Brazil’s Rico Táxi Aéreo Retires Citation Excel Fleet

Rico Táxi Aéreo Retires Citation Excel, Signals Fleet Modernization

Rico Táxi Aéreo, headquartered at Manaus International Airport, has officially retired its sole Citation Excel aircraft, marking a significant transition in its fleet management strategy. The jet, registered PR-LPG (msn 560-5095), was nearly 25 years old and configured to accommodate eight passengers. Although primarily based at Brasília Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport, the aircraft had been integrated into Rico Táxi Aéreo’s operations since 2022.

Current Fleet Composition and Operational Focus

Following the retirement of the Citation Excel, Rico Táxi Aéreo’s executive jet charter fleet now consists of a single Citation XLS, with an additional XLS remaining in storage at Lakeland since October 2024. The company’s air taxi services continue to operate a varied fleet, including six Cessna 208 aircraft in both land and amphibious configurations, two Embraer E110s—with two more units currently stored—and two King Air C90s.

In addition to its air taxi operations, Rico Táxi Aéreo manages a private fleet that features a privately operated Cessna 208, an Embraer E120 (with five units in storage), a King Air B200, and a King Air B300 that is presently stored. This diverse fleet composition reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining operational flexibility across different market segments.

Transfer of Citation Excel and Market Implications

The retired Citation Excel has been transferred to TAP Aviation, based at São Paulo Congonhas Airport. Under TAP Aviation’s ownership, the jet is no longer available for air taxi services. TAP Aviation’s charter fleet currently includes three Citation Jet 2 aircraft—one of which is stored—a Citation M2 added in April, another Citation Jet 2 added in May, and a G150 that remains in storage.

Rico Táxi Aéreo’s decision to retire the aging Citation Excel aligns with a broader industry trend in Brazil’s competitive aviation sector, where operators are increasingly focusing on fleet modernization and operational efficiency. The move underscores a growing preference for newer, more fuel-efficient jets, which are better suited to meet evolving customer demands and regulatory requirements. Industry analysts suggest that such fleet updates may encourage competitors to accelerate their own modernization programs, potentially driving increased demand for advanced aircraft throughout the market.

By streamlining its fleet, Rico Táxi Aéreo aims to enhance its service offerings and maintain a strong position within Brazil’s dynamic air charter industry.