New App Helps Flight Crew Manage Expenses on the Road

Down-Route is preparing to launch a new app specifically designed for business aircraft flight crews to manage expense reporting and hotel bookings. According to the UK-based software group, more than 40 operators, collectively managing some 1,100 jets, have already signed up to use the free app, which is available for both Apple iOS and Android devices. Planned updates for the app, which will be available for download from early November, include features such as social media connections, restaurant reservations and theater bookings.

The web-based app does not require any in-house set up on the part of users. Crewmembers can use it to manage expenses in real time while on the road. The hotel booking features a pre-set function that allows users to establish minimum property standards for each search. Down-Route will earn income from commissions on hotel bookings.

“The idea of getting good rates for our hotel bookings and then linking straight into an expense management feature is something new and [we are] looking forward to the launch of the app and being among the first to see the benefits to our business,” said Tom Carstensen, sales manager with Denmark-based business jet charter operator Air Alsie.