Hopscotch Air, operating an air taxi in the Northeast with one Cirrus Aircraft SR22 since spring, will co-brand its aircraft with the Swissair logo now owned since 2009 by Swiss International Air Lines.
“We’re honored that one of the world’s most prestigious airlines, with a connection to the dawn of commercial air travel, has entrusted with us such a significant part of their history,” Hopscotch Air CEO Andrew Schmertz said.
Swiss International Air Lines acquired the Swissair brand in 2009. Swissair was the national airline of Switzerland, founded in 1931.
The company has plans to lease a second aircraft this winter that is equipped for flight in known icing conditions. Hopscotch serves airports throughout the Northeast and Canada from its base at Republic Airport in Farmingdale, N.Y. While the ticket cost varies with distance, most flights cost from $900 to $1,500. A company official said some passengers are surprised to learn they can land in small towns at airports that are sometimes within blocks of a planned business meeting. Summer destinations include Nantucket and Hyannis Port, Mass.
The company began operations in 2009 but did not market services until the spring of 2010. An ideal situation for the new company would be picking up Swiss International Air Lines passengers from John F. Kennedy International Airport. However, proposed landing fees might prevent that, a company official said.
Hopscotch Air and Swiss International Air Lines have agreed to discuss future collaboration between the two companies.
