Lindsey Helmick
2-2 Final Project Milestone One: Wheels Up, Company Overview
MGT-320 Business Sustainability
Dr. Carmen Jones
January 12, 2023
History of Wheels Up
Wheels Up is a private aviation company that was founded in 2013 by Kenny Dichter. They offer a membership as well as on-demand services. While their office is in New York City, New York, the company owns, leases, and manages over 1,500 aircrafts across the United States. Over the years they have acquired or formed partnerships with several other aviation companies leading them to the number two spot on the private aircraft operator list in the U.S. In April 2022, Wheels Up increased their foothold on the market, by expanding internationally, when they completed their acquisition of a UK-based aviation provider by the name of Air Partner. This acquisition added aircrafts in 18 locations across four continents (Wikipedia, 2023).
The Wheels Up mission statement is as follows; "Driven by innovation and guided by the highest standards for safety, service, and operational excellence, Wheels Up is on a mission to transform the industry, bringing private flying and the private-flying lifestyle to the world." (Wheels Up n.d.). The company stays true to their mission by offering their clients several top-notch aircraft options to suit their needs. Additionally, they value the safety of their passengers as well as their staff, as every flight has two pilots who are required to possess current FAA Airline Transport Pilot and First-Class Medical Certificates. They must also be a FAA Pilot-In-Command Type- Rated for the aircraft they fly and have recurring training every six months.
Wheels Up has found their niche in the aviation market by placing their focus on non-hub markets that commercial airline are unable to service effectively. While they offer "on-demand' services, they also offer two different memberships (Connect or Core) for those who like to fly private frequently, which provide additional benefits such as concierge services, account management, and lifestyle benefits. Furthermore, they have launched an app that allows clients, existing and potential, to download their app, select the jet for their needs, obtain real time pricing and book (Wheels Up, n.d.). Providing a quick and painless way for someone to schedule their private charter.
Issues or Themes
I have opted to perform a PEST Analysis on Wheels Up and it is as follows:
Explanation of how the Short Description Issue/Theme has impacted of Theme the corporations Management Strategy Potential of political conflict, Due to their industry and domestic or international, that being a U.S. company that may affect the finances or adheres to FAA guidelines, operations of a business. there are minimal geopolitical risks outside of another pandemic happening.
Issue/Theme
Geopolitical
Historical
History of the business from its inception to present.
Since its launch, the business has seen steady growth. They have continued to build brand awareness and loyalty. The acquisitions and partnerships formed have proved beneficial, making it possible for the company to go public. Looks at the financial, Travel has returned to normal organizational, environmental