Delta AirElite Business
Jets continues to expand its fleet and service options for customers by
adding a Learjet 31A to its operating certificate. Based at the Fort Wayne
International Airport, in Fort Wayne, Ind., the aircraft joins the Delta
AirElite fleet through a strategic partnership and charter management
agreement with Speedbird Aviation, a Fort Wayne-based aviation services
company. The Learjet enhances Delta AirElite’s ability to respond to the
continued growth and demand for aircraft charter and membership flying. “The Learjet 31A joins two Fort Wayne-based Speedbird Learjet 45s also in
our fleet,” said Michael B. Green, president and chief executive officer
of Delta AirElite Business Jets. “Demand for charter has been strong
across the Midwest and we have seen significant growth in the Ft. Wayne
and Chicago markets. Our alliance with Speedbird Aviation allows us to
better serve charter customers and our Fleet Members. We operate one of
the largest, most diverse fleet of popular, late-model charter aircraft in
the Midwest.”

Charter management agreements offer an attractive option for corporations
and aircraft owners who want to lower aircraft ownership costs by having
their corporate jets certified for Delta AirElite’s commercial charter
operations. With access to more than 400 business jets strategically
positioned throughout the United States, Delta AirElite continues to
strategically increase its fleet size through charter management
agreements.

“We are extremely enthusiastic about the success of our partnership and
our ability to help Delta AirElite grow its fleet,” said Tom Kelley,
president of Speedbird Aviation. “Our partnership with Delta AirElite is a
benefit to us and also gives companies and individuals in this region the
ability to charter locally based aircraft.”

The seven-passenger Learjet 31A is one of the fastest jets in its class,
with speeds up to 533 mph and a range of 1,400 miles. The aircraft
continues to be a popular choice for both Fleet Members and charter
customers.
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