April 3, 2024
flyExclusive today announced that it is expanding its leadership team with the addition of Col. Donn Yates to the role of Chief Operating Officer. Yates will use his experience from more than 28 years in the United States Air Force to optimize fleet operations and logistics for flyExclusive as the company continues its growth as one of the largest private charter operators in the U.S., according to a press release.
In 2018 Yates assumed command of the 4th Fighter Wing at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, North Carolina. Throughout his career, he has led at every level of the Air Force and cultivated experience working in highly volatile situations, including combat experience and more than 2,000 flight hours in the F-15 aircraft.
“We are honored to welcome Donn Yates to flyExclusive, as his military background and expertise in cutting-edge operational practices make him the perfect addition to our leadership team,” said Mike Guina, president, flyExclusive.
He added, “As both a passionate flyer and an innovative thinker, he brings deep knowledge of fleet logistics and operations that will be invaluable in helping us grow flyExclusive and deliver the world-class service our customers and partners expect.”
flyExclusive continues to expand its floating fleet of more than 60 light to heavy jet aircraft and has added 11 aircraft in 2020.
Yates joins flyExclusive through the company’s partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense SkillBridge program.
“flyExclusive has a tremendous opportunity to fuel ongoing growth and I look forward to working with Mike and the team to make this opportunity a reality,” said Yates. “Together we will continue to grow flyExclusive into a customer service leader in private aviation, a great place to work and a great partner, both locally in North Carolina and nationwide.”
Earlier this year the company launched a fixed-rate, guaranteed availability jet card program, starting with a $150,000 deposit. The program currently offers light, midsize, and super-midsize options, with a large cabin program expected to be added by early next year. Its jet card includes both deicing and guaranteed WiFi.
