After operating in the sector for twenty years, Delta Air Lines (DL, Atlanta Hartsfield Jackson) is getting out of the business jet market, selling its struggling Delta Private Jets (Cincinnati International) operation to Wheels Up (WUP, Teterboro) for an undisclosed figure. According to a press release issued by the airline, the transaction is expected to close early next year.

The US carrier will retain an equity stake in Wheels Up, which will boast a fleet of more than 190 private aircraft - one of the world's largest owned and managed fleets - and over 8,000 members and customers. Wheels Up Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kenny Dichter will continue leading the combined company, which is based in New York.

Delta first entered into this market segment in 1999, when it acquired Comair (United States of America) (Cincinnati International), the former regional airline that began the aircraft charter business in the 1980s. The business was only ever "marginally profitable" according to Bastian, and had never grown as it was originally intended.

“This groundbreaking partnership will democratize private aviation – making the convenience of private jet travel accessible to more consumers,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “Wheels Up’s lifestyle experiences and innovative digital platform, combined with the scale and service of Delta Private Jets, helps further Delta’s mission of connecting people and communities worldwide through travel. This agreement is the latest step in Delta’s ongoing effort to build partnerships that extend Delta’s brand beyond its core business.”

Delta Private Jets operates a Fixed Base Operation (FBO), the Delta Jet Center, at Cincinnati International, as well as Tech Service Centers located also in Cincinnati and in Fort Lauderdale International, which provide comprehensive Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.