German soccer team Bayern München has signed up FAI Aviation Group to provide private flights throughout the 2024/2025 season. The exclusive partnership does not specify which aircraft will be used for team charters, but the German operator operates an all-Bombardier fleet consisting of five Global Expresses, six Challenger 604s, and five Learjet 60s.
The aircraft management and charter operator has worked with Bayern München since the Covid pandemic when it provided air ambulance services to the club. “Business aviation is a regular go-to for international professional soccer teams, delivering efficiency, time-saving, discrete air travel from private air terminals at hub airports or dedicated business airports,” said FAI’s group chairman and founder, Siegfried Axtmann.
FAI has also recently renewed its private flight partnership with Formula 1 racing team McLaren for the fifth successive year. The team’s drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, now carry FAI’s logo on their helmets.
The company runs an FBO at Nuremberg's Albrecht Dürer Airport, where it is headquartered, employing almost 300 people, including 100 mechanics at its maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations at that location and in Berlin. According to FAI, it is projected to generate revenues of more than €140 million ($156 million) in 2024, with its aircraft logging more than 12,000 flight hours.