GI Aviation, a new private air charter company, has launched in the UAE. Based at Al Bateen Executive Airport, Abu Dhabi, it received its GCAA Air Operator’s Certificate in December. To celebrate the launch, GI Aviation showcased its first Pilatus PC-12NG, at Sky Dive Dubai.
The PC-12NG is a Swiss-built high-speed turboprop, well suited to private jet charter. The privately-owned company will take delivery of a second model, to be based at Dubai South Airport, in February.
Marios Belidis, general manager, GI Aviation, said, “This is an auspicious day for us, as we present the ultra-versatile Pilatus PC-12NG to industry guests, media and interested parties. GI Aviation is the first company to operate this aircraft commercially in the region and is pioneering an all new business model for the Gulf. Our goal is to deliver a competitively priced, reliable private charter service that will encourage new clients into this sector and stimulate the market.
“We are duly looking forward to engaging with charter brokers, travel agencies, corporate entities and individuals to demonstrate the unique characteristics the Pilatus PC-12NG holds over similar-sized jets. We expect demand will initially focus on key city pairs in the region where we will serve Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Sir Bani Yas Island from Abu Dhabi and Dubai.”
