​Paisley, Scotland – Leading aviation leather supplier Muirhead is set to unveil its chrome- and heavy metal-free FreeTAN® tanning solution with free FR technology at Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) 2024.
 
The Scottish manufacturer has fully replaced its existing tanning chemistry with compostable technology, marking a significant stride in its commitment to eliminating the use of fossil fuels, oil-based elements, and heavy metals from all its operations and products.
 
The resulting product, FreeTAN® with free FR technology, is completely free from heavy metals, chrome, and glutaraldehyde. This not only reduces its environmental impact but also ensures the product continues to meet customers’ exacting performance standards.
 
In addition, FreeTAN® maintains the manufacturer’s status as the leading flame-retardant leather in the industry. Its free FR technology is an efficient, non-toxic, halogen-free fire-retardant treatment that offers the lowest environmental impact aviation leather available today.
 
Visitors to Booth 6E95 at AIX 2024 can learn more about Muirhead’s industry-leading aviation products, processes, and innovations.
 
Stephen Hems, Innovation Manager, Muirhead, said: “Tanning is a crucial part of leather production, whereby raw hides are treated in drums to transform them into our high-performance material. For over two decades, we’ve invested heavily in new initiatives to develop future-proof tanning systems that deliver unparalleled consistency and high technical excellence without relying on chrome salts and glutaraldehyde.
 
“These ground-breaking technologies are a vital next step in our journey to increase the bio-based renewable carbon content of our leather to 90% and above. However, this marks just the beginning. The leather of the future is 100% bio-based, entirely chrome-free, heavy metal-free, aldehyde-free, and fully biodegradable.”
 
Myles Hobbs, Aviation Director EMEA and The Americas at Muirhead, added: “Our pioneering FreeTAN® technology was developed to meet the aviation industry’s growing need for real leather solutions that further optimise and improve environmental sustainability. It enables us to enhance the biodegradability and compostability properties of our products, all without compromising on technical performance.
 
“Meanwhile, our free FR technology is a highly efficient flame-retardant treatment, refined over the years through rigorous testing and development, free from many harmful substances, like heavy metals, fluorocarbon and bio-accumulative chemicals. These, together with the world’s lowest Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) for leather, make Muirhead FreeTAN® with free FR a leader in the supply of the lowest-carbon aviation leather available today.”

​Renowned for producing the world’s lowest-carbon aviation leather, Muirhead boasts a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of just 8kg CO2e/m2, helping its customers to reduce their own carbon impact directly. Its patented circular manufacturing process incorporates energy recovery, water reuse, renewable energy, locally sourced materials with 100% traceability, and a unique take-back scheme for end-of-life leather. All its raw hides come from responsible farms with the highest standards of animal welfare and zero deforestation.
 
Recently, the company announced the opening of its £14 million, hyper-efficient Super Tannery to further enhance the production of the world’s lowest-carbon leather products.

​Bridge of Weir, Scotland – Muirhead, a trusted supplier of the lowest carbon high performance leather to some of the world’s most respected airlines and seat manufacturers, is set to showcase three sustainable leather innovations at next month’s Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg.

The Scottish firm, which has developed a cutting-edge circular process for leather manufacture, says its three flagship aviation products were designed to help airlines overcome everyday cabin design challenges and decrease their carbon impact.

Equipped with lightweight, self-disinfecting, and anti-soil properties, the manufacturer’s high performance leather innovations are trusted by more than 160 airlines, airframe and seating manufacturers globally – as well as most European bus, coach, and rail operators.

Archie Browning, Sales Director at Muirhead, said: “At Muirhead, innovation and sustainable development are deeply intertwined. With every new product innovation, we seek to further reduce our carbon footprint – while simultaneously empowering our airline customers to reduce fuel burn, maintain impeccable hygiene standards, and embrace lighter colours with confidence.

“Through two decades of sustainable innovation and substantial investments in our state-of-the-art facilities, we continue to push boundaries in sustainability, technical performance, and cutting-edge creativity. This is why we look forward to showcasing our high-performance LightCore™, ActiveHygiene, and CareGuard™ products at AIX this year, and helping the industry overcome some of the greatest barriers to sustainable cabin design.”

Myles Hobbs, Head of Aviation EMEA at Muirhead, added: “Sustainability and circularity are at the core of everything we do, which is why we continue to set the benchmark as the lowest carbon impact leather available to the aviation sector – at just 8kg CO2e/m2.

