Flexjet’s blockbuster $1.4 billion order for 64 Embraer aircraft makes the fractional ownership provider the fleet launch customer for the Praetor 500 with deliveries of the recently certified aircraft to begin next month. Flexjet further is converting Legacy 450s into Praetor 500s. (Photo: Barry Ambrose)
Embraer Hits Jackpot with $1.4B Flexjet Order
Fractional provider Flexjet placed a $1.4 billion firm order for 64 Embraer Phenom 300Es and Praetor 500/600s.
Fractional provider Flexjet recently revealed a $1.4 billion firm order for 64 Embraer Phenom 300Es and Praetor 500/600s, making it the fleet launch customer for the latter. Praetor 500 deliveries to Flexjet will start next month. Under the deal, the Cleveland, Ohio-based operator will also convert its Legacy 450 fleet into Praetor 500s under an FAA-approved modification.
“The Legacy 450 is the mainstay of Flexjet’s midsize fleet,” Embraer Executive Jets president and CEO Michael Amalfitano told BJT. “It sells out shares in these twinjets every year.
In anticipation of this order, “Flexjet has been aggressive in recruiting pilots this year and recently met its 2019 goal of hiring 175 new pilots,” the fractional provider said.