Another unforgettable @PGAChampionship is in the books. Proud to support the game at the highest level as the Official Private Aviation Provider of the @PGA of America. See you next year in Frisco. #PGAChamp#FlyAirshare
@FreddyLA7@jeowen Absolutely. We hope you have an incredible trip and continue to make wonderful memories during the rest of your time in the U.S. Safe travels!
Don’t miss a match of the world’s biggest soccer tournament this summer. With worldwide charter access, dedicated charter flight support, and backup aircraft available when needed, Airshare gets you there safely, on time, and stress-free.
Reserve your charter today at 877.372.5136 or [email protected]. #FlyAirshare
Today I sit down with John Owen (@jeowen), President and CEO of @flyairshare, one of the largest private jet operators in the country.
Airshare started in 2000 and spent over twenty years as a regional Midwest operator before going national in 2023 by acquiring Wheels Up's aircraft management business. We get into how the business actually works, where operators make and lose money, and where the industry is headed.
We discuss:
- Why fractional is the one part of the industry growing
- How the Wheels Up deal came together
- Why new jets are booked out to 2029
- The Wi-Fi arms race in the air
- His approach to bringing AI into the company
I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(03:01) Rise of Fractional Ownership
(05:10) The Hidden Costs of Jet Ownership
(08:40) Choosing Between Charter, Jet Cards & Ownership
(11:35) The Wheels Up Acquisition
(16:28) What Makes a Good Acquisition Target
(21:39) Why Empty Legs Rarely Work
(24:38) The Lasting Impact of COVID on Private Aviation
(28:35) The Evolution of In-Flight Wi-Fi
(31:18) Dealing with Airport and FBO Congestion
(37:37) Consolidation in Private Aviation
(43:03) Transferring a Management Company
(47:31) Airshare’s Most Important Metrics
(51:41) AI Inside the Business
We’re installing @GogoAviation Galileo HDX across our Phenom 300 fleet, bringing next-generation broadband connectivity to one of the most popular light jets in private aviation.
Faster, more reliable internet means seamless productivity and entertainment from takeoff to touchdown.
“Delivering premium connectivity that keeps customers productive and entertained is essential to our flying experience,” said Airshare CEO @jeowen.
A continued investment in elevating every moment onboard. #FlyAirshare
This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their bravery and commitment will never be forgotten. #MemorialDay
Today, we recognize the dedicated Aircraft Maintenance Technicians whose expertise and attention to detail help make every flight possible. We are grateful for our team’s unwavering commitment to safety and operational excellence. Thank you for your hard work and dedication each and every day.
#NationalAviationMaintenanceTechnicianDay #AMT #FlyAirshare
We're honored to be recognized as a Hall of Champions Honoree by the @KCBizJournal, marking our third consecutive year as a Champion of Business. This recognition is a reflection of our incredible team and the continued support of our clients nationwide. #FlyAirshare
"To deliver and execute a first-class hospitality experience in this day and age, you have to have a private aviation solution. And for the PGA of America, that solution has been unmatched with @FlyAirshare."
We’re proud to be the Official Private Aviation Provider of the PGA Championship and excited to be on-site this week at Aronimink Golf Club. Looking forward to a great week of golf, hospitality, and unforgettable moments. #PGAChampionship#FlyAirshare
Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible moms and mother figures. Thank you for the love, dedication, and support you provide every day. We appreciate all that you do. #MothersDay
A great evening with Coach Reid and incredible guests. The night was filled with great conversation, stories, and meaningful time spent together. Opportunities to bring people together and create experiences like these are what make gatherings like this so special. #FlyAirshare
For the @Chiefs, every minute matters, especially during the offseason. As an Airshare customer, the Chiefs rely on private aviation to gain a competitive advantage. Travel time becomes productive, helping keep the team aligned and operating efficiently. #FlyAirshare
Today we celebrate the incredible pilots who bring excellence to every flight. Your skill, focus, and dedication set the standard, and we’re proud to have you at the heart of every journey. Happy World Pilots’ Day. #WorldPilotsDay#FlyAirshare
Kicking things off the right way! Thank you to @FlyAirshare and everyone who made our VIP Party such a great night — we're excited for everything still to come this week.