For the record, Excel Aviation contacted TCD in November 2001 when it was appearent that ATA were no longer interested in their charter business. Excel Aviation put forward EAAC to perform the TCD programme and indeed had several meetings with Willie O'Neal and the MD of TCD. Unfortunately, Excel were cut out of the deal by EAAC who then went direct to TCD - FACT.
This is how the aviation business works. There were no hard feelings between Excel, EAAC and TCD.
That is the background.
Excel Aviation contracted and signed three B733 a/c from EAAC to perform a flying program this summer. 1 xNCL, 1 x STN, 1x MAN. The contract was countersigned by EAC and then not performed.
Excel Aviation is still seeking to cover one-third of this flying and has had to contract alternative, larger aircraft than originally needed, therefore my view is that Excel has been let down by EAAC.
As far as the TCD business is concerned, Excel were approached by TCD to cover the SFB program due to the uncertainty regarding EAAC's refinancing which has been ongoing for over 12 months. At no time did Excel try and poach this business from EAAC.
These are the facts, unpalatable as they may be to some EAAC staff.
