After saying the current crop of very light jets would not meet the needs of the fledgling company, Pogo Jet Inc has re-launched an updated web site in preparation for the run up to service, this time using the Eclipse 500 rather than the Adam Aircraft offerings. More than a year ago former AMR Chair Robert Crandall told VLJ Report’s sister publication Regional Aviation News, “We have indeed said that we do not believe either Adam or Eclipse will be consistent with our business plan. However, there are alternative VLJs that will be available, and we have said we believe we will launch service in 2009, which is anything but indefinite."
The Chicoppee, Mass-based company launched its web site www.flypogo.com in the midst of the National Business Aircraft Association convention “as a place for potential customers, partners and industry-watchers to learn more about POGO’s business.” It is also a quest for employees, the first of which would be hired in early 2008. Plans calls for service in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Ohio Valley and Carolinas initially with first revenue flight now scheduled for early 2009.
Industry experts say Pogo prices will beat the normal $4 per kilometer mile ($3 net) for most on-demand jet charters. Pogo is targeting $2 per kilometer hour or $1500 per hour with a contract for 35 hours. Pogo Jet officials could not be reached for comment by press time.