The real celebrity was the silver Vista Jet, with its trademark red stripe down the side, sitting beside the stage in the huge hangar. About 500 Bombardier employees, many of whom worked on the jet, were also at the event.Courtesy Michael Verdon
Thomas Flohr, founder and chairman of Vista Jet, was joined by Bombardier CEO Erik Martel, who officially presented the “keys” to the new jet to Meyer. Flohr was clearly emotional with the presentation of the new jet, which has the most recent Vista Jet interior design.in a post-event interview aboard the new Global 7500 that the day had been “overwhelming.” Part of the presentation was an 18-year journey that started with him chartering a Learjet 45 to other clients.
Flohr and Martel, both wearing black turtlenecks, had known each other for 15 years, so there was clearly a bit of a bromance taking place on stage as they described their mutual respect for each other. “Thomas, you challenged us and made us better as an OEM and operator,” said Martel.“You guys are light years ahead of the competition,” Flohr replied.
VistaJet’s “asset light” business model was developed by Flohr so that its members don’t have to own the aircraft, but can step aboard. Its fleet all have the same interior and exterior designs so that members have the sense that they’re on the same aircraft every time they fly. The most recent interior update, reflected in the new Global 7500, includes more muted silver and grey tones, with flecks of bright colors—inspired buy a recent trip that Flohr’s daughter did to Peru.By the end of the event—which included a performance by singer Gabriella Laberge and a video of the milestones in Vista Jet’s history—Flohr was ready to board his jet and take off for Vista Jet’s headquarters in Malta..