“Together with our parent company, Scottish Leather Group, we have developed an industry-leading circular manufacturing process that involves sourcing all our rawhides locally, reclaiming energy from our process waste, and turning by-products into much-needed raw materials for other industries.

“The result is a high performance aviation leather that not only caters to the demands of both airlines and passengers, but also empowers our customers to make a tangible impact on their own journeys towards net zero.”

Muirhead’s three newest product innovations, which will be showcased at AIX next month, include its lightweight LightCore™ innovation, its CareGuard™ anti-soil product, as well as its self-disinfecting ActiveHygiene leather.

• LightCore™ is Muirhead’s lightweight full substance leather, re-engineered using a pioneering tanning process to help airlines reduce fuel burn. LightCore™ weighs up to 33% less than standard leather without sacrificing performance, safety, or comfort, and can deliver substantial lifetime weight savings for airlines.
  
  
• CareGuard™ provides superior protection for aviation seating against soiling and staining, including dye transfer and dirt build-up – empowering airlines to choose lighter colours with confidence. CareGuard™ significantly reduces maintenance requirements, speeds up turnaround times, and prolongs service life.

• ActiveHygiene is the first ever leather for aviation interiors to feature built-in antimicrobial properties. It is a natural material that uses the latest Polygiene BioMaster™ technology, integrated at the manufacturing stage, to eliminate 99% of bacteria and viruses* from cabin seat surfaces – safeguarding passengers and reducing turnaround times.

At stand 6E95, visitors to this year’s AIX can also learn more about the leather lifecycle, from raw materials to end-of-life recycling, and immerse themselves in Muirhead’s newest leather design concepts at the manufacturer’s multisensory Design Garden.

Bridge of Weir, Scotland – Muirhead, a trusted supplier of the lowest carbon high performance leather to some of the world’s most respected airlines and seat manufacturers, has today unveiled its newest design directions for aviation leather.
 
The new conceptual collection – which revolves around the theme ‘ReWILDing’ – was inspired by the firm’s Scottish provenance and unwavering commitment to sustainability and circularity. The theme will take centre stage on Muirhead’s stand (6E95) at the highly anticipated Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) in Hamburg this year, as part of its interactive Design Garden studio.
 
Based on extensive industry insights from market intelligence agencies, and drawing inspiration from cross-industry material and fashion developments, Muirhead’s new design directions reflect some of the latest and most influential design trends in 2023. These include sustainability, technology, and biophilic design.
 
The ReWILDing concept, developed by Muirhead’s in-house design experts, champions the importance of biophilic design principles that showcase the connection between nature and human well-being.
 
Debra Choong, Design Manager at Muirhead and the Scottish Leather Group, said: “Every day, our in-house design experts work closely with airlines and manufacturers to co-create the perfect leather for their needs. To guide them through this process, we offer fresh insight around the latest cross-industry design and material trends, and translate these into conceptual designs to further inspire, challenge, and excite our customers.
 
“Our ReWILDing concept is a seamless blend of contemporary ideas, such as biophilic design, and further inspiration from our own surroundings. Not only have we pioneered circular leather manufacturing by recovering energy and by-products from process waste and end-of-life leather, but we’re also proud to be surrounded by Scotland’s epic landscapes and pristine wilderness. With that, it’s no surprise sustainability and Scottish nature were both integral to Muirhead’s design directions this year.
 
“At its core, ReWILDing is about restoring natural ecosystems with the reintroduction of native species. We have further distilled this into three new design directions, which respond to the challenges of the 21st century – ensuring our valued customers can stay ahead of the curve and that the designs we create today remain relevant for the next decade.”

The ReWILDing collection translates the prevailing industry trends into three aesthetic design directions, helping customers make informed choices when it comes to finding the perfect colours, materials, and finishes for their genuine leather interiors. Each design direction takes inspiration from one of Scotland’s unique and distinctive habitats:

1. Mountains & Moorlands. With romantic undertones conveyed through a hazy colour palette of ethereal hues and pigments, this holistic approach promotes healing, connection, and creativity. Designed for a world where health and well-being are paramount, it invokes a sense of relaxation and offers an escape from the everyday, by blending reality with the imaginary.
   
