Blink Blog » Blink PR

Summer in the Skies

Blink PR — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 08:00:16 +0000

This summer has been the busiest yet for Blink. We’ve flown to all the corners of Europe, and set up summer bases in the the south of France, Sardinia, and the Balaerics to better serve your flight requests. Our crew have been snapping away everywhere they go, which allows us to share with you some of the views you can enjoy at 41,000 feet onboard Blink.

Click on any of the images to find out more about where they were taken.

Interview with Blink’s Director of Flight Operations and Chief Pilot

Blink PR — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 08:00:43 +0000

Building Team Blink

In January 2008, the first employee of Blink started work. The first task was to build the team of staff that would manage the fleet of 30 aircraft Blink had ordered. Two and a half years later Blink has 7 aircraft in the fleet, and 40 employees. Captain Dougie Gass, Blink’s Chief Pilot and Director of Flight Operations, reflects on his wealth of experience from his career at British Airways, and how he set about building the team at Blink.

You were the first Blink employee. What was it like joining Blink on day 1?

On the day I joined Blink in January 2008, the Blink office was in Bishopsgate, and it was, I recall, on the small side of small! My feelings and thoughts however, were anything but small. It was the most exciting day, and the thoughts of the coming months, and the building of the team that would become the backbone of Blink Flight Operations, made me think on a grand scale. There was so much to do, and the days were full of vision. It made me think how simple and straightforward my recent times at BA had been, and how exciting the following months would be by comparison. I was right, it was exciting, it was a challenge, and it still is.

What does the Director of Flight Operations do?

Very broadly, he ensures safe, stable and efficient aircraft operations within the Flight Ops department. Also, that all operations comply with the requirements of the regulatory body. This includes the coordinating of all Blink flight operations; ensuring that all Blink aircraft are operated according to their manuals, and using the correct SOP’s; pilot recruitment, categorising new airports and determining their suitability for Blink operations. He has ultimate responsibility for all manuals. In all, he is responsible for, and oversees the Blink flight operations.

You’ve described the Blink Jet – the Cessna Citation Mustang – as making the 747-400 look steam driven. What do you mean?

The 747-400 is a fantastic aircraft, and BA took delivery of the first few in 1989; in fact it was one of Blink’s Captains that flew one of the first ones back from Seattle. That was over 20 years ago. The Mustang, being a new model aircraft, has taken full advantage of the many advances in technology. It is fitted with the latest Garmin G1000 glass cockpit, which manages the instrument and engine displays, the autopilot and the flight guidance systems. It also has fabulous navigation displays, with great visual displays which enhance situational awareness, and is the core of the cockpit that does make the 400 look ‘steam driven’.

What has been the most challenging part of transitioning from British Airways’ most senior 747 training captain to the Director of Flight Operations at Blink?

Flying such a long career within BA is something of which I remain very proud and have great memories of. I believe that over that long career, I learned much about people, their standards and behaviour, and their direct effect and contribution to flight safety. It was a great challenge to bring those same ‘best practices’ and introduce them into Blink’s operation, but it has been a pleasure doing it. Thinking back, within BA, I now realise how much support I had, both in the training environment, and with line flying, it was nice being spoiled! During the start up of Blink, I had to learn many new skills, including IT, admin and adjusting to the office environment, all of which presented their own challenges. The most important and significant challenge has been to build the team that works well together, and that will ensure the success of Blink.

When you recruit pilots, what talents and skills do you seek? What makes a Blink pilot?

I enjoy the recruitment process. I have learned over my career that the pilots who enjoy the greatest success, among other things, are the best team players. People who are aware of, and consider; other people’s needs, as well as their own. Someone who can stay ‘ahead of the game.’ So, what do I look for when recruiting new pilots? Excellent qualifications are an obvious pre requisite, together with the necessary flying skills; but I also try to select the very best people, who are team players, and ones with the best people skills. After all, Blink pilots are, not only pilots, but also front line, on the day managers, promoters of sales, who are hugely involved in customer care, and ambassadors for Blink. We need all rounders, we need the very best.

What has been more your significant accomplishment at Blink?

Being part of the team that worked towards, and were granted Blink’s AOC in 2009 was certainly a great achievement; and one of which all who were involved are very proud. I personally consider one of the very significant accomplishments to be every time I sit on the flight deck of a Mustang and I take part in an operation that I consider to be of ‘world standard’. I am very proud of our aircraft operation and the first class use of Blink Standard Operating Procedures, by all of our aircrew.

How do you relax?

I am keen on many forms of sport. Golf is one of my favourites, and having taken a short sabbatical from it, as Blink was formed and grew, I again enjoy time at my club Wentworth, as I try to get my game back in some kind of order. I support my local Rugby club, Bracknell, as well as my beloved Manchester United, who I love to watch whenever able. Other forms of relaxation for me include gardening and cooking at my home in Ascot.

What excites you most about flying?

Having started my flying career in 1970, it is difficult for me to think of flying, after 39 years at the controls, as exciting; but the fact is, I do. I am fortunate, in that I now take the opportunity to fly our Mustangs more often than when we were establishing Blink. The flying part is still the best part of the job for any pilot, and it is no different for me. Unlike in the airlines, we fly to and visit many new airfields, all with their own challenges, and in our case, with some fabulous new views, such as Samedan and Lugano. Yes, and I am very grateful for the fact, it is still exciting.

Press Video: Blink & Esquire – Take it to the limit

Blink PR — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 08:30:24 +0000

Esquire recently joined forces with Vertu, the market leader in luxury phones, to celebrate the launch of the new Ascent. In addition to announcing the winner of The Spirit of Adventure photographic competition, the evening at the Hempel Hotel featured a debate featuring three young, dynamic pioneers in very different fields.

Blink Managing Director Peter Leiman was one of the young pioneers discussing the way Blink and the Cessna Mustang are revolutionising the Air Taxi market.

Blink Agenda – Summer/Autumn 2010

Blink PR — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 10:46:26 +0000

Take a peek at the latest issue of the Blink quarterly agenda featuring our pick of the most interesting and glamorous events taking place across our European destination network. We will show how to Blink there and from time to time offer special promotions including limousines, hotel services and villa accommodation.

A stylish A5-size takeaway, the Blink Agenda should be a useful desktop reference for those with little time and a big sense of adventure.

Interview with Blink’s HR Manager

Blink PR — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:29:09 +0000

Looking after the family

Key to the success of any business is it’s ability to look after those who dedicate each day to delivering the company’s vision. Blink started with two people building a business plan around a kitchen table. Four years later, Blink employs 40 people with a vast array of skills, shift patterns, working locations, and family lives to consider.

