On the Record with
Bob Knebel, Vice-President Sales, Bombardier Flexjet
Bombardier Flexjet comes to NBAA with new aircraft and new
status: the fraxxie operator says that after ten years in the business it's
found "the sweet spot" and is finally making money, which it attributes to
better management of its fleet.
"We have customers waiting in line to take fractional
shares," says Flexjet sales vp Bob Knebel. "We have order backlogs on all of
the jets that we fly here at Flexjet."
Flexjet is adding seven to eight "runaway success"
Challenger 300s to the fleet per year, Knebel says. Flexjet also offers shares
in Learjet 40XRs and 45XRs. The three-type fleet totals approximately 80
aircraft.
The Bombardier unit "has turned the corner," Knebel says,
"not just in terms of its sales rebound and market share, but in operational
efficiency— this is the first year the company has been profitable," he says,
"and possibly the first time a major fractional company has achieved
operational profitability."
Flexjet's promoting several program enhancements at
Bombardier's Booth 3197. The entire Caribbean is now open to all Flexjet owners
with no ferry fees. There are no ferry fees to and from Europe, likewise
Hawaii, for Challenger flights (the only super-midsize available, Knebel says).
Flexjet also claims the most liberal multiple (simultaneous) use policy in the
business, made possible by superior logistical management.
"The company is focused on not being the biggest but
the best," Knebel says. The Flexjet fleet is "right sized" for optimal
efficiency and customer service, he says.
"In an environment where other providers continue to
struggle with profitability, aircraft availability and service issues, Flexjet
has found the sweet spot in being able to provide excellent service
while— recognizing it is a business with thin margins— finally being profitable."
"We commit," Knebel says. "We guarantee.
"There will be an aircraft there to pick you up and take
you."