   
2. Wetlands. This direction draws inspiration from the principles of biomimicry to tell a story of balance and contrast. Its earthly, grounded tones evoke an earth-bound narrative, which neatly captures the growing interest in natural products and highlights the traditional craft of upcycling rawhides – a natural by-product of the food industry – into aesthetic and durable materials.
   
   
3. Grasslands. With a highly energised palette and dynamic contrast, this direction is inspired by the weird and wonderful aspects of nature. The nuanced brights represent recycled and reclaimed materials, challenging the waste culture and encouraging visible rejuvenation. The mood is lively and bold, embracing change and transformation – while the use of natural hues promotes a sense of grounding and connection with the environment.

 
ReWILDing emphasises the role of sustainable manufacturing processes – as well as the use of long-lasting, reusable materials – in minimising the impact on the natural environment. The concept echoes Muirhead’s enduring dedication to circularity, exemplified by its pioneering Thermal Energy and Ultrafiltration plants.
 
At AIX 2023, Muirhead’s Design Garden will entice visitors with an interactive, multisensory experience, designed to showcase the lifecycle of the lowest carbon leather and its effect on the design process – from raw materials to end-of-life recycling.
 
Muirhead specialises in creating bespoke products to elevate its customers’ brands. With full control of the process from natural raw material sourcing to finished product, the company is well known for its colour expertise and its ability to develop custom dyes and finishes to match the customer’s exact specifications.
 
In addition to colour, Muirhead’s cutting-edge, in-house facilities also include textures, patterns, perforations, and branding. The manufacturer can emboss, deboss, perforate, semi-perforate, and even digitally print leather in full colour.
 
Visitors to this year’s Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg can learn more about Muirhead’s high performance leather products – including its lightweight, full substance LightCore™ innovation – at stand 6E95.

​Bridge of Weir, Scotland – Muirhead, a trusted supplier of Fine Scottish Leather to some of the world’s most respected passenger transport and aviation brands, will showcase its self-disinfecting ActiveHygiene technology at Euro Bus Expo 2022 in Birmingham next week.
 
Developed to safeguard passengers and rebuild confidence after COVID-19, Muirhead’s ActiveHygiene leather with Polygiene Biomaster ViralOff® technology is a sustainable product with built-in antimicrobial self-cleaning properties – permanently integrated into the leather during production.
 
Kevin Smith, Head of Mass Transit, Muirhead, said: “Since the pandemic, the bus and coach sector has seen a rapid increase in demand for best-in-class seat hygiene. This is why we’re proud to showcase Muirhead’s innovative ActiveHygiene technology – an immediate solution to the challenges of the pandemic, enhancing the hygiene and protection of passenger transport interiors for the future.”
 
Using the latest ViralOff® technology, developed by Swedish company Polygiene AB, Muirhead’s ActiveHygiene leather reduces bacteria and viruses including SARS-CoV-2 – the cause of COVID-19 – by more than 99% in less than two hours.*
 
Renowned for creating the lowest carbon leather in the world, Muirhead is trusted by most European bus, coach, and rail operators for its exceptional durability, comfort, and reduced total cost of ownership.

​Archie Browning, Sales Director, Muirhead, added: “Muirhead has been manufacturing the finest sustainable Scottish leather since 1840, with innovation at the very heart of the business. Known for its luxury and durability, Muirhead has developed new products that offer a more hygienic solution for customers increasingly focused on well-being and lighter weight materials – supporting the move to greater efficiency and greener mobility solutions.”
 
“All Muirhead leather is made in the UK and sets the benchmark as the lowest carbon leather available to the transportation sector – making it the most durable, hard-wearing, and long-lasting material for bus and coach interiors.”
 
Visitors to this year’s Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham can meet the Muirhead team at stand C78. Seat designs using high-performance Muirhead leather will also be on display at the Isringhausen, Lazzerini, Alexander Dennis, Kiel Seating, TEK Seating, Chapman Driver Seats, and Pelican Bus & Coach.

​NOTES TO EDITORS
 
*Against tested viruses, SARS-CoV-2, H3N2 and H1N1 - according to ISO18184:2019. No specialist cleaning is required. Polygiene Biomaster ViralOff® does not prevent diseases but protects the treated material.
 
