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According to travel entrepreneur James Asquith, his newly founded long-haul carrier, Global Airlines, will be a success due to the popularity of the Airbus A380 among passengers, pilots, and airports.
He informed The Independent that people often claim something cannot be achieved until it is actually accomplished.
Mr. Asquith, who is 34 years old, is confident that the largest airliner in the world will be able to attract both customers and employees in a market that is full of competition. His plan for his business is centered around purchasing used A380s at extremely affordable prices.
The double-deck jet aircraft has not been a successful purchase for commercial use, with significantly lower sales compared to the Boeing 747. The largest operator by a significant margin is Emirates, which currently has more than half of the European-manufactured “SuperJumbo” planes in operation. However, Air France has decided to no longer use this type of aircraft and has retired their fleet. Some of these retired planes are being kept at Lourdes airport in southwest France. Other A380s that have reached the end of their initial 10-year leases have been returned. As a result, these previously owned jets are being sold at a discounted price.
Global Airlines purchased their first airplane, which is one of four in their initial fleet, from Doric Aviation, a German aircraft finance company. The cost has not been disclosed, but it is estimated to be in the range of tens of millions of dollars.
According to Mr Asquith, our break-even point will be significantly reduced by not spending over $275 million on an A380.
Approximately 40% of the total cost to repay an aircraft over a period of 15 to 20 years is attributed to interest and depreciation on the ticket.
This amount is a large portion of the fee that we have removed. There are no lessors involved, no threats of violence, and no debt involved.
This provides us with the opportunity to increase the product offering, and there is also more flexibility in terms of pricing.
The founder of Global Airlines has not yet disclosed the date of launch or confirmed the destinations, but has mentioned that the airline could begin operations earlier than expected. The company has partnered with HiFly, a charter carrier from Portugal, which has the necessary licenses and experience in operating the A380 aircraft.
According to Mr. Asquith, we are currently in the desired position. The progress on our initial aircraft’s “return to service” tasks is nearly finished, with approximately 90% of the work completed.
The primary emphasis will be on flying across the Atlantic, but the creator guarantees “additional elements – all will be disclosed soon”.
Numerous individuals within the aviation field have expressed doubt about the likelihood of Global Airlines, a new company, being able to successfully occupy seats on the largest passenger aircraft in the world. This is due to the already saturated market where established airlines have established loyalty programs and extensive networks that provide connecting flights.
Opponents also highlight the expensive expenses for fueling, staffing, and upkeeping the colossal aircraft.
Mr. Asquith stated that there are certainly difficulties with the aircraft, which is common knowledge. However, he also mentioned that there are significant advantages for passengers.
“It’s beloved by passengers, crew, pilots, and airport staff alike. The demand for the world’s largest commercial aircraft remains high.”
“If I had been aware of all the difficulties associated with the A380 and our current actions, I would not have made any changes at the beginning.”
“We are capable of producing the A380.”
The airline boldly states that it is “transforming commercial air travel.” According to their website, they aim to put an end to long security lines, delays, lost baggage, unappetizing food, and subpar customer service.
“Global Airlines provides quick relief for the discomfort often experienced during commercial air travel. Our goal is to bring happiness with every interaction and satisfaction at every point of contact. So take a moment to relax and enjoy your flight with us.”
“Global Airlines offers a unique experience for both business and leisure travel. Our approach to catering, customer service, scheduling, and ground operations sets us apart from traditional aviation norms.”
Global Airlines cannot avoid the constraint of hiring employees. IAG, the parent company of British Airways, has issued a warning about the shortage of licensed aircraft engineers in the aviation industry and within its own airlines. This, along with shortages of aircraft, engines, and components, is greatly impacting maintenance schedules and could potentially affect employee morale.
However, Mr. Asquith claims that crew members have basic desires, such as flexibility and a positive work atmosphere, along with fair compensation and reasonable workloads.
I have received an overwhelming number of requests in my inbox from individuals inquiring about when they can submit an application to join our team.
“It involves fostering a positive workplace culture, where employees feel fulfilled and enjoy their work environment.”
During the 1970s, there was a certain allure to dressing up in a Pan Am or TWA uniform and strutting through the airport, feeling like a million bucks.
This is the potential and ideal outcome.
Listen to James Asquith in the daily travel podcast from The Independent
Source: independent.co.uk
