Acquisition help
 

I'm an associate at a firm that is going to be acquiring a private jet. I was tasked with making a recommendation because I have prior flight experience, but when it boils down to the details this is really over my head. I don't have any experience in aircraft management.

We need coast to coast range in a widebody... so my initial recommendation is a Challenger or Falcon... fine. But when things get beyond basic specs (engine types, S/N's with extended tanks vs not, insurability, and other intricacies) I can't make a good recommendation.

Can someone throw me a bone here. I just need to present 2 or 3 possibilities and reasons why. Money isn't an issue, the owners-to-be want <5 years in age or new.

Thanks.

My first recommendation is to hire me :D (ha ha)

It sounds if the aircraft is a definite then you really need to hire a chief pilot, or lead pilot who can help with the selection of said aircraft, and all the other associated stuff (hangar, maintenance, MEL, Flight Manual, budget, bunch of other stuff I don't even know about).

It looks like you guys need a guy/girl to set up the department and get it on its feet. After you get it set up, remember who gave you said advice and then hire me.......:D

Good luck, its nice to see in these times a company actually opening a flight department......

P.S If you need the names of a few guys who have done this I could recommend a few.

Haha

I don't think we are at that stage yet, we're just exploring possibilities before we commit any resources.. but make no mistake it's something that will happen sooner or later. We're in Florida, so most likely Opa Locka. If I'm still on this further down the road I'll remember to get back at ya for those.

Counselor,

Other things to consider are annual hours of use, passenger capacity, baggage capacity, home base operational requirements (i.e. takeoff performance wet and dry, aircraft services availability, etc.) Also, what is your firm's budget? Even though they say money is not an issue, cost is usually the key factor. If the sky is the limit consider a used Gulfstream V. It will give you plenty for a shiny penny. Practicality would dictate a used Challenger 604. Both are very reliable first class aircraft with solid operational and maintenance reputations.
If you are planning to charter out the aircraft when the firm is not using it there are several other things to consider. By no means is this a simple decision.
I would be more than willing to discuss this further if you want. I don't have a retainer! HA HA!
Red

Although, I am fairly green in this industry, my guess would be contact a local charter outfit, and see if they are interested in managing another aircraft. (after they say yes) They would be able to give you the best recommendations, in terms of a/c, and other details. Good to hear there are at least two more jobs out there. Good luck!

How long are the runways you'll be using on each coast?

What is the typical passenger load?

Do you need any "special" performance requirements (1000nm after departing HXD, 500nm after departing ASE, etc)?

Is a widebody bizjet absolutely necessary (must you have a F900/2000 over a F50, for example)? Would a super-midsize work (Challenger 300)?

If they want a 2003 or newer airframe, they're probably going to be looking at least $15M, and very likely in the $20M and up range.

"money isn't an issue"....You're painfully new at this (:o) If that was the case they would be sitting in a brand new Global or G550 which are both readily avail for delivery today, not asking you for rec's...LOL

Anyhow, If you at all happen to be serious - look into the Falcon 900EX or 900EXEASy market as it is saturated. You can pick up a later 90's EX for 21mil and it will go coast to coast anytime with a pretty decent cabin (wouldnt call it a widebody) and very impressive budget numbers - and because money ALWAYS matters....3 years from now they can sell one of these for a 5mil profit.

Good Luck!

Red, Joe and Now,

Back off my lead........ I saw him first, and I called dibs on his shinny new job........, I am serious, don't make me tell mom on you guys........... (ha ha ha):D

I hope you all can read my sarcasm:rolleyes:

Its yours!

Hell, I dont even want my own flying job anymore, nevermind someone elses...

:)

Box,

Don't worry. Nobody is going to hire any of us furloughed freight dogs to fly corporate customers. We are not customer service "qualified". Just ask NetJets. This industry is pathetic! Good Luck!

Red