2023 has ushered in an era of promise and optimism for Latitude 33 Aviation as the McClellan-Palomar airport-headquartered private jet management, charter, sales and acquisitions provider positions itself to expand its service capabilities while addressing the challenges ahead. The company has been busy with aircraft sales and fleet expansion while also renewing its ARGUS Platinum safety rating. It is set to finish the year strong amid uncertainty in the private aviation industry concerning charter demand, pilot crewing and other industry factors.

Latitude 33 recently sold two Embraer Phenom 300 aircraft and a Cessna Citation M2 to clients who wanted to upgrade to larger cabin aircraft with longer-range capabilities. The company attributes the swift sales to the expertise and market knowledge displayed by its experienced sales team, which also ensured a seamless and effortless transaction for both the buyer and seller. These light private jets boast impressive lineage and exemplary service records thanks to the company's meticulous maintenance.

To maintain the size of the charter fleet, it has facilitated the acquisition of a Bombardier Challenger 350, Hawker 900XP, Cessna Citation XLS+ and an additional Embraer Phenom 300 for clients. These additions will play an active role during the upcoming holiday charter season.

The Bombardier Challenger 350 private jet has a spacious cabin and impressive range, enhancing the fleet's appeal for both owners and charter clients. The XLS+ has the feel and amenities of a larger aircraft while operating at the efficiency of a smaller jet, and the Hawker, with its extensive range and comfortable seating configuration for up to eight passengers, provides an excellent complement.

The inclusion of another Phenom 300 expands the choices available to clients, offering a modest upgrade from their previous flying experiences. Its lower cabin altitude and spacious oval cabin design instil a heightened sense of openness and comfort. Latitude 33 Aviation expects a winter season filled with a flurry of flight for its broad client base, although not quite at the level witnessed during the surge in demand over the past few years.

The company has also added a Falcon 900EX in southern California and a Gulfstream G650ER in the Pacific Northwest. This move reflects its commitment to evolving as an operator by incorporating additional aircraft manufacturer types and expanding its expertise in super-midsize and heavy jet airframes. These two aircraft will be operated solely for Part 91 owner flights, and the team looks forward to embarking on many long-range international missions with the owners. The flight department manages multiple international and regional trips daily for aircraft owners and charter clients, and is well-versed in handling the complex logistics with ever-changing international protocols and guidelines.

Latitude 33 recently underwent yet another audit of its operations to retain its position in the top five per cent of operators, as reflected in its ARGUS Platinum safety rating. This showcases the company's unwavering commitment to delivering superior service and safety.

Looking ahead, Latitude 33 Aviation anticipates continued challenges including high demand for experienced pilots, supply chain issues for aircraft parts and reduced charter flight hours across the industry.