Contributor - Business Aviation

James Wynbrandt

Airbus introduced the latest operator to add an Airbus Corporate Jet (ACJ) to its charter fleet at NBAA. Tyrolean Air Services (TAS) of Innsbruck, Austria, has taken delivery of an ACJ318.
“This is a significant extension of our fleet,” said Martin Lener, CEO of TAS, which currently operates seven business jets ranging from light to ultra-long-range aircraft. “This is a new business tool we are very excited to offer to VIP clients, many from the entertainment and business world, and government.”
The 19-passenger aircraft is now available for worldwide booking. Established in 1978, TAS has an Argus Platinum rating, IS-BAO registration and has a waiver for flights to, from and within the U.S. Clients have included Henry Kissinger, Stevie Wonder and Steven Spielberg.
“This is a state-of-the-art aircraft,” Lener said, regarding the choice of the Airbus versus a Boeing Business Jet. “The interior concept is the best in size and in height of the cabin, and it’s European manufactured. In the short time we have had experience with this OEM [the relationship] has been very successful.”
Charter cost for the ACJ318 ranges from about $13,700 to $21,000 per hour, Lener said.