufacturer tends to prioritize larger fleet operators such as NetJets and Flexjet over standalone owners.

Presidential Aviation also prefers working with aircraft owners who utilize their aircraft extensively in charter operations. The company seeks out owners whose aircraft log between 250 and 600 hours of charter operations per year, ensuring a steady revenue stream and efficient use of assets. Besides its core aircraft management business, the operator also runs a Part 145 maintenance facility and assists owners with aircraft sales and purchases to build long-term relationships.

While most of the fleet is based at Fort Lauderdale Executive, the operator also has a presence in other key markets including Boca Raton, Miami Opa-Locka, Philadelphia, Houston, Ohio, California, and North Carolina. Recently, there has been a surge in demand from Houston-based energy companies as businesses are relocating to Texas due to favorable tax conditions. The company also continues to serve strong markets in California, maintaining a balanced portfolio across regions.

With these fleet expansions and operational improvements, Presidential Aviation is positioning itself to better meet the growing demand for charter services while addressing industry challenges in pilot training, technician shortages, and supply chain constraints.

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