Clare Silcock, Blink’s HR Manager, talks about the challenges of maintaining the family atmosphere in an ever-growing organisation.

What attracted you to Blink?

I loved the idea of working for a Company with an exciting product and which was right at the beginning of start-up phase- Plenty for an HR Manager to get stuck into. The enthusiasm of Cameron and Peter was infectious as soon as I met them and I felt very excited about working for 2 people who had a real belief in, and passion for the business.

How is Blink different to your previous HR job?

I was very lucky to have worked for another small private jet company prior to joining Blink, although this was more established and had more staff in place when I joined. Because Blink was in its infancy in December 2008 when I started, there has been a huge growth in staffing levels, almost doubling over the year. There has also been times when Blink have had to make changes to its plans to adjust to perhaps market conditions, and this means that as an employee you never get bored and it keeps you on your toes!

What is the most challenging part of being an HR Manager?

I guess the most challenging thing about my job is that you never quite know what might come up during the course of a day. However that also makes it interesting for me. I thrive on something out of the ordinary happening and when you’re dealing with people all of the time something usually does!

What can jobseekers do to increase their chances of getting an interview with Blink?

The first thing to do is to keep an eye on our website as we will always update this when we need to recruit staff. In all of our staff, from our pilots to our Ops team, to our Director of Engineering, we look for people who have a real understanding of what customer service is all about. Secondly, but just as important, they have to have a passion and belief in the Company. Enthusiasm is absolutely key.

Is Blink expanding?

The growth of the business during 2009 was tremendous. We almost doubled in size, due to both demand and the number of aircraft coming on line. We went from just two aeroplanes at the start of the year to seven by September. The growth this year has been slower – we have recruited a new Head of Finance and a Sales person and will continue to recruit for very specific roles. We anticipate that 2011 will again be a growth time as we plan to take delivery of more aircraft. It may be that we open more hubs outside of the UK which will be an interesting time again for the Company.

What does Blink look for in potential pilots?

As I’ve hinted before, customer service skills are paramount in our pilots as they look after our customers on their flights. We also like to meet pilots who have worked for other business jet operators as they are very familiar with working in a non-scheduled environment, where trips can come up or change made at the very last minute. Therefore flexibility is a must.

I’m a university student looking for a summer job, are there potential opportunities to gain work experience?

The summer months are certainly our busiest time of year so there are possibilities of working for Blink, particularly in the Flight Services Department. However these areas require a particular skill set to make the three months useful and certainly if people have got a pilot qualification, or are sales oriented they have more of a chance of being successful in obtaining a temporary role. As the Company grows further there may be more opportunities in other departments. Again we will advertise this on our website.

Is previous aviation experience a pre-requisite for working at Blink?

In some departments this is certainly true. However we do have a number of people who have come from other industries and therefore bring other skills with them. It is good to have a mix of experience within the Company.

Since Blink is a start-up, is HR more difficult than at an established Company?

It is certainly more unpredictable and therefore has different challenges. However I wouldn’t say it is any more difficult than working for an established Company.

How have the HR processes evolved as Blink has grown?

When I joined there were a few basic policies and procedures in place. As the Company has grown, we have obviously developed and formalised these. A Company Handbook is important for our employees as it sets the theme for their employment going forward and we now have this in place.

Since HR is like dealing with family issues at work and you have young children at home, do you ever get any free time to enjoy yourself?

My life at home is just as busy as my work life, but I am very lucky to be able to work part time. Blink is very flexible with me and I also try to work days convenient to the Company.
I have 3 children between the ages of 8 and 17 so most of my time is spent as a taxi service for all of their interests, and standing on the touchline of a football field or dance show cheering them on!

Interview with Blink’s Flight Services Supervisor

Blink PR — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 10:00:51 +0000

Delivering service

Blink’s goal is to provide a cost effective travel solution that helps to optimise your valuable time – but not at the expense of a satisfying and enjoyable experience. Our astute and dedicated Flight Services team is here to make the process of ‘hiring a Blink air taxi’ simple and hassle free. They will work with you to understand your requirements and provide you with the best value for money solution.

Rebecca Goff, Blink’s Flight Services Supervisor, ensures that Blink delivers its high level of customer service.

What attracted you to Blink?

Working at a small, dynamic start-up company was a challenge that I couldn’t resist. Working for Blink has given me the chance to learn many aspects of the business that I would never have had the opportunity to be involved in at a larger organisation. The atmosphere and culture and Blink is a unique one. The age range of the team provides the much needed experience to the innovative thinking of the younger members of the team.

How do you define exceptional customer service?

Providing a stress-free, seamless service from booking to post flight. We are on hand 24/7 so that or clients always feel they are being taken of.

What is the most difficult part of your job?

Without a doubt that most difficult part is advising a passenger of an issue that is out of my control. Whether that be a slot delay, a weather issue or inconsiderate Icelandic Volcanoes! When there is nothing I can do to help the passenger, it is very frustrating. In this situation we will always ensure we provide the most up to date information and make sure we take any possible action to minimize any disruption to their day.

Why do you call the customer service team “Flight Services”?

We don’t feel that Customer Services really captures all that we can offer our clients. Everyone on the team has a background in Operations as well as Customer Service which helps us provide a more efficient service. We think it is important that we are all able to assist on a technical level and can therefore advise the limitations of an operation. Although we don’t like to decline any request we feel it’s important that we manage our clients’ expectations.

Blink places the Customer at the centre of everything we do. That must create a lot challenges for you. How do you meet the high expectations placed upon you?

In any situation I face I always try and think as the customer would. How would I feel about a slot delay or what would I like Blink to do to make my life easier? Whether that’s being on hand to order some ground transport on arrival or maybe letting a passenger know that the weather’s not looking too clever for a flight the next day. I’ll try to be ahead of the game and update clients with any information that may impact their day.

How do you ensure that all members of the Flight Services team deliver the same level and calibre of service?

We have a very close knit team in Flight Services. Communication is very important to ensuring anyone who answers the phone is fully briefed to help whoever is calling. A benefit of being a relatively small operation is we are all able to keep track of every flight and therefore supply the personal level of service that really makes the difference.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Spending time with my friends and family takes priority when I’m not at work. I also like swimming and watching my local football team with the rest of my family.

What’s it’s like to work at Blink?

It’s certainly never boring! Every day is different and you never know what the day will hold when you walk into the office in the morning. I’m lucky enough to work with some great people. Despite the long and sometimes frustrating days, I can honestly say we laugh in the office every day!

