Flapper

About Flapper

Flapper is a Brazilian-based on-demand private aviation company aiming to transform the executive aviation market in Latin America. Founded in 2016 by Paul Malicki, Arthur Vizin, Iago Senefonte, William Oliveira, and Sergey Terentyev, the company emerged from the founders' shared background at the fintech firm Qiwi, with the vision of creating an "Uber of Executive Aviation". CEO Paul Malicki, a Warsaw School of Economics graduate and former CMO of Easy Taxi, brings extensive experience in marketing and go-to-market strategy from his time at other successful startups like Nubank and Farfetch.

The company operates an asset-light marketplace model through a sophisticated mobile app, which accounts for approximately 80% of its revenue. This platform connects clients with a network of over 2,500 safety-vetted jets, turboprops, and helicopters from certified air taxi operators. Flapper generates revenue through two primary services: whole aircraft charters for corporate, leisure, cargo, and medical transport, and a distinctive per-seat booking service on shared flights, which makes private aviation accessible to a broader audience at prices comparable to premium economy. This shared flights model constituted about half of the company's revenue in its earlier stages.

Since its inception, Flapper has demonstrated significant growth, raising approximately $9 million in funding through various rounds, including a Series A led by DXA and Arien Invest. The company serves a diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals, corporate travelers, and even handles specialized cargo like medical supplies and high-value goods. Geographically, Flapper has expanded beyond its Brazilian roots to establish a presence in other Latin American countries, the United States, and Europe. Looking forward, Flapper is venturing into new business verticals, including a fractional aircraft ownership program and is actively involved in promoting sustainable aviation by signing letters of intent for the future acquisition of electric and hybrid aircraft.