ACASS Ireland combines ACASS services with SONAS Aviation
Montreal-based business aviation support services company ACASS is expanding its global footprint with the launch of ACASS Ireland, which combines its services with Irish private aviation operator SONAS.
ACASS Ireland offers charter and private and commercial aircraft management solutions in the UK and throughout Europe from its bases at Shannon Airport, Ireland, and Farnborough in the UK. As an Irish Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) holder, the company can provide free circulation and unfettered traffic rights throughout Europe and the 44 countries covered by EU bilateral agreements, including the US and Canada.
ACASS Ireland President Graham Williamson told Corporate Jet Investor that ACASS Ireland can offer two components that complement the other ACASS products and services. “Ireland adds a fully Commercial AOC in Europe that can manage aircraft for HNWI [High Net Worth Individuals] and corporate clients who need European registration under an EASA certificate,” said Williamson.
“In addition, the ACASS Ireland team is highly focused on the charter market, our first aircraft are 100% available for third party charter. While ACASS’s existing business processes and infrastructure, perfected over 25 years of delivering business aviation support services, offers ACASS Ireland every resource to answer any client need they might encounter.”
Bombardier Challenger 605
The company was launched with an initial London-based Bombardier Challenger 605 (EJ-AWES) and has already conducted repatriation charter flights to numerous locations. “Covid-19 measures diminish every day and we are seeing good forward bookings into June and July and beyond,” said Williamson. “We believe business aviation is looking to be the smart option for the rest of the year. ACASS Ireland will be introducing a second Challenger 605 [EJ-ROXY], also on the Irish register, in early July, also fully available for charter based in the UK.”
The ACASS Group was a significant shareholder in SONAS Aviation from its inception and the shareholding remains unchanged. SONAS Aviation has now been combined with ACASS Ireland and is a fully integrated part of the global ACASS group. The management team of ACASS Ireland includes: Russell Allchorne, chief operating officer and director of Flight Operations; Keith Brennan, technical director; Andrew Hodgson, commercial director; Patricia Davis, director of Compliance and Safety.
‘Expands our charter capabilities’
Andre Khury, ACASS CEO, said the formation of ACASS Ireland marked the culmination of nearly two years of planning. “ACASS Ireland is a major milestone for us in several ways,” said Khury. “First, it builds on our already strong physical presence in Europe. Second, it exponentially expands our charter capabilities. And, finally, it allows us to offer our clients very flexible management options in a post-Brexit world.” ACASS already does business in Europe and offers clients the benefits of San Marino commercial registration, said Khury.
Williamson added: “We recognise this is a challenging time for our industry and most of the world. But now more than ever, private aviation users need options and support they can depend on. ACASS Ireland can deliver the comprehensive bespoke solutions and the same highly experienced team SONAS was known for with the peace of mind and resources of a global leader like ACASS.”
Graham Williamson, ACASS Ireland President, (left) is pictured with Andre Khury, ACASS CEO.