SD Aviation to Launch Citation Fractional Programme in France

SD Aviation is preparing to enter the fractional ownership market with the planned launch of a new co-ownership programme branded SD Share. The initiative will initially be built around three factory-new Cessna Citation aircraft, including one Citation Jet 3 Gen3 and two Citation M2 Gen3s, marking a significant expansion of the French operator’s business aviation offering.

While the company has not yet disclosed a formal launch date, delivery timeline, or detailed specifications for the aircraft, SD Aviation said the programme is being developed in response to growing client demand, particularly in the Paris market. The fractional model is expected to target owners seeking guaranteed access to modern light jets without the cost and operational complexity of full aircraft ownership.

A spokesperson for SD Aviation said the company is seeing strong interest from its Paris-based clientele, prompting the decision to move forward with the programme. SD Aviation currently operates a Phenom 300 based at Paris Le Bourget Airport, which has become a focal point for its business aviation activities. The operator plans to expand its presence at Le Bourget in 2026 as the three new Citation jets enter service under the SD Share programme.

Despite the Paris expansion, SD Aviation will continue to maintain its headquarters at La Roche-sur-Yon, which serves as the company’s operational and administrative base. The dual-base strategy is intended to balance proximity to high-demand business aviation markets with the efficiency of operating from a lower-cost regional hub.

SD Aviation’s existing fleet includes two Citation Mustangs, two Citation M2 Gen2s, a Phenom 300, a Phenom 300E, and two Diamond DA62 aircraft. As of January 13, only the two Phenom 300-series jets were listed on the company’s French air operator’s certificate, which was obtained in late 2024. The remaining aircraft are expected to be transitioned under the AOC as part of the operator’s ongoing fleet and regulatory integration.

The launch of SD Share comes amid rising interest in fractional and shared ownership models across Europe, driven by strong post-pandemic demand for private aviation, increasing charter rates, and a growing preference for newer, fuel-efficient aircraft. Light jets such as the Citation M2 Gen3 and Citation Jet 3 Gen3 are seen as well suited to short- and medium-range missions within Europe, offering a balance of performance, operating cost control, and cabin comfort.

Industry observers note that SD Aviation’s move positions it to compete more directly with established fractional providers while leveraging its existing operational footprint and local market knowledge. If successfully executed, the programme could provide the operator with a scalable platform for future growth in the European business aviation market.

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