News
News Releases
3/2000 - Program for the corporate travel environment.
WALTHAM, MA, MARCH 3, 2000
FlightTime.com, the global aviation network, today announced it has created an innovative program designed for the corporate travel environment. This groundbreaking air charter program will generate significant reductions in global travel expenses annually and provide travelers with comfort, convenience and exclusivity.
In addition to single-user private air charter programs, FlightTime.com also offers a Product Sharing program that enables multiple companies to pool together and lease seats on one shared aircraft, leading to similar cost-savings and convenience without the commitment to exclusive use of an aircraft.
FlightTime.com’s first client to utilize a new customized private corporate aircraft is The Procter & Gamble Company. An A320-200 aircraft, reconfigured with 56 First Class seats, will operate four times a week between Cincinnati and Brussels, beginning March 2000.
“P&G fit perfectly into the profile of a company where a customized air charter program offers clear benefits,” said Jane McBride, chief executive officer of FlightTime.com. “Prior to recommending a solution for P&G, we conducted an analysis of their highest volume travel markets where maximum rates dominate. As a result of this analysis, we determined that a private corporate product would save P&G a significant percentage of its negotiated yearly travel budget.”
The service will enable P&G to conduct confidential meetings and discussions en route, contributing to increased productivity and efficiency. The first-class service and amenities ensure a higher level of comfort while keeping costs to a minimum. The reconfigured Airbus A320-200 will be operated by Ryan International Airlines, an international air carrier with more than 19 years of experience in operating and flying leased 737, Airbus A-320 and DC-10 aircraft for freight, passenger and private corporate air services.
“This innovative program demonstrates the efficiencies private air charter offers Fortune 500 companies such as P&G,” said Linda Hardenbergh, executive vice president and chief operating officer of FlightTime.com. “Through rapid implementation of this program, we are helping P&G expand their options and meet their corporate travel needs as efficiently as possible.”
P&G’s Global Travel Services organization spearheaded the program which represents a unique opportunity for the Company to reduce travel costs and provide great service to its international travelers between the US and Europe.
WALTHAM, MASSACHUSETTES, May 16, 2000
“By joining the ‘eCare’ community of the world’s leading travel technology provider, we will extend the reach of FlightTime.com’s global aviation services to Sabre BTS corporate customers who play a key role in establishing best practices across the corporate travel industry,” said Jane McBride, chief executive officer of FlightTime.com. “Our participation enables Sabre BTS customers to access and learn about our cost-effective alternative air-travel solutions that meet the travel management needs of companies, both domestically and internationally.”
“The Sabre BTS eCare portal was designed around our customers’ needs,” said Scott Smith, vice president and general manager for Sabre BTS. “The integration of FlightTime.com’s worldwide aviation network into eCare highlights our commitment to Sabre BTS customers by adding new and relevant travel content within the Sabre emarketplace.”
FlightTime.com corporate travel services features online booking capabilities for executive charter. This Web-based service allows customers to obtain quick quotes and book domestic and international air travel on more than 2,000 aircraft, including jets and turboprops. The easy-to-use and powerful format provides a variety of customized programs and unique features in addition to fast quotes, including an airport locator, aircraft photos, a frequent flyer program and a search function that matches all suitable aircraft to the customer’s needs.
“FlightTime.com’s corporate travel services addresses the need for innovative solutions to rising business travel costs,” added McBride. “We work with corporate travel managers to provide customized travel solutions while generating significant reductions in business travel expenses.”
Sabre BTS is the industry’s leading online corporate travel management and purchasing system, offering business travelers a quick and easy way to make their own travel arrangements at their desktops and on the road while complying with corporate policies. Award-winning Sabre BTS enables businesses to track every travel dollar from pre-planning and purchasing to expense reporting and reimbursement — offering users the potential to save as much as 30 percent in total travel management costs. It is in use today by more than 360 corporations — more than any other corporate travel management system.
06/2000 - FlightTime.com receives the prestigious Blue Chip Enterprise Award.
