As a result of the acquisition, Vista will receive a fleet of 100 Bombardier Challenger and Gulfstream G550/G650 aircraft, as well as a maintenance business (Part 145) and FBO at Van Nuys and Teterboro airports. In addition, XOJet Aviation, owned by Vista, will acquire a controlling stake in Jet Edge Part 135 certifications under Jet Select and Western Air Charter. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2022.
“The inclusion of Jet Edge in the group expands our presence in North America, giving Vista the opportunity to accelerate growth in the most dynamic business aviation market,” said Vista founder and chairman Thomas Flor. It also means expanding our offer and giving our members the ability to fly the largest fleet of Gulfstream aircraft available for charter. With the introduction of Jet Edge, Vista will grow to more than 340 aircraft, including the Global 7500, the 10th of which Vista received this week.
According to the release, Jet Edge CEO Bill Papariella will become Vista Global’s chief business officer as part of the deal, while Jet Edge’s management team will remain in place. "This merger takes the Jet Edge platform to the next level," Papariella said. “Our members will now have access to an extensive global fleet, programs, services and network that allows them to fly anywhere in the world. Our aircraft owners will be able to take advantage of Vista’s huge charter offer, global infrastructure and procurement benefits through its VistaJet and XO brands.
“Over the past 12 months, Jet Edge has achieved a 1,800% year-on-year increase in new members. With membership deposits exceeding $180 million in 2021, Jet Edge has strengthened its nationwide presence, providing a solid foundation for the expansion of future membership programs,” Papariella said. “Our main priorities are developing and further advancing innovative technologies, as well as optimizing our platform. More than ever, we are committed to being among the safest and most transparent operators in the air transport industry. We have invested significantly in our people, systems and technology, allowing us to provide a complete, comprehensive air travel solution.”
By this, the CEO means a massive reorganization of Jet Edge’s technology infrastructure, one aspect of which was to invest heavily in IT infrastructure modernization to create and implement the most advanced technologies in the industry. The company is building a digital system that tracks everything from adding an aircraft to the fleet and its operation/maintenance to its final sale. The company has also invested heavily in providing open, real-time communications through a digital and mobile portal to give owners access to up-to-date and complete information about their aircraft.
This is the second major acquisition of Vista Global this year. Company in February acquire Europe’s leading business aviation operator Air Hamburg, including its aircraft maintenance assets.
