Vista plans to have its current fleet of 18 Global 7500s available to VistaJet members upgraded to the Global 8000 by the end of 2026.
Vista has upgraded the first of its Bombardier Global 7500 fleet, which will see the ultra-long-haul jets be converted to Global 8000s.
Bombardier bills its flagship as the world’s fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde.
The fleet is available to flyers in several ways.
It can be had through VistaJet’s subscription programs, which offer guaranteed hourly rates.
XO members can fly on a non-guaranteed basis under dynamic pricing.
They can also be booked for ad hoc charter flights as available.
Plans call for two jets to be upgraded per month.
That will mean it will have 18 operational Global 8000 jets by the end of 2026.
It calls its Global 8000s the “largest subscription fleet available of this revolutionary jet.”
The Global 8000 conversion is carried out through “advanced engineering and software upgrades.”
There are no external changes to the jets.
According to Business Jet Traveler, the upgrades take about 14 days and cost around $3 million per airplane.
Per Vista, the move “reflects growing demand for journeys connecting continents, such as Europe and Asia, along with continued requirements for both business and leisure travel.”
The Global 8000 has an increased range of 8,000 nautical miles and a lower cabin altitude to reduce jet lag.
Founder and Chairman Thomas Flohr said, “These developments mark another important milestone in Vista’s ongoing commitment to operating the most advanced fleet in private aviation.”
He added, “For our members, greater speed and extended range translate directly into practical benefits such as reaching their destination faster or traveling more efficiently with direct flights.”
Flohr stated, “With more members flying further and more frequently, these capabilities allow us to offer greater flexibility while maintaining the consistency and service that sets Vista apart.”
Bombardier President and CEO Eric Martel said, “The Global 8000 stands apart as a truly no-compromise aircraft, delivering unmatched speed, exceptional comfort, and industry-leading field performance. With the addition of the Global 8000 to its fleet, Vista will offer its customers the best of what is possible in the industry.”
Earlier this year, Vista placed a firm order for 40 Challenger 3500s with 120 options.
Vista’s two larger rivals are also expanding their long-range private jet fleets.
Last month, NetJets announced a similar upgrade program for its fractional fleet of Global 7500s.
Flexjet is expanding its ultra-long-range fleet via the Gulfstream G650 and G700.
Start-up fractional Bond yesterday said it would increase its focus on the Bombardier flagship.
It has agreed to upgrade pending orders to the Global 8000.
Vista officials have yet to comment on a 9fin report from last week.
The report said the company is planning an IPO later this year.
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