Atlanta, Georgia-headquartered fractional HondaJet operator Volato has placed a fleet order of Gulfstream G280 aircraft. With four on firm order, the aircraft will add significant capability to Volato's existing fleet of HondaJet Elites. This expansion evolves Volato's business model as it looks to service a greater share of the private aviation market. Volato will be the first company to fractionalise the Gulfstream G280, pre-selling fractions in multiples of eighths, and will take delivery of its first G280 aircraft in early 2024.

The 10 seat configured Gulfstream G280 brings the benefits of Volato's programme to the super-mid cabin fractional customer; now they will be able to fly as little or as much as they like and earn revenue every time their aircraft flies a live mission.

“When we launched Volato, our strategy initially was to target the largest segment of the market that was not being directly addressed, namely short haul flights with only a few passengers,” says co-founder and CEO Matt Liotta. “From listening to our customers' needs and recognising that our innovative business model is not just limited to light jets, we are excited to expand our model to larger aircraft so that HondaJet owners can fly their edge case missions that are further or with more passengers, while welcoming a new category of luxury private jet customer to Volato's superior experience.”

The Gulfstream G280 features the largest in-cabin experience and greatest efficiency in its class. The revolutionary wing design and engine technology result in prime fuel efficiency, reducing operational costs and supporting environmental sustainability. Volato will offset the CO2 in every gallon of fuel through its programme with 4Air, continuing its commitment to minimise its environmental footprint.

“When considering expanding our fleet offerings, the cabin experience and operating efficiency were important considerations,” says co-founder and CCO Nicholas Cooper. “Gulfstream and the G280 were the clear choice as being best in class, and we are excited to begin this relationship with Gulfstream.”

“Gulfstream is grateful to Volato for the confidence it has placed in us and in the Gulfstream G280 as it expands its fleet,” adds senior vice president of worldwide sales Scott Neal. “The G280 is an outstanding aircraft, and I look forward to Volato's customers benefiting from its cabin comfort and class-leading performance capabilities.”

The Gulfstream G280 will service Volato's existing owner's private aviation needs through direct fractional ownership or access to the aircraft through their HondaJet fractional ownership. As owners can fly as little or as much as they like, while earning a revenue share whenever their aircraft flies a live leg, there is no downside to having ownership in both programmes; owners simply choose the most efficient aircraft for their mission. Volato's Gulfstream G280 fleet will service the US and nearby countries.

Volato operates a fleet of 11 HondaJets with 18 on order, and now offers fractional shares in four Gulfstream G280s. Its Stretch Jet Card is an in-fleet jet card that rewards flexibility, and its aircraft management services focus on HondaJets and large cabin aircraft. With IS-BAO Stage II and ARGUS Platinum safety ratings, and an accident-free history, Volato operates with the highest safety standards of any HondaJet operator. In addition, it offsets the CO2 on every gallon of fuel used by its fleet through its programme with 4Air and provides pilots with robust training and a balanced lifestyle.