Polygiene Biomaster antimicrobial technology complements existing cleaning protocols, working between cleans. Treatment is always-on, built-in to the leather as part of our sustainable manufacturing process. Tested to 50,000 cycles on the Martindale abrasion rub test (ISO 12947-2).
 
About Muirhead
 
Muirhead, established in 1840 and part of the Scottish Leather Group, is one of Europe's oldest tanneries; it is widely recognised as a leader in responsible and future-looking innovation of a versatile range of Fine Scottish Leather for a select group of prestigious global brands. Muirhead leathers are made to travel the world - on 160 airlines, in mass transit cabins, and in the marine, furniture, and luxury goods industries.
 
www.muirhead.co.uk
 
About the Scottish Leather Group
Founded in 1965, Scottish Leather Group (SLG) is the leading manufacturer of leather in the United Kingdom and produces the finest sustainable leather for the world’s most respected companies.
 
Through its specialist businesses - Bridge of Weir Leather, Lang and Muirhead – the Group leads the leather industry in the responsible and sustainable production of leather and serves the global automotive, aviation, bus, coach, rail, furniture, and consumer goods sectors from its operations located in Scotland, China, and Mexico.
 
https://www.scottishleathergroup.com

Bridge of Weir, Scotland – Muirhead, a trusted supplier of Fine Scottish Leather to some of the world’s most respected airlines and seat manufacturers, has joined the Green Cabin Alliance (GCA) to reaffirm its commitment to creating the world’s lowest carbon leather.
 
Muirhead, part of the Scottish Leather Group, operates a unique, cutting-edge circular process for leather manufacture – incorporating energy recovery, water recycling, renewable energy, and locally sourced traceable hides.
 
Dr Warren Bowden, Head of Sustainability and Innovation, Scottish Leather Group, said: “We’re proud to be the global leader in responsible leather production, and so we look forward to taking concrete steps towards the decarbonisation of aircraft cabins – and working with respected industry partners who share our commitment to lower-carbon and naturally sustainable materials in cabin design.
 
“As a by-product of the food industry, real leather is naturally sustainable – and so is our business. Thanks to our innovative manufacturing processes, we’ve created the world’s lowest carbon intensity leather, backed by rigorous analysis. Working with our Green Cabin Alliance partners, we encourage the cabin design and manufacturing sector to ramp up their carbon footprint reporting and take full-life emissions into account.”
 
Elina Kopola, Founding Director of the Green Cabin Alliance, said: “The Green Cabin Alliance is excited to welcome new member Muirhead, a globally renowned supplier of leather materials for cabin and other applications, to our growing group of organisations who are placing sustainability high on their agendas. The GCA looks forward to collaborating with Muirhead in addressing the challenge of creating more sustainable, resilient supply chains in our industry. We hope that our relationship with Muirhead will help us to advance the overall aims of the GCA, by leveraging their knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm when it comes to sustainability.”
 
Trusted by more than 160 airlines and manufacturers globally, Muirhead’s high-performance aviation leather is a 100% circular product. The group’s significant investments in circular manufacturing have enabled it to minimise waste to landfill and radically reduce its carbon footprint – from farm to cut material and seat covers.
 
The process involves a patented thermal energy plant that generates heat from waste to power the tannery, sourcing and recycling water from its very own loch, and a pioneering 'Take-Back Scheme' for end-of-life leather products.
 
Besides joining the GCA, Muirhead and the Scottish Leather Group are committed to the UN Global Compact and measure their sustainability performance against all 17 Sustainability Development Goals. The group has been awarded Gold standard by the Leather Working Group and achieved an overall score of 95%, with 100% on traceability.

NOTES TO EDITORS 

About Muirhead
 
Muirhead, established in 1840 and part of the Scottish Leather Group, is one of Europe's oldest tanneries; it is widely recognised as a leader in responsible and future-looking innovation of a versatile range of Fine Scottish Leather for a select group of prestigious global brands. Muirhead leathers are made to travel the world - on 160 airlines, in mass transit cabins, and in the marine, furniture, and luxury goods industries.
 
www.muirhead.co.uk
 
About the Scottish Leather Group
 
Founded in 1965, Scottish Leather Group (SLG) is the leading manufacturer of leather in the United Kingdom and produces the finest sustainable leather for the world’s most respected companies.
 
