Hongkong Jet has added a further BBJ to its managed fleet, taking the roster to 29 aircraft. It is the sixth BBJ in the Hongkong fleet, which includes the world's first BBJ 787 VIP 'Dream Jet'. The latest BBJ, a 2009-build, is expected to be delivered to its owner in China by the end of this month, after completing an 18-month refurbishment in the USA.

CEO Denzil White says: “As one of the most well-established and trusted aircraft management companies in Asia, we are delighted to add this BBJ to our fleet. Hongkong Jet has the highest safety standards and we treat each aircraft as if it were our own. We are honoured to have earned the continued trust of our clients, which is reflected in this contract.”

CCO Mike Walsh, who is on the AsBAA board of governors and was instrumental in the recent securing of dedicated night-time slots at Hong Kong International airport, adds: “Our latest BBJ is registered for private use only. There are not many charter-friendly registered BBJs in Asia and our own one, 2-BASG, is stationed in the Middle East as that is where the greatest demand is. While the Asian market is dominated by heavy jets, the majority of BBJs in Asia are for government or private use only. There is demand at certain times of the year for chartering a BBJ in the region but you could argue that there is not sufficient demand to justify basing one here all year round.”

Hongkong Jet and its subsidiary Asia Jet successfully arranged charter flights for the World Cup in Russia this summer. Now Walsh says that budget time is approaching, along with a traditionally busy fourth quarter. “Whether for business or leisure, the end of the year is the busiest. We look forward to our end of year Christmas party, where we will celebrate another successful year together and will look forward to what 2019 might bring,” he concludes.