It’s been a year since Matt Feldon returned to Smart Aviation in the newly created role of Head of Charter. Over the past 12 months, he has introduced a range of new processes and procedures, expanded the charter team with three new hires, and invested in strengthening its structure. His leadership has also driven a significant increase in enquiries and bookings across the company’s key focus areas.
We sat down with Matt and asked him some questions about his first year back at Smart and delve into some of the most memorable moments in his career:
- How has your first year back at Smart been?
They always say “you should never go back to your ex”. Well that is certainly true in some cases, but not in this case. Returning to where it all began as an 18-year-old Trainee Charter Broker and now, at 30, leading the company into a new chapter is a moment of real pride for me. It’s a big responsibility, and one I approach with real care — always making sure that our people and our clients remain at the heart of everything we do. Coming back at a pivotal time, as Smart celebrates our 20th anniversary this year, has only made my return all that more exciting as we look to build on the solid foundations built by Mark and the team. New staff, investment in the infrastructure, as well as a clear vision of where we want to go and how we want to get there, makes this a journey the industry won’t want to miss – the only way is forward.
- What is the most memorable charter of your career so far?
There’s a lot of glitz and glamour in the industry and I have been lucky enough to work with some of the most famous celebrities in the world – from superstar footballers to world-renowned music artists. My most memorable charter would have to be the first ever booking I made. I sourced a Diamond 42 turboprop aircraft from Shoreham to Glasgow Prestwick for an elderly passenger, an ex-RAF pilot, battling terminal cancer, who wanted to go back to Glasgow to see his family one last time. There were a lot of important considerations with this booking, such as the oxygen tank he had to fly with. The outbound journey went smoothly but the return flight was impacted by adverse weather. I advised that the flight would be delayed until the next day and to my surprise, the family and the client were all delighted they had one more evening together. This booking has the simplest of goals, for the client to see his family and say goodbye, but it meant the most. It’s funny to look back on this booking 11 years later and recall the client paying by cheque and all the documentation being sent in the post. Things have certainly changed a lot since then. This charter was meaningful on many levels and is one booking I won’t ever forget.
- What’s your favourite aircraft and why?
My favourite private jet has to be the Global 7500. It is a beast of the skies, capable of transatlantic, non-stop trips from one side of the globe to the other. Equipped with the most up-to-date avionics and luxurious interiors, along with one of the widest cabins in its class.
- What would your dream PJ personal trip look like?
So flying on my favourite aircraft, the Global 7500, my dream PJ trip would be travelling back to Mauritius, which is one of my favourite places in the world. I’d travel with my partner (as it was our first trip abroad together), our baby boy due in November and of course, how could we forget Alma the office dog. It’s either that or flying to see my football team, Tottenham Hotspur compete in a Champions League final, travelling in style to (hopefully) see us win ANOTHER European trophy.
- What was your most fun charter?
I once flew with a Premier League team to Amsterdam for their Christmas party. I chartered a turboprop aircraft (Fokker 50) for 20-25 players. I travelled with the team, stayed overnight with them and then flew with them back, ready for the second half of the Premier League season.
- How would you describe your leadership style?
I like to think I lead by example, I’m a team player and I roll my sleeves up everyday and get stuck in. I am supportive and I am here to encourage the team, whilst also keeping them grounded. I want to push myself and the team to achieve great things and if I say, or we say as a team we’re going to do something, we don’t “half ass” it. We go all in, no fear and get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
- One piece for anyone looking to enter the industry as a broker?
Be prepared for late nights, early mornings and everything in between. It’s hard work, with plenty of competition nowadays. It’s important to remember that people buy from people and like to do business with people they like. Personality is key, as that’s what will separate you from everyone else in the market. Retaining business is just as important as new business – “you’re only as good as your last flight”.
For all aircraft charter enquiries, contact us via sales@smart-aviation.co.uk or call +441293 551244
