The two co-founders of American investment firm 777 Partners, Bonza Airlines parent company, have resigned from the board amidst further issues and allegations surrounding the organisation.
The resignations were confirmed around the time that video emerged of a plane leased to Bonza Airlines returning to its lessor– with two other planes owned leased to the company already having departed.
Various news outlets including The Financial Times (FT) are reporting that 777 Partners co-founders Josh Wander and Steven Pasko have stepped back from their roles as managing partners, with B. Riley Advisory Service’s co-chief executive Ian Ratner and senior managing director Ronald Glass stepping in.
Bonza Airlines entered voluntary administration at the end of April 2024, with its fleet relocated overseas as the airline's lease agreements were terminated.
According to Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Bonza’s fleet “have been sitting on the tarmac blocked by physical barriers, including a large tractor and a concrete slab, as the airport attempted to ""secure the aircraft"" as the administration process unfolded”.
In a statement released May 8, 2024, Administrator Hall Chadwick confirmed it had tried to “negotiate with AIP Capital to keep the aircraft in the short term”: “The administrators have regretfully been advised that the lessors will continue to enforce their rights under the termination notices and, subject to their own requirements and arrangements, seek to reposition the fleet elsewhere”.
As of May 21, 2024, only one of Bonza’s planes remains in Australia following three of the fleet leaving – with one departing yesterday (May 20) morning.
Bonza parent company founders resign; leased planes filmed leaving Australia
