Global Airlines Appoints New Head of Finance from KPMG

 

Dan Horner joins Global Airlines from KPMG

Global Airlines announced its latest full-time hire, with Dan Horner joining from KPMG, to head up its finance function.

Whilst at KPMG, Dan garnered significant aviation experience, specifically on projects for British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, as well as other leading international airlines, including Qantas.

Dan has a detailed understanding of airline operations, financial and corporate reporting, and commercial finance.

He joins Global as it continues to work with Airbus to confirm arrangements and approvals to fly its first fully acquired aircraft to a European facility in the coming weeks. It will then undergo further refurbishment and continue its overhaul work before entering service.

Dan will report to CEO James Asquith, and will work closely with the senior management team, in particular across commercial, investor relations and business planning.

Commenting on the appointment, James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said, "Thanks to his time at KPMG, Dan not only joins Global with significant industry experience, but he's also passionate about aviation and he, like all our colleagues and partners, sees the opportunity for Global to flourish.

"The finance function is the foundation of any successful organisation, and I am confident that Dan will play a key role in embedding rock-solid business principles into the organisation that will provide confidence to investors, regulators, partners as well as help attract more talent as we grow the function."

Dan Horner, Global's new Head of Finance added "This is an exciting opportunity to join the Global team, working with market leading aviation experts to meet the goals and vision of the business.

"I look forward to building a strong finance function with like-minded finance professionals who have an interest in the aviation industry.''

Dan is also a fully qualified chartered accountant and a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

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Global Airlines and Blacklane to offer free airport rides for first and business travellers

Global Airlines will become the only European or American carrier to offer a complimentary chauffeur service for First and Business passengers travelling on its initial routes.

Passengers will be offered complimentary transfers in the latest luxury limousines – including a range of premium electric vehicles - from leading global chauffeur service Blacklane.

Future Airbus A380 operator Global Airlines is teaming up with a leading global chauffeur service provider Blacklane, to provide its first and business passengers with complimentary limo transfers.  Additionally, all Global Traveller passengers will be offered exclusive perks such as discounts and special offers to use the Blacklane service.

Blacklane is operational in over 50 countries and provides guests with a luxurious, reliable and stress-free way to travel on their own schedule while enjoying the peace-of-mind of an uninterrupted door-to-door experience. In addition, Blacklane's limousines offer comfort and privacy which enables guests to either fully relax or continue with their work. The company was the first in their industry to fully carbon offset their operations and have ambitious targets to make 50% of their fleet EV by 2025.

Speaking about the partnership, James Asquith, the CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said: "Working with companies who want to deliver the very best service to passengers is central to our values, and in Blacklane we have a partner who will do exactly that. Blacklane will offer the perfect stress-free start to a journey with Global and I am hopeful that to-and-from airport transfers, along with some other exciting announcements we have coming up, will persuade even more passengers to fly with Global Airlines."

Dr. Sascha Meskendahl, CRO (Chief Revenue Officer) of Blacklane, added: "Blacklane is a trusted brand all over the world, and we pride ourselves on offering peace of mind and a premium service for our guests. This partnership is a logical next step for our business as an increasing number of travellers are using our limousines to and from the airport, especially as the business travel market booms. We can't wait to offer our smart, easy, and reliable chauffeur service to First and Business passengers flying Global." 

Global Airlines is currently working with Airbus to confirm the arrangements and approvals to fly its first fully acquired aircraft to a European facility in the coming weeks. It will then undergo further refurbishment and continue its overhaul work before entering service in the coming months.

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Global Airlines' first owned A380 takes to the skies....

In the last couple of weeks, a couple of major milestones have occurred in the development of Global Airlines.  Its first-owned Airbus A380 jet took to the skies for the first time and the airline's CEO released photos of the carrier's crew uniforms.

The Airbus A380 MSN120 last flew on 22nd December 2022, and had been stored in the Mojave desert, although was continuously maintained and looked after by expert teams. This great double-decked bird of the skies had its first flight in September 2012 and previously flew China Southern Airlines under registration B-6140. According to Airfleets. net it operated with a configuration of Seat configuration 8 first class seats, 70 in business class and 428 in economy. 

