Flexjet has been growing its European operations since the initial launch in 2019. It bought a helicopter operator in 2021, then added long range Gulfstream G650’s in 2022. This year sees the company offering access to a selection of prestigious cultural and lifestyle events to provide a true flavor of Europe.
European Fleet
Flexjet has multiple European based aircraft. Mike Silvestro, Flexjet CEO, told SherpaReport “Our European fleet comprises of 14 fixed wing aircraft and 11 helicopters, and features the Praetor 600, Gulfstream G650, Sikorsky S-76 and a fleet of managed Agusta AW109 and AW169 helicopters.” Notably the supermid Praetor 600 has been operating in Europe since 2020, and has just recently been added to the North American fleet.
The company also has a European Tactical Control Centre in the United Kingdom to coordinate flight logistics, an aircraft maintenance facility in Milan and Flexjet House, a global experience center in London’s Mayfair. At Flexjet House, fractional owners can use the offices and conference rooms when in central London, or just pop in as a refuge in which to relax and grab a cup of tea or a cocktail.
European Events
Flexjet is inviting members to a series of prestigious European events, over the course of the year. The first occasion was Royal Ascot one of the most exclusive events on the British social calendar. Flexjet hosted the official event heliport adjacent to the racecourse, and provided hospitality for its owners and guests in the Royal Enclosure.
Mike Silvestro told SherpaReport “Flexjet's European events include private curated occasions and VIP access to major sports and lifestyle events. Following Royal Ascot, we are delighted to be welcoming owners in early July for an exclusive weekend experience in Tuscany, Italy, centered around the Palio di Siena. They will enjoy a prime vantage of this historic horse race, along with exceptional Tuscan gastronomy, wine and live music.
This is followed by an invitation to join us to experience the Arqana August Yearling Sale in Deauville, France, one of the most prestigious racehorse auctions in the European calendar and for which Flexjet in an official partner. To close out the summer, we will be providing VIP hospitality and hosting the official event heliport at The Goodwood Revival, which is a fantastic, immersive celebration of vintage cars and fashion.
Our winter events schedule in Europe includes the spectacular Snow Polo World Cup in St. Moritz, and this will be our third year as an official sponsor.”
Popular European Destinations
For North Americans traveling to Europe, Mike Silvestro said “Italy is always a favorite with our North American owners and this year we are seeing many flying into Naples for travel to the Amalfi coast, as well as airports serving the Italian Lakes and Tuscany. France is also trending, with both Paris and the Cote d'Azur holding a timeless appeal for many. This summer we have seen a small but growing interest in Portugal's Algarve region, which is a lesser-known destination for North Americans, but offers fascinating history, beautiful coastline and excellent golf courses.”
And in contrast, Mike highlighted the intra continent travel, saying “Our European owners also enjoy visiting the South of France and Italy, but additionally we see more traveling to destinations in Greece, Croatia, and Spain for leisure trips over the summer months.”