ASL Group has added a 2008-built Cessna CJ1+ to its charter fleet. CEO Philippe Bodson says: “The CJ has a particular meaning for our company as it was the first type of jet that we ever operated, more than 15 years ago. We now operate more than 15 types between our two AOCs, but the CJ, and its variants, has always been the backbone of our European operation on the light jet segment and we expect this aircraft to support our growth.”

That first CJ remains in the fleet today and still flies frequently. It recently underwent a complete refurbishment with new paint, a new interior and a complete avionics revamp to meet with the latest operational requirements such as ADS-B and RNAV/GNSS capability. Since taking delivery of that first jet, ASL has expanded its fleet with additional models and also to the stretched versions CJ2+ and CJ3.

Group safety manager, marketing manager and pilot Maxime Wauters adds: “The CJ has always been one of the most efficient and reliable products in the light jet segment and is a great tool for the Europan market. From our various bases in Belgium and in the Netherlands, most favorite European destinations are within one to two hours’ reach, and this is perfect for the CJ. So when the opportunity came to add this aircraft to our fleet, the decision was a no-brainer. The CJ1+ is the improved version of the original CJ and CJ1 and this aircraft is particularly well finished. It has a great cabin configuration with sat phone and infotainment system, which are very nice features for the passengers.”

The aircraft will be offered for on-demand charter operations within Europe out of Brussels, operating 24/7, and the company also expects to carry out last minute medical organ flights with it as it has contracts with several hospitals in Belgium and in the Netherlands.