Waltham, MA, June 27,2000
FlightTime.com has been selected as one of 200 small businesses nationwide to receive the prestigious Blue Chip Enterprise Award. Co-sponsored by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company and the United States Chamber of Commerce, the award recognizes small businesses that have demonstrated the ability to withstand the cylical nature of business by overcoming adversity, seizing opportunities, and achieving inspirational success.
FlightTime.com headed by Jane McBride, Chairman and CEO and Bob McBride, President, is the global aviation network designed to support, manage and distribute air charter and related aviation services. Through FlightTime.com’s online booking system, travelers can get quick quotes and book domestic and international air travel on more than 2000 aircrafts including jets and turboprops.
“Small businesses overcome big barriers everyday and achieve phenomenal success,” said Christine Burke of The Copley Financial Group,Inc. “The Blue Chip Enterprise Award is designed to acknowledge this success and has become a national symbol of the most elite and successful small businesses in the country. FlightTime.com is an inspiration to other small businesses.”
Since 1990, the BCEA program has recognized nearly 2000 successful small businesses. Applicants across the country have had their business honored with the BCEA.
07/2000 - Increase our share of the charter market. Partnerships
WALTHAM, MASSACHUSETTES, July 31, 2000
FlightTime.com, a global provider of air-charter services and a state-of-the-art online booking system, today announced measures the company is taking to increase its share of the charter market. Partnerships, plans to open Asian and Middle East offices and the formation of a Board of Advisors will assure the company’s continued growth.
“FlightTime.com is focused on creating innovative solutions and travel products for the business traveler,” FlightTime.com Chairman and CEO Jane McBride said. “These measures enable us to increase the availability of aircraft designed for corporate clients, reach new customers and develop strategic partnerships in the months and years ahead.” The steps complement a pattern of continued growth. Annual revenues are expected to reach nearly $50 million this year, up from $35 million last year, McBride said. Annual 2001 revenues are expected to reach $100 million, a result of current measures and planned innovations.
FlightTime.com’s new partnerships are with Airbus Integrated Company, a European consortium of aerospace companies, and Privat Air, a Switzerland-based charter operator. Under the informal arrangements, FlightTime.com makes joint presentations with either Airbus or Privat Air to prospective corporate clients. The partnerships enable FlightTime.com to increase the number of deluxe-configured aircraft that it can provide to corporations interested in chartering transatlantic flights through FlightTime.com’s Global Programs, intended to help corporations decrease travel costs and accommodate busy executives’ schedules. Deluxe-configured aircraft are roomier than commercial planes, thus enabling executives to work more comfortably and hold private conversations. For example, the Boeing Business Jet used by Privat Air and the Airbus A319CJ corporate jet seat about 40 people, while commercial aircraft of the same size typically seat about 120 people. Deluxe aircraft can also be equipped with amenities, such as conference and dining rooms and private sleeping quarters.
“Demands for our Global Programs exceed the supply of available aircraft. By partnering with Airbus and Privat Air, we will have access to planes that best suit corporate travel needs,” McBride said. Several major companies have expressed interest in chartering either Airbus planes or the Boeing Business Jet operated by Privat Air, McBride said. While Airbus and Privat Air will supply the aircraft, FlightTime.com will provide the charter-management services, such as contracting for ground-handling, fueling, catering and customer service. Procter & Gamble is the first corporation to use FlightTime.com’s Global Programs service, which relies on an Airbus jet to transport P&G employees between Cincinnati and Brussels four times a week.
Peter Bennett, Remarketing and Placement Director at Airbus, said FlightTime.com provides a new way for Airbus to reach the corporate-jet market, specifically because FlightTime.com’s management services make it easy for corporations to own aircraft. “We’re excited that a service provider like FlightTime.com is out there,” Bennett said. “FlightTime.com looks out on behalf of the users, so that they get optimal use of their asset.”
Greg Thomas, General Counsel at Privat Air, also said that FlightTime.com is helping his company to reach a growing market: corporate executives whose transatlantic travels have increased as a result of mergers and acquisitions. “We’re creating a new market sector, effectively going head-to-head with first-class and business class travel,” Thomas said.
