US Presidential Aviation Adds First Gulfstream G650 to Part 135 Fleet

US Presidential Aviation Integrates First Gulfstream G650 into Part 135 Fleet

Presidential Aviation (PRD, Fort Lauderdale Executive) has significantly enhanced its charter service capabilities by incorporating a Gulfstream G650 into its Part 135 certificate. This marks the first time the ultra-long-range jet has joined the company’s fleet. The aircraft, registered as N650MV (msn 6026), is 13.8 years old and was previously operated privately out of São Roque Sao Paulo Catarina. The addition of the G650 was confirmed by Chief Operating Officer Yoharner Echemendia in an exclusive interview with ch-aviation.

Expanding and Diversifying the Fleet

The Gulfstream G650 complements Presidential Aviation’s existing Gulfstream lineup, which includes a G200, two GIV-SPs, and a G550, the latter following the recent retirement of a second G550. Beyond Gulfstream models, the company maintains a diverse charter fleet featuring a Learjet 60, Citation X, Falcon 900LX, two Falcon 7X jets—including a recently added unit—alongside a Phenom 300E and a Hawker 800XP. Looking forward, Presidential Aviation plans to further expand its fleet with the addition of two Challenger 604 aircraft, marking a return to Part 135 operations with Challenger-series jets after retiring a Challenger 601-3A earlier this year.

Market Dynamics and Operational Challenges

The introduction of the G650 coincides with notable shifts in the preowned business jet market, particularly following the cessation of G650 production. These developments have affected pricing trends, potentially influencing the cost structure for operators like Presidential Aviation as they integrate such high-value assets. The company may also encounter competitive pressures as rivals adjust their fleet compositions and pricing strategies to remain competitive within the ultra-long-range charter segment.

Simultaneously, the broader business aviation sector faces mounting regulatory and financial challenges, including the imposition of new European taxes that threaten the sustainability of certain operations. These external factors are likely to impact operational decisions and financial planning for Presidential Aviation and its industry peers, as they strive to balance fleet modernization efforts with evolving market conditions.

Despite these complexities, the addition of the Gulfstream G650 enhances Presidential Aviation’s ability to offer superior range and comfort to its clientele, underscoring the company’s commitment to maintaining a modern and competitive fleet amid a rapidly evolving business aviation landscape.