Steve Hartley, executive director of private aviation specialist Empire Aviation Group, talks to Jayne Alverca (Business Excellence Magazine)

Steve Hartley, executive director of private aviation specialist Empire Aviation Group, talks to Jayne Alverca (Business Excellence Magazine) about the company`s approach to maximizing asset value and the flight experience in the Middle East and beyond. Based in Dubai, Empire Aviation Group stands apart as the operator and manager of the Middle East`s largest fleet of corporate and private jets. As well as aircraft sales, the company provides aircraft charter and management services with a focus on high quality luxury and corporate travel throughout the Middle East and the rest of the world. Executive director Steve Hartley is very clear about the company`s mission. “The purchase of an aircraft, whether for private or corporate purposes, represents a very significant investment. Our entire operation is geared towards managing and maximizing the value of that asset on behalf of our clients in the most professional and efficient way possible,” he states. Managing the aircraft asset properly ensures that its value is protected, leveraged and maintained during the years of ownership. “Historically, aircraft have either maintained their original purchase price or in some cases even appreciated in value but without the effective management we provide, this would not be the case. We can also help customers to charter their aircraft and so offset some of the costs of ownership,” he explains.