Becoming 9H-GLOBL has taken over a year of negotiation, inspections, challenges and hundreds of hours of operational and maintenance work. Fluids including fuel replenished, all 22 tyres were replaced and many hours of engine runs took place to make sure the aircraft was ready for its ferry flight from the desert to Malta. 

According to the flight crew of Hi Fly which were operating the jet, the aircraft flew like a dream and they can’t wait to get back to the flight deck for its next journey.

On Tuesday this week, the airline's CEO, James Asquith, used social media to give a sneak peek of what the carrier's Cabin Crew uniforms are likely to be.  James stated that the design continues to evolve as they move on towards the finished product. And, whilst these images are not quite the final finished articles,  they are getting close to it.

What do you think of these bright red incarnations of a classic cabin crew uniform?   What destinations would you like Global Airline's A380 to take you to? 

                                                                                                        

 

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

Former Airbus UK A380 chief engineer joins Global Airlines advisory board

Following the first flight of 9H-GLOBL from the Mojave Air and Space Port, Global Airlines has added to its roster of A380 operational and maintenance experience with the appointment of John Roberts to its Advisory Board.

John Roberts appointed to the Global Airlines Advisory Board, headed by former US Air Force Assistant Secretary, Kevin Billings OBE.

Roberts will offer operational and maintenance advice on the superjumbo to the Global team, as work continues on Global's fleet development.

Roberts spent over 40 years in aviation, including 6 years as Airbus UK Chief Engineer for the A380.

In his four decades in aviation, Roberts has worked for Dowty Fuel Systems, Messier-Dowty, but with the majority being spent at Airbus.  Most prominently, Roberts led on the operational introduction of the A380 as well as being a key customer interface for airlines through the challenging period of the aircrafts early in-service life.  Commenting on his appointment, Roberts said, "The A380 is the most distinctive aircraft in the sky, and I'm proud to have played a small part in its success since it entered into commercial operation in 2005.  It is still a modern, latest-technology aircraft, with two more decades of full-time usage in front of it.  It is great to be joining the project following the landmark first flight and I share Global's belief in the aircrafts ongoing potential. I look forward to working with the team, and the wider A380 community, as we plan for the future."

Global Airlines grows its Advisory Board with appointment of Margaret Dabbs OBE

Margaret Dabbs OBE, founder of the eponymous London-based, luxury wellness brand, Margaret Dabbs London, has been appointed to the Global Airlines Advisory Board.

As a leading British businesswoman, who was appointed OBE in the 2023 New Year Honours, Dabbs has grown her brand and product range globally and will now bring her extensive commercial and consumer experience to Global.

Working closely with CEO James Asquith and CCO Richard Stephenson, Dabbs will play a central role in the development of Global's partnerships, passenger experience and commercial strategy.

Since 2008, Dabbs' products and treatments have featured in some of London's most iconic department stores including Harrods and Liberty, and currently has nine clinics in the UK, a further four across Europe, the Middle East and soon to launch in the US.  

Dabbs will also bring her knowledge and sought-after luxury product range to the airline enhancing the onboard passenger experience across all cabins.

Margaret Dabbs OBE said this of her appointment, "The story of my company proves that if you see a gap in the market and produce exceptional products and services then it is possible to disrupt the market. I see a lot of parallels between Global Airlines and my company, and I am thrilled to be joining, as I can see scope to offer passengers a better experience when they fly.   

"I believe Global Airlines has an opportunity to not only showcase a range of luxury brands, from established to breakthrough, but also innovate in terms of how an experience can continue beyond the flight. I look forward to working with the team on the future strategy, to enhance the experience of airline travel and play a part in the future success of Global Airlines."

James Asquith, Global Airlines CEO, said, "2024 will be a huge year for our airline and it's fantastic that Margaret's appointment to the Advisory Board is our first major announcement of the year; it's further evidence of the laser focus this airline will have on offering the best way to fly which will be greatly enhanced by Margaret's experience.