Press: Flight International – Blink opens eyes to online booking

Blink PR — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 09:49:31 +0000

Online booking, Last Minute Deals, and more

Blink PR — Tue, 15 Jun 2010 08:00:16 +0000

Today, Blink launched new functionality on our website (www.flyblink.com) designed to enable visitors to do more online. For the first time, users can price and book a private jet flight online, take advantage of last minute deals offering exceptional pricing for short notice bookings, and see all of our fare sales including our “Fly for £495″ specials.

Flyblink.com puts a whole range of possibilities at your fingertips including:

Price and book online: www.flyblink.com/book
Grab a Last Minute Deal: www.flyblink.com/lmd
Search for your most convenient airport: www.flyblink.com/airports
Discover our monthly sales to various European destinations: www.flyblink.com/sales

Online pricing and booking

Users can price and booking line to and from any of our over 600 European destinations.

Monthly fare sales

Inspired by the season, an event or just because we feel like it – each month, we offer sale price fares to a selection of in-demand locations.

Fly for £495

Whether it’s to a Michelin rated lunch or a round of golf in France – every month, we give you the chance to fly privately for just £495 per person. Visit www.flyblink.com/495 to see our latest “Fly for £495″ offer

Last Minute Deals

Blink is pleased to offer Last Minute Deals on our fleet at exceptional prices. All prices are per-plane and as Blink jets carry maximum of four passengers, a fuller aircraft means a lower cost per person.

Peter Leiman, Blink’s MD and co-founder, commented,

We’ve moved from a website that was primarily informational to one that is transactional. For the first time, travellers can price and book a private jet online. This is an important step in expanding the customer base beyond those that have traditionally used private jets. Our web savvy clients should appreciate these new developments.

Jake Peters, Blink’s Information Technology & Online Strategy Advisor, noted,

Online booking brings Blink further along the journey in developing an on-demand, private airline service which embodies the principles of low-cost aviation. Allowing our clients to explore prices online and book flights with a few clicks reduces Blink’s booking transaction cost, enabling us to continue offering the best prices — one of Blink’s core values. But unlike the low cost carriers, we do not view the online channel as a complete replacement for communicating directly with the Blink Flight Services team over phone or email. Rather, we view online booking as a key part of our mission to deliver exemplary service — another Blink core value — by enabling those who desire to book online the opportunity to do so.

Press: Esquire – Take it to the limit

Blink PR — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 23:00:51 +0000

Esquire Magazine and Vertu discuss the spirit of adventure and feature Blink as an example of a company that is doing it in style.

Interview with Blink’s Ground Operations Manager

Blink PR — Mon, 31 May 2010 08:00:14 +0000

Keeping ground operations in order

As Europe’s first air taxi operator, Blink manages the largest fleet of Cessna Mustangs anywhere in the industry. Every day, Blink may have a dozen separate flights to plan, file, crew, operate, and monitor. The challenge of keeping pilots, regulators, and not least customers happy throughout every day is complicated because Blink flies to no schedule save that of our passengers. At any minute, 24/7, Blink ground operations needs to be prepared for new requests. Lately the job just got trickier, with Eyjafjallajoekull’s ash cloud unpredictably closing large parts of European air space.

Stephen Pickering, Blink’s Ground Operations Manager, manages this hot spot and tells us more below:

Good morning Stephen, tell us how you came to be with Blink

My career has been forged at the other end of the aviation spectrum, at British Airways, where I spent 30 years in positions spanning sales, terminal operations, safety auditing and operations control. Blink has given me the opportunity to lend this experience to a game changer in the private jet industry.

How does your job at Blink compare to that at British Airways?

Blink and BA could not be further apart in terms of size and scale, and the culture of a multinational organization is a million miles from the entrepreneurial camaraderie at Blink. But we’re still in aviation, and I’m still running ground operations – many of the same rules and challenges remain the same.

What are the job’s biggest challenges and how have you addressed them?

Blink set out 2 years ago to change the rules that have established what can and cannot be done in private aviation. From an operational point of view, that means managing a single aircraft type fleet, showing for the first time what very light jets can do across an unprecedentedly extensive network of airports.

The biggest challenge is also the major motivating force: how to build a reputation for reliability and professionalism around a brand new operation. We’ve gone about that by creating a team that combines aviation experience and a passion for achieving our business vision – an air taxi service for European short haul travel.

And is there time to enjoy life outside Blink?

We’re a 24/7 operation but we’re a close team and it’s a work hard play hard culture. Not that I have a choice – I have two young sons ready and waiting for action the moment I leave the office!

The Interview is the third in a series of interviews with key members of the Blink team. If you have have a question that you would like to ask a member of our team, please contact us.

Press: Monocle Magazine – Business jets – Analysis

Blink PR — Wed, 26 May 2010 09:38:34 +0000

Monocole’s 2010/11 Transport Survey is the journal’’s first global transportation survey. Gabriel Leigh discusses how innovative companies like Blink are keeping the industry aviation afloat.

Press: Ultimate Jet – Blink: Revolution in the European skies

Blink PR — Wed, 12 May 2010 15:25:15 +0000

F. Vergneres discusses Blink’s operations and plans for the future

Press: Cessna Magazine – Time to hail a taxi

Blink PR — Mon, 10 May 2010 21:37:09 +0000

Pia Bergqvist discusses how London based Blink is pioneering the air taxi concept in the UK and continential Europe with a fleet of Citation Mustangs.

The Blink Agenda: where to be and when

Blink PR — Wed, 05 May 2010 07:15:26 +0000

Beginning this month, Blink will provide all on-board customers with a quarterly agenda featuring our pick of the most interesting and glamorous events taking place across our European destination network. We will show how to Blink there and from time to time offer special promotions including limousines, hotel services and villa accommodation.

A stylish A5-size takeaway, the Blink Agenda should be a useful desktop reference for those with little time and a big sense of adventure.

Press: Financial Times – Funding woes dash hopes

Blink PR — Tue, 04 May 2010 11:27:55 +0000

Kevin Done discusses Blink’s performance in the European air taxi segment.

Press: Flight International – Who’s still standing?

Blink PR — Tue, 04 May 2010 11:25:41 +0000

Kate Sarsfield discusses Blink’s performance in 2010 and plans for the future.

Interview with Blink’s Director of Engineering

Blink PR — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 06:45:43 +0000

Engineering an exceptional product

The latest Citation to emerge from the Cessna drawing board is evolutionary, not revolutionary. But at $2.6 million for a well-equipped jet, the Mustang breaks the price barrier for entry into the exclusive jet set.

