Charter Spotlight: Skybird Aviation

Air Charter Guide recently spoke with Raquel Cabrera of Skybird Aviation, a worldwide-destination charter operator based in Van Nuys, CA.

1) What sets your operation apart from the competition?  
Skybird Aviation has been offering Gulfstream aircraft for charter since 1983.  We are the definition of a boutique charter company. Currently a single aircraft operator with dedicated full time personnel, customers get very personalized and highly specialized service on G650 flying.  

2) How would you describe your flagship aircraft?  
Gulfstream G650: Large Cabin, Ultra Long Range, Equipped with Ka-band Wi-Fi. Custom Cabin Soundproofing.    

3) What does the future look like for your company? 
We have put together a new team of experienced aviators at Skybird, from DO, Chief Pilot, and New Director of Maintenance. We are excited to be working with them.   

4) How did you get into aviation? 
I got my start in Business Aviation right after high school working a summer job at an FBO at Burbank Airport,  I was doing Customer Service/Line Service while attending community college.  

5) What is your most popular itinerary/destination?
During 2022 Winter/Spring, we did Mexico and Eastern Caribbean destinations. This summer it was mostly all Europe, particularly Italy & France.

6) Do you have any fun stories to share?
The extraordinary speed and range of the 650 give our customers maximum flexibility when arranging their work and personal schedules. 

One of our earliest trips in the 650 had a customer moving around multiple destinations in South America for his work. The work schedule paused with a five day break in Argentina, during which time the customer requested a quick personal side trip to Tennessee! For most airplanes, Tennessee is not a 'side trip' that can be accommodated non-stop from Argentina at short notice with two pilots. But with an airplane like the 650 at your disposal, it becomes no issue.

7) What is your #1 travel tip for charter travelers?
Book early!

8) Contact info:
SKYBIRD AVIATION, INC.
7401 VALJEAN AVE.
VAN NUYS, CA, United States
Tel: 818-988-7210
Fax: 818-988-4086
Email: info@skybirdaviation.com
http://www.skybirdaviation.com