Aircraft Charter: Strategies, Connections, and Flights in the Words of Alessio Altamura
In this interview, Alessio Altamura, Managing Director of PAS – Professional Aviation Solutions Srl (PASflights), shares the company’s vision and strategies in the aircraft charter sector. He analyzes market challenges, the needs of clients and partners, and the importance of building strong, long-term relationships with airlines. He also discusses future industry prospects, focusing on customization, flexibility, and sustainability, and explains how PASflights is adapting its offerings to meet the needs of an ever-evolving market.
What are the main stages of the aircraft charter process?
“The aircraft charter process begins with a consultation to understand the client’s specific needs, including destination, number of passengers, and special requests. Based on this information, we create a tailored offer with various aircraft options that best match the client’s requirements.
Once the client selects an aircraft, we prepare a charter contract outlining costs, cancellation policies, and obligations for both parties. We then handle the operational management of the flight, including flight permits, scheduling, and ground services.
Throughout the journey, we monitor every stage of the operation, from check-in to takeoff, flight, and landing, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Upon request, we also provide operational support services both at the airport and in-flight.
After the flight, we send a dedicated questionnaire to collect client feedback on their overall charter experience, allowing us to continuously improve service quality. The entire process is managed in compliance with our ISO 9001:2015 certified system, ensuring efficiency, safety, and reliability.”
How do you build and maintain trust-based relationships with airline partners?
“Trust-based relationships with airlines are essential to our success. We establish these connections through open and transparent communication. Our team, with years of experience in charter services, maintains constant contact with airline partners to ensure seamless charter flights.
Experts such as Sylvia Kosekova and Dalila Rosa have built strong, trust-based relationships with suppliers. These connections are crucial in delivering high-quality service.”
How do you handle unexpected situations, such as delays or last-minute changes?
“Unforeseen events can occur in the charter flight industry, but our experience allows us to manage them efficiently. In case of delays or unexpected issues, we maintain constant communication with passengers and partners, providing real-time updates.
Our operational management team, led by Francesca Sala, works closely with airlines to find alternative solutions, minimizing the impact and maintaining high service quality.”
What skills and competencies are essential to becoming a successful Charter Sales professional?
“A successful Charter Sales professional must possess technical, relational, and negotiation skills. A deep understanding of the industry, regulations, and sales strategies is crucial to providing customized solutions to clients.
Negotiation skills with airlines and suppliers are key to securing the best deals. Likewise, in the private jet charter industry, effective communication and strong relationship-building are just as important as time management and working under pressure.
Proactiveness is essential to anticipate client needs, optimize business opportunities, and continuously enhance service quality.”
How do you see the aircraft charter market evolving in the coming years, and what will PASflights’ role be in this landscape?
“The aircraft charter market is evolving toward greater personalization, flexibility, and sustainability, with increasing interest in private charter flights, especially in business aviation and luxury tourism.
Sustainability is a key value for PASflights, which is committed to implementing eco-friendly solutions such as CO2 emission offset programs.
With its solid expertise and strong relationships with airlines, PASflights is well-positioned to meet the evolving market demands. The opening of new offices in Europe and worldwide, combined with the integration of more sustainable practices, allows us to cater to international demand while improving operational efficiency.”