Cessna has a 35-year track record of manufacturing business jets with good performance, reliable systems and exceptional handling characteristics. Its twin engine Mustang is no exception, as we at Blink can testify, having now established the market’s largest fleet of 7 Mustang jets. And if we ever need the support, we’ve got a European network of Cessna Service Centres to call.

So does this mean than Ian Finch, Blink’s Head of Engineering, has the easiest job in the company? Find out more in our monthly interview:

What attracted you to Blink?

I was interested in joining Blink as I felt it was a company I could work with and enjoy building the maintenance department of a growing fleet of aircraft.

How does Blink compare to previous companies where you’ve worked?

After working with many business aviation companies of various sizes, I found that Blink has a strong team dedicated to the progress of the company and most noticeably a dynamic approach to the promotion of the company and making Blink a strong member of the business aviation market.

What are the principal responsibilities you have as Head of Engineering?

Primarily, I manage the maintenance needs for our aircraft, monitor regularity and safety requirements ensuring we operate to all requirements and that the aircraft are maintained to the latest manufacturers and authority recommendations. I also arrange support to aircraft at any location when minor maintenance requirements come up outside of the larger base requirements.

What are the main challenges of the job?

With a fleet of aircraft moving in all directions across Europe, it’s the travelling between aircraft which takes up a reasonable part of my time. However, there are some perks that come along with the travel…I’ve had the privilege to visit locations that I never would have seen in a different line of work.

How important is Blink’s relationship with Cessna?

The Cessna service centre network and field support is an exceptional asset to Blink. 24 hour technical support and maintenance facilities at key locations make supporting ‘in service aircraft’ possible throughout Europe. Over my 15 year career maintaining Cessna products, I have built good relationships with the Cessna technical teams across Europe and in the US and have always found a professional attitude and high regard for customer support.

Can you tell us the most difficult experience you’ve yet had at Blink, in your role?

The M25…every week, here’s looking forward to the end of the roadworks.

We hear you build hovercrafts in your spare time – can you tell us more?

Yes, as a hobby I take part in hovercraft racing, I enjoy taking time out a few weekends through the summer to get away with my family and meet up with friends, and of course building the craft, engine and ducted fan is all part of the fun for me.

The Interview is the second in a monthly series of interviews with key members of the Blink team. If you have have a question that you would like to ask a member of our team, please contact us.

Interview with Blink’s Chief Training Captain

Blink PR — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:02:53 +0000

Blink’s trained up

Blink has left nothing to chance when it comes to safety: brand new aircraft from Cessna, the world’s leading manufacturer of private jets; highly experienced captains recruited directly from the most successful commercial airlines; and operational directors with proven track records at the highest echelons of the aviation industry. This week the spotlight is on Graham Howard, Blink’s Chief Training Captain.

With over 16,000 hours flight time and 34 years as a British Airways Pilot – culminating as BA’s most senior 777 training captain, Graham has huge aviation experience and knowledge. He has an intimate understanding of Blink’s Citation Mustang avionics – which are in many ways more advanced that those in most modern aircraft. By conveying that to Blink’s pilot cadre, he is equipping Blink’s air taxi service to reach more than 600 airports across Europe.

Why is your role at Blink important and what are its most challenging aspects?

The competence of our pilots underpins the most important aspect of Blink’s mission statement, namely Safety and Security. My job is to ensure that all Blink pilots are competent and are able to demonstrate such competence in their respective roles.

How does your experience in the commercial aviation industry help you in this role?

My many years of experience with British Airways enable me to readily switch between the two essentials of training and facilitation: training in order to impart new knowledge, facilitation to allow the individual to develop skills and behaviours.

How rigorous are training standards at Blink?

Blink pilots undergo the same checking regime as airline pilots. In some ways the training at Blink is superior to that of a pilot in a large airline, as the emphasis is on actual flight rather than simulator testing.

In what ways does your contribution create a better experience for Blink’s customers?

Competence breeds confidence! On Blink aircraft the customer interacts directly with the Flight Crew. The knowledge and confident demeanour of Blink pilots transmits to our passengers, creating an atmosphere of warmth and security, so enhancing the travel experience.

How do the Mustang’s avionics compare with modern jet airliners?

The Mustang’s avionics compare very favourably with those of the airliners that I have flown. Are you aware that only the very latest types, such as the B777, are fitted with GPS as standard? Using GPS, the geographical position of the Mustang can be fixed to within 10 feet! Combine this with the ability to superimpose this position on a terrain map of the Earth, then add in the relative positions of other nearby aircraft and you have a very powerful tool to aid the pilot’s situational awareness.

What is your favourite Blink destination? Where do you like landing the most?

I really don’t have a favourite destination, all cities have their own unique flavour and culture. Home is the best place to land.

Why did you want to become a pilot?

The complex interface between man, machine and the environment fascinates me. I think it probably always will.

If you could fly any plane in the world, what would it be?

As I have flown many “big jets” the Mustang suits me fine.

What is the first bit of advice you give to younger pilots?

Remember what it was like when you were learning to fly.

What do you enjoy about flying that keeps you in the cockpit after 16,000 hours?

The people, the freedom, and the self reliance.

This is the first in a series of interviews with key members of the Blink team. If you have have a question that you would like to ask a member of our team, please contact us.

Press: Fast Company Blog – Three Ways To Sustain Your Innovation

Blink PR — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:57:57 +0000

Kaihan Krippendorff is an author, consultant, and expert blogger at Fast Company. He recently wrote about Blink as part of his series that highlights “Outthinkers: Mavericks that Out Innovate the Competition” after interviewing Blink MD & Co-Founder, Peter H. Leiman and Blink Chief Information Officer & Director of Online Strategy, Jake Peters.

This is the third and final post in his series on Blink, available below or at the Fast Company Blog. (View the first and second.)

Press: Fast Company Blog – View the world through your competitors eyes

Blink PR — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:52:54 +0000

This is the second post in his series; view the first here.

The post is embedded below or available here for you to read.

Press: Fast Company Blog – Unbundle your business

Blink PR — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:30:44 +0000

The post is embedded below or available here for you to read.

Blink opens additional London base at London Luton airport (LTN/EGGW)

Blink PR — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 23:10:07 +0000

Effective immediately, Blink is pleased to announce the opening of our newest London base, London Luton.

Luton (LTN/EGGW) joins Farnborough (FAB/EGLF) and Blackbushe (BBS/EGLK) as part of Blink’s London base. Blink also flies to and from London Biggin Hill (BQH/EGKB), London City (LCY/EGLC) and Northolt (NHT/EGWU).

