As Smart Aviation approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, the company is reflecting on two decades of remarkable growth and service within the aviation industry. Founded in October 2005 by Managing Director Mark Hawkins, the company began as a small operation in a rented office on Crawley High Street. Today, it has evolved into a respected global charter broker with a diverse portfolio of services and a loyal client base.
With over 30 years of experience in senior operational roles in travel and aviation, Hawkins built Smart Aviation with a singular vision: to provide clients with a seamless and enjoyable business experience. The company’s success is rooted in that client-focused approach, which has driven Smart Aviation to transport thousands of passengers to high-profile events, including major football championship finals, and organize pilgrimages to Lourdes. In addition, Smart Aviation has facilitated numerous ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) leasing agreements and flown more than a million passengers via private jets and helicopters.
Reflecting on the company’s evolution, Hawkins noted, “I set up Smart Aviation with one goal — for our clients to enjoy doing business with us, and this is still my main driver every day.” He continued, “I am extremely proud of the company, the team I’ve built, and the phenomenal success we’ve had since 2005. It hasn’t always been smooth sailing—COVID-19 was a particularly challenging time for the aviation industry—but we’ve bounced back, continuing to offer the highest level of service and cost-effective solutions our clients expect.”
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Smart Aviation’s resilience was evident during the global pandemic, when the company adapted quickly to meet the evolving needs of its customers, maintaining a focus on service excellence and innovative solutions. This agility has allowed the company to continue thriving, even in the face of challenges.
Hawkins also praised the company’s long-standing team, many of whom have been with Smart Aviation since its inception. Recent growth has seen the addition of four new members to the team, marking an exciting new phase of expansion as the company looks to the future.
“As a company, we are trusted not only by our loyal clients but also by our staff,” Hawkins said. “I’m excited to see what the next 20 years hold for Smart Aviation, and I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our loyal suppliers and clients for being such a pivotal part of our history.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Smart Aviation’s commitment to excellence and client satisfaction remains at the core of its operations, with plans in place to celebrate the company’s monumental milestone throughout the year.
