The airline Amelia Executive, a new star in the sky of executive and medical charter air traffic, has reached an important milestone. On July 28, 2025, the company received the Austria Control the official Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and the Operating License (OL).
This move allows Amelia Executive to expand its operations and operate its own fleet of aircraft under the Austrian flag. The addition of a nearly 20-year-old Learjet 45 (OE-GRD) into the fleet marks the first step in this new era. While the airline has been operating with a virtual operator model since June, it is now planning to transfer a specially configured Airbus A319 to the new AOC. This strategic move positions Amelia Executive as a serious player in a growing market segment.
A new starting point: The Austrian AOC as a strategic basis
Obtaining the Austrian Air Operator Certificate (AOC) is of key importance for Amelia Executive. Until now, the airline operated as a so-called "virtual operator," meaning it offered aircraft that flew under the AOC of another airline. In this case, it was the Slovenian Amelia InternationalWith its own AOC, Amelia Executive is now a fully-fledged airline that can operate aircraft under its own responsibility.
This step is not only an administrative one, but also a strategic one. A dedicated AOC allows for greater flexibility in fleet planning and utilization, more direct control over operating standards, and stronger branding. The responsible manager Thomas Dannoville confirmed that the airline now has full control over its operations.
The first aircraft type to be registered under the new Austrian AOC is an almost 20-year-old Learjet 45 with the registration OE-GRD. This jet, which previously flew under French registration (F-HACP) and was operated under the Slovenian AOC of Amelia International, is at the airport St. Denis de la Réunion It is primarily used for medical evacuation flights and exclusive charter flights. The airline's specialization in these niche markets, where demand for fast and reliable transport solutions is particularly high, reflects its strategic orientation.
The fleet is growing: From virtual operation to its own airline
Amelia Executive began commercial operations on June 8, 2025, as a virtual operator. The first aircraft type used was a 21-year-old Airbus A319-100 with the registration F-HDRA. This aircraft is equipped with 60 seats in a special VIP configuration. The airline used the aircraft for exclusive charter flights, testing its business model before taking the step to become an independent airline.
Amelia Executive's management has already announced further expansion plans. "We plan to transfer the VIP Airbus to Amelia Executive's AOC in the fall," said Dannoville. This move would further expand the fleet under the Austrian flag and significantly strengthen the airline's capabilities in the VIP charter segment. An A319 with a VIP configuration is a sought-after aircraft for governments, sports teams, or companies that require greater capacity and comfort than a business jet.
The company belongs to the French Regourd Aviation Group, a group that, through its subsidiaries, offers a wide range of air services, from scheduled flights to maintenance services and charter flights. With the establishment of Amelia Executive and the securing of the Austrian AOC, the group's portfolio is expanded to include a specialized executive charter division.
A growing market: executive and medical charter flights
The market for executive and medical charter flights has grown significantly in recent years, especially since the global pandemic. Demand for flexible and private flight solutions has increased, as many business travelers and individuals seek to avoid the complexity and risks of scheduled air travel. Medical evacuation flights, which require the rapid and safe transfer of patients, are also a lucrative and important segment.
Amelia Executive's decision to position itself in this market is strategically prudent. By incorporating aircraft such as the Learjet 45, a popular aircraft for short- and medium-haul charter flights, and the VIP-configured Airbus A319, the company can serve a wide range of customer needs. Locating the Learjet 45 on Réunion Island is also a strategic decision, as it allows for efficient service to the African and Indian Ocean regions.
With the Austrian AOC, Amelia Executive has now laid the necessary foundation to implement its expansion plans. Launching its own operations is a sign of confidence in its strategy and its ability to succeed in a competitive market segment. The coming months will show how quickly the airline can expand its fleet and expand its market position.