PlaneSense is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the PlaneSense programme, one of the leading fractional aircraft ownership programmes in the US. PlaneSense took delivery of serial number 120, the first of its initial fleet of Pilatus PC-12 turboprops on 9 September 1995, officially launching the aircraft that has provided a solution for private flights for both leisure and business travellers for more than two decades.

“We set out in 1995 to build an innovative private flight programme that would provide versatile and affordable aircraft ownership,” says George Antoniadis, founder, president and CEO. “Twenty-five years later, I am thrilled at all we have accomplished, becoming the 'Intelligent Flying Solution' for those seeking private flights. Our clients appreciate our impeccable service and uncompromising commitment to safety, while enjoying the value that our programme continues to offer. There have been plenty of challenges over the last two and a half decades, but we've never wavered in our commitment to our clients, staff and this company.”

The PlaneSense programme has become known for its reliability and responsible price point, providing access to thousands of airports due to the operating capabilities of the aircraft in its fleet, the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. Both aircraft are at home on small, remote airfields as well as metropolitan hubs, making it possible for clients to get closer to their destinations than would be possible with other programmes.

Antoniadis credits the company's success to steady, thoughtful growth, a strong team and a faithful community of share owners. He is extremely appreciative of the trust each of the company's valued clients have placed in the PlaneSense programme. This year, 25 per cent of share owners will mark 10 or more years with the programme and several more will mark 20 or more years.

After launching with a handful of employees in 1995, the PlaneSense programme now includes nearly 400 team members and continues to grow. In addition to its 25th anniversary milestone, PlaneSense is also commemorating six members of the staff who have reached or exceeded 20 years with the company, who include pilots, sales executives, aircraft maintenance inspectors and maintenance technicians.

“It has been a pleasure leading PlaneSense and watching it become a competitive and respected fractional programme. I am very grateful for the amazing team that surrounds me,” adds Antoniadis.

Originally located in Norwood, Massachusetts, PlaneSense is now headquartered at Portsmouth International airport at the Pease Tradeport in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The company opened its customised facility in 2008, which includes a 40,000 sq ft hangar and 62,000 sq ft of corporate space that includes pilot training and flight operations.

Quality, safety and service have been the highest priority for the company's operations since its inception. PlaneSense continues to invest in programmes that support these standards, such as robust training for its pilots and its maintenance teams. In 2017, the company implemented MissionFit, a customised simulation training device for its pilots that it developed in conjunction with FlightSafety International, Inc. The operations at PlaneSense have been recognised with an ARGUS Platinum rating and it is an IS-BAO registered company.