Through its specialist businesses - Bridge of Weir Leather, Lang and Muirhead – the Group leads the leather industry in the responsible and sustainable production of leather and serves the global automotive, aviation, bus, coach, rail, furniture, and consumer goods sectors from its operations located in Scotland, China, and Mexico.
 
https://www.scottishleathergroup.com
 
About the Green Cabin Alliance
 
The Green Cabin Alliance is a community interest company (CIC) founded in 2022. This new cross-industry group within the aircraft interiors supply chain advocates for aviation stakeholders to work together to decarbonise the design, manufacture, and supply of aircraft cabin interiors.
 
Conceived and directed by a collective of likeminded individuals from within the cabin sector, the group is actively engaging with the challenge of creating a sustainable cabin through: awareness-building, connecting innovators, promoting greener materials and processes, encouraging full-life design, increasing supply chain transparency, building common language and improving carbon footprint reporting throughout the cabin value chain.
 
www.greencabinalliance.org

• Scottish leather supplier’s innovative LightCore™ with ActiveHygiene will be presented
at Messe Berlin
• New high-performance leather is up to 33% lighter than standard leather and eliminates 99% of viruses and bacteria in two hours*
• InnoTrans attendees can meet the Muirhead team in Hall 5.1, Stand 310

Bridge of Weir, Scotland – Muirhead, a trusted supplier of Fine Scottish Leather to some of the world’s most respected passenger transport and aviation brands, will showcase its latest product innovation at InnoTrans 2022 in Berlin next week.
 
Muirhead’s low-carbon, reduced-weight, full substance LightCore™ leather is re-engineered for the next generation of passenger transport. Made with a unique, durable, micro-light core, the innovative product is up to 33% lighter than standard leather – without sacrificing thickness or strength.
 
With integrated ActiveHygiene technology, 99% of bacteria and viruses are eliminated from its surface within 2 hours.*
 
Muirhead’s LightCore™ technology is not about making the leather thinner or inferior in quality – as simply shaving off grams or making the leather thinner would have a dramatic impact on performance, reducing durability and increasing the chance of ripping.
 
Instead, the manufacturer has re-invented their high-performance leather from the inside out, using a pioneering tanning process to create a true full substance leather with a reduced weight that maintains the strength, quality and technical performance the passenger transport industry expects from Muirhead.
 
Stephen Hems, Innovation Manager, Muirhead, added: “We knew we wanted to cut weight, but we refused to cut corners. To create true performance full substance leather with reduced weight, our innovation team had to rethink the entire process – from the exact hides we choose, through pioneering new manufacturing techniques, to the rigorous testing that ensures every leather meets the highest safety standards.”
 
Muirhead created LightCore™ with ActiveHygiene to help reduce fuel burn – without compromising on safety or durability. Rigorously tested to meet the demands of modern passenger transport, LightCore™ has been developed by the company’s technical experts to pass all tests and specifications.
 
The product continues to build on Muirhead’s commitment to creating the world's lowest carbon leather. Born in 1840, the Scottish manufacturer is proud to be the market leader in the global aviation industry, and an important player in the passenger transport sector. 
 
Archie Browning, Sales Director, Muirhead, concluded: "Muirhead has been manufacturing the finest sustainable Scottish leather since 1840 – and innovation is at the heart of what the business does. We are proud that our low carbon, high-performance product innovations lead the leather industry, and support our valued customers in achieving their own technical performance and sustainability targets.”

NOTES TO EDITORS 

Strong: Created with a unique, micro-light centre, LightCore™ has been rigorously tested to meet the demands of modern passenger transport, and retains all the durability, breathability and strength of natural leather.
 
Flexible:  LightCore™ is available in a range of grains, colours and finishes to fit any brand and enhance the customer experience.
 
Cost effective: The fuel savings gained from reducing leather weight by 33% will bring significant commercial and environmental benefits.
 
Hygienic: LightCore™ is also available with ActiveHygiene, which eliminates 99% of bacteria and viruses from its surface within two hours - again without any compromise to performance.
 
Sustainable: This unique innovation builds on Muirhead’s commitment to create the world’s lowest-carbon leather. LightCore™ can help achieve sustainability goals and reduce fuel burn without affecting performance or safety.
 
