TAG Aviation has added to both its long and short haul fleet by taking delivery of an ACJ319 and a Pilatus PC-12 NG. The spacious ACJ can accommodate up to 19 passengers and is available for charter, while the PC-12 NG can hold up to eight guests and will be managed on behalf of a private owner.
The company currently provides a VIP B757 to luxury travel tour operator TCS Expeditions operating bespoke round-the-world trips. Thanks to the success and exposure from the B757, TAG has seen much higher demand for trips on large cabin, long range aircraft, which prompted the latest ACJ investment.
“The ACJ is already booked up for a number of music tours,” explains president of aircraft management and charter services Graham Williamson.
“While TAG will always be able to provide short notice solutions for any charter flight, we are trying to develop more bespoke trips and tours which require a high level of planning and attention to detail. This particular ACJ is exquisite, with a bedroom and en-suite shower for the principal, along with two separate living areas for up to 19 passengers. “While it is nominally based in London it will be available for operations in any region and is operated under the TAG UK AOC.”
Williamson explains also that that the company is keeping an eye out for the recently certified Falcon 8X, as TAG already has a sizeable Dassault fleet. “We have one or two clients who have Dassault Falcon 8X orders, so it would be nice to have one by the end of the year,” he continues. “I think it is going to be a really great aircraft and, along with the new Global 7000, it will give Gulfstream a run for its money.”
TAG used to manage a higher proportion of Dassault products, but today in Europe it has a similar number of Falcons as Gulfstream and Bombardier aircraft, with the remainder made up of Embraers, Citations and Airbus.
“We are one of the largest charter providers in Europe, with many management clients seeking revenue from their assets through third party charter when they are not in use,” says Williamson. “We have many direct charter customers who have trusted TAG for many years and choose to only fly on aircraft operated by us; this provides a perfect match between supply and demand which benefits all of our clients and customers.
“Only a small number of people in the world are able to own an asset such as a private jet and keeping our promises is critical to our success. We will always act with honesty and integrity and hope this will result in growth through referral.”