Fly Alliance Expands Fleet As Jackson Jet Center Grows

On January 9, 2026, the U.S. business aviation sector saw a pair of significant developments, each reflecting the industry’s ongoing evolution and fierce competition. Fly Alliance, a top-20 operator in fractional and charter flight hours, announced the addition of a managed Citation CJ4 Gen 2 to its fleet, marking the company’s first foray into the light jet category. Meanwhile, Jackson Jet Center, a prominent provider of aviation services in the western United States, expanded its footprint by acquiring Reeder Jet Center, a longtime fixture at Idaho’s Magic Valley Regional Airport, bringing its total number of Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) to three.

Fly Alliance’s latest move signals a strategic shift and an effort to diversify its offerings. According to industry reports, the Citation CJ4 Gen 2, now available for both ad hoc charter flights and jet card members, is the first light jet to join the company’s previously large-cabin-focused fleet. President Christopher Tasca explained that while the operator has made its name with large-cabin jets, the addition of the CJ4 Gen 2 is designed to meet growing demand for more flexible and cost-effective travel options. "We have added five managed aircraft over the past two months," Tasca said, underscoring the company’s rapid expansion.

Prior to the arrival of the CJ4 Gen 2, Fly Alliance’s recent fleet enhancements included some heavy hitters: a Gulfstream 450, a Gulfstream 550, and a Falcon 2000. These aircraft are known for their range, comfort, and ability to serve cross-country and international routes. The company has also added CRJ 145s, which are particularly suited for transporting motorsports teams and college athletic groups—two client segments that have become increasingly important in the world of private aviation.

What sets Fly Alliance apart in a crowded market is its jet card program, which offers guaranteed availability across all aircraft categories. For frequent flyers, this means peace of mind, as they can count on access to an aircraft that fits their needs, whether it’s a nimble light jet for a quick business trip or a spacious large-cabin jet for international travel. The company also offers fractional ownership, giving clients a chance to buy a share of an aircraft and enjoy the benefits of private jet travel without the full costs and responsibilities of outright ownership.

"Our focus on large-cabin jets will continue," Tasca emphasized, suggesting that while the CJ4 Gen 2 opens new doors, the company’s core clientele still values the space and amenities of bigger aircraft. However, the move into the light jet segment is a clear sign that Fly Alliance is listening to market signals and aiming to serve a broader range of travelers. The Citation CJ4 Gen 2 is known for its efficiency, speed, and ability to access smaller airports—qualities that appeal to both business and leisure travelers who value time and flexibility.

On the same day, another noteworthy transaction took place in Idaho. Jackson Jet Center, already a well-known name in the region, completed its acquisition of Reeder Jet Center, a staple at Magic Valley Regional Airport. This purchase brings Jackson Jet Center’s network of Fixed Base Operators to three, all located in the western United States. The move is seen as part of a broader trend in the aviation industry: consolidation and expansion of service networks to better serve a mobile and demanding clientele.

Reeder Jet Center has long been recognized as a reliable service provider, offering fueling, hangar space, maintenance, and passenger amenities to both private and commercial operators. With the acquisition, Jackson Jet Center gains not only new facilities but also a loyal customer base and a foothold in a strategic location. Magic Valley Regional Airport serves as a gateway to southern Idaho, an area that has seen growth in both business and recreational travel in recent years.

"With this acquisition, Jackson Jet Center now operates three Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) in the western United States," the company confirmed. The expansion is expected to enhance service offerings for travelers and aircraft operators alike, providing more options for refueling, ground handling, and customer support. In a region where distances are vast and airports can be few and far between, having a reliable network of FBOs is a major advantage for both operators and their clients.

The timing of these developments is no coincidence. The business aviation industry, having weathered the turbulence of the pandemic years, is now experiencing renewed demand. Companies and individuals alike are turning to private aviation for its flexibility, privacy, and efficiency—attributes that commercial airlines sometimes struggle to match. Operators like Fly Alliance and Jackson Jet Center are responding by investing in their fleets, expanding their service offerings, and positioning themselves to capture a larger share of the market.

The addition of the Citation CJ4 Gen 2 to Fly Alliance’s fleet is particularly noteworthy for what it represents: a willingness to adapt and innovate in response to shifting customer preferences. Light jets like the CJ4 Gen 2 are ideal for short- to medium-haul trips, offering lower operating costs and the ability to access airports that might be off-limits to larger aircraft. For business travelers looking to maximize their time or families seeking a quick getaway, these jets offer a compelling alternative to both commercial flights and larger private jets.

Meanwhile, Jackson Jet Center’s acquisition of Reeder Jet Center demonstrates the importance of scale and network reach in today’s aviation landscape. By operating multiple FBOs, the company can offer consistent service standards, better pricing, and a wider range of amenities to its clients. For pilots and operators, knowing that they can expect the same level of support at multiple locations is a significant benefit—one that can influence their choice of where to land and refuel.

Both companies are betting that these investments will pay off as the private aviation market continues to grow. With more people discovering the convenience and comfort of private flight, and with businesses seeking new ways to keep their teams mobile and productive, the demand for charter flights, jet cards, and quality FBO services is expected to remain strong.

In a sector where reputation and reliability are everything, the moves by Fly Alliance and Jackson Jet Center highlight the ongoing race to offer better, broader, and more flexible services. Whether it’s adding a sleek new light jet to the fleet or expanding a network of service centers, these companies are positioning themselves for a future where private aviation is more accessible—and more essential—than ever.

As the industry continues to evolve, travelers and operators alike will be watching closely to see which companies rise to the challenge and set new standards for service and innovation.