Gama Aviation has been awarded FAA Part 129 accreditation by the US Department of Transport, allowing it to operate unrestricted commercial flights between Europe and the United States.

Previously under its US375 approval Gama could only operate 12 charter flights per annum into the US from Europe. "The US375 was already an advantage over a number of our competitors who were and still are applying individually to the US DoT with a seven-day lead time," says commercial manager Paul Cremer.

"Part 129 gives us unlimited access for charters to the US from the EU, with no lead time and just a single form to complete."

Gama has become the eighth UK business jet operator to achieve the accreditation, and has not yet performed a Part 129 flight. "It's early days, but I'm pleased to say that we have received a number of requests already," says Cremer.

"I believe that the aircraft types likely to be used by our clients, US flights are the Gulfstream G550, Challenger 604, Falcon 2000 and the Hawker 1000 for those customers looking for a cost-effective solution.

"Obtaining Part 129 status is one of the most challenging approvals for commercial operators, and it means that we can offer a heightened service to our customers, ensuring that whether they are booking a flight with Gama in the US or Gama in Europe, they will benefit from consistently high standards, privacy, discretion and hassle-free travel arrangements, wherever their business or leisure activities may take them," Cremer adds.