About Muirhead
 
Muirhead, established in 1840 and part of the Scottish Leather Group, is one of Europe's oldest tanneries; it is widely recognised as a leader in responsible and future-looking innovation of a versatile range of Fine Scottish Leather for a select group of prestigious global brands. Muirhead leathers are made to travel the world - on 160 airlines, in mass transit cabins, and in the marine, furniture, and luxury goods industries.
 
Discover more at www.muirhead.co.uk
 
About the Scottish Leather Group
Founded in 1965, Scottish Leather Group (SLG) is the leading manufacturer of leather in the United Kingdom and produces the finest sustainable leather for the world’s most respected companies.
 
Through its specialist businesses - Bridge of Weir Leather, Lang and Muirhead – the Group leads the leather industry in the responsible and sustainable production of leather and serves the global automotive, aviation, bus, coach, rail, furniture, and consumer goods sectors from its operations located in Scotland, China, and Mexico.
 
https://www.scottishleathergroup.com

Editor’s notes

About Equinox Charter
Equinox Charter Ltd. provides seamless, global private aircraft chartering solutions with a focus on the music and entertainment industry. Led by music touring expert Elliot Bottomley, the London-based company offers worldwide access to private jet, turboprop and helicopter aircraft – with a 24/7 consultative service and a commitment to best practice in safety and sustainability. Equinox Charter is a member of the The Air Charter Association, European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA). It is proudly ARGUS Registered – a globally recognised mark of safety and service in private aviation.
​
For more information, visit equinox-charter.com.

About Equinox Travel
Equinox Travel Ltd. is a music and entertainment specialist travel management company (TMC), founded in 2021 by former The Appointment Group (TAG) and ET Travel Ltd directors Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth. The London-based company provides a bespoke, high-touch and comprehensive travel management solution, from commercial air travel, through private aviation arrangements to accommodation services. Alongside live music touring, Equinox Travel offers specialist travel support for the sports industry, as well as corporate and luxury leisure travellers.

For more information, visit equinox-travel.com.

London, UK, 24 November 2021 – Former TAG Business Development Manager Lisa Liguori has been appointed Commercial Director of newly launched entertainment specialist TMC, Equinox Travel.
 
An established personality in the live touring business, Liguori has previously held key senior positions at two travel management companies in the sector, ET Travel Ltd and The Appointment Group (TAG).
 
With over 20 years in travel management, her industry experience spans from handling budget-driven travel for emerging artists to servicing a multiple-party world tour for a high-profile band.
 
Lisa Liguori said: “I’m both delighted and honoured to join Equinox Travel in delivering bespoke, personal and high-touch travel management solutions to clients in music, entertainment and beyond.
 
“2022 is set to be a busy year as concert tours and live shows are back on the agenda, but our team will be on hand to support businesses in the sector as their trusted and reliable travel partner.
 
Equinox CEO Ian Patterson added: “Lisa joins our already fantastic in-house team of knowledgeable and creative senior experts who are dedicated to offering a personalised service of reliability and integrity.
 
“Her ability to deliver prime travel solutions to the client is second to none, and her vast industry experience will be invaluable to our growth over the coming years.”
 
Based in London, Liguori will be responsible for developing and implementing Equinox’s commercial strategies and overseeing the start-up’s ambitious expansion plan. She will report to CEOs Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth.
 
With combined travel experience of over 100 years, Equinox Travel’s expert team specialise in delivering bespoke travel solutions and managing complex itineraries for bands and solo artists, agents, tour managers, film production companies and more.
 
The company launched earlier this month to fill the market gap for comprehensive travel services dedicated to the music and entertainment industry – but it also offers specialist travel support for the sports industry, as well as corporate and luxury leisure travellers.
 
Equinox Travel’s global services include commercial airline bookings, hotel bookings, chauffeur services, ferry and rail transport management – along with private aircraft charter solutions through its sister company Equinox Charter.

ENDS
 
More information can be found at equinox-travel.com.
 
For media enquiries contact Balint Brunner via Aero PR
on [email protected] or +44 74 2314 8828

​Editor’s notes
 
About Equinox Travel
Equinox Travel Ltd. is a music and entertainment specialist travel management company (TMC), founded in 2021 by former The Appointment Group (TAG) and ET Travel Ltd directors Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth. The London-based company provides a bespoke, high-touch and comprehensive travel management solution, from commercial air travel, through private aviation arrangements to accommodation services. Alongside live music touring, Equinox Travel offers specialist travel support for the sports industry, as well as corporate and luxury leisure travellers. For more information, visit equinox-travel.com.

