Dan Claassen

Blue Ridge, TX (USA)
Role(s):
Founder/Owner/Principal

GoCopter

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Location: Blue Ridge
Industry: Transportation
Year Founded: 2014
Number Employees: 1-10 people
Business Stage: Creation/Idea
Entity Type: Limited Liability Company
Description: GoCopter™ is introducing a new low-cost private executive helicopter service specifically to meet the demand of point-to-point transportation in key US markets. This program is based on the NetJets platform for Helicopters that has the potential for global expansion. Helicopters are safe, affordable and the ultimate convenience for anyone who understands the value of time. The business and marketing strategy of GoCopter™ is directed toward absorbing existing clients who currently utilize helicopters and are looking for an affordable alternative as well as new customers who could benefit from the time-saving advantages helicopter transportation offers but have the perception that helicopters are an expensive luxury and not readily available. The uses of a helicopter are vast and virtually unlimited and include executive appointments, business location visits, weekend get-aways, special events, airport shuttles, crew/cargo support to remote locations, hunting/camping trips and aerial surveys – just to name a few. We will operate new innovative Robinson R66 Helicopters equipped with a high-tech Rolls Royce jet engine capable of carrying over 900 pounds at 135 MPH for 325 miles. This helicopter began production three years ago as the only light duty jet powered helicopter available and is manufactured in California by the highest rated and largest manufacturer of rotorcraft in the world. Key features of the R66 include a Rolls Royce jet engine with computerized engine monitoring, 5-place air-conditioned cabin with leather seating, oversized exterior baggage compartment, unobstructed panoramic views and 2,000 hours of worry-free operation. This chart summarizes the anticipated financial results of GoCopter™ including initial funding of $20,000,000 followed up with an additional $40,000,000 in bank financing. The key characteristics which will lead to the success and profitability of GoCopter™ will be: • Establish high-quality helicopter service in major US markets that currently are not served, have poor service, or excess demand, establishing both a new trend and a new standard for national helicopter service and availability. • Offer new cost-effective jet helicopters which offer the highest level of reliability, punctuality, safety and ultimately, customer satisfaction. • Utilization of the latest electronic and information technologies. On-line marketing, sales and reservations will enhance customer experience and convenience. Staff requirements for scheduling, resource planning, quality control, tracking, operational oversight and customer service will be reduced. • Recognition that not everyone is geared for the electronic world requires that we provide a high level of non-electronic service as well. The new less-experienced user is our future loyal customer. • Ensuring a friendly, cooperative, enjoyable, yet highly professional face to the customer. • Development and implementation of cooperations, associations and partnerships with existing fixed wing aviation operators looking to enhance the experience they provide to their customers by expanding into helicopter operations. A key element contributing to the success of GoCopter™ will be a strong executive team. As an aviation veteran with over 30 years of experience flying and operating aviation related companies, it is my privilege to lead: Alexander Fleming as financial consultant and product development, Stefan Lauer as Chief Pilot who is a FAA certified helicopter instructor pilot and Josh Hoskins as Director of Maintenance who has inspector credentials as a FAA certified mechanic. Our marketing thrust and ultimate advantage is to become the first and dominant national helicopter service provider in the US. Imagine tapping our cell phone app and scheduling “your” helicopter anywhere in the US – anytime! I believe our high level of customer service and convenience will effectively meet the needs, wants, comfort and safety of our passengers, assuring our rapid acceptance in the marketplace and long-term growth and success. For anyone who wants to impress customers, associates or family members, this is the ultimate level of travel. We can become the ”go to” helicopter service provider for people on the move! Thank you for your consideration.