Flexjet’s European operation, which grew its flight activity by more than 400 per cent in 2021, has been officially recognised by IBAC to meet IS-BAO standards.

This followed a rigorous, independent audit of its UK aviation operations, structures and processes. The company now continues in IBAC’s progressive Stage III programme, aimed at well-established operators looking to leverage their advanced safety systems to the highest standards of safety and excellence.

Managing director Marine Eugène says: “Flexjet is proud to receive this significant recognition from IBAC, demonstrating the huge commitment we have made to build our European operation around a solid framework of safety and service. It reflects the dedication, hard work and effort made by the whole Flexjet team since we launched in Europe in 2019.”

The announcement follows two further operational accreditations for Flexjet in Europe towards the end of 2021, a year in which it also broadened its European reach with a second AOC for Malta, awarded in July.

In November it was granted EASA Approved Training Organisation status from Transport Malta, which allows the company to deliver its own in-house conversion courses and training. This gives greater control over the development timeline for its growing number of European pilots.

That same month the company received EASA Category II approval with the advanced pilot training qualification, which is unusual in business aviation, allowing it to operate to more airports in challenging weather conditions.

Executive vice president of flight operations in Europe Clive Richardson led the accreditation projects. He says: “Since establishing Flexjet in Europe, we have worked relentlessly to structure ourselves around the highest operational standards, and it is rewarding to have begun 2022 with some key milestones reached. Of course, the work does not stop here by any means. Given our focus on continuous operational and safety improvement, we have several other key projects in the pipeline for the year ahead.”

Eugène adds: “Our ambitious plans for 2022 include significant expansion of our fleet, crew and support infrastructure. Following the example of our well-established US operation, this growth will continue to be underpinned by our unrivalled safety culture and ethos of world-class standards.”