Volato Retires Last HondaJet APMG Amid FlyExclusive Takeover
Volato, operating out of Houston Hobby Airport (TMB), has officially retired the last HondaJet APMG variant from its Part 135-certified fleet, according to recent findings from ch-aviation research. The retirement marks the end of an era for the airline’s operations with this specific aircraft type, reflecting ongoing cost-cutting measures and a strategic shift following a management takeover.
The retired HondaJet, registered as N225DB (msn 42000044), was an 8.2-year-old aircraft that was last active under the ‘TMB’ code on December 1, 2024. During its service with Volato, N225DB operated flights between Denver Centennial Airport and Kalispell International Airport. Prior to joining Volato’s fleet in April, the jet was the sole HondaJet operated by Waltzing Matilda Aviation until February, demonstrating its versatility and reliability in charter operations.
With the retirement of N225DB, Volato’s Part 135-certified fleet now comprises seven other HondaJet aircraft across three different variants. These include three HondaJet Elite models, three HondaJet Elite IIs, and one HondaJet Elite S. Additionally, the fleet includes a Hawker 750 and a King Air B200, showcasing a diverse range of aircraft tailored to meet various charter needs.
The decision to retire the HondaJet APMG variant is part of broader cost-cutting measures undertaken by Volato. These measures have led to the return of some leased HondaJet HA-420s and the retirement of additional aircraft, reducing the company’s charter fleet from 28 jets at the beginning of the year. This downsizing is a direct result of the ongoing management takeover by FlyExclusive (JRE) based in Kinston, which is anticipated to result in further aircraft leaving Volato’s fleet and being integrated into FlyExclusive’s operations.
FlyExclusive’s acquisition of Volato signifies a strategic consolidation within the executive jet charter market, aiming to enhance operational efficiencies and expand service offerings. As part of this transition, FlyExclusive is expected to incorporate Volato’s remaining aircraft into its fleet, thereby expanding its capacity and service capabilities.
Despite the fleet reductions, Volato continues to provide charter services with its remaining aircraft, including the versatile Cessna 441 turboprops. The airline remains committed to maintaining high standards of safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction as it navigates through this period of transformation.
The retirement of the HondaJet APMG variant and the subsequent fleet adjustments reflect Volato’s adaptive strategy in response to market dynamics and operational challenges. By streamlining its fleet and aligning with FlyExclusive’s management, Volato aims to sustain its presence in the competitive charter aviation sector while optimizing its resources for long-term sustainability.
As the integration process unfolds, clients and industry observers will be closely monitoring the impact of these changes on Volato’s service offerings and overall market position. The collaboration between Volato and FlyExclusive is poised to shape the future landscape of executive jet charter services, leveraging combined strengths to deliver enhanced value and expanded reach to their respective customer bases.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com