Whether you are looking to deliver oversized, hazardous, or highly urgent goods, our cargo charter specialists offer quick solutions for major industries worldwide. We ensure reliable cargo transport with direct support for your time-sensitive and complex logistics. Meet the Air Partner team who go above and beyond to deliver the best service possible to our clients.
In this edition of ‘On the Ramp’, we are excited to introduce Andrew Holmes, Vice President of Cargo US at Air Partner. Andrew brings over two decades of experience in private aviation cargo, having joined Air Partner in 2021. His understanding of various industries—from automotive and humanitarian aid to oil and gas and pharmaceuticals—makes him an invaluable asset to our team.
Learn about Andrew’s role, the evolving landscape of cargo charter services, and his invaluable advice for companies and individuals exploring chartering cargo aircraft.
Can you tell us about your role on Air Partner’s Cargo global team?
As the Vice President of Cargo for the US, my main responsibility is to collaborate with upper management in order to develop a strong and robust cargo service offering. This entails providing assistance to various departments within our group and ensuring the efficient operation of the general cargo and time-critical departments. Furthermore, I regularly engage in client networking, offer customized proposals with competitive cargo charter quotes, issue contacts, and oversee the organization of closely monitoring and reporting on active cargo charter flights. The beauty of the job is that every day is different, and every delivery is unique.
What key industries do you serve?
Why did you choose a career in aviation?
Aviation has a global reach, not just in terms of geography but also in terms of business and commerce. One's actions can have a significant impact on many. For example, in the case of air charters, an automotive flight carrying spare parts can prevent factory closures and the furloughing of thousands of staff. In humanitarian aid flights, playing a key role in transporting aid to disaster areas can be lifesaving.
How long have you worked in private aviation?
I have worked in the private aviation cargo industry for 24 years and I remember my first charter flight as if it were yesterday, even though it was over twenty years ago. I chartered a Jetstream 31 to carry passengers for a demonstration in London. The flight was a same-day return from Edinburgh to Luton.
What is the real strength of Air Partner?
I often get asked this question, and it's a great one. Since I joined Air Partner in 2021, there have been obvious benefits of speed, knowledge, and expertise, but there's more to it. Our strength comes from our employees and how we interact with our clients and suppliers. As a global team, we strive to achieve what others cannot, and we always stand proud, knowing that we always put the client first every day.
What do you enjoy most about working in aircraft charter?
There are too many reasons to explain them all. Quite simply, I enjoy working with our clients, who feel more like close friends. I enjoy trying to source and find the right option or negotiate the right deal and ultimately providing valuable solutions. I also relish using new airlines, working with longtime business colleagues, flying to new places, and especially getting the call to book an aircraft.
During your time spent working in aviation, what changes have you seen within Air Partner?
In the last few years with Air Partner, I've witnessed significant positive changes. Our organization has evolved to become more dynamic and focused, catering to various markets, such as the domestic automotive industry.
Additionally, with the expansion of Air Partner Cargo and the successful launch of new verticals, such as our On Board Courier service, which was launched rather successfully earlier this year, our outlook is very promising.
What is your philosophy for delivering exceptional service to your customers? And as a department leader, how do you pass this on?
Consistently delivering exceptional service is essential, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining our existing client relationships and building new ones, establishing market credibility, and fostering year-on-year growth.
Regardless of their specific requirements, every client should have a positive experience when they charter an aircraft with Air Partner. Customer satisfaction is fundamental for us.
Tell us about a time-critical cargo charter operation you were involved with.
In my initial charter with Air Partner, I organized a couple of "go now" automotive charters in Mexico due to a line-down situation. We utilized a small, twin-engine turboprop aircraft known as a Metroliner for these missions, flying from Greenville, SC, to Saltillo, Mexico. These cargo charter operations went quite smoothly, and I attribute that to our capability to deliver quick solutions.
What is your most memorable/and or challenging charter moment to date?
I have many wonderful memories of the flights I've conducted throughout my career. These include transporting vaccines worldwide, handling large oil and gas projects in Africa, serving the fast-paced automotive market, and engaging in long-term projects. Some truly memorable charters include flights to remote locations such as Station Nord in Greenland, Bhutan, Honiara, and Vanuatu. Additionally, I've been involved in major projects lasting over 18 months and have conducted humanitarian aid flights to offer assistance to those in need.
What specific advice do you have for companies looking to charter
aircraft?
My advice will always be: don't be shy. I invite you to explore Air Partner and the range of services we can provide in addition to our Cargo services. Feel free to reach out to us today, and we will be happy to offer advice, a charter quote, or simply guidance for your future cargo project requirements. Having a reliable point of contact for your cargo transport needs saves time, reduces stress, and brings a sense of peace and calm to what could otherwise be a stressful situation.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to charter an aircraft for the first time?
Ask us as many questions as you like. Chartering an aircraft can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. At Air Partner, we stand with you every step of the way. We have the expertise and knowledge to provide a truly world-class and memorable service.
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