GI Aviation now flying second PC-12 NG; debuts PC-12 on static at Dubai Airshow | Press Release

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Press Release

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November 5, 2017

GI Aviation now flying second PC-12 NG; debuts PC-12 on static at Dubai Airshow

GI Aviation, the first company to bring commercial Pilatus PC-12 NG operations to the Middle East, is proud to be displaying an exciting new model for the region at the Dubai Airshow 12th to 16th November at Dubai World Central (DWC).

The company recently added a second PC-12 NG A6-GIB based at the company's Al Bateen Executive Airport, Abu Dhabi base. "Passenger response since the commencement of charter flights early this year has been extremely positive," says Maha Makled, sales and marketing manager.

The PC-12 is typically flying on two and a half hour sectors. Popular destinations have included Riyadh, Bahrain, Kuwait and leisure beauty spots like Sir Bani Yas, the natural island southwest of Abu Dhabi.

GI has also appointed Capt. W. Patrick Gordon as general manager, the former interim CEO/president of Royal Jet. Capt. Gordon brings stellar credentials as a long-time advisor to His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Royal Jet's chairman. He has also served with Abu Dhabi's Presidential Flight as training captain. “I have moved from VVIP Boeing Business Jets to the PC-12 NG and I love it. The GI team is smart, motivated, enthusiastic and I am having fun,” he said.

The most recent member of the team is Ilhama Saadatova, who joins as head of sales and marketing. Ms. Saadatova brings many years of aviation sales and marketing experience to her new role. In addition, GI Aviation is currently looking to add two more captains to its team having already employed experienced PC-12 air crew from Brazil, Switzerland and the UK.

“The PC-12 NG is new and fills an interesting niche. The aircraft has been very successful in the US, and is now expanding to Europe. As the pioneer here we are pleased to be offering night-time, IFR flights throughout the region. “People and many of them new to business aviation, are discovering flying the PC-12 can bring great time savings and at an affordable cost. The GCAA has been extremely supportive,” he said.

GI Aviation's maintenance provider is Falcon Aviation, which also assisted with the re-registration of its second PC-12NG. In readiness for increased activity with the PC-12 throughout the region, Falcon has committed a significant investment in parts and tooling for the type, a dedicated engineering team and technicians. “We are seeing the opening up of an exciting new entry level for affordable charter here in the UAE and beyond,” commented Falcon Aviation director of maintenance, Nicolas Tejera. Falcon Aviation is co-located with GI Aviation at Al Bateen Executive Airport and also Dubai World Central Airport, South Terminal, where it offers line support. It is also exhibiting at Dubai Air Show.