FAI's Project Pearl Global Express Sells to U.S. Buyer

German MRO FAI Technik has sold its Project Pearl Bombardier Global Express refurbishment to an unnamed U.S. buyer, the unit of FAI Aviation Group announced yesterday. Previously flying as D-AFAL, the 12-passenger twinjet has been re-registered as N822VP and will be managed by Part 135 operator Planet Nine, which is based in Van Nuys, California.

In 2019, the aircraft underwent a refurbishment led by designer Tim Callies that included a new cabin interior with two-tone gray leather seating, three-seat sofas upholstered in anthracite Armani fabric, and gray-white stone flooring in the galley and lavatories. The project also included the addition of Collins Aerospace’s Venue cabin management and entertainment system, as well as a Honeywell Ka-band Satcom system.

In late 2020, the aircraft entered service with FAI and accumulated 800 hours of charter flights around the world. FAI’s Project Pearl was also honored in the innovation in engineering category at the 2021 Middle East Aviation Awards. The sale was overseen by Aircraft Trading, a pre-owned Bombardier aircraft specialist headed by Nicholas McHaffey. Financing and administration were handled by The Air Law Firm in London.