News Release

GlobeAir celebrates 15 years of innovation and excellence

In the ever-evolving world of private aviation, Austrian Citation Mustang fleet operator GlobeAir has emerged not just as a beacon of creating quality time but as a testament to innovation, vision and relentless dedication. As the leaves turn golden this autumn, GlobeAir is celebrating a significant milestone; its 15th anniversary.

In 2007, the aviation industry was on the verge of a transformation. The demand for personalised, efficient and luxurious air travel steadily rose. Business professionals, athletes and entrepreneurs sought alternatives to long, tiring journeys. During this period of change and opportunity, GlobeAir was conceived with a vision to revolutionise short-haul travel.

GlobeAir was founded by the passionate aviator and visionary chief executive officer Bernhard Fragner. Equipped with a private pilot licence and a deep understanding of the needs of modern travellers, Fragner envisioned a service that would transform air travel from a luxury to a necessity. His firsthand experience with the challenges of business travel fuelled his determination to create a solution that would save time and ensure the well-being of busy professionals.

Fragner remembers, "Being on the road was tiring and, at times, even dangerous. Those seemingly endless drives to engage with clients were replaced by flights aboard my co-owned Cessna 310, a change that created quality time and safeguarded my well-being. During these flights, I realised the pressing need for a service that would redefine the concept of business travel through a private jet charter company."

From its humble beginnings in Hörsching, Linz, Austria, GlobeAir quickly soared to great heights. The initial years were marked by meticulous planning, securing investments and laying a solid foundation for the future. Fragner's vision attracted the attention of investors like Friedrich Huemer, who was impressed by the commitment and potential of the venture. The early years were characterised by laborious periods spent partially in the USA and Europe, working tirelessly to bring the vision to life.

Like any startup, GlobeAir faced its share of challenges. The competition was fierce, with over 25 other startups fighting for a percentage of the market. However, GlobeAir distinguished itself through well-thought-out decisions, strong leadership and a relentless focus on customer service. The team worked tirelessly to overcome hurdles, always keeping the needs and preferences of their customers at the forefront.

On 15 September 2008, GlobeAir embarked on its maiden voyage, marking the beginning of a new era in private aviation. The first passenger, Mr. Gerald Schmidsberger, experienced the unparalleled service that would become GlobeAir's hallmark. Captain Bernhard Fragner piloted the flight from Linz to Osnabrück, setting the standard for the exceptional experiences that GlobeAir would offer in the years to come.

GlobeAir's fleet is a testament to its commitment to excellence and innovation. The Cessna Citation Mustang, capable of reaching speeds up to 340 knots, is equipped with state-of-the-art components, including Pratt & Whitney's aircraft engines and Garmin avionics. These aircraft can operate in short-runway airports like Sion, St. Moritz or Bolzano, offering a significant competitive edge over traditional airlines. The choice of these aircraft was strategic, focusing on speed, safety and cost-effectiveness, providing an unparalleled experience for business travellers.

Over the years, the fleet has expanded and evolved, maintaining a homogeneous white livery that ensures privacy and discretion for passengers. Today, the fleet comprises 21 Cessna Citation Mustangs, each equipped to offer an efficient and comfortable journey.

The four-seater aircraft offers business and leisure travellers an economic advantage over the seven-seater private jets. The continuous efforts to upgrade and maintain the fleet have played a significant role in GlobeAir's success, making it the first choice for European private jet charters.

GlobeAir has forged valuable partnerships, collaborating with renowned aviation manufacturers and software providers like Cessna, Pratt & Whitney, Garmin and Jeppesen. These partnerships have enhanced the customer experience, offering state-of-the-art technology and luxury in every flight. GlobeAir has also been a proud partner of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) since 2010, working closely to promote the interests of the business aviation community in Europe.

Successful partnerships are built on the people at their cores, transforming customers' experiences and creating memories while inspiring them. Luxury is defined by a serenity that other experiences cannot match.

GlobeAir has created a luxurious network of partners to offer private plane charter and create experiences that will stand out in the mind for years. To make this ecosystem, it has built relationships with other partners who share its values around service, quality and elegance.

