Targets 100-Plane Fleet By 2013

Pan-European private airline JetBird announced this week it has begun placing firm orders against its 50 Embraer Phenom 100 option aircraft. JetBird has confirmed its first three option aircraft, which brings its current fleet plans to 53. This marks the first step towards expanding the JetBird fleet to 100 Phenom aircraft by the end of 2013.

The Phenom 100 is a four-passenger seat jet built by Brazilian planemaker Embraer. As ANN reported, JetBird placed an initial order with Embraer for 100 Phenom 100s in May 2006, split halfway between firm orders and options.

"We are delighted to begin firming our option aircraft in accordance with the targets set in our original business plan," said JetBird CEO Stefan Vilner. "Our decision reflects our confidence in the Phenom 100 as the best aircraft in its class, delivering high utilisation and efficiency combined with state of the art technology and the premium comfort of a private jet.

"The Phenom’s engines, manufactured by Pratt & Whitney Canada, are among the most fuel efficient available in the world today and are central to ensuring that JetBird’s business model delivers value despite rising fuel costs," Vilner added.

Slated to begin operations in 2009, JetBird aims to become Europe's premier private jet airline, offering a private jet experience at up to 50% less than current branded operators. Headquartered in Ireland, JetBird will operate a fleet of Phenom 100s based at a number of centers around Europe.

"There is strong market demand for a value-oriented private jet airline that delivers the imperatives of safety and comfort, from a broad range of consumers, including corporate and leisure travellers," Vilner concluded. "Our decision to begin firming our options reflects both the strength and certainty of this demand. We have now begun the process of expanding our fleet to 100 Phenom aircraft in operation by the end of 2013."

Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets, Mr Luís Carlos Affonso commented: "We are very pleased at JetBird’s decision to begin exercising their initial purchase options for 50 Phenom 100s. JetBird, commencing operations in 2009, is our European launch partner and our largest fleet customer in this region. The decision to increase their firm order reflects our belief that Phenom 100 is the best aircraft in its class and consolidates the leading position we are building in the executive aviation market."

FMI: www.embraer.com, www.flyjetbird.com