Elite Air Makes First U.S.-Based Global 5500 Available for Charter

Elite Air placed the first Global 5500 based in the United States on its charter certificate last summer. The heavy class business jet has been available for charter out of Orlando, Florida, for several months.

“Elite Air has been managing Global aircraft for more than a decade, and we’re honored to be the first 135 operator in the country to offer charter customers the 5500,” Elite Air CEO and Operations Director Gray Gibbs said.

Bombardier launched the Global 5500 brand in June 2020, expanding its new large-cabin family alongside the Global 6500 and 7500. The 5500 under Elite Air’s management was only the second aircraft of its kind made available for charter in the world.

The Global 5500’s best-in-class range can take passengers nonstop from Florida to Sao Paolo, Paris, London or Moscow. The aircraft features three spacious living areas and high-speed wireless internet connectivity.

“With its intercontinental range and best-in-class cabin experience, the Global 5500 aircraft is a valuable asset for companies looking for safe and efficient transport,” said Peter Likoray, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing for Bombardier Business Aircraft.

The new Global 5500 offers next-generation wing technology and purpose-built engines. Meticulously conceived with exquisite finishes and high-end craftsmanship, the aircraft features Bombardier’s patented Nuage seat, the first new seating architecture introduced to business aviation in 30 years. The Global 5500 boasts a range of 5,900 nautical miles (10,928 km) and unparalleled stability. The jet is equipped with Bombardier Pũr Air, a sophisticated air purification system available exclusively on the Global line. The system’s advanced HEPA filter captures up to 99.99% of allergens, bacteria and viruses.

Since 2001, Elite Air has offered best-in-class aircraft charter and management services featuring aircraft from long-range heavy jets to light jets and turbo props. The Global 5500 new to the company’s charter certificate joins a Global 5000 and Global XRS already under management.

“We pride ourselves on our industry leading safety record and transparency with all our jet charter and management customers,” Elite Air President AJ Becker said. “We are treating the new Global 5500 with the same respect as each of the nearly two dozen aircraft on our charter certificate, and we’ve been delighted to introduce it to our customers.”