April 3, 2024
With new business jumping 50% so far in 2017 on top of 20% growth in 2016, Flexjet LLC says it is hiring pilots for the first time since 2015.
“I am pleased that we are once again hiring experienced pilots from outside the company. The hiring of new pilots signals a landmark in Flexjet’s growth,” said Michael Silvestro, Flexjet’s Chief Executive Officer in a press release. “The combination of the world’s most modern fleet, outstanding owner service and innovative offerings such as Red Label by Flexjet has generated extraordinary growth during the past several years, and our approach is further affirmed by our need for additional pilots.”
According to the press release, pilot positions at Flexjet include light through super-midsize jets (Phenom 300, Learjet 75LXi, Legacy 450 and Challenger 350), including Red Label aircraft. Red Label by Flexjet is the carrier’s premium offering. Although Red Label launched only in the fourth quarter of 2015, 38% of all Flexjet Owners already are flying under its banner.
“Flexjet has a very selective hiring process that ensures we hire only the best pilots, men and women who honor our deep-rooted culture of safety and service,” added Silvestro. “As the face of the company, our pilots are essential to the service we offer to owners. The world-class service our pilots provide is one of the many reasons for our unprecedented levels of Owner referrals, which grew 23% in 2016 versus 2015 and have continued to increase this year.”
Flexjet pilots exceed Part 135 Federal Aviation Regulations requirements. For example, Flexjet requires newly hired pilots to be Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certified, type qualified, and have a minimum of 2,500 hours of flight time – all of which far exceed FAA minimum requirements – just to act as co-pilot, according to the operator. Once Flexjet pilots are hired, they undergo continuing training, including ground and simulator training every six months in addition to one week of annual line training. Every pilot is type-rated in his or her assigned aircraft and trained to perform safely in every possible terrain, environment, and situation.
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