"Margaret's business acumen is well known and rightly lauded, she will be an asset in a whole host of ways as a member of our Advisory Board and a key adviser to the senior leadership team. We will always strive for the highest standards across all aspects of our operations from safety to passenger experience, and our growing team of experts puts us in good stead to achieve our ambitious plans."

Global Airlines

Global Airlines working with JETMS on aircraft refurbishment and overhaul programme

JETMS to carry out refurbishment & overhaul of all cabins on Global's A380's

Project will be JETMS Completions first with the superjumbo, and is a multi-aircraft deal

Return to service maintenance work underway on aircraft one

9H-GLOBL expected to arrive in Europe before the end of the year

JETMS Completions (part of Avia Solutions Group) has been selected to bring to life Global's onboard hard product, with work planned to commence on the first aircraft in January 2024.

JETMS is synonymous with providing world-class, quality interior and exterior refurbishment for a range of private aircraft. The project with Global will be their largest to date, and their first on the king of the skies.

To begin, JETMS will refurbish the first aircraft interiors to the highest standard, ahead of them taking to the skies for the first passenger flights. Later aircraft will see their interiors completely overhauled, exactly to the high specification of the new airline.

Global's commitment to passengers is to provide an elevated product across First, Business and Economy cabins. And, ahead of a full release on new look interiors, the airline can confirm that leading aircraft interiors outfit, Factorydesign has created new concepts for both the version one and version two aircraft in the Global fleet.

Speaking on the deal with JETMS and plans for the rest of the year, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines James Asquith, said:  "We have deliberately cast the net wide when looking for partners. JETMS Completions are known throughout the private aviation world for the amazing work they do on a range of aircraft. And after speaking with Gegams and his team, it was clear that JETMS believed they could introduce standards and finishes from private into commercial aviation.

I have no doubt at all that the combination of JETMS working with Factorydesign will bring to life our own onboard product on all of our A380's, and I'm looking forward to sharing images and videos of the transformation with passengers to demonstrate the progress we are making as we build towards bringing our first aircraft into service.

The next few weeks promise to be really exciting for Global. We have a number of partnerships ready to announce that will demonstrate the enormous progress we've made and I am looking forward to our first repositioning flight happening before the end of the year."

Gegams Hanamirjans, CEO of JETMS Holdings, said:   "The opportunity to grow with Global, and to work on bringing more A380's back into the sky was a project everyone in the company wanted to get involved in.

It's also testament to the amazing progress we have made as a company this year, and follows hot on the heels of moving to our new state of the art facility at Biggin Hill airport along with other investments in new equipment.

Now our priority is to get everything in place across the supply chain so we can start progressing at pace early next year on the refurbishment of the first aircraft.

With our recent acquisition of Waypoint Aerotec, JETMS Completions now possess UK CAA Part 21J Approval. This certification is a valuable add-on to its existing design and production capabilities and qualifies the company to provide innovative design solutions."

Global Airlines to contract Hi Fly to accelerate A380 Entry into Service Programme

Under the agreement, Global Airlines will benefit from Hi Fly's expertise to accelerate the Entry into Service (EIS) programme for the airline's new fleet.

Hi Fly, based in Lisbon, has significant A380 technical and operating experience.

First Global aircraft expected to fly to Europe in the months ahead, with a new registration of 9H-GLOBL

In a significant operational development, Global Airlines and Hi Fly have signed an agreement to work together on the development and maintenance of the four A380 aircraft the new airline has agreed to acquire.

Hi Fly, who were the first to operate the A380 in the secondary market, will use their extensive experience of the aircraft, to work with Global on not only preparing it for service, but on helping the new carrier realise its ambition to provide customers with the best way to fly on commercial services, as it prepares for operations.  

The short-term focus for both organisations are the EIS and Return to Service (RTS) processes for Global's first aircraft, expected to commence in the months ahead. However, both companies will explore further ways to broaden their collaboration, united by a passion for the aircraft, and a shared belief in its enduring potential and appeal.

James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said: "This announcement has been a long time in the making, and I've said from the start, we at Global want to work with the best, most experienced partners, and Hi Fly are exactly that.

