Author: Curt Epstein

Seeking to bring innovation and economies of scale to the heavily fragmented aircraft charter industry, New York City-based air shuttle provider Fly Louie has established the Fly Louie Alliance.

The organization aims to address the major operational challenges facing independent private charter providers, among them rising fuel costs, increasing competition from larger operators, human resource issues, and growing customer service and marketing infrastructure needs.

Similar to the benefits accorded to Part 91 flight departments through the Corporate Aircraft Association, the alliance currently offers discounted fuel rates at 30 FBOs across the country. According to the organization, FBOs are willing to join the program expecting higher fuel volumes through patronage by Fly Louie’s membership, which totals more than 30 operator members, representing 231 aircraft. The alliance has existed for less than two months.

“Our experiences in the charter industry have made it abundantly clear that operators face common challenges, and these challenges can be overcome with scale and leverage,” said CEO Julia Takeda. “We’re proud to help operators overcome those challenges while preserving and encouraging their independence.”

The program currently has no enrollment fees or fuel purchase minimums, and among its next targets will be addressing employee travel costs, easing pilot recruitment and retention, and improving cooperation between charter providers to provide better matches for customer demand.