JETS Bournemouth Contracts with Duncan Aviation for Used BizJets for Refurbishment and Sale In Hungry Market

Unlike the usual things buyers want in a used plane - cleanliness, mileage, wear, and care - JETS wants "project planes". 

In a market hungry for new production aircraft around the world, Duncan Aviation made a name for itself as a headhunter perfect for sourcing pre-owned planes, now contracting with business jet refurbishment specialist JETS Bournemouth. CEO Dan Rogers says business is booming, offering customers a cheaper, older aircraft that can hold its own against pricier, more modern iterations. 

"With the increased demand of entry-level charter to our customers, we see a real opportunity for a competent Part 145 organization such as JETS to give these older, unloved aircraft a full refurbishment and new lease on life,” said Rogers. For once, sellers may be lucky enough to see someone stroll right past the low time, far-off TBO aircraft and make a beeline for the back of the lot, where the ragged, haggard, well-worn planes are. Duncan describes the ideal JETS plane a bit kinder, saying that "the aircraft will ideally have overdue maintenance or need extensive cosmetic improvements." After bought and processed, Duncan will hand it off, where "JETS will then bring them to a beautiful, modern and airworthy condition." Perhaps put a bit sweeter than it is, as anyone who's seen a well-used plane with a few decades under its belt can attest. The most recent plane acquired by JETS has been put into constant operation with Gainjet in Ireland, with the next 3 aircraft already spoken for to be put into similar charter operations.

The most suitable planes are "Hawkers, early Challengers, and Phenoms," said Rogers, although "Lears will also be considered." The ease of being able to leave the search to Duncan and spend their time efficiently has led to JETS comfortably leaving them to all 6 of their next purchases. Tim Barber, the sales specialist for Duncan, said it's just as easy on his end. 

“One of the things I enjoyed about working with JETS was the simplicity. They reviewed the aircraft, made an offer, we negotiated a deal within a day or so, and then undertook the evaluation of the aircraft. A purchase agreement was in place over the weekend. On that occasion, I was retained by the seller. Moving forward, I am confident that JETS will be equally responsive with the aircraft we identify.” Barber's completed at least 1 aircraft transaction a month for the last 9, with a 10th on the way. That frequency means he's right in the thick of things, keeping an ear to the ground for just the right plane - a decisive edge for those familiar with the used market. After all, if something is desirable enough to be wanted by one, they probably aren't alone. The symbiotic relationship will keep feeding the both of them, according to Rogers. He says JETS is offering a valuable service to the greater business aviation market by keeping older but serviceable aircraft useful and affordable. 

“As a maintenance organization, we are acutely aware of the challenges faced by operators in managing the cost of keeping their aircraft flying, so we have come up with a unique solution. Once refurbished, these aircraft will be available to charter operators on a fully maintained basis, removing the common complaint of keeping an older aircraft flying and forecasting the cost of doing so. We believe there is real value for operators in having a reliable, cost-effective aircraft with the guarantee that the maintenance is all covered for one fixed price. On the back of strong demand for our existing Hawker, we have engaged the services of market leader Duncan Aviation to help us acquire aircraft to grow our fleet,” Rogers added.

FMI: www.DuncanAviation.aero