At the same time, FlightTime.com is taking steps to deliver services to travelers whose trips originate in Asia and Middle East. “Charter operators in the two regions are expressing interest in working with us to tap this new market,” McBride said. “Together, we can generate much more business from the region.” The company is planning on opening an office for marketing and operations staff in either Hong Kong or Singapore within the next 18 months. The company is considering Dubai as the location of its Middle East office.
In addition, FlightTime.com recently formed a Board of Advisors to help company executives develop strategic partnerships and attain new customers. “We have assembled an advisory board representing the best minds in management, professional services, and aviation consulting,” McBride said. “With this board, FlightTime.com is even better positioned to develop innovative charter-travel products and increase global market share.” The board members include: The Honorable Evelyn Murphy, PhD., an economist and former lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; Michael J. Durham, former CEO of Sabre Holdings Inc. and former senior vice president and chief financial officer of AMR Corp., parent company of American Airlines, Inc.; Donald Colleran, president of FedEx Canada; Jeffrey E. Stiefler, vice chairman and director, Walker Digital, and former president of American Express; and Gerald W. Bernstein, managing director of Stanford Transportation Group LLC (STG), an aviation consultancy headquartered in San Francisco.
07/2000 - Alternative to commercial service
WALTHAM, MASSACHUSETTES, July 31, 2000
From air rage and flight delays to layovers and cramped planes, business travelers can’t seem to get a break. One company offers an alternative to commercial service: FlightTime.com, a global provider of air-charter services. FlightTime.com offers a suite of products that make it easy to travel, enabling executives to remain productive while en route to their destination.
“The current state of air travel has confirmed our belief regarding the need for a new way to fly,” said FlightTime.com Chairman and CEO Jane McBride. “Travelers are hungry for better options as crowded airports, congested flights, air rage, and high fares all add to travel stress. FlightTime.com’s charter services provide an attractive alternative that enables travelers to work comfortably.”
FlightTime.com recently conducted focus groups and one-on-one interviews with travel planners and executives who travel. Many participants said they are frustrated with scheduled airline service. Most complaints focused on the excessive delays that cause travelers to miss meetings, waste time in airport terminals, or have to go through numerous transfers and indirect travel routes. Participants often said that these problems caused travelers to lose productivity, which in turn is a tremendous source of angst. In the so-called New Economy, professionals are expected to work at fast speeds and cannot afford down time, participants said.
Air charter is not new. But with FlightTime.com, it is a more practical alternative for hurried business travelers than it has ever been before. FlightTime.com’s state-of-the-art online booking service makes it especially easy to arrange travel. Clients can make plans in minutes, choosing from more than 2,000 aircraft worldwide. With just a few clicks of the mouse, travelers can get quotes and book domestic and international flights. When travelers log on to the site, they enter the dates and times they would like to travel, the departure and destination cities, the number of passengers, and the amount of luggage each person will carry. Maps enable them to decide which airports are most convenient. Once travelers specify their needs, FlightTime.com recommends and provides a photo of the most appropriate plane, while also giving a quote; travelers, however, can request information on alternate aircraft and receive corresponding fare information.
In addition, the site provides information on a wide array of topics to educate travelers on the increasing viability of charter services. From FAA requirements for charter operators to a complete online help desk, FlightTime.com provides answers to almost any question a traveler needs to ask.
FlightTime.com provides 24-hour customer service, tracks weather reports, monitors flights from take-off to landing, and caters meals.FlightTime.com can also provide aircraft with customized on-board amenities, such as Internet connections, fax machines, dining and conference rooms and private sleeping quarters.
With FlightTime.com, travelers don’t miss planes or have unanticipated overnight hotel stays, as aircraft wait for them if meetings run late. They can take non-stop flights and fly to remote locations that commercial airlines cannot reach. FlightTime.com customers do not lose luggage, encounter air rage or endure uncomfortable seats.
Through our unique technology and the speed of the Internet, we provide a better way to use charter,” McBride said. “However, we are not just another dot com company because we have 15 years of experience in the charter industry, offices in eight U.S. and European cities and 110 employees who provide personal service that business travelers require.”.
