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    In The News

    Eclipse 500 VLJ Arrives at Chicago Executive - A Quest for "Q"

    North American Jet Charter Group has received FAA approval as the first U.S. Part 135 very light jet (VLJ) operator flying an Eclipse-500.

    Operations began in August under the company moniker "Q," for Quintessential Traveler Service, that is offering air limo service at half the traditional charter rate, according to North American Jet.

    "With the operating efficiency of the Eclipse 500, the flexibility and productivity benefits previously available only to company presidents and CEOs are now available to virtually any business traveler", said North American Jet Charter Group President Ken Ross.

    North American Jet claims that up to three travelers will enjoy all the benefits of first-class travel on their Eclipse 500s for about the same rate as a one-way first-class airline ticket.

    The first "Q" charter flight, with Ross as pilot, and Ed Lavigne as copilot, made a round trip flight from Chicago Executive Airport to Baltimore's Martin State Airport, with passengers Ben Klein, CEO of Up Stairs Solutions and company executive Tamar Abell on board. "The four hours total in flying time, getting to my business meeting and back, was perfect. I was surprised how much room we had in back," said Klein. The Eclipse is a tiny jet; I didn't expect it to be so peaceful; I could actually have a conversation with another passenger," Klein went on.

    North American Jet CEO Ross says he would like to double his fleet by year end. "We are looking at other VLJs, too", he said. "Currently, outside of the Eclipse 500 we manage Learjet A35s, a Citation 680 and a King Air F90. We expect to have 10 to 15 Eclipse 500s under management. We are serious about growing our charter fleet, aircraft management, and aircraft acquisition services".