"The great news for us is that the team at Hi Fly know the A380 inside-out and will be invaluable in helping us with their industry knowledge around the maintenance and technical acceptance required for our first aircraft – all crucial steps before work begins on introducing our new interiors and other vital elements of the Global service and passenger proposition.

"We're proud to be working with Hi Fly and I place no limits on the potential of this collaboration."

Long-haul start-up agrees to buy three more Airbus A380s

The UK's newest long-haul start-up Global Airlines has entered into an agreement to acquire a three more Airbus A380 jetsto bring it to a launch fleet for four aircraft.  The airline is still planning to launch transtaltantic flights to New York and Los Angeles from London Heathrow in the spring of 2024.

The additional aircraft have been purchased for an undisclosed figure and the Global team is now developing plans for their refit and return to service. The carrier has promised that further details about the aircraft, their refurbishment and the acquisition will be published in the coming months.

James Asquith, Founder and CEO of Global Airlines, said: "We have agreed the purchase of a further three A380s to join the Global fleet. As I’ve always said, the A380 is the best aircraft in the sky, and we will continue to look for further acquisition opportunities.”

Asquith set up Global Airlines as a wholly owned subsidiary of his Holiday Swap firm with its headquarters in London which aims to revolutionize the airline industry. The carrier will focus on delivering a supreme level of service on Airbus A380 aircraft that will be configured with just 471 seats.

First Class on the carrier will be the epitome of opulence and personalized service which takes luxury to new heights. From lavish private suites adorned with exquisite amenities to a dedicated team of attentive professionals catering to passengers every need.  

Business class is where impeccable style meets unparalleled convenience. Experience spacious seating, exclusive lounges, and a host of premium services that ensure a seamless journey tailored to discerning travellers.

Global Airlines' Economy Class is where comfort and value intertwine effortlessly, with thoughtfully designed seating, attentive service, and a range of amenities, enjoy a pleasant and memorable flight experience without compromising on your budget.

The airline has also made further appointments to its advisory board, joing the team will be Pierre Madrange and Ian Black.

Global Airlines welcomes new shareholder and advisor.....

Global Airlines, the new aviation start-up that has acquired one A380 and is building towards starting services in the spring of 2024 with flights between London Heathrow and New York JFK and Heathrow and Los Angeles. 

Announced that Matthew Brown, a U.S. based investor in the aviation and renewable energy spaces, has this week agreed to advise James Asquith, CEO of Global Airlines, as the airline prepares to launch transatlantic services in spring 2024 and considers further aircraft acquisitions.

Brown has advised significant U.S. institutions on clean energy financing. In addition, he holds a number of advisory positions including with the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory (RAEL) at the University of California, Berkeley and the Wind Institute (NWI) at Texas Tech University. He is an activate investor and advisor in the space industry, as well, and through his commitment to sustainable development, he has personally invested over $1B USD toward achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Goals.

Global Airlines has acquired one A380 and is poised to announce further aircraft in its fleet, as it plans to offer passengers a superior flying product on its launch routes of London to JFK and London to LAX.

Recognizing the significance of the American market, Global Airlines is steadfast in its ambition to expand its presence across various U.S. destinations. The appointment of Matthew Brown marks yet another strategic move by the airline, following a series of significant appointments, with further high-profile hires from the United States anticipated in the coming weeks.

With a commitment to innovation, sustainability and customer satisfaction, Global Airlines aims to set new industry standards and provide unmatched service in the aviation sector.

Former Rolls-Royce chief customer officer and senior easyJet captain appointed to Global Airlines Advisory Board

Global Airlines, the world's newest long-haul airline, has announced two further appointments to its Advisory Board: Jacqueline Sutton MBE and Emma Henderson MBE.

Jacqueline Sutton held the position of Chief Customer Officer (CCO) at Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace. As a member of the Leadership Team, she was responsible for the global customer base including airline operators, leasing companies and aircraft manufacturers across the world.