09/2000 - The first global distribution system (GDS) to off Private Charter
WALTHAM, Mass., and MIAMI,- Sept. 18, 2000
Amadeus and FlightTime.com announced today the availability of the first global distribution system (GDS) -based system that enables U.S. travel agents to plan, price and book commissionable charter flights online. Agents can now access FlightTime.com’s booking engine through the Internet resources section of the E-Business@Amadeus platform, the world’s first e-business solution for travel agents developed by Amadeus.
“We want to work with agents to help them grow their business, which includes providing access to relevant Internet-based content and services. Giving them online access to charter reservations is a key way to do that,” said Tony Fernandez, Amadeus’ Director of E-Business. “With charter information at their fingertips, agents will find it easy to recommend charter to suit the specialized needs of their customers
The ability to book charter flights is the newest feature of E-Business @Amadeus, the Web-enabled platform of services and programs that allows agents to automate their businesses, gain cost savings and deliver a much higher level of service to their clients.
“FlightTime.com’s state-of-the-art online booking system enables agents to respond immediately to the needs of their corporate and leisure clients,” said David McCown, VP, Business Development at FlightTime.com, a global provider of air charter management services. “Charter is the ideal solution for corporate travelers, whose busy schedules require them to work and hold meetings while en route to their destination, and for leisure travelers seeking luxury travel options. Chartered aircraft provide roomy, private environments, enabling travelers to both work and relax.”
Air charter is not new. But with FlightTime.com, it is a more practical alternative for agents and their clients than it has ever been before. With FlightTime.com’s online booking system, agents can make plans in minutes, choosing from more than 2,000 aircraft worldwide. They can also arrange trips to remote locations, reducing their clients’ travel time. Chartered aircraft, for example, can land at 5,400 U.S. airports, compared to the 580 served by airlines.
With just a few clicks of the mouse, agents can get quotes and book domestic and international flights. When agents log on to the site, they enter the dates and times their clients would like to travel, the departure and destination cities, the number of passengers, and the amount of luggage each person will carry. Maps enable them to decide which airports are most convenient. Once agents specify their clients’ needs, FlightTime.com recommends and provides a photo of the most appropriate plane, while also giving a quote; agents, additionally, can request information on alternate aircraft and receive corresponding fare information.
FlightTime.com will pay agents a commission, which in most cases will be higher than the maximum of $50 that agents receive from airlines. Once agents book a trip, the system will produce an invoice accounting for the commission. Agents will also be able to add a service fee and customize the invoice with their logo or letterhead. In addition, the invoice will include information on the aircraft, providing travelers all they need to know about their trip. As an added benefit, FlightTime.com will give agents AirCharter.Miles, which may be redeemed for merchandise, travel and accommodations from the world’s leading travel suppliers. Agents are free to keep the AirCharter.Miles for themselves or give them to their clients to thank them for their business.
FlightTime.com provides 24-hour customer service, tracks weather reports, monitors flights from takeoff to landing, and caters meals. FlightTime.com can also provide aircraft with customized on-board capabilities, such as Internet connections, fax machines, dining and conference rooms and private sleeping quarters. With FlightTime.com, travelers don’t miss planes or have unanticipated overnight hotel stays, as aircraft wait for them if meetings run late.
10/2000 - Launch of the Freedom Plan
WALTHAM, Mass., – Oct 4, 2000
Freedom Plan, which provides individuals and corporations a cost-effective way to combine the convenience of private aviation with the flexibility of charter. Freedom Plan members avoid the burden and risk of owning and maintaining aircraft, the high cost and long-term commitment of fractional aircraft ownership, and excess charges associated with traditional charter.
Freedom Plan members pay a membership fee plus competitive rates for the hours they fly, whereas traditional charter services charge travelers for so-called empty legs when aircraft are en route to meet them. Members have guaranteed availability for trips scheduled at least 12 hours in advance of the trip, and fly exclusively on aircraft that go through intense safety audits performed by Wyvern Aviation Consulting Ltd. Wyvern, the charter industry’s recognized leader in air safety auditing, inspects and maintains detailed records on charter operators, aircraft and pilots around the world.
