Graeme Foley is in the vanguard of a new breed of manager that will usher in the era of the VLJ charter fleet in Europe. A pilot with over 20 years' experience, Foley is the newly-appointed Citation Mustang fleet manager for the U.K.'s London Executive Aviation (LEA).

LEA's first Citation Mustang will be available for charter in January but Foley will oversee a fleet of ten that will begin operating over the next 18 months. "In addition to the seven aircraft LEA has ordered from Cessna, the company is to manage a further three on behalf of private owners," says Foley. But all will be available for charter at a base rate 25 per cent to 30 per cent lower than LEA's present entry rate for a business jet.

Foley, who has been with LEA for seven years, will be responsible for managing all aspects of the Mustang operation, including the recruitment and management of Mustang crews. 

He will work closely with other LEA executives to produce operating manuals as well as liaising with senior management on Mustang marketing campaigns. "I will also be involved in Mustang sales activities and a contact for existing owners," he explains. Foley began his career as an engineer in a design drawing office and entered aviation as a part-time flight instructor for Southend Flying Club.

Foley says: "I see the Mustang as a very exciting development for LEA and the industry. The appointment as Mustang fleet manager is a natural progression for me, drawing on my management experience but also allowing me to retain a flying role."