​London, UK, 2 November 2021 – New private aircraft provider Equinox Charter has begun operations today, providing complete, global private aircraft chartering solutions with safety at the pinnacle of its offering.
 
Launching alongside its sister company Equinox Travel, a travel management company (TMC), the two start-ups enable clients to streamline their travel booking process through a rare ‘one-stop shop’ approach for all their travel needs.
 
Equinox Charter draws on extensive business aviation and music industry experience to offer a unique, highly consultative service – with a focus on the extensive music, touring and entertainment charter market, which is now seeing a strong resurgence.
 
Industry charter specialist Elliot Bottomley, Managing Director of Equinox Charter, says: “As we head into an exciting period with the return of shows and live events, we cannot wait to get started.
 
“Our new team is more than ready to manage complex itineraries for bands and solo artists, agents, tour managers and film production companies. Working with our sister company, Equinox Travel, allows us to support our clients with their commercial travel needs too.”
 
Having run ARGUS Certified charter broker Artist Charter in the past, Elliot is keen to ensure flight safety remains very high on the agenda for Equinox.
 
“As part of our commitment to safe air travel and a consistently high quality of service, due diligence will be paramount, and we’ll work only with a network of vetted operators and private aircraft worldwide.”
 
The new charter broker is now a proud member of both the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA). These memberships are a sign of intent as to how the company hopes to integrate and expand within the business aviation sector.
 
Equinox CEO Ian Patterson says: “Equinox Charter is a unique entrant to business aviation – a solution-based start-up which aims to fill a clear gap in the market.
 
“Nowadays, travel is often fragmented, with many TMCs outsourcing aircraft charter to a third party. Through both Equinox companies, we are uniquely positioned to deliver a seamless and efficient service to clients with complex travel needs, by offering ultra-competitive pricing and greater flexibility on private aircraft booking, as well as commercial aviation booking, car hire, accommodation needs and more.
 
“We understand the demands and nuances of live touring and film production, from last-minute schedule changes to complex logistical challenges. This is why we’re committed to delivering the bespoke, personal, high-touch travel management solutions our clients not only demand, but also deserve.”
 
While music and entertainment are at the heart of its operations, Equinox’s senior experts also offer specialist travel support for professional sportspersons and sports agents, as well as facilitating corporate travel and arranging luxury leisure trips.
 
Unique in being able to offer Equinox clients commercial air travel options when required or necessary, Equinox Charter takes sustainability and environmental concerns seriously, and actively supports clients in making their own efforts in sustainable air travel.
 
The start-up has published its four-part commitment to sustainable charter, which includes carbon offsetting capabilities, encouraging the use of empty legs, making smarter aircraft and operator choices, as well as smaller, day-to-day measures.
 
In addition, both Equinox companies strive to accommodate clients’ existing sustainable travel policies – whether that be selecting air travel options with lower emissions, evaluating hotel choices based on sustainability factors, or facilitating VIP car transfers with electric vehicles.
 
Equinox benefits from the expertise of specialists including CEOs Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth. The duo is renowned for steering ET Travel Ltd to become a leading TMC in the sector, and later holding joint Chief Operating Officer roles at global travel management company The Appointment Group (TAG).

ENDS
 
More information can be found at equinox-charter.com and equinox-travel.com.
 
For media enquiries contact Balint Brunner via Aero PR
on [email protected] or +44 74 2314 8828.

​Editor’s notes
 
About Equinox Charter
Equinox Charter Ltd. provides seamless, global private aircraft chartering solutions with a focus on the music and entertainment industry. Led by music touring expert Elliot Bottomley, the London-based company offers worldwide access to private jet, turboprop and helicopter aircraft – with a 24/7 consultative service and a commitment to best practice in safety and sustainability. Equinox Charter is a member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA). For more information, visit and equinox-charter.com.
 
About Equinox Travel
Equinox Travel Ltd. is a music and entertainment specialist travel management company (TMC), founded in 2021 by former The Appointment Group (TAG) and ET Travel Ltd directors Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth. The London-based company provides a bespoke, high-touch and comprehensive travel management solution, from commercial air travel, through private aviation arrangements to accommodation services. Alongside live music touring, Equinox Travel offers specialist travel support for the sports industry, as well as corporate and luxury leisure travellers. For more information, visit equinox-travel.com.

