Fractional GA Providers Join Forces

"We want to ensure that as our segment of the industry grows, that customers are protected," said David Lee, president of AirShares Elite, as he announced the formation of a new industry group, called the Professionally Managed Aircraft Association, at AirVenture on Wednesday. "We want to establish optimal, not minimal, standards for safety and customer service." Lee has joined with Jeff Cullen of PlaneSmart! Aviation and Andrew DeMond of iFly to create the new association. All three provide fractional ownership of technically advanced aircraft. "We're all competitors," said Lee, "but we are joining together to establish a code of conduct, education and consumer advocacy. We also are reaching out to aircraft manufacturers." Their companies make aircraft ownership available to many more pilots, Lee said, and provide a key component in the growth of the GA industry overall. All are welcome to apply to join the association, he said.

A new Web site for the group , which will provide resources and info for consumers, is expected to launch in a few weeks, Lee said.