Luton expands Blink’s catchment area to those on the north and eastern sides of London. It also provides Blink with a 24 hour access to London for late night and early morning departures and arrivals. Blink Foresight clients and single journey clients can now benefit from Blink’s lowest fares to and from Luton.

For more information, please contact Blink Flight Services at
blink@flyblink.com or +44 (0)20 7199 1400.

Blink Jets in the snow at Blackbushe Airport (BBS/EGLK)

Blink PR — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 17:15:37 +0000

With cold temperatures and snow across Europe, Blink jets also get covered in snow and ice. Here are some pictures of two of our planes covered in fresh snow while parked at Blackbushe Airport (BBS/EGLK), just outside of London.

The Blink operations team works incredibly hard to ensure that as long as the airports are open, the Blink fleet is ready to fly. As a client, you will not see our aircraft in this state, so we hope you enjoy the glimpse of the untouched snowy aircraft below.

Thanks to Steve Pickering, Blink’s Ground Operations Manager, for taking these pictures. If you enjoy this, be sure to check out Blink’s other photos and videos.

Press: The future’s here – “In 2010 there will be more private jets, less Facebook”

Blink PR — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:00:31 +0000

Tammy Smulders offers her predictions for 2010 for the Evening Standard’s ES Magazine.

In 2010 there will be more private jets, less Facebook, less marriage and more debating.

Fulfilling her prediction about more debating, we at Blink could probably argue Tammy’s prediction about Facebook; however, we have nothing to debate about her prediction for Blink!

About corporate travel, she writes:

Corporate travel has become more restricted, but 2010 will see professionals travelling again. Corporate private jet taxi services such as Blink will take off. With a fleet of jets that provide access to 600 destinations in Europe, corporate travellers will be able to choose private jet travel for the price of a commercial business-class fare.

While Blink jets take off every day around Europe, we do hope to see even more professionals travelling in 2010.

The full article is below.

Thank You and Happy Holidays from Blink

Blink PR — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 16:13:58 +0000

We would like to thank everyone who has helped make 2009 a successful year for Blink. The entire Blink team wishes you, your friends and your family a wonderful holiday season and a happy, healthy 2010.

Enjoy a little holiday message from Blink (which we suggest you watch in full screen mode):

Photos of the Blink Jet – Exterior and Inside

Blink PR — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:56:23 +0000

We’ve been working on uploading more photos to our Flickr account. Two new slideshows are available which showcase the external views of our beautiful Blink-colored Cessna Citation Mustang jets and the spacious 4-person cabin and interior.

We encourage you to take a look.

If you enjoy this, be sure to check out Blink’s other photos and videos.

Blink Launches Ski Pass for Winter 2009-2010 European Ski Season

Blink PR — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 06:00:49 +0000

Blink announces the launch of the Blink 1080 Ski Pass for the Winter 2009-2010 European ski season.

Blink’s Winter 2009-2010 ski pass offers special pricing on three or more separate round-trips to Sion, Samedan, Chambéry, and Annecy from London, the Channel Islands, Paris, Cannes/Nice and other points across Europe. The special offer allows travellers to enjoy stays of up the three nights for the same price as a day-return trip. The ski pass represents exceptional value to fly direct to hard-to-reach ski resorts such as Verbier, St. Moritz, and Megève among others. Blink estimates savings of up to 45% over traditional jet charters.

Rather than wasting time queuing at the airport or stuck in traffic, Blink enables skiers to fly direct to the mountain top. Blink estimates the typical traveler flying from Central London can save over 6 hours of wasted travel time every weekend trip to popular ski resorts when flying with Blink instead of with commercial alternatives:

Central London to Verbier: saves 3 hours and 10 minutes each way
Central London to St. Moritz: save 3 hours and 15 minutes each way
Central London to Megeve: save 2 hours and 5 minutes each way

(Time saved assumes departure from London Farnborough)

Another unique feature of the ski pass is diversion protection. Should one of the mountain airports be closed due to weather, there will be no extra charges for diversion to the closest open alternate airport.

Peter H. Leiman, Managing Director, says:

“Blink continues to offer differentiated value-for-money products in the market. We listened to our clients and developed the ski pass to meet their needs. Blink’s ski pass provides financial certainty by locking in a fixed price for the season that also includes all ancillary costs. Our Ski Pass provides savings of up to 45% over competing private jet services”

Please visit http://www.flyblink.com/skipass for more information and pricing details, or contact Blink Flight Services at blink@flyblink.com or +44 (0)20 7199 1400.

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You can view or download the ski pass brochure below.

Press: Cessna Citation Mustang Continues to Expand Fleet, Avionics Capabilities

Blink PR — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 18:40:27 +0000

Cessna issued a press release today about the success of the Mustang to-date.

Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, announced today that it has delivered 241 Citation Mustangs since the aircraft entered service in April 2007.

They further add:

“With two-plus years of Mustang deliveries behind us, we’re getting rave reviews from the field – the aircraft is fun to fly, performs well and offers an excellent value proposition backed by Cessna’s world-class service and support network,” said Roger Whyte, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing. “As expected, the majority of Mustang customers are business owners but we’re also pleased to see strong operations in fleet use and the training environment.”

Blink, the largest customer of the Cessna Mustang globally, is mentioned in the release:

The Mustang allows the air-taxi service to offer the speed, convenience and efficiency of a private jet at a price that is competitive with commercial business class air fares. Blink regularly flies multiple sectors, with more than one customer group in a day and reports the Mustang is reliable and provides an excellent customer experience. Blink plans to add more Mustangs and more locations in 2010.

The entire release is embedded below for you to read, download or print.

FlyCorporate: Blink Starts Operations Under its Own AOC

Blink PR — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:34:50 +0000

FlyCorporate writes about Blink’s new AOC.

View the article below (click Fullscreen) or download a PDF.

Press: Blink Opens Second Base at Geneva

Blink PR — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:00:33 +0000

Aviation Internation News heard Blink speak at the VLJ 2009 conference today at London Oxford Airport and reports on our base expansion to Geneva.

Press: Air taxi hopes now is the time for private plane expansion

Blink PR — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:15:08 +0000

Blink was features in a radio segment on World Radio Switzerland. Listen here or read the transcript of the segment below.

Blink on World Radio Switzerland

TRANSCRIPT

Monday, 21 September, 2009
Air taxi hopes now is the time for private plane expansion
Despite the global financial crunch, Geneva airport is getting a new air taxi company. Blink is opening a hub in Geneva and hoping to attract people who want to fly privately but with less frills. But is now the best time for a private jet company to expand? And will the company be able to battle commercial and other private airlines?