“Freedom Plan enables companies or individuals to buy air charter services at a fixed hourly rate and schedule flights that fit travelers’ schedules,” said FlightTime.com President Bob McBride. “In addition, we offer online booking and account-management services to help customers plan, book and manage their trips at their convenience.”
Freedom Plan, a domestic travel program, is designed for frequent business travelers who want to avoid the hassles of commercial service and the drawbacks of current systems for owning or using executive-class travel. Freedom Plan is ideal for those who do not want the liability of aircraft ownership and for corporations requiring additional aviation capabilities to complement their existing aircraft fleets. Freedom Plan packages are available for as few as 25 hours.
Freedom Plan is the latest travel product from FlightTime.com, which provides a suite of air-charter travel products and services tailored to meet the various needs of business and leisure travelers worldwide. Product offerings include Global Programs, used by corporations such as Procter & Gamble to create a Virtual Private Airline to transport employees in dedicated aircraft between frequently traveled city pairs several times each week; executive charter services for travel on aircraft that accommodate up to 14 passengers; and commercial services for large groups, such as sports teams and orchestras. FlightTime.com also enables clients to earn Aircharter.Miles each time they use FlightTime.com. Miles can be redeemed for merchandise, travel and accommodations from some of the most recognizable brands in the travel industry.
10/2000 - FlightTime.com Alliance, a partnership program
WALTHAM, Mass., – Oct 10, 2000
FlightTime.com today unveiled the FlightTime.com Alliance, a partnership program granting air charter operators preferred access to FlightTime.com’s global client base. Through the Alliance, FlightTime.com becomes an electronic distributor for operators, helping them increase productivity, reach and sales.
“The formation of the FlightTime.com Alliance complements our ability to create demand for charter services via our online booking system and products such as Global Programs and Freedom Plan, which enable companies of all sizes to enjoy the benefits of private aviation and escape commercial service,” said FlightTime.com President Bob McBride. “Through our initiatives on both the supply side and demand side, FlightTime.com is working to become the largest distribution channel for operators and the most reliable source of charter pricing and information for travelers.”
Technology is the foundation of the Alliance, as it enables FlightTime.com to create a single channel through which flights can be assigned, directed and managed to and from anywhere in the world. “Partners in the FlightTime.com Alliance have preferred access to the global demand for air charter,” McBride said. “We have invested millions of dollars in e-commerce initiatives that link charter operators and travelers worldwide.”
Partners will benefit from using the Alliance operator system to better manage their businesses. The Alliance uses web-based software that enables partners to schedule aircraft and crews, dispatch aircraft, follow and log flights, and create invoices and reports via the Internet. Furthermore, the software networks all the partners to FlightTime.com, creating a global exchange of information on available supply and demand. Once operators enter schedules and other fleet-related information, it is available electronically to FlightTime.com’s database, the source of information for charter users. Specific aircraft details remain confidential and operators may retain complete control over which aircraft are available for charter.
Alliance members also receive free safety audits performed by Wyvern Aviation Consulting Ltd., the leading aviation safety auditing firm. Operators with Wyvern-approved aircraft tend to generate an increase in sales, as informed charter customers often demand Wyvern-audited aircraft.
In addition to creating innovative travel products, FlightTime.com has built a state-of-the-art online booking system, forged e-commerce partnership with GDS (Global Distribution System) companies including Sabre, Worldspan and Amadeus, and launched major advertising and public-relations campaigns. Together, these measures enable FlightTime.com to reach untapped markets and reposition air charter as a viable option for frequent business travelers. Alliance partners thus reap the benefits of FlightTime.com’s investments in technology and global marketing.
FlightTime.com Announces New Chief Executive Officer.
Michael G. Foliot, former Galileo executive, Brings Years of International Leadership to Complement FlightTime.com’s Global Growth Plans.
