Astra SPX G-100 European Operators/Pilots

[EESDL]

Boss likes the SPX (from past experience) and has asked me to investigate into buying one. This will be company's first fixed-wing as we currently own rotary in corporate theatre.
Planning on transatlantic and european trips and without too much of an inconvenience (ie tech-stop Azores) looks like Antigua is possible from our N England base.
Budget 7mill USD and like the DOCs.
Would like to contact current pilots/operators in the European theatre to receive feedback.
Have good contacts in USA but looking at European Maintenance options and ability to use aircraft on an aoc when not flying company work.
Flight Simulators/Type rating courses etc
Thank you in advance

[Mike Echo]

For maintenance questions talk to Karsten Schafer in Jet Aviation, Hanover, what he doesn't know about Astra's isn't worth knowing. (also Christian Kinitz) He helped me out several times when I was looking at Astra SPX's for a client.
I don't think there is anyone left in the UK with experience on the Astra's although I think Northern Executive used to manage a Westwind.
Mike Echo

[LGW Vulture]

You might need to increase your budget - you are at the floor on the purchase price!

[EESDL]

Thanks for feedback
Strangely enough - we've been in touch with a few US owners who are quite keen to sell and plenty avail within budget as money funds ready

[wb14]

Did you ever purchase the Astra? What model? Engines?

If not, what did you get?

Looking for a jet that can make the Hawaii (PHNL) to CONUS (KSEA/KBFI) trip all year round. Astra / G-100 looks like the smallest airplane that would work for us. Need to move a minimum of 6 pax. Also looking into Citation X, Falcon 50, (older) G-IV, and Challenger 601/2/3.

[PPPmember]

You have a PM.

[500 above]

We operated a G100 in Europe until just over two years ago. PM me if you have any questions.

Great aircraft btw.

[BR14683]

Try to evaluate Gulfstream G150 , an improve Astra aircraft.

[deefer dog]

Good range, good field, good avionics on G-100, quite good baggage compartment, good performance and fast. It's been a long while since I flew it (about 350 hours only). Only disadvantage I recall is the narrow cabin - really is a bit of a squeeze. Only flew early Astra (not SPX) and then the G-100. Avoid nicad batteries though.

[CL300]

I remember a couple of things of the SPX... one is SKYDROL.... beurk.. Second the engines -40 like the Falcon50EX. Third is the APU extra bleed air switch, and the APU start in general ... a chore.... The extra range tank ( removable).. and duck-walk tendency on full reverse ( i know full reverse blablabla..lol)
I liked the deice boots, did not like the narrow cabin but very quiet due to the engines seating something like 8 feet behind the aft bulkhead.
I would not buy one, but it was a good plane..