Blink says it thinks it has found a hole in the air traffic market; people who want to fly privately, on a budget. It sounds counter-intuitive, but the company’s managing director Cameron Ogden says that his company has a unique position.

“A big part of where Blink sits is very much between the commercial and the business aviation operators today. So, we’re sort of cost competitive with 4 people on our airplane for the commercial airlines, and we see ourselves as 50% less than the light jet charter market that is being serviced today.”

Ogden says that for Business travellers, which make up 80% of the expected passengers, working face to face is vital. But still, launching a company in this economic climate – is this the best time to do it? I mean, we are in the middle of a financial crisis, and to have your own jet seems a bit extreme right now.

“I agree, I think there are definitely optical issues that some companies suffer from. I think that what we’re seeing from a lot of corporations is that the necessity to fly using business jet aircraft hasn’t changed, and I know that the recession has caused people to become a lot more thoughtful as for what they spend on. But I think that when you look at it from the perspective of some of these managers and their time, the productivity argument is still there.”

One ticket, for a day return trip from Geneva to London would cost about 1300 Euros, 2000 Swiss Francs, comparing that flight, with the airline Swiss, on a typical day, with typical flight times, would cost between 1600-1800 Francs, in Business Flex class.

“You know, private jets have their big advantages when it comes to connections which are not served by the traditional airlines.”

That said, Moser, an aviation expert.

“But you initially mentioned the connection between Geneva and London – it’s a bad example. Geneva and London have so many scheduled flights a day, that it takes a good reason to take an (air) taxi, which is in most cases, not in all cases, but in most cases is more expensive than the airline flight.“

Moser says that Blink is not the only air taxi service in Geneva. There are 9 others, and then there was Jet Republic; with a fleet of new plans and onboard attendants that was going to zip all over, in world class style. The company never got off the ground. But Blink says that it touts different values. This isn’t a fractional ownership deal, and it isn’t about super-luxury. But Seth Moser is skeptical;

“It is very risky, and as a matter of fact, many of the newcomers in the business fail. I don’t want to make a prediction about Blink, but it is very tough to start up a new business of this kind.”

Blink has been flying in Geneva for a while, but now it will have a hub here – so more of an investment. The company executives will have to keep their eyes focused on the competition, and on profits, if they want to make the expansion soar in a tough, crowded market, in these difficult financial times.

Press: Blink Opens Geneva Base

Blink PR — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:52:58 +0000

Coverage of Blink’s Geneva base opening in Fly Corporate Online.

Press: Blink air taxis keep planes small and prices low

Blink PR — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:00:22 +0000

GenevaLunch reports from the Blink Geneva Launch.

Press: Blink Opens Geneva Base

Blink PR — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:30:12 +0000

BART International features a story about Blink’s Geneva base opening. Related Posts Press: Blink Opens Geneva Base Press Release: Blink opens Geneva base Press: Blink Opens Second Base at Geneva

Press: Blink promet de lancer à Genève l’aviation d’affaires à bas coûts

Blink PR — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 09:00:52 +0000

The Tribune de Genève features an article about Blink’s new Geneva base (article is in French).

Press Release: Blink ouvre une base à Genève

Blink PR — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:01:21 +0000

Aujourd’hui, Blink – le service révolutionnaire de taxi aérien – ouvre une plateforme à Genève. Dotée d’appareils Cessna Citation Mustang quatre places de nouvelle génération, Blink offre tous les avantages du transport aérien privé à des prix qui rivalisent avec les vols commerciaux en classe affaires et jusqu’à 50% moins chers que les services de jet privé existants.

Genève accueille la première base de Blink en Europe continentale suite au lancement réussi de ce service à Londres, en juin 2008. Au cours des quinze derniers mois, Blink a lancé avec succès le concept de taxi aérien en Europe, avec sept jets déjà en service sur les trente commandés et une importante clientèle en provenance de toute l’Europe.

Blink a desservi la Suisse depuis sa base londonienne dès la livraison de son premier avion. L’ouverture d’une base à Genève va permettre d’offrir un service de qualité encore mieux adapté à sa clientèle au départ et à destination de Genève et de sa région, et ce, dès aujourd’hui.

Parmi son réseau de destinations, Blink a choisi Genève comme première base en Europe continentale car c’est un centre économique et financier. De plus, le prix de billets d’avion en classe affaires y est élevé, les services de jets privés trop chers et les connexions aériennes inefficientes.

L’importance de Genève en tant que centre d’affaires croît rapidement, comme en témoigne l’augmentation significative des sociétés et des individus qui s’y installent. Jusqu’à présent, les voyageurs suisses ont dû s’accommoder de vols commerciaux en classe affaires très onéreux et inefficients ou louer des jets privés de 6 à 8 places. Sachant que le nombre moyen de passagers sur les jets privés en Europe est d’un peu plus de deux personnes, il apparaît clairement que les voyageurs ont gaspillé inutilement de l’argent et du kérosène.

En revanche, le modèle d’affaire low-cost de Blink a été conçu de manière à satisfaire les besoins des voyageurs d’affaires ou de loisir : le service est pratique, permettant aux voyageurs de se déplacer de ville en ville rapidement, efficacement et économiquement.

Avant le début de ses opérations commerciales, Blink a levé 30 millions de dollars de fonds propres, ce qui en fait l’une des compagnies de taxi aérien les plus solides financièrement au monde. Elle a également commandé une flotte de 30 appareils Cessna Citation Mustang, soit globalement la plus importante. Malgré des conditions économiques difficiles, Blink a montré une forte croissance, une véritable innovation et une gestion des coûts rigoureuse. Le développement du réseau de destinations de Blink et l’agrandissement de sa flotte d’ici à fin 2013 vont permettre à un nombre toujours plus élevé de voyageurs de bénéficier du premier service de taxi aérien en Europe.

Peter Leiman, gérant de Blink, ajoute : “De nombreux clients suisses ont déjà pu profiter du service Blink. Nous serons à présent à même de leur offrir les prix les plus compétitifs possibles, qui feront rapidement de Blink le choix évident en matière de voyages d’affaires en Europe”.

(Note: This Press Release is also available in English.)

Press Release: Blink opens Geneva base

Blink PR — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:00:36 +0000

Today, Blink opens its Geneva hub. Using the next-generation four seat Cessna Citation Mustang, Blink offers all the benefits of personal air travel at prices competitive with commercial business class and up to 50% less expensive than existing private jet services.

