51 North, a nine year-old private jet management company, based at Farnborough Airport, has acquired long established management and charter operator Executive Aviation Services, ushering in a new era for the two family-run and managed businesses. This move brings together the worldwide and AOC expertise of the two companies.

The partnership coincides with EAS’s 21st anniversary later this month and comes ahead of an imminent new fleet addition, adding to the existing fleet which ranges from a Gulfstream G550 to Citation Bravos and an Airbus Helicopters’ EC155B. 

“EAS will now be part of the 51 North Group and the immediate objective is to work together to manage more aircraft through our now strengthened team and look at more operator acquisitions in the sector,” said 51 North Group Managing Director Kirsty Murphy.   

When the 51 North Group and EAS initiated partnership talks (at the Aviation Supper Club held at the Royal Air Force Club, London) in January this year, it was evident the two businesses shared the same values and cultures.  Both are committed to providing personal, bespoke service for their clients and working closely as a team. The new partnership naturally creates a seamless stepping-stone to aircraft management opportunities throughout the group.

“Our management strengths are complementary and importantly, there are no duplication of job roles.  The 51 North Group now employs about 20 people and this is expected to increase as we expand in the future,” added Murphy.

Chairman and founder of EAS, Peter Turner, will continue to be involved in the combined business and serve as a 51 North Group Board Director.  He will also continue to be Chairman and Accountable Manager of EAS, responsible for the group charter activity. His daughter Kirstie Turner will remain as Ground Operations Manager, while son James continues as flight crew on the Citation Bravos and also FBO manager.

Day to day management will be led by 51 North Group/EAS Managing Director Kirsty Murphy who moved into business aviation from the RAF 15 years ago.  She reports to co-founder of 51 North Group and Chairman, Neil Cochrane.  Neil’s daughter, Lorna Carroll, will head up marketing for the combined group.

“I am delighted to have joined forces with 51 North.  With this group we have certainly found the right team to take the business to a new level and from a sound financial platform.  I look forward to continuing as the Chairman of EAS and especially assisting with the new aircraft arrivals and acquisitions,” said Turner.

“The corporate jet industry has become very fragmented and the only way forward is the consolidation of compatible companies. We have been looking to make the right acquisition for some time and together with the EAS team we are looking forward to some exciting developments ahead,” said 51 North Group Chairman Neil Cochrane.

51 North and EAS will celebrate their partnership at Gloucestershire Airport on September 28 evening, when EAS marks its 21st birthday.