Business aviation services provider Amber Aviation has closed on a Series B funding round that will enable the Shenzen, China-based company to offer shared lease, jet card, and membership programs. Under the new investment by fractional-share provider NetJets, Fung Investment, and Macau-based Liu’s Group, as well as existing investor Hony Capital, Amber will receive up to 20 business jets from NetJets’ existing fleet. Deliveries will begin in April 2022 and continue over the next two years.
“With NetJets’ assistance, we can quickly build up the available fleet of aircraft so that we can be ready once international borders fully reopen,” said Amber president Chang Qiusheng. “We understand that the size of the fleet is very important, so by having aircraft in place, we are sure that we can be successful.”
Qiusheng added that with the support of NetJets and the other investors, Amber can boost business aircraft utilization in the region. “There’s a huge gap in the market for charter users that wish to take the next step towards full aircraft ownership given the financial undertaking required,” he said. “By bridging the gap with our shared lease, jet card, and membership programs, Amber Aviation will help grow the number of business aviation users in Asia, which will benefit the whole industry.”
The aircraft transferred by NetJets will be operated under Amber’s air operator certificate. “This partnership with Amber Aviation offers NetJets a unique opportunity to provide long-term service in the Asian market to our owners,” said NetJets chairman and CEO Adam Johnson. “The team at Amber Aviation shares NetJets’ commitment to safety and service and is a truly collaborative partner that we look forward to working with alongside our respected co-investors.”
NetJets also will help Amber set up new programs such as service support, sales assistance, product design, and legal support. In addition, NetJets will support Amber in the acquisition of additional business jets direct from various OEMs. Further, Amber clients will have access to NetJets’ FBO network in the U.S. and Europe, as well as guaranteed availability of NetJets aircraft for travel in the these same regions.