Maxjet - All Business Class Airline Flights Ceases Operations
| Maxjet was an all-business class airline that operated various transatlantic services. Started in November 2005, the airline lasted just over 2 years before closing down in December 2007. |
Maxjet flew out of London Stansted and served New York JFK, Washington IAD, Las Vegas LAS and Los Angeles LAX.
Maxjet used refurbished Boeing 767-200's configured with 102 reclining blue leather seats with 60" pitch.
Return fares were at premium economy levels at around £800 / $1,600 but special offers had been as low as £430 / $750.
Criticisms levelled at Maxjet were that due to a lack of spare aircraft, any technical problems resulted in timetable delays and/or cancellations. Also that (now bankrupt) all-business competitors EOS Airlines (also Stansted based) and Silverjet (London Luton) had superior products.
In October 2007 American Airlines also started flying daily to New York from London Stansted which put Maxjet and EOS under greater pressure. In early December 2007 Maxjet shares on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) were suspended pending financial clarification. On December 24th 2007 Maxjet announced they were ceasing operations and all customers would be refunded or re-booked onto alternative carriers.
EOS and Silverjet lasted a few more months and American also dropped their Stansted service by summer 2008.
Whilst London - New York is the world's most lucrative air route, it seems the small all-business model could not survive high oil prices, a credit crunch and significant competition from major airlines. But they did help bring down airfares and prices today remain around the £1,000 - £1,300 level.
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