TWENTY YEARS STRONG FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY
GROUP TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS
First Class In Every Way Address 12703 Eastex Freeway, Houston, TX 77039 Contact Information Email: info@firstclasstours.net Phone: (281) 590-8800 Fax: (281) 227-8265 www.firstclasstours.net
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TWENTY YEARS STRONG FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY
Our Mission “Our mission is to provide you the best transportation experience available, anywhere. Our luxury equipment, highly-trained drivers, friendly & knowledgeable sales staff, and dedicated maintenance crew, are here to ensure that your journey is extraordinary. Every day, and every time someone steps foot on one of our coaches, we are committed to being first class in every way!“
-Jeff Rogers President
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2 OUR MISSION
CONTENTS
Every company has a mission; ours is simple and to the point, but it's the foundation of everything we do.
4-5 WHO WE ARE Our history and future come together to reveal a successful North American company with a great story.
6-7 OUR seven pillars We believe you should know exactly what we promise to do on each and every move we make.
16 THE DRIVERS Our drivers have the experience, training, and commitment to safety and service that you deserve.
17 OUR SAFETY PROGRAM Whenever you step on one of our coaches, we have your safety in mind.
18 TESTIMONIALS Don't take our word for it; here are stories from our customers who have experienced the first class difference.
8-9 THE FIRST CLASS TEAM Industry-leading, friendly, knowledgeable employees are one of the foundations of the First Class experience. Come meet our team of experts.
10-15 LUXURY COACHES We are proud of our fleet of luxury coaches that are maintained --- inside and out --- to the highest standards. We aim to please even the most discerning of groups!
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who we are letter from OUR PRESIDENT Born in Houston, Texas, First Class Tours is a family owned and operated company with a passion for service, safety, and providing a first-class experience to all of our customers. Whether this is your first time booking or you're a long-time customer, First Class works hard every day to earn your business.
JEFF ROGERS Second Generation Owner/Manager
At First Class Tours, we are committed to being the company we would want to work with. We know that our customers trust us with their lives when they step aboard our coaches, and we take that responsibility very seriously. We are proud of our history and excited about our future. We continue to invest in equipment, training, and tools to ensure that our customers have the best transportation experience money can buy. We pride ourselves on having the best fleet in Texas, the highest-quality drivers, and the most friendly, knowledgeable staff in the industry. After nearly 30 years, we continue to work hard every day to make sure that our passion for transportation comes through in everything we do as we aim to deliver a First Class Experience to every customer, every day.
-Jeff Rogers President
“After 20 years, we continue to work hard every day to make sure that our passion for transportation comes through in every thing we do and to deliver a First Class Experience to every customer, every day.�
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OUR HISTORY Transportation is more than what we do; it is who we are. Our family has built a tradition of being the best in the business, and we continue to work hard to ensure that we keep that reputation for decades to come.
First Class Tours Incorporated (FCT) was established by Lanny Rogers, who entered the bus industry in 1984 with the purchase of Gray Line of Houston. When Mr. Rogers purchased Gray Line, it operated 3 older buses from a small facility in north Houston. Over the next 12 years, Gray Line grew to a fleet of over 100 late-model, full-sized motorcoaches, and was a recognized leader in the motorcoach industry throughout Texas and the United States. The company provided charter, contract, and tour services until 1996, when it was acquired by Coach USA. In 1998, Mr. Rogers established First Class Tours, where he served as president of the company until 2012. FCT has continued the Lanny Rogers Gray Line of Houston legacy of providing Founder, First Class Tours superior ground transportation services by 1998-2012 offering late-model, premium motorcoaches that are operated by professional, highly-qualified operators. FCT currently operates a fleet of 68 full-size, late-model motorcoaches, and we provide a variety of services including daily scheduled service, charters, shuttles, and tours. FCT maintains its motorcoach fleet in-house, employing a full maintenance staff including mechanics, paint and body services, and service line employees. We have a vested interest in maintaining our fleet at the highest level and rigorously follow all preventative maintenance guidelines and procedures. As an experienced, fully-licensed and approved provider of interstate motorcoach services, FCT is prepared to meet the responsibilities of your transportation requirements.
OUR professional associations
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The First Class Our 7 Pillars... PILLAR #1
First Class Service Providing exceptional service is how we show our customers that we appreciate them. Our goal has never been to meet your expectations; we strive to exceed them!
PILLAR #2
First Class Maintenance Because safety and reliability are top priorities, we place strong emphasis on fleet maintenance. This proactive focus reduces mechanical failures on the road and enables us to address concerns before they become problems.
