FlyUSA has acquired 3B Aviation, expanding its fleet to 15 privately managed aircraft situated across the Tampa Bay region in Florida. 3B Aviation employs 10 pilots and manages 13 aircraft on behalf of more than 25 private owners. It was founded in 2012 by Nick Barrows, a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, pilot and flight instructor. As part of the acquisition, he becomes president of acquisitions and management.

“We are excited at the opportunity to expand our aircraft acquisition and management services on behalf of our more than 700 on-demand charter clients across the country,” FlyUSA CEO says Barry Shevlin. “With the expansion of our team to include 3B Aviation founder and president Nick Barrows and his staff, we are now even better positioned to assist our clients who are looking to acquire their own aircraft.”

Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, FlyUSA offers a dynamic pricing model that delivers on average cost savings of 20 per cent over competitors’ membership benefits programmes. It does not require a deposit for membership, and private charter flight fees are paid at the time of booking.

“I’ve always been impressed with Barry’s approach at FlyUSA, including using technology to improve customer experiences,” says Barrows. “Joining the FlyUSA team is a great opportunity, both for myself and for our experienced team of pilots. I believe this merger gives us the opportunity to really offer a much broader range of services to our valued clients.”

“I've known Nick for over 10 years, in fact, he managed the first plane I ever bought,” adds Shevlin. “I hold him in very high regard, and the entire FlyUSA team looks forward to working closely with him in the future.”