Air Flo Eyes New A220 in 2025, Frequent Flyer Program, e-VTOL and More | Exclusive
FLORIDA- A new upcoming US startup carrier, Air Flo, is preparing to operate an Airbus A220 fleet and electric taxis and aims to be airborne by 2025.
Ed Wegel, founder and CEO of AVi8 Air Capital, has shared his progress and journey so far with Air Flo on LinkedIn. Here are some of the key takeaways from his short posts.
New US Airline: Air Flo
Mr. Wegel wrote, “Our first two A220 aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2025, and we have made initial agreements with airline alliances that will enhance our connectivity and revenue streams.”
“We remain highly impressed by the capabilities of the Airbus A220, which stands out as a leader in its class, offering operating costs that are 33% lower than those of the 737 and A320. In collaboration with Airbus Consulting, CAE, Collins, and Michelin, we are actively working to leverage these advantages.”
“The response to our recruitment drive for the 119 positions has been incredibly positive, and we are pleased to announce the appointment of our Director of Operations and Chief Pilot.”
Air Flo Comps
While sharing insights on loyalty programs or Frequent-flyer programs that are created with the aim of incentivizing airline customers who are part of the program to collect points (commonly known as miles, kilometers, or segments), these accumulated points can later be exchanged for air travel or various other rewards, Ed Wegel added,
‘Over the upcoming year, we will launch our frequent flyer initiative, known as Air Flo Comps, or simply “Comps,” as we recognize the appeal of being comped.’
‘This program will operate independently from the airline, and discussions are already underway with various e-commerce platforms and brands to develop a comprehensive program in which Air Flo will play a central role. LIFT Aero Design is spearheading the design and visual identity of the brand, while a team of experts is diligently working to bring this vision to fruition.’
e-VTOL Operations
‘As part of the comprehensive development strategy for Air Flo Holding Company, we are excited to announce plans to launch advanced air mobility (AAM) eVTOL operations in Florida under the UrbanLink brand, which will operate under a separate Part 135 (FAA) certificate,’ added Wegel.
Wegel further noted, ‘This strategic move will enable us to efficiently transport passengers between key cities within the state and cater to the local transportation needs, necessitating a longer-range eVTOL solution. We are currently exploring partnerships with Lilium for longer-range options and Eve Air Mobility for shorter-range alternatives.’
Major airlines such as United (UA), Delta (DL), and Southwest Airlines (WN) have demonstrated their commitment to embracing eVTOL technology, with Southwest even placing orders for Seagliders.
Ed Wegel, founder and CEO of AVi8 Air Capital
“Our vision extends to leveraging this technology to facilitate passenger transport to destinations like the Keys and across Florida coasts. While there are challenges concerning battery weight and FAA certification, technological advancements are imminent and ongoing,” said Mr. Wegel.
‘With the planet experiencing escalating temperatures, airlines’ need to decarbonize and achieve emission neutrality will only intensify. Eventually, there will be a push for all short-haul flights in the US to be operated by electric aircraft, akin to Europe’s shift towards rail transport for short-haul journeys. Solutions are imperative and will be forthcoming.’
‘The future is rapidly approaching, and Air Flo is committed to remaining at the forefront of this transformative era.’
Two weeks ago, he shared this, ‘Receiving a commitment from a prominent wealth fund in the Middle East today to support our initiative in launching E-VTOL operations in South Florida is a significant validation of our investment thesis.’
Photo: Nico Buchholz LinkedIn Page
Onboarding Ex-Lufthansa EVP
Last week, Mr. Wegel shared that Air Flo and Urbanlink are delighted with the presence of Nico Buchholz, who has 30+ years of experience in aviation, and he wrote,
‘We are delighted to welcome Nico Buchholz as a Senior Advisor to Air Flo and UrbanLink. Nico brings a wealth of experience to our team, having held key roles in the aviation industry. Previously, he oversaw all aircraft fleet transactions as Executive Vice President at Lufthansa. Later, he played pivotal roles at Bombardier as head of commercial and Chief Program Officer for the C Series. During his tenure, he was instrumental in sales campaigns and facilitated the program’s transition to Airbus, where it was rebranded as the Airbus A-220.
Currently, Nico also advises Deutsche Aircraft on the development of the Dornier 328 eco, an aircraft that operates entirely on sustainable aviation fuel.
As we finalize our capital and organizational structure, Nico will bring his expertise to the board of Air Flo, providing invaluable insights and guidance.’
Bottom Line
In short, the airline is making real progress, especially with hiring pilots and onboarding experienced aviation professionals. Further, the airline has some prescient timeline for taking the First A220 in 2025 and launching the Comps loyalty program.
So far, it is going on the right track, and we will let you know if there are some remarkable milestones in this startup.
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