James Gregory, from our full charter team, has 8 years worth of aviation knowledge specialising in private jet charter.

After kick starting his career with a major charter broker, James talks about how working for Smart makes him no less knowledgeable as a broker.

What does a typical day look like for you?

To begin my day, I like to update myself on world events and aviation news. Aviation changes overnight so I ensure I am up to speed to react accordingly. I deal with new enquiries personally by responding and keep clients / suppliers up to date with their requests from the very beginning. I believe in keeping an open and honest relationship with clients. Using industry leading flight watching software I monitor live flights and share these updates. Its important to maintain an ongoing relationship with both clients and suppliers, so I ensure regular contact is made either by email, phone or even a face to face catch up.

What do you love about working in Aviation?

No two days are the same when working in aviation. One minute I could be working on my daily tasks and the next assisting on a last-minute request. I enjoy the variation in this field. I get to speak to and visit people in various time zones, cultures and nationalities. My most enjoyable trip has been visiting clients and operators in LA but equally I got to visit this phenomenal destination. My interest for aviation goes back to seeing my grandad selling aircraft spares out of the Beehive at London Gatwick Airport.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

There can be instant diversions in aviation. It could be caused by natural disaster, technical issues, unexpected disruption, slot delays or even lack of parking slots at top destinations in Europe. Each situation has its own protocol which again reiterates the importance of an open and honest relationship with all clients and suppliers.

What one item do you rely on most to do your job?

I have worked in aviation for 8 years and my knowledge of this industry is something I will always be able to rely on. I am always available for my clients and suppliers 24/7. Smart Aviation may be smaller than our competitors but no less knowledgeable. The trust we build with our clients to provide a specialist service guarantees repeat business.

What do you do when you are not working?

In my spare time I enjoy socialising with friends and catching up on sporting activities. There’s often a competitive atmosphere in the office as we all support different football teams. My holidays are generally pretty active too. I enjoy skiing and water sports.

Where would you be working if you hadn’t chosen aviation?

I most definitely would have been doing something related to cars. I’m a big petrol head and love all things cars. I’m an extremely active person and like to keep busy. To teach others an energetic sport like skiing would be extremely rewarding.

Contact James with your private jet request on: sales@smart-aviation.co.uk or call: +44(0)1293 551244

Connect with James Gregory on LinkedIn