"The best brand partnerships are natural pairings of brands that feel authentic to both. When you see one brand partner with another, it should feel like the two belong together. We aim for that when bringing new partners into our ecosystem," says Jonathan Berdoz, VP sales and marketing at GlobeAir.

With a strong connection to motorsports, GlobeAir has successful partnerships and friendships with Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake (Sauber Racing) and Lechner Racing, where GlobeAir is the official partner, offering efficient travel solutions for the team. Another successful collaboration has been with watchmaker Jacob & Co., This partnership brings together two companies that share a passion for performance, efficiency and quality timekeeping. These partnerships, amongst many others, allow GlobeAir's clients to take advantage of the benefits and showcase GlobeAir's commitment to forging ties that resonate with its vision and enhance the customer experience.

The DreamTeam is the powerhouse behind GlobeAir's success, comprising over 30 nationalities of highly skilled aviation professionals. GlobeAir continues to live by Fragner's mantra: "Passion Into Profession." From pilots to office employees, maintenance staff to training personnel, every team member plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the business. The diverse team brings a wealth of experience and expertise, contributing to the company's growth and success.

At GlobeAir, diversity is not just a buzzword; it's a reality celebrated daily. The team comprises individuals from over 30 nationalities, bringing the company a rich mix of cultures, languages and perspectives. This diversity fosters a vibrant, inclusive work environment where ideas flourish and innovation is encouraged, creating a dynamic and united workplace in its pursuit of excellence.

Sustainability has been the talk in every industry, and private aviation is no exception. Over the years, the sector has witnessed a shift, with an increasing emphasis on adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing carbon footprints. GlobeAir has been at the forefront of this green revolution, embodying a commitment to fostering a sustainable future.

In recent years, private aviation companies have initiated measures to reduce their environmental impact. “As a role model for bizav, GlobeAir has recognised the importance of leading the charge on sustainability. We are constantly setting aside resources to reach our green goals following the SDGs 2030 by introducing sustainable measures that can make a difference,” says Bernhard Fragner, CEO GlobeAir

GlobeAir continues to create a sustainable ecosystem by partnering with like-minded organisations such as Formula E, Sunreef Yachting and Lilium due to their ethical approach. Its journey began in February 2020 by creating a carbon offset programme that supports global and European initiatives under the slogan #WeArePlanetA. The GlobeAir carbon offset programme allows passengers to receive tradable carbon offset certificates by contributing to the various environmental projects it supports.

The #DreamTeam's efforts have led to the establishment of a CSR committee to investigate the use of sustainable aviation fuel. It aims to educate our passengers on what SAF is, why it is safe and how it can be used. GlobeAir believes that getting to Net Zero will require collaboration from all sectors of the aviation industry and incentive-based support from governments.

GlobeAir has also introduced the #DreamTeam for Climate JetCard. This first-of-its-kind jet card membership programme makes it easy for clients to prove their commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. GlobeAir is the only business aviation operator that provides CH4 and CO2 capture.

GlobeAir has also placed itself at the forefront of technology and sustainability by signing an MoU with Lilium to purchase 12 of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) jets, which will operate in northern Italy and the French Riviera.

The future looks bright and promising as GlobeAir steps into the next chapter of its journey. The company has several exciting initiatives and plans to enhance the customer experience further and expand its reach into the market. From building a 1,200sqm hangar and a strong focus on digitalisation to exploring new partnerships, GlobeAir is positioned to redefine the private jet charter experience, offering even more luxury, convenience and personalisation in the coming years.

“The need-to-fly company segment is becoming more and more important. With the settlement of GlobeAir, both the infrastructure and the range of services at Linz Airport will be significantly increased and another step taken in the direction of expanding the portfolio at the airport,” comments Markus Achleitner, economic provincial councillor Upper Austria.

The vision for the next 15 years is clear; to continue to be the beacon of innovation, vision and relentless dedication in the private aviation industry, offering unparalleled service and experiences to customers worldwide. As GlobeAir celebrates 15 years of unparalleled service, it's clear that the journey is far from over. The future looks bright and the skies even more so, as GlobeAir redefines the private jet charter experience.