Check out our interview with CEO & Co-founder of Latin America’s fastest growing Business Aviation company Fly Business Elliot Ross Surgenor.
Follow Elliot & Fly Business @flybusinessaviation @elliotrosss
Hi Elliot, please tell us a little about you?
I was born in the South Coast of Spain and come from a British and Mexican background.
My passion for travel started at a very young age and propelled me into the industry. I’m very happy to be in the industry. I’m a father of two baby boys, a husband, a business owner, and an entrepreneur.
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Ambitious, confident, and passionate.
We would love to know more about your career journey. How did you get your start into the high-end private travel business?
In 2015 I was invited via Linkedin to work for a large business aviation company. Right
away I was very eager to succeed. With time I noticed certain gaps in the industry that were neglected and could be taken advantage of. It was very tough at the beginning, but
eventually I realized that my passion for aviation and entrepreneurial spirit could be combined to create something truly unique in the industry. That’s when I decided to start my own company, Fly Business, in 2018.
What is different from Fly Business to other ones in a very competitive market?
At Fly Business, we differentiate ourselves from our competitors in several key ways.
Firstly, we place a strong emphasis on personalized service and attention to detail. Every client is unique and deserves a tailor-made experience that meets their specific needs and preferences. Our team takes the time to get to know our clients and passengers in order to provide the highest level of service possible.
Secondly, we offer a range of luxury amenities and extra services that go above and beyond what is typically provided by other private aviation companies. From customized catering and onboard entertainment, to concierge services and ground transportation, we strive to make every aspect of our clients’ travel experiences as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
How many aircrafts do you have?
4
On your way to how many?
6 within the next two years.
Who is the typical Fly Business client?
Most of our clients are business owners that travel for work or leisure. We also work with
athletes, government officials around the world and the occasional Royal.
What can customers expect during the in-flight experience?
Customers can expect an elite service fitted to accommodate each passenger and
their needs. A fully stocked bar with premium drinks (both alcoholic and none alcoholic) to
satisfy their thirst and exquisite culinary options so their taste buds are also on a trip! Our
crew will make sure to spoil each passenger throughout the flight and guarantee an
unforgettable flight. All in all, an overall lux experience.
What do you think attributes to the success that the Fly Business have had in the US?
Our great success in the US attributes to us making sure to understand how this market
works there and in many other countries, find solutions to problems such as overpriced
rates, non-efficient communication and acting immediately when a client has any
concerns. We have fought with the preexisting reputation Mexico has in this industry and
I believe we are doing a very good job.
We have taken the time to really understand the needs and expectations of our clients in the US consequently designing our services accordingly. This includes everything from the type of aircraft we offer, to the amenities and services that we provide.
Additionally, we have focused on providing excellent communication and customer service to our clients in the US. We understand that clear and efficient communication is key to a successful service, we work hard to ensure that our clients always have access to our team and the information they need.
Finally, we have worked hard to overcome any pre-existing reputational challenges that Mexico may face in the private aviation industry. We have built a reputation of quality, safety, reliability, and we are proud to offer a true luxury to our clients in the US and beyond.
Any advice to entrepreneurs that want to follow your steps out there?
Add value to whatever industry you want to work in. Be honest, humble and always seek
to improve strategies that already have success in the business. Adapt to new markets,
cultures and new surroundings. And most importantly, KNOWLEDGE. Seek new
information about your industry every day and learn something new. Knowledge is the most powerful you can have.
Is the goal to continue to build Fly Business, or expand to other new ventures or markets?
Our goal is to continue to grow for many years to come and become a Holding, where we
take over all aspects of the industry, not just charter aviation.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
- The Obstacle is the way – Ryan Holiday
- Atomic Habits – James Clear
- The psychology of Money – Morgan Housel
What is the key to your success?
Being persistent, always acquiring knowledge, seeking correct partnerships all over the world and most importantly, being reliable.
What was the hardest career decision you ever had to make?
Quitting my job and starting Fly Business was definitely the hardest career decision I have ever made. It was a big risk, but I knew that it was the right call for me and my vision for the future. There were a lot of uncertainties and challenges along the way, but I always trusted my instincts and my team to help navigate any obstacles faced. Looking back, I can say that it was the best decision I ever made, as it allowed me to pursue my passion and create something truly unique in the industry.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
Private aviation can be a very rewarding industry to work in. For me, the most fun and rewarding aspect of what I do is receiving positive feedback from clients and passengers. This positive validation is what we strive for with every flight we make. We take pride in the work we put in to ensure that every detail is taken care of and feels special. It’s always rewarding to see the smiles on their faces and to know that we’ve helped make their travel dreams a reality.
On the other hand, the private aviation industry can also be very challenging and demanding. There are often tight schedules, last-minute changes, and unexpected issues that need to be addressed quickly and efficiently. This can sometimes be stressful, but I believe that it’s all part of the job, and it’s what makes us better and stronger as a company. It always keeps you on your toes for sure.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is when the grass does not look greener on the other side.
Something people don’t know about you?
That I almost became a filmmaker.
Who was your role model as a child?
David Beckham, Michael Jordan and my dad.
What is your favorite healthy food?
Raw seafood
And your favorite cheat food?
Fried chicken
Which project is still on your bucket list?
I would like to eventually teach entrepreneurship.
What music do you like?
Folk, hip hop, pop, etc; depending on my mood.
Do you support any charity?
Yes, I make it a priority to give back to my community and the generations to come. Each month I provide aid to a local orphanage whether it’s financial, school supplies,
psychologists, doctors, etc.
What do you like to watch on Tv?
Documentaries, Football soccer, golf, tennis and occasionally a sitcom.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Going out to lunch with my wife and kids
What do you think of Social Media?
I believe that social media can be a very powerful tool for businesses, especially those in the private aviation industry. It allows us to connect with our clients on a more personal level and to showcase the kind of service we offer. Social media also provides us with valuable insights from our clients. It helps us to keep current on key points that clients seek while traveling.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram @elliotrosss
Actor/Actress: Robert DeNiro/Toni Collette
Drink: Scotch on the rocks
City: Madrid
Movie: Goodfellas
Sport Team: Chelsea FC
Song: Days in the Sun – Ziggy Alberts