PILLAR #3
First Class Fleet The First Class Tours brand is synonymous with excellence. Our vehicles are impeccably clean, sleek and professional in appearance and uniform in both specifications and quality.
PILLAR #4
First Class Drivers Hands down, our drivers are the best in the business. We look to attract and retain the best drivers our industry has to offer. When you find a First Class Driver behind the wheel, you'll know your in great hands.
PILLAR #5
First Class Safety At First Class Tours, your safety is our first priority. Everything about our company - our vehicles, the staff we hire, our emphasis on maintenance - is calculated to ensure that your safety is never compromised.
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PILLAR #6
First Class Planning When you do business with us, we want you to have a seamless experience. Successful trips happen when our customers, logistics team and drivers are on the same page.
PILLAR #7
First Class Communications Responsive communication is a priority. Our 24/7 dispatch line makes it possible to offer assistance to quickly and effectively address your concerns.
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our team A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE Our success is a testament to our team. ALL of us --- executives, trainers for our drivers, sales staff, and bus washers --- are committed to making every journey you take with us a First Class experience.
The big picture We are incredibly proud of our entire team because every person plays an important role in our ability to continually deliver a first class experience.
Jeff Rogers President
John Anderson
Tena Hay
Nicole Gutierrez
Frede Smit
Operations Manager
Senior Sales Advisor
Senior Sales Advisor
Sales Advisor
th
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FIRST CLASS Employee Mission Statement The mission of all First Class employees is to work together to foster a culture of excellence dedicated to the safety of our customers. Each employee is tasked with using their skills, talents, and abilities to better the company and provide the service and respect our customers deserve. Excellence is our passion, and every employee should consistently look for ways to embody that ideal in their respective role.
68 Modern luxury coaches in our fleet.
148 Total employees committed to your comfort and safety.
8,502,768 3,456,572 Passengers moved each year.
Miles driven annually across our fleet.
Elizabeth Starns
David Ray
Sales Advisor
Maintenance Manager
Billy White
Leon Washington
Fitz Richards
Scheduling & Planning
Driver Training & Compliance
Scheduling & Planning
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the equipment Our equipment is one of the cornerstones of our company. We believe that in order to be First Class, it's imperative to operate a fleet of First Class equipment. We continue to make investments in our coaches to ensure that we operate the best fleet in the region.
FULL-SIZE LUXURY COACHES 36-57 Passenger Luxury Coaches These coaches are the backbone of our fleet. We currently run a fleet of around 68 full-size coaches, An average fleet age of less than 6 years.
First Class Luxury Luxury starts with the coach, and we know that no amount of quality service will make up for bad equipment. We pride ourselves on our fleet---not just because many of our coaches are newer models, but also because we prioritize maintenance and cleanliness, and offer convenient amenities for our passengers.
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Amenities
* Indicates available on select coaches.
• Leather seats • A/V systems • TVs with DVD player • Scenic view windows • Kneeling bus technology • Enclosed parcel racks • Individual reading lights • Power outlets • WiFi • Restroom • Wheelchair lift • Air conditioning • Individual air vent control • Reclining seats • Ample luggage storage
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Luxury interiors on full-size coaches
Experience over-the-road travel in a way you never have before! Our coaches offer a truly First Class Experience in every way imaginable.
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Mid-Sized
LUXURY EXECUTIVE COACHES 24 Passenger Executive Coaches First Class Tours recently added these luxury mini coaches to our fleet to accommodate the needs of smaller groups and venues with size limitations.
Great things. Small Packages. Our fleet of executive coaches enables us to offer you a choice when it comes to meeting your transportation needs. Designed for groups as small as 12, these coaches may be short on seats, but they don't skimp on quality or comfort.
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Amenities
* Indicates available on select coaches.
• Leather seats • A/V systems • TVs with DVD player • Scenic view windows • Individual reading lights • WiFi • Restroom • Air conditioning • Individual air vent control • Reclining seats • Rear luggage storage
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the drivers We know that having the best fleet in the business, the most knowledgeable staff, and an impeccable safety record means little without great drivers. We are incredibly proud to offer our customers the best driver pool available! This knowledgeable, experienced, friendly, and well-trained group of motorcoach operators is the heartbeat of our First Class operation. Give us a try and see what sets us apart!
First class Drivers
Experienced, knowledgeable, friendly, and well-trained. Many of our career drivers have been driving for decades and have made motorcoach driving their life.
Driver Qualifications All First Class drivers must meet the following minimum requirements: • Possess a current Commercial Driver's License (CDL) • The CDL must have a P (passenger) endorsement • Must be at least 25 years of age • Possess a current Medical Examiner's Certificate
ADDITIONAL SCREENING Beyond a formal