Emma Henderson is a former easyJet Captain where she was a brand ambassador for the airline as well as a presenter of "Fear of flying." In 2020 she drew on support from all areas of the airline industry to create the charity, "Project Wingman," mobilising grounded industry professionals in the UK to provide support to frontline NHS staff. Initially set up during the pandemic the charity continues to provide this service now using buses which are converted into state of the art mobile well-being lounges.

At Global, Jacqui and Emma will advise the Executive Team and work closely with the Founder and CEO, James Asquith, on a range of strategic and operational matters.

James Asquith, Founder and CEO of Global Airlines, said, "We extend our warmest welcome to Emma Henderson and Jacqueline Sutton to the Global Airlines' advisory board, where they will work closely with our recently appointed chairman, Kevin Billings.

"Their extensive expertise in various aspects of the aviation industry will be invaluable to us as we prepare for operations, and I am looking forward to announcing further appointments to the Advisory Board in the weeks ahead."

Former Assistant Secretary of US Air Force has been named as the chair of Global Airlines advisory board

The start-up long-haul carrier Global Airlines has appointed Kevin Billings, a former Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Air Force, as the chair of its Advisory Board.

Billings will chair the Advisory Board of leading aviation experts who will guide the airline's CEO and Founder, James Asquith, as he and the team inch closer to Global Airlines' first passenger flights scheduled for spring 2024. 

James Asquith said: "I am delighted that Kevin has joined our team in this important role. Our advisory board is made up of some of the most experienced minds in aviation and we could not ask for a more dedicated leader than Kevin to drive this work forward. Kevin brings a wealth of experience of aviation, business, politics and leadership that will be instrumental in leading our A380s to the sky and I could not be prouder to have him as part of our senior team."

Kevin Billings said, "Global Airlines will change the way we fly, and as a frequent flyer around the world, I know how welcome this breakthrough will be for passengers. Aviation is a competitive business but it is also a people business and there is a significant opportunity for Global Airlines to redefine the travel experience on our A380s."

"This is the most exciting project to be involved with. Everyone at Global is committed to the core principles I have worked towards my entire career — safety, environmental stewardship, and taking care of people. I am looking forward to playing my part liaising with the authorities in Washington DC and throughout the Global network. But most of all, working with the amazing and talented team we have brought together within the airline to build the brand on both sides of the Atlantic and beyond!"

Kevin Billings was appointed by President George W. Bush as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the United States Air Force and later to serve as Assistant Secretary where his responsibilities included the worldwide management and direction of the Air Force's $38 billion installations, logistics, environment, and energy programs. Kevin's diverse experience includes strategic management, international and domestic business operations, transformation and change management.

New transatlantic operator to start with A380

Former UK CAA Director takes on Chief Commercial Officer role at A380 start up Global Airlines

Former UK CAA Director takes on Chief Commercial Officer role at A380 start up Global Airlines

The new start-up carrier that has just purchased its first Airbus A380 aircraft has appointed former UK CAA Director, Richard Stephenson OBE as a board director and chief commercial officer. 

Richard Stephenson has been advising Global Airlines founder and CEO, James Asquith, since last summer and has now taken the post full-time, with more top jobs due to be announced in the next few days. 

Stephenson has a strong pedigree in the UK aviation industry, he started his career on an industrial placement at British Airways in 1998, he spent six years as a director of the UK Civil Aviation Authority, during which he managed some of the biggest crisis situations to hit the sector and vigorously defended consumer rights.

James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines said, "I could not be more delighted to welcome Richard to our team. His leadership and vast aviation experience, not to mention his communications, political and consumer background, makes him an invaluable addition to the Global team as we prepare to launch our transatlantic services next spring. We've now acquired our first aircraft, with more to follow soon, and Richard will be instrumental in leading the team responsible for getting us ready to take to the skies."

Richard Stephenson said, "James' vision for Global Airlines is compelling and this is the most exciting role; indeed a dream come true. As the aviation industry continues to thrive, our ambition is to offer passengers the very best service and experience. As aviation lovers, we are committed to bringing the very best to the sky and working with our amazing partners, we will do just that. We have built an excellent team and we are on the cusp of making a number of exciting appointments and announcing some game changing partnerships that will really demonstrate our ambition and determination."

