Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZ) based Empire Aviation has defied the current downturn in a booming business aviation industry which is witnessing tremendous growth in the region.
Empire Aviation Group (EAG) was founded in Dubai, in June 2007 in response to the opportunity of the Middle East regional market for business aviation services.
Mr. Steve Hartley, EAG Executive Director said the company has been slightly affected by the current economic downturn. “We have seen a reduction in jet chartering from the start of the New Year, which seems to be an expected reaction due to the worldwide financial climate.”
He added that EAG’s Aircraft Sales division however, is witnessing an extremely positive start to the year, having just completed a deal on behalf of a private buyer for a pre-owned Gulfstream G550 business jet which EAG acquired from a corporation in the US.
So far, he said the company has done exceptionally well and “We have based our growth on a sound and seamless business model led by aircraft asset management, aircraft sales and charter operations. We continue to develop new opportunities, increase product awareness and deliver high standards of service for our valued clients and business partners.
Speaking of the market potential of the business aviation sector in the Gulf, Mr. Hartley said “The market has always been buoyant in this region and will continue to do so. There are more operators coming online and it will certainly get more competitive.”
He expressed optimism that if the company continues to provide suitable options and delivering excellent service, “we will be in good shape for the future.”
Of the company’s clientele, he said corporate and business accounts comprise 70 per cent of the business while 30 per cent is characterised as VIP leisure customers both regional and international. “We successfully work with an extensive network of worldwide brokers and our regional RSA (Representative Sales Agent) partners.”
“Empires fleet strength has rapidly grown to 11 aircraft from two aircraft in December, 2007. The aircraft were from all major manufacturers, nine of which are available for commercial charter and two of which are managed on behalf of private owners,” said Mr.Hartley, “The 100 per cent year on year growth of our company reflects the potential offered by the business air charter industry in this part of the world.”
Along with Mr. Hartley, the company’s other founding members are Paras P. Dhamecha and Emirates Investment Group. The company shareholders also include Zabeel Investments and DIFC Investments
He added that from an initial three people when the company was founded, the Empires staff strength has grown to 60 since commencing operations in June 2007
“The location of our head office in Dubai Airport Free Zone is ideal. We are within close proximity of the airport VIP terminal to service our customers and nearby to our appointed maintenance facility which is also located in the DAFZA free zone,” said Mr. Hartley.
Oil-rich Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are instrumental to the continued expansion of the Middle East business aviation market, which is the fastest growing in the world, said one of the industry's leading players.
According to the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) the massive growth rates of 15-20% per annum were predicted for the regional business jets market and that its overall worth should top $1bn by 2012.
Mr. Mohammed Suwailem , Director Sales, Dubai Airport Free Zone , said: "I am happy to hear of the positive developments in the business jet charter business and that Empire Aviation is doing well. We carefully screen companies that apply to open their office at DAFZ and look at their potential.”
"The fact that DAFZ is located close to the airport and the recently opened VIP airport terminal makes the Free Zone especially suited for this kind of operation and business model,” Mr. Mohammed Suwailem added.
He noted that many major positive announcements have come out of the air charter show which was held recently, and that so many companies are pursuing international tie-ups implies that companies have noted this increasing demand and are responding to it in a confident manner.
“The location of the Free Zone within the boundaries of the Dubai Airport is a key benefit that has attracted the large number of companies to the Dubai Airport Free Zone,” said Mr. Mohammed Suwailem. “DAFZ plays a key role in providing a platform and easy access for international companies to reach GCC, Middle East and African countries with their goods and services.”
Facilities at DAFZ include a Conference Room, Lecture Hall, and Business Lounge, 24-hour Security Services, Restaurants, Postal Services, Travel Agencies, Banks and Duty Free Shop make the Dubai Airport Free Zone a self-contained location for maximum business efficiency.
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