Airport service leader Menzies Aviation has acquired Flystar Flight Support, and announced the company will form part of a new “VIP” brand for ground support services called Pearl Executive Aviation. 

Montenegran firm Flystar operates ground services for private jets across the Balkan region, with presence at airports in Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania and Croatia. 

Menzies bought a controlling stake in Flystar’s ground services arm in 2022. The full acquisition details were not made public, but Flystar’s senior management will continue in similar roles at Pearl. 

Pearl will focus on a full suite of ground service provision for the private jet sector. 

“The independent brand will offer premium ground handling services for private jets, VIP passengers and crew, providing a seamless and convenient experience at more than 25 locations across the globe. This includes a 24/7 Operations Control Center (OCC), which serves as the heart of Pearl’s operations, managing every aspect of its services including 24/7 trip support and hospitality,” a Menzies statement explained. 

Philipp Joeinig, Group CEO at Menzies Aviation said: “We are proud to announce the acquisition of Flystar, and the launch of our newest brand, Pearl Executive Aviation, which represents a bold step forward in the world of luxury travel. Our vision is to create unforgettable moments for passengers, minimising stress, maximising convenience and offering unparalleled comfort, privacy and personalised services that epitomise the essence of executive aviation.”

Ana Marojević, founder of Flystar and now VP Executive Aviation at Pearl, said: “I’m thrilled to partner with Menzies, and start this new chapter as Pearl Executive Aviation. Menzies is a world-leading aviation services provider with the geographical reach to help put Pearl on a global stage. Together, we are excited to expand our Executive Aviation services, offering passengers the very best premium travel experience.”