11/2000 - Appointment of Michael G. Foliot as CEO
WALTHAM, Mass., – Nov 3, 2000
FlightTime.com, a global provider of air-charter services, today announced the appointment of Michael G. Foliot as chief executive officer. Jane McBride, the current chairman and CEO of FlightTime.com, will retain her role as chairman, continuing to serve as the company’s chief visionary. Bob McBride will remain president of FlightTime.com and continue to spearhead technological innovations.
FlightTime.com chose Foliot for the position due to his extensive leadership experience and expertise in creating technological innovations to globalize travel services. Foliot, former senior vice president of vendor marketing and corporate sales at Galileo International, was an active participant in Galileo’s IPO in July 1997. Foliot also has an acute sense of how to build successful relationships and develop worldwide marketing and distribution plans, which will help fuel FlightTime.com’s growth from both a marketing and supply-side perspective. FlightTime.com is introducing innovative travel products to reach untapped markets and developing a network of charter operators to complement the increasing demand for charter.
“We chose Michael after an extensive search because he has an impeccable set of skills and the vision to take this company forward,” Jane McBride said. “Michael’s expertise in the travel and technology industries, and his financial acumen provide him with the skills necessary to enable FlightTime.com to capitalize on its leadership position in the air charter industry.”
Said Foliot: “FlightTime.com is a true innovator in the travel industry, demonstrated by innovative products, such as Freedom Plan, and its revolutionary online system for booking charter. I look forward to working closely with the FlightTime.com management team and staff to continue the company’s global expansion strategy.”
Foliot has wide-ranging experience in corporate marketing, sales and distribution. He spent the last seven years at Galileo, a global company providing computer reservation systems for the travel industry. During his tenure, Foliot was accountable for all vendor relationships on a global basis, sales and marketing activities to Fortune 500 companies, and the development and deployment of wireless initiatives. He was responsible for developing and introducing the most comprehensive set of wireless services aimed at the frequent mobile travel professional. As head of distribution for Galileo’s computer reservation systems in Asia, Pacific and the Americas, Foliot expanded the company’s global presence by establishing a regional center in Hong Kong and implementing new distribution arrangements in Canada, India and Brazil.
Prior to Galileo, Foliot served in a number of roles during a 14-year period at American Express. Most recently, he was vice president and general manager of the Travel Management Services division of American Express International Inc. in Markham, Ontario. He also served for six years as vice president and general manager in Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines. He served in Singapore as head of operations.
01/2001 - New partnership with 2000 PGA Seniors
Waltham, Mass.- Jan. 10, 2001
FlightTime, a global provider of air-charter services, today announced a marketing and promotional partnership with 2000 PGA Seniors’ Champion Doug Tewell. Under the terms of the agreement, Tewell, a three-time winner in 2000, has become a charter member of FlightTime’s Freedom Plan, a new product that enables travelers to enjoy the capital investment. Tewell will make four appearances with FlightTime executives this year, while his golf cap and bag will feature the FlightTime logo.
“I am excited about my relationship with FlightTime as it complements the profile of the various companies I represent. I want to work with companies that have demonstrated high-quality service and leadership in their industry, and FlightTime represents just that,” said the 2000 Senior PGA Tour Rookie-of-the-Year. “FlightTime has been the leader in the charter industry for many years, and their Freedom Plan makes executive-style service, security and dependability available to a broad range of companies, athletes and entertainers,” Tewell said.
Tewell has purchased a 75-hour Freedom Plan package, and he can use the hours anytime throughout the year. Freedom Plan provides individuals and corporations a cost-effective way to combine the convenience of private aviation with the flexibility of charter. Members avoid the burden and risk of owning and maintaining aircraft, the hi, and excess charges associated with traditional charter. Freedom Plan members pay a membership fee and competitive rates for the hours they fly, have guaranteed availability if they make reservations 12 hours in advance and fly exclusively on aircraft that go through intense audits conducted by Wyvern Aviation Consulting safety.
