This part of the operation employs 27 pilots and 35 cabin attendants out of a company-wide workforce of 250 people. Last year, each of the BBJs averaged 800 flight hours in the charter market. During 2001, on current order book projections, usage is expected to rise to between 1,000 and 1,200 hr for each airframe. The company budgets for each of the aircraft to be flying 210 days per year. PrivatAir is proud to be the antithesis of a low-cost carrier, being rigidly opposed to any cutting of corners.
All aircraft undergo deep cleaning after every flight.
Each flight carries a line mechanic dedicated to supporting that particular aircraft, who is intimately familiar with it down to the last rivet. The operator contracts heavier maintenance to Lufthansa Technik for the BBJs and the 737 and to British Airways for the 757. Cabin crew, who are recruited mostly from airlines, undergo six weeks of service and safety training and also take catering classes at the famous Swiss Hotel School in Lausanne. PrivatAir is set to hire a new head of customer service and brand, tasked with ensuring continuity of service and client satisfaction. Chief operating officer Greg Thomas said he was surprised at how many of the wealthy individuals who signed up for the luxury tour had never used business jets, seemingly because they had no notion of how cost effective they could be.