Subscription airline Surf Air has expanded into Europe with the launch of its first flight in the region from London Luton in the UK to the Spanish island of Ibiza.
Surf Air Europe will initially offer its members flights between London Luton and European destinations including Cannes, France; Zurich and Geneva, Switzerland; and Milan, Italy, for a monthly subscription fee that starts from £1,750 (US$2227). Reservations are made using an app.
Surf Air Europe’s first flight was initially planned for November last year, but was pushed back because of delays in procuring aircraft, it was reported. The company’s European launch comes just two weeks after the parent company acquired its biggest competitor, Rise, as part of a major expansion program.
Simon Talling-Smith, CEO of Surf Air in Europe said, “Our model is the future of air travel. Surf Air offers a smarter, better alternative to commercial travel. Our streamlined service means no queues, no tickets and no stress. We focus our efforts on making each flying experience as simple and effortless as possible. We help our community of members free their time for what matters most.”
Surf Air was founded in 2013 and serves 17 destinations in California and Texas. It offers its members unlimited flights between its destinations for a monthly fee, offering the flexibility and convenience of business aviation at more affordable price, according to the company.
Surf Air travellers will fly aboard Pilatus PC-12 aircraft which seat up to eight passengers, and will also have access to valet parking in well-appointed, dedicated terminals.
Surf Air Europe is also to offer its members flights on jet aircraft and it has been announced that aircraft management company FlairJet is to operate Surf Air Europe’s first Phenom 300, which is due to go into operation next month.
“I am delighted to take the first step in what will be a long and prosperous relationship as both companies grow our offerings internationally. I see this as a very synergetic relationship with clear mutual benefits,” said Ray Jones, CEO of [FlairJet parent company] Flexjet.
Simon Talling-Smith, CEO of Surf Air Europe, added, “I am excited to forge this partnership with FlairJet, given that our business objectives to further expand European operations on both fronts align significantly. This is an important move as we work to expand our footprint globally and bring our successful and innovative product from the USA to new members in the growing intra-European business travel market.”
The Phenom 300 has been the most delivered business jet in the world the last four consecutive years and will be maintained by its manufacturer, Embraer.
“We have enjoyed a long relationship with FlairJet and Flexjet that embodies some of our most popular products. We have jointly pioneered many initiatives together that continue to reshape the market,” said Peter Griffith, senior vice president sales, Europe, CIS & Africa at Embraer Executive Jets.