London, UK, 2 November 2021 – New travel management company Equinox Travel has begun operations today, offering clients unparalleled expertise in music and entertainment travel. The Equinox brand is further boosted with the launch of sister company Equinox Charter.
 
Set up by former The Appointment Group (TAG) and ET Travel Ltd directors Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth, Equinox enables clients to streamline their travel booking process through its comprehensive travel services offering.
 
With combined travel experience of over 100 years, Equinox’s expert team specialise in delivering bespoke travel solutions and managing complex itineraries for bands and solo artists, agents, tour managers, film production companies and more.
 
Equinox CEO Ian Patterson says: “We understand the demands and nuances of live touring and film production, from last-minute schedule changes to complex logistical challenges. This is why we’re committed to delivering the bespoke, personal, high-touch travel management solutions our clients not only demand, but also deserve.
 
“Nowadays, travel is often fragmented, with many TMCs outsourcing aircraft charter to a third party. Through Equinox Charter, we are uniquely positioned to deliver a seamless and efficient service to clients with complex travel needs, by offering ultra-competitive pricing and greater flexibility on private aircraft bookings.
 
“As we prepare for a huge influx of concert tours, live shows and major sporting events early next year, Equinox is excited to support clients with their commercial and private aviation requirements, along with their accommodation and ancillary travel needs – becoming their trusted and reliable ‘360-degree’ travel partner.”
 
Equinox Travel’s global services include hotel bookings, serviced apartment and private accommodation rentals, car hire and chauffeur services, ferry and rail transport management and a range of other travel services, alongside commercial airline bookings. Private aircraft charter solutions will be kept within the Equinox family and handled by Equinox Charter.
 
While music and entertainment are at the heart of its operations, the company’s team of senior experts also offers specialist travel support for professional sportspersons, athletes and sports agents, as well as facilitating corporate travel and arranging luxury leisure trips for those seeking to enjoy a well-deserved break.
 
Led by Elliot Bottomley, Equinox Charter provides a 24/7 consultative service and draws on decades of business aviation and music management experience to provide seamless, global private aircraft chartering solutions to clients across all sectors.
 
Equinox Charter was set up with a clear commitment to industry best practice and a heavy focus on charter safety. As a sign of intent to how the company hopes to integrate and expand in the business aviation sector, Equinox Charter has become a member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA).
 
Across its vast portfolio of travel services, Equinox is committed to sustainable travel, and actively encourages and supports clients in choosing responsible travel methods.
 
It strives to accommodate clients’ existing sustainable travel policies – whether that be selecting air travel options with lower emissions, providing the opportunity to offset carbon, making smart operator choices, promoting the use of empty legs, evaluating hotel choices based on sustainability factors or facilitating car transfers with electric vehicles.
 
The start-up, which aims to fill the market gap for comprehensive travel services for the music and entertainment industry, benefits from the expertise of specialists including CEOs Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth.
 
The duo is renowned for steering ET Travel Ltd to become a leading TMC in the sector, and later holding joint Chief Operating Officer roles at global travel management company The Appointment Group (TAG).

ENDS
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More information can be found at equinox-travel.com and equinox-charter.com.
 
For media enquiries contact Balint Brunner via Aero PR
on [email protected] or +44 74 2314 8828.
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​Editor’s notes
 
About Equinox Travel
Equinox Travel Ltd. is a music and entertainment specialist travel management company (TMC), founded in 2021 by former The Appointment Group (TAG) and ET Travel Ltd directors Ian Patterson and Glen Duckworth. The London-based company provides a bespoke, high-touch and comprehensive travel management solution, from commercial air travel, through private aviation arrangements to accommodation services. Alongside live music touring, Equinox Travel offers specialist travel support for the sports industry, as well as corporate and luxury leisure travellers. For more information, visit equinox-travel.com.
 
About Equinox Charter
Equinox Charter Ltd. provides seamless, global private aircraft chartering solutions with a focus on the music and entertainment industry. Led by music touring expert Elliot Bottomley, the London-based company offers worldwide access to private jet, turboprop and helicopter aircraft – with a 24/7 consultative service and a commitment to best practice in safety and sustainability. Equinox Charter is a member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and the British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA). For more information, visit and equinox-charter.com.