Global Airlines plans to use its fleet of owned A380 aircraft to reinvigorate the flying experience, courtesy of the unrivalled spaciousness offered by the superjumbo. The airline is now in advanced discussions to acquire three more A380 aircraft and is working closely with the relevant authorities and partners to get ready for inaugural flights in the Spring of 2024.

Air101: New transatlantic operator eyes spring 2024 launch..... with Airbus A380s

New transatlantic operator eyes spring 2024 launch..... with Airbus A380s

A new transatlantic operator eyes a spring 2024 launch with a fleet of four Airbus A380 double-decked super jumbo jets with a seating configuration of around 471 seats.

Global Airlines was founded in 2021 by entrepreneur, James Asquith who is passionate about the joys of travel yet disappointed by the poor experiences he's encountered aboard numerous other commercial flights.  Thus he set up Global Airlines which aims to have an obsessive focus on outstanding customer experience and do things differently from conventional airline operations, from catering and customer relations to scheduling and ground operations. The dream is to set a new ethos and raise the bar in the world of aviation. 

The carrier has already purchased its first Airbus A380 aircraft from Doric Aviation and whilst the actual price tag hasn't been disclosed, it is understood to be in the eight-figure range and demonstrates the airline’s dedication to acquiring top-quality assets and investing in its future success.

The Airbus A380 will be the linchpin of the emerging Global fleet, having already acquired its first jet, the carrier is already making progress in adding more A380 aircraft to its fleet, with three more expected to join the fleet in the coming months.  

Global Airlines wants to bring back the ‘Golden Age of Air Travel’ and with just 471 seats on an aircraft able to carry more than 850, the spaciousness of the super jumbo will be clearly evident with space for lounges and bars. Plus with a first, business and economy offering the airline is clearly going after both the business and leisure markets. 

James Asquith, CEO and Founder of Global Airlines, said “Our aspiration is to be the best way to fly, and the A380, with its unmatched levels of space, comfort, and service, will be absolutely central to achieving that vision. The purchase of our first aircraft demonstrates that we are well on the way to launching Global. The next step is to overhaul and refit the aircraft to our high specification, providing our customers with the best experience in the sky today. Acquiring our aircraft rather than leasing showcases our commitment to financial security and resilience from day one.”

Sibylle Paehler, Managing Partner at Doric, said “We are delighted to have worked with James and the team on the acquisition of their first Global Airlines aircraft. Contrary to popular belief, the A380 is widely recognised as the best way to fly, offering unparalleled comfort and features that lead to a unique travel experience. We are proud to have placed this beautiful modern aircraft with a new airline that will soon take to the skies. We are confident that Global Airlines will acquire more A380 aircraft in the near future.”

The onboard service.....

First class

Indulge in the epitome of opulence and personalized service as Global Airlines' First Class experience takes luxury to new heights. From lavish private suites adorned with exquisite amenities to a dedicated team of attentive professionals catering to your every need, prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey that redefines the meaning of extraordinary air travel.

Business class

Embark on a refined voyage of comfort and sophistication in Global Airlines' Business Class, where impeccable style meets unparalleled convenience. Experience spacious seating, exclusive lounges, and a host of premium services that ensure a seamless journey tailored to discerning travellers.

Economy class

Discover a remarkable balance of affordability and quality in Global Airlines' Economy Class, where comfort and value intertwine effortlessly. With thoughtfully designed seating, attentive service, and a range of amenities, enjoy a pleasant and memorable flight experience without compromising on your budget.

Global Airlines will be the first carrier ever to launch with the A380 aircraft and could very much shake up the highly competitive, yet also highly lucrative transatlantic travel market if the onboard service lives up to the anticipation the early hype encourages. It does seem refreshing that a new startup carrier isn't adopting the pack 'em in low-cost model and aiming to reinvigorate the old romance of air travel. Plus, Global seems to have a massive initial investment which will see the airline take to the skies and beyond.  The future for air travel and the A380 is looking bright with Global Airlines, I really hope it is a success and in a few years we'll see A380 in Global's livery heading to various points throughout the world.