Bemidji Aviation Gets New Charter Jet

Business in Bemidji is taking off. The new citation jet is Bemidji Aviation’s first pure jet that’s available for charter. Bemidji Aviation has offered charter services before with other aircrafts, but this is the first plane that doesn’t have propellers on it. Bemidji Aviation Vice President Paul Shough said, “Previously we had been flying and operating turbo-operated aircraft, and now we are getting into the jet era finally.”

The jet, which fits two to five passengers, is targeted to give business people in Bemidji a chance to streamline travel at just over 400 miles an hour. Shough said, “You can get it going early in the morning. You can get your business done. You can spend 5 or 6 hours there and be back in time to watch your favorite show at home.”

A trip on the new jet will cost around $1,800 an hour, but the trip price can vary based on altitude and distance. “It’s not like something you’re going to get on if you buy tickets,” said Shough. “It’s not like a Delta jet or anything like that. It’s a business jet.”

And Bemidji Aviation says that having this business jet is proof that the local economy is growing. The new jet will allow business owners to conduct business out of town in a timely manner. Shough said, “With all the money in the Baakan and the economy in Bemidji and the surrounding area…there’s a lot more money around, and the local business people need to move around.” So, that hopefully the local economy and Bemidji Aviation can keep moving skyward.