Middle East and Africa Fuel Comlux’s Charter Growth

Comlux Aviation has added a second Bombardier Global 8000 to its managed fleet and expects this to be joined by a third example of the ultra-long-range jet in November. With 25 aircraft already operated by private owners, the Switzerland-based group is also preparing to receive a Global 6500 by year-end as it responds to strong demand for intercontinental trips.

Despite the ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, Comlux Aviation CEO Andrea Zanetto told AIN that the region remains a key hub of charter activity, with customers there often needing bigger aircraft to accommodate larger groups of passengers. In addition to the Bombardier Globals, around half of the company’s fleet consists of VIP-configured Airbus and Boeing airplanes.

“We were concerned when we saw a drop [in activity] during March, but since then we have seen strong demand for flying in and out of the Middle East,” Zanetto said. Comlux now has a permanent base, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities, at Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport (OMDW).

Africa is another key region for the group, which holds multiple air operator certificates. In addition to private clients, Comlux serves several governments in that part of the world, providing aircraft for those who don’t have their own fleets and need to travel long-range with sizable official delegations.

Security Focus

“If you want to travel out of regions like the Middle East and Africa, you need operators who treat security as the first element for [trip planning] assessment,” Zanetto said. “You also need the best possible insurance, and we have very strong relations with our insurance brokers. And because our crews are managing flights here every day, they are very aware of all aspects of operations, including the legality of flights.”

In the wake of the Gulf conflict starting at the end of February, Comlux (and other charter operators) had anticipated not only a steep increase in fuel prices but also serious shortages. In practice, Comlux found that it never incurred any delays or changes in flight plan due to fueling issues.

However, the cost of jet-A has remained very elevated, representing a greater percentage of operating costs than ever. “Our policy was clear from the start; we applied a baseline price for the trip and simply added the fuel cost at the time of this trip with no additional margin or charge to the customer,” Zanetto explained. “The customers were very understanding thanks to this transparent approach.”

In his view, the aircraft charter and management sector could yet see some further consolidation as smaller players “lose their appetite for the business.” Comlux has no intention to become one of the largest players, but believes its scale, market focus, and extensive experience have positioned it well for further growth, building on a stronger Northern Hemisphere summer season.