[3] In late 1989, European Aviation was formed when owner Paul Stoddart purchased two BAC 1-11 aircraft and three Falcon 20 business jets (and a large assortment of spare parts for both aircraft) from the Royal Australian Air Force's 'VIP Squad' (the Canberra-based No 34 SQN).

Stoddart hired Trevor Whetter from British Aerospace as his Managing Director and sold the BAC 1-11 aircraft to Okada Air in Nigeria.

Seven of the aircraft were utilised in long haul service to destinations such as New York City, Chicago and other United States and Canadian locations.

[8] During their ownership of the 747 aircraft, they were also utilised for servicing the Minardi Formula One Team now owned by founder, Stoddart.

[9] In 2002, Stoddart was close to selling European Air Charter to the Bath Family who owned Palmair.

[10][11][12] The deal was completed, and the Bath Family continued operating European Air Charter until 2004, when founder Stoddart bought the airline back.

[13] Shortly after Stoddart's return, European Air Charter significantly cut aircraft numbers, and made 560 of its 600 staff redundant.