Geneva is Blink’s first base in continental Europe following the successful launch of the service in London in June 2008. Over the past 15 months, Blink has successfully pioneered the air taxi concept in Europe with seven of the 30 Blink jets on order already in service and a large pan-European customer base.

While Blink has been serving clients in Switzerland from its base in London since the arrival of its first plane, the opening of a base in Geneva will allow Blink to offer clients flying into and out of Geneva and the nearby region greater value and an enhanced service. From today, Blink will provide the Geneva market with dedicated Blink aircraft from Blink’s fleet.

Blink selected Geneva as the first continental European base in its destination network as it is a key commercial and financial centre that suffers from expensive airfares, over-priced private jet alternatives, and inefficient air links.

Geneva’s importance as a business centre is growing rapidly as evidenced by the significant increase in companies and individuals relocating. Until now, Swiss business travellers have had to endure inefficient and expensive scheduled services or hire a 6-8 seat private jet. When the average number of passengers on a private jet in Europe is just over two, it is clear that travellers have been wasting money and burning fuel unnecessarily.

In contrast, Blink’s low-cost business model has been designed with the value driven business or leisure traveller in mind – the service is functional and efficient, enabling travellers to move between cities quickly, efficiently, and economically.

Prior to commencement of revenue operations , Blink raised $30m in equity funding, making it one of the most well-funded air taxi operators in the world, and ordered its fleet of 30 Cessna Citation Mustangs – the largest fleet globally. Against a backdrop of challenging economic conditions, Blink has demonstrated strong growth, genuine innovation and stringent cost management. The development of the Blink destination network and the increase in the Blink fleet through 2013 will see great numbers of travellers benefit from Europe’s first air taxi service.

Peter Leiman, managing director or Blink commented, “Geneva is the perfect location to begin developing our destination network. Their lack of any similar products and the central European location of Geneva is an enormous opportunity for Blink.”

Cameron Ogden, managing director of Blink added, “Many Swiss customers have enjoyed Blink’s service already. We will now be able to offer them the most competitive prices possible that will see Blink quickly become the obvious choice for business travel in Europe.”

Press: Geneva business fliers get new air taxi option

Blink PR — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 09:27:10 +0000

GenevaLunch covers the launch of Blink’s Geneva base with a post entitled “Geneva business fliers get new air taxi option”.

Press: Blink continues expansion as AOC issue draws near

Blink PR — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 09:00:47 +0000

Kate Sarsfield from Flight International reports on the arrival of Blink’s 7th plane and the upcoming issuance of Blink’s AOC.

Press: Jet Republic failure “highlights exceptional challenges”

Blink PR — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 09:00:01 +0000

Blink Managing Directors, Cameron Ogden and Peter H. Leiman, are interviewed for an article in European Business Air News about the recent news from Jet Republic.

From the article:

Blink, which has ordered 30 Mustangs with five currently in service and two more coming into operation later in 2009, markets a “boardroom in the sky” experience.

Peter Leiman, joint md, says: “The announcement that Jet Republic has ceased trading highlights the exceptional challenges that aviation start-ups face in this climate. If you add in the inherent difficulties in raising finance in the current marketplace then it becomes clear that Jet Republic overstretched itself with a product that was not significantly differentiated from existing offerings.”

In contrast, he says: “Blink has pursued a prudent business plan that allows us to deliver a totally new product to the market in a way that minimises development risk to our customers, employees and investors.”

Leiman says the product has to be right for today’s market where business and leisure travellers want to move around western Europe quickly and efficiently but at a price that makes sense.

Joint md Cameron Ogden says Blink has flown a significant number of existing private jet users who are familiar with a product similar to that which Jet Republic hoped to offer. “These customers realise that when the average number of passengers in a European private jet is 2.3 and the average flight length is one hour 30 minutes, they do not need a six to eight seat jet and the expensive add-ons that the market provides today. In contrast they have found Blink’s four seat air taxi service better suits their needs.”

Press: Air-taxi service Blink takes off

Blink PR — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 13:31:55 +0000

Blink co-founders, Peter Leiman and Cameron Ogden, were interviewed recently by the Telegraph and featured in Starting Out, the Telegraph’s column that follows entrepreneurs who are setting up their first business enterprise.

The article highlights how Leiman and Ogden conceived of and built the Blink business plan and subsequently raised $30m of capital.

Click fullscreen to view the article in your browser, or download to save a PDF.

You can view the original article online here (opens in a new window).

Press: European charters ready to launch

Blink PR — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:00:19 +0000

Aviation International News provides an in-depth update on the status of air taxi operators in Europe given the recent failures of Bikkair, Air One Taxi, AccelJet and Taxijet and the upcoming launch of JetBird, Ambeo and Blink’s continued growth.

Blink takes delivery of our 5th Cessna Mustang G-FBKA

Blink PR — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:00:43 +0000

Cessna has completed the assembly and build of Citation Mustang 510-0096 which has become G-FBKA, the 5th plane to join the Blink fleet.

Thanks to Cessna, we can watch as 510-0096 is assembled at the Cessna factory in Kansas. You’ll see the arrival of pieces of the fuselage, their assembly together, the joining of the wings, and the assembly of the Garmin 1000 based flight deck.

Once the plane has been assembled and tested by Cessna, the Blink team heads to out to Kansas to further inspect the plane, take delivery of the aircraft, and depart for the journey from Kansas back to London.

Featured in this album are:

Chris Allan – Blink First Officer
Ian Finch – Blink Director of Engineering
Warren Hazelby – Blink Air Safety Advisor
Joe O’Rourke – Cessna Customer Account Manager

If you enjoy this, be sure to check out Blink’s other photos and videos.

CNBC Squawk Box – 11 June 2009

Blink PR — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 08:00:36 +0000

Blink MD Peter Leiman discusses Blink’s first year of operations, European air travel, private jets and air taxi on CNBC Squawk Box on Thursday, 11 June 2009.

CNBC Life: The World of Private Jets features Blink

Blink PR — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 17:31:52 +0000

Blink was featured in a segment on CNBC Life which was produced by The Luxury Channel. The video highlights recent developments in private aviation, including the launch of Blink, and covers EBACE 2009 in Geneva.

The video report starts with an introduction into the top-of-the-line jets, showcasing some of large corporate VIP airliners being produced by Airbus, and then covers Blink when discussing some of the new developments in the industry and how business travellers are using private aviation to be more efficient.

Peter Leiman from Blink is interviewed. You can also see a quick glimpse of a Blink jet as the video shows the jets on display at EBACE.

Click here or on the above image to watch the video in a new window.

Peter’s comments are a bit truncated in the segment. His remark about introducing a sub-fleet of jets like the Cessna Mustang, the Blink jet, is in reference to a study he and Cameron Ogden conducted for Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart has the largest corporate fleet of jets in the world. Peter and Cameron found that Wal-Mart could achieve significant cost savings and productivity gains by introducing the Mustang and similar aircraft into their fleet.

Additionally, the analysis demonstrated that Wal-Mart could expand the number of employees who could travel on the aircraft and save Wal-Mart money. If a company like Wal-Mart who is renowned and revered for its low cost approach to business can benefit from business jets, then other companies must be able to extract these same benefits. This insight demonstrated that companies in Europe who need to move employees between locations could benefit from a low-cost jet service such as Blink.

Press: Air taxis – Room for manoeuvre in taxi model

Blink PR — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:32:57 +0000

Rohit Jaggi writes in the Financial Times Corporate Aviation report on the status of the air taxi model in Europe.

Blink is mentioned:

Farnborough-based Blink, which started operations soon after Bikkair, is still flying. And typically bullish. “Things are going very well for us at the moment,” says Peter Leiman, joint managing director. “There are certainly challenging market conditions. But we’re the right product at the right time.”

Press: IHT – European start-ups take a bet on air taxis

Blink PR — Tue, 12 May 2009 14:33:05 +0000

Press: Conde Naste – Innovation and Design Awards

Blink PR — Fri, 01 May 2009 16:26:11 +0000

Press: CNN Traveller – From the Editor

Blink PR — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:23:55 +0000

Blink exhibits at the Business Travel Show

Blink PR — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:51:06 +0000

Blink recently exhibited for 3 days at the Business Travel Show, held each year in February 2009 at Earl’s Court in London. Our exhibit, as seen in the photos below, highlighted how companies of all sizes can save money on their total cost of travel by incorporating Blink into their travel portfolio.

We spoke with a number of corporate travel managers who were surprised to learn that Blink could save their companies 15-20% on their total cost of travel on certain routes, even when compared to existing solutions which use commercial economy travel.

Press: EBAN – Blink makes important new operation hires

Blink PR — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:36:52 +0000

Press: Flight International – Air Taxi operator Blink optimistic as it adds to fleet

Blink PR — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 19:14:56 +0000

Press: American Express Centurion Magazine – Blink

Blink PR — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:30:55 +0000

Watch Blink on BBC World News

Blink PR — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 09:00:55 +0000

BBC World News features a segment on Blink’s launch during tough economic times.

Press: Price comparison shows how the air taxis fare

Blink PR — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 16:56:23 +0000

Rohit Jaggi investigates how Blink pricing compares to commercial airline options in the Financial Times.

Rohit says:

The Blink fare is close to that for four airline business-class seats – and enables a more efficient day.

Read for yourself:

Press: Volume issue hovers over air taxi start-ups

Blink PR — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 16:19:31 +0000

Rohit Jaggi writes for the Financial Times Global Traveller about Blink.

Scroll down to see the full page article as it appeared in print and online.

Press: Sunday Times – Your Taxi is Waiting

Blink PR — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 19:03:31 +0000

Press: Start-ups seek to cut cost of private jet travel in Europe

Blink PR — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 17:10:34 +0000

Kevin Dome writes about Blink and JetBird’s efforts to cut the cost of private jet travel in Europe. Three different versions of the articles appeared in three consecutive days on FT.com. These three versions are included in the below PDF.

Kevin writes:

Blink had flown its first aircraft for 70 hours last month, said Mr Leiman. “It’s too early to draw any definitive conclusions, but the costs were in line and revenues and utilisation were above the plan,” he said. “We will know a lot more about this business once we have the next few aircraft in service.”

In its best performance to date, it had flown one 11-hour day, with eight separate flights between five countries and six cities, with three different customer groups and a change of crew.

Press: Flight International – Blink hails success of air taxi concept

Blink PR — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:26:16 +0000

Press: NYT – Private jetcards emerge as alternative to ownership

Blink PR — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 19:10:28 +0000

Press: IHT – Flying on private jets with much more ease

Blink PR — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 19:05:23 +0000

Press: Flight Daily News – Mustang sallies forth into Blink air taxi fleet

Blink PR — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:18:11 +0000

Watch Blink on BBC London

Blink PR — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:00:53 +0000

BBC London do a short segment on Blink, showing how business travellers are able to be more productive with Blink.

Watch Blink on CNN World Business

Blink PR — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 09:00:47 +0000

Blink was featured on CNN World Business at the launch of our commercial operations.

CNBC Squawk Box – 12 June 2008

Blink PR — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:00:19 +0000

Blink MD Peter Leiman discusses the launch of Blink’s operations, European air travel, private jets and air taxi on CNBC Squawk Box on Thursday, 12 June 2008.

Press: Forbes – Blink Wings It

Blink PR — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 10:20:56 +0000

Press: The Sunday Times – Private jet sales soar sky high

Blink PR — Sun, 25 May 2008 19:29:58 +0000

Press: First feedback cheers new sector

Blink PR — Tue, 20 May 2008 16:01:16 +0000

Rohit Jaggi writes about Blink in the Financial Times shortly after Blink receives its first plane and the air taxi model is brought to Europe.

Press: EBACE Convention News – Eurocontrol braces for VLJ flood

Blink PR — Tue, 20 May 2008 10:08:27 +0000

Press: Aviation Week Show News – Blink to deploy 45 Mustangs as Air Taxis

Blink PR — Tue, 20 May 2008 09:31:51 +0000

Press: EBAN – Operators work with Eurocontrol on TCAS II issues

Blink PR — Thu, 01 May 2008 19:00:01 +0000

Press: Business Traveller – Light Fantastic

Blink PR — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 18:44:37 +0000

Press: Executive and VIP Aviation – At the forefront

Blink PR — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 10:17:49 +0000

Press: Airliner World – Blink…and you’re there

Blink PR — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 09:08:57 +0000

Press: Airfinance Journal – Business is booming

Blink PR — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 09:03:40 +0000

Press: The Sunday Times – Boom in private jets with safety loophole raises risk of collision

Blink PR — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 18:31:40 +0000

Press: AIN – UK Air Taxi Service Plans Launch

Blink PR — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 19:16:35 +0000

Press: FT – Blink’s founders prepare to fly into competitive world of private jets

Blink PR — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 17:06:35 +0000

Press: FT – Air Taxi Pioneers in £30m funding

Blink PR — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 14:38:21 +0000