AB Jets passes ARGUS Platinum Elite audit with zero findings and expands Challenger 3500 fleet

AB Jets has passed a biennial ARGUS safety and operations audit with zero findings, maintaining its Platinum Elite certificate, according to Private Jet Card Comparisons. The charter operator also received its third Bombardier Challenger 3500 in August and has raised insurance liability limits on its super-midsize fleet to $250 million.

Platinum Elite is the highest of three certification levels available to charter jet operators. Qualifying operators must hold a Platinum certificate consecutively with minimal audit findings, and must pass bi-yearly maintenance and operations reviews as well as a biennial company-wide review. Other Platinum Elite holders include Jet Aviation, Jet Linx, and Thrive Aviation.

Safety certification

Dave Hardin, AB Jets Director of Safety and Compliance, said in a press release: "Completing an ARGUS Platinum Audit with zero findings is no small feat." Hardin added: "It took ownership, focused work, and dedication from everyone on the team to make this happen. Every member of this organization should be extremely proud of the role they played in this achievement."

Fleet expansion

AB Jets now has three Bombardier Challenger 3500s on its FAA Part 135 certificate, with the third aircraft becoming certified and ready to fly charter following its August delivery. The operator has orders for two additional Challenger 3500s.

An AB Jets spokesperson told Private Jet Card Comparisons that the fleet expansion and liability increase reflect a shared philosophy: "As we expand, we want to continue investing in areas that strengthen the protections, safety, and confidence we provide." The spokesperson added: "Our fleet expansion has been well received across both the wholesale and retail markets. Operationally its nonstop coast-to-coast capability gives greater mission flexibility for longer-range trips. Passengers appreciate the spacious flat-floor cabin, reliable connectivity, and generous baggage capacity. We're seeing repeat demand for the STARLINK-equipped Challenger 3500s, as the combination of a floating fleet of new aircraft, true connectivity, and AB Jets' premier service has proved compelling."

AB Jets launched a Challenger 3500 jet card earlier this year. The reporting does not disclose pricing for the jet card or the terms of the expansion's impact on existing charter clients.