Flexjet is implementing a new policy in light of the Covid-19 outbreak to use its own fleet to ferry the fractional operator’s pilots and other flight crewmembers. Flexjet crews have regularly flown aboard commercial airlines from their home base to reach their flight assignment destination, but Flexjet chairman Kenn Ricci said, “Given the threat posed by the novel coronavirus and the illness Covid-19, we felt it was in the best interests of our owners and flight crews to take this risk out of the equation and transport our flight crews on our own aircraft.”
Flexjet added that the decision also enables it to comply with CDC-recommended group size limits of no more than 10 people. Named Project Lift, the Flexjet initiative applies to all U.S. domestic flights, as well as internationally bound flights that are still permitted. The operator has established a shuttle system involving seven strategically located hubs around the country to ferry its pilots and crewmembers.
In addition, the operator recently had MRO provider and sister company Constant Aviation treat the Flexjet fleet with MicroShield 360, a protective coating that kills 99.99 percent of pathogens.
Ricci further said he is offering to help others in the industry to design safety measures. “Decisions about safety can never be made based on their impact on the bottom line,” said Ricci. “There’s no doubt that this will have a cost impact on Flexjet, but it’s the right thing to do for our employees and it’s the right thing to do for our owners as we move ahead through this global crisis.”