Darrel James, Tewell’s business manager, spent more than 130 hours evaluating various aviation alternatives for Tewell, including direct ownership as well as fractional ownership programs. James, a certified public accountant, decided that FlightTime’s Freedom Plan was the best option for Tewell because it makes the most economic sevestment and a financial commitment for up to five years, including significant monthly management fees whether you fly or not. In addition, the evidence of an economic slowdown is compelling, which suggests to us that the risk associated with aircraft o “Freedom Plan relieves us of these concerns and allows us to utilize Doug’s dollars in the most efficient manner. We can evaluate Doug’s travel requirements on an annual basis due to the attractive one-year membership program and adjust accordingly, which provides us total flexibility, indeed, freedom. Our due diligence concluded that Freedom Plan is the most cost-effective way to fly privately without the burdens of ownership.”
“Doug is recognized throughout the sports and corporate markets for his exceptional golf talents and relationships with leading companies,” said Michael Foliot, CEO of FlightTime. “Our partnership with Doug is integral to our growth strategy, as we are targeting Freedom Plan to both of those markets. With FlightTime, golfers can flyesspeople can work productively while traveling and schedule flights at their convenience.”
01/2001 - Partnership with Mike Weir, winner of the 2000 WGC-American Express Championship
<h3<>Waltham, Mass.-Jan. 10, 2001
FlightTime, a global provider of air-charter services, today announced a marketing and promotional partnership with Mike Weir, winner of the 2000 WGC-American Express Championship (World Golf Championships). Under the terms of the agreement, Weir has become a charter member of FlightTime’s Freedom Plan, a new product that enables traup-front, long-term capital investment. In addition, he will promote FlightTime’s 16-year history of providing a full array of charter services. Weir’s likeness will also appear in FlightTime promotions and advertisements, including an upcoming ad in the 2001 PGA Tour Media Guide.
The demanding PGA tour schedule has at times prevented Weir from spending time with his family. Weir and his agent, Dan Cimoroni, decided that flying privately would enable him to get home more frequently so he could see his wife and two young daughters. Cimoroni chose FlightTime’s Freedom Plan after extensive research on the company’s competitors and fractional ownership plans.
“Because of the FlightTime Freedom Plan, I will spend 28 more days at home this year than last year,” Weir said. “Now I can fly home right after tournaments to be with my wife and children without losing valuable practice time. Choosing FlightTime also makes the most business sense. I was not prepared to make the significant significant financial commitment that ownership requires.”
Weir has bought a 100-hour Freedom Plan package, and he can use the hours anytime throughout the year. Freedom Plan provides individuals and corporations a cost-effective way to combine the convenience of private jet ownership with the flexibility of charter. Members avoid the burden and risk of owning and maintaining aircraft, the high cost and long-term commitment of fractional aircraft ownership, and excess charges associated with traditional charter. Freedom Plan members pay a membership fee and competitive rates for the hours they fly, have guaranteed availability if they make reservations 12 hours in advance and fly exclusively on aircraft that go through intense safety audits conducted by Wyvern Aviation Consulting Ltd.
“Mike is an ideal spokesperson for us because he has the same needs that many corporate travelers have: the desire to escape airline delays so that they can get home to their families,” said FlightTime CEO Michael Foliot. “FlightTime helps all sorts of travelers to schedule trips at their convenience. They can choose to relax or work productively while en route to their destinations, all without having to invest in an aircraft of their own.”
05/2002 Wyvern negotiates exit from FlightTime.com
FlightTime.com was sold late June 2002 in Boston, Massachusetts. The Boston-based company had offered conventional charter broking services since 1985, operating as Flight Time Corporation, but expanded into the on-line market in 2000. Initially serving customers in the USA, the concept was later introduced into Europe and the company had aggressive expansion plans for Asia and the Middle East. The on-line service market became increasingly crowded in 2000-01, with competitors including Bombardier’s Skyjet, Skyzip, E-jets and Ebizjets.
FlightTime.com also operated a corporate shuttle programme, which included flying an Airbus A320-200 on behalf of Proctor & Gamble between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Brussels, Belgium. That contract terminated early last year and the company’s corporate shuttle business was hit by the economic downturn. FlightTime.com also had a partnership with Airbus to place corporate variants of its aircraft with international corporations. It linked with PrivatAir of Switzerland to promote its services.
