Breeze is adding two Learjet 45 business jets to its fleet, but they will not be used by commercial passengers.
Breeze founder and CEO David Neeleman told Aviation Week that the airline will use the two aircraft to transport crew members, technicians, and parts. By flying technicians directly to problem aircraft, the company can reduce downtime and improve overall efficiency and reliability, he said.
The jets will be based at the low-cost carrier’s maintenance center in Charleston, South Carolina. They are expected to enter service in February.
According to Aviation Week, Breeze has so far hired five pilots for the aircraft, and expects to increase that number to eight. They will begin training next month.
The pilots are being given seniority numbers, Neeleman noted, which has helped the carrier attract more experienced applicants.
Breeze’s current fleet consists of Airbus A220s and Embraer E190s.
