Powerfly introduces ‘timeshare’ concept

Captain G.R.Gopinath ushered in ‘Simplifly’ with the launch of low-cost airline Air Deccan (sold later to Kingfisher Airlines). Now, he has pioneered another venture in the aviation business in India. He introduced the concept of ‘timeshare’ with the launch of Powerfly Vacations in 2011 and one year in its operations, it is making substantial headway.

Powerfly has seven corporate members using the ‘timeshare’ model and it hopes to double the number of members and increase the fleet size from 22 aircraft. Powerfly is a Deccan and Taj Air alliance which gives members/customers access to jets, turboprops and helicopters. It fulfils travel needs with a hassle-free, world class concierge service.

A spokesperson of Powerfly told SP’s ShowNews ‘Through Powerfly the customer has a choice of accessing a range of aircraft from light to large jets, turboprops and helicopters either through on-demand charter or by becoming a premium member. The member also gets discounts on Taj Properties.”

In India due to various regulations, ‘fractional ownership’ of aircraft did not take off, but the concept of ‘timeshare’ has. “We will be adding another three jets this year as there is growing interest and demand.” Powerfly has aircraft bases at Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Delhi, Jammu, Kolkata and Mumbai. The fleet includes Citation CJ2; Hawker 850XP; and Falcon 2000 (all jets); Pilatus PC 12; Kingair B200; and P180 Avanti II (all turboprops) and Bell 206; Bell 407; AS 350 B3; AS 355 F1; and Bell 230 (all helicopters).