La Compagnie’s Milano-New York is one year old, and CEO Christian Vernet explains the reasons behind the airline’s success.
High performance levels and an agile and flexible structure
Exactly one year from the launch of the New York-Milan Malpensa route on 15 April last year, not only is La Compagnie posting high levels of performance, but the 100% smart business class project has all the makings of a winning bet. Its business model is rooted in an “agile and flexible” structure that uses modern and efficient aircraft, and is capable of intercepting not only business customers but also a good slice of the leisure market. 
CEO Christian Vernet outlines trends, fleet expansion and new transatlantic routes
"The first year of operations on the New York-Milan route was very successful, with a total of 14,382 passengers. The summer of 2022 proved to be the peak period in terms of demand and traffic, particularly June, July and Augus, when we achieved a load factor of 77%. This figure demonstrates the continued appeal not only of the destination, but also of our exclusive on-board service, excellent culinary offerings and numerous benefits. Our innovative business model has been welcomed with interest by the Italian market, both by leisure and business travellers."
What does the summer operating schedule look like? With what increase in capacity?
"The summer is recording a significant number of bookings, with the months from June to September looking as good as 2022, if not better. For the summer, we will have between four and five flights a week, as we also have two or three weekly flights from Nice to New York from 15 April to 27 September, and a daily connection from Paris. The 2023 aim is to increase traffic by 20% globally.”
You have ordered two new aircraft. When are they expected, and on which routes will they be deployed? Are you thinking of new routes from Europe?
"They are scheduled to enter the fleet between February 2025 and 2026. With the first aircraft we aim to capitalize on the excellent results of summer 2022, and consolidate our presence on existing routes with an increased frequency for summer 2025. The second aircraft will allow us to develop the network by opening new routes in 2026. In addition, we want to maintain a charter business in which our aircraft meet not only the demands of a demanding clientele on long-haul routes but actually exceed expectations. We will continue to study market trends and eventually determine on which routes it will be more strategic to invest in the coming years."
Transatlantic routes to New York are crowded, to say the least...
"The exclusive all-business class cabin, with a very personal touch and at more attractive fares than the competition, is proving to be a recipe for success. With only 76 seats on board the A321neo is designed to offer more space and comfort, so our passengers arrive at their destination relaxed and rested, which is especially important for business travellers who need every possible comfort, including powerful and stable 100% free wifi connectivity on board. The secret is still our agility with a smaller structure, optimized aircraft rotation and the reduced fuel consumption of the A321neo, which is up to 30% less than other aircraft on the same route.” (source: Google Flights)
