German operator FAI rent-a-jet AG has added a seventh Bombardier Global Express to its 26-strong fleet.
Following a 240-month inspection, the aircraft will undergo a complete interior refurbishment at the company's MRO division FAI Technik in Nuremberg. Further planned upgrades include the installation of a new cabin management system, Ka-band high speed wi-fi and fresh exterior paint. It is anticipated that the aircraft will be introduced to the market for sale or lease by the end of March 2019.
German design specialist Tim Callies designed the custom interior of the Global Express. Callies is well-known in the business aviation industry for his work on Boeing BBJs, Airbus ACJs and Global Express business jets. He will work with the future aircraft owner to select custom features to suit his or her taste and lifestyle.
The latest Global will be FAI's third ‘Signature Edition’ aircraft where a buyer can personalise the cabin design and select upgrades for an all-in turnkey price. The end result offers the benefit of a fully refurbished aircraft with major maintenance inspections completed.
Chairman Siegfried Axtmann says: “We are delighted to be working with Tim and his team on the Global Express, enabling the new owner to personalise their interior. FAI Technik has performed numerous 120- and 180-month inspections on BD700 series aircraft, and this jet will be the first Global Express to undergo its second 10-year inspection at our MRO. With its carbon fibre cabin, it will represent extraordinary value for money on the pre-owned market.”
In addition to the seven Bombardier Global Express jets, FAI's group fleet includes five Bombardier Challenger 604s, one Challenger 850, 11 LR60s, one Premier 1A and a King Air 350. All Bombardier aircraft are maintained by FAI Technik in Nuremberg.
FAI is Germany's largest general aviation operator by fleet, and accumulated more than 13,000 flight hours in 2017. It is also one of Europe's largest Bombardier operators, which it says brings significant operational and cost benefits.