International safety auditor Wyvern, which evaluates corporate service providers including flight departments, brokers and aircraft operators, was acquired by Flight Time.com in 2000.
Walt Lamon, Wyvern president, says that aviation consultancy was not core to FlightTime.com’s business and that negotiations concerning a buy-out were under way.
06/2002 FlightTime is purchased by Orbit
“We are looking at a lot of options, but we have not reached a final decision,” Orbit president and CEO told AIN. He added that if Orbit, a privately held, employee-owned company, reactivates FlightTime.com online, “We would make it so much better for the Private Jet traveler, Brokers and Operators.” FlightTime.com is online but it is not booking flights at this time.
03/2010 -FlightTime Releases it latest intelligent Booking Engine
Boston, Mass., – March 3, 2010
After Many Year of development FlightTime finally releases it latest intelligent Booking Engine and Software on the Web.
For a Demo Click Here
FlightTime Releases its Mobile APP
Boston, Mass.,- October 17, 2014
FlightTime SmartPhone App
FlightTime’s SmartPhone app offers private jet charter prices from your SmartPhone. Find your nearest private jet airport, access the FlightTime charter market of 10 000+ accredited aircraft and use our “Get me home” tool for your fastest private jet flight route home.
FlightTime’s smartphone app allows you to search for and book private jet flights conveniently from your device at cost with no broker or middleman.
Looking for empty legs? FlightTime’s official smartphone app allows you to search thorough thousands of empty legs, updated in real-time.
Using our 10 0000 plus accredited list of verified aircraft worldwide, you can book a flight on any private aircraft, ranging from pistons to full sized airliners. Unlike other apps that limit you to a max of 19 passengers FlightTime has no limit.
Need information on any jet? Use our Air Charter Guide within the app to see Outside, Inside, Cockpit, Floor-Plan and cabin height on all aircraft models.
Join our community of customers who have saved thousands of dollars by using the FlightTime’s membership program which ,allows you to instantly book any aircraft directly from the aircraft carrier, with no middleman, allowing you to save thousands on your air charter. (You do not need to be a member to book a flight on this app but need to be one to book it at cost)
The FlightTime smartphone App connects you with a private jet at the tap of a button. Request, Fly, and Pay via your smartphone.
Pricing is offered instantly. Tired of the slow response time offered by other private jet charter companies? FlightTime can have your aircraft on the tarmac in under 30 minutes.
Starting with 24/7/365 In-App Concierge and customer support by our own certified charter experts with over 30 years of experience. Our transactions are all cashless, paperless and convenient with our secure online payment technology. What are you waiting for? Download the app and start saving.
Search over 10,000 aircraft worldwide. Get a Jet in seconds by creating custom travel routes and search for the exact aircraft that fits your needs. Gain insider access to Empty Leg Deals and fly for up to 75% less than ordinary private jet charter.
24/7/365 In-App Concierge and Customer Support by Certified Aviation Experts with over 30 years experience. Transactions are all cashless, paperless and convenient with our secure online payment technology.
Travel like a true VIP Client
Coming in Late October 2014 to the Apple App Store and Windows Phone Store. Already Available on Google Play
01/2015 -FlightTime Releases its news APP offering a Free Membership a ($8000 value)
Boston, Mass., – January 1, 2015
FlightTime’s mobile app allows you to search for and book private jet flights conveniently from your device at cost with no broker or middleman.
Free Membership for registered users in 2015. Registered users can get detailed info on the first 10 Tail Numbers and operator details.
Also in this release FlightTime has added the following features:
– Added Favorite Airport
– Find Airports nearby Using your phone’s GPS
– Multi currency
– Multi Language:French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, German and English
– Added map animation while searching for aircraft
– Added Tabs for US, EU, Middle East and Asia in empty legs (So customers in Europe will default to available empty legs in the EU)
– Added so many more information to the Aircraft Guide including block hour rates and manu other important information
You can download the app here