Swiss-owned TAG Aviation Holding S.A. has sold its U.S. aircraft management unit, TAG Aviation USA, to U.S.-based Sentient Flight Group LLC in the aftermath of the closure of AMI Jet Charter by the FAA for what the agency claimed were muddy ownership and management arrangements for aircraft used by AMI. According to a joint news release, the deal should allow AMI to start operating again. “The deal will provide TAG USA with a favorable solution to an operational control matter regarding operating authority of its affiliated certificate holder, AMI Jet Charter – which is largely related to TAG USA’s foreign ownership by Swiss-based TAG Aviation Holding,” the release said.
AMI is one of the U.S.’s largest and most respected jet charter services and the suspension of its operating certificate surprised and alarmed many in the industry. However, business is business and Sentient CEO Steve Hankin said the resulting company hopes to serve the customers and owners event better by drawing on TAG personnel’s experience. “[TAG Aviation Holding USA CEO]Jake [Cartwright] and I are confident that the combined resources of our two companies offer the best solution for owners to move forward quickly,” he said. “Together, we will truly deliver the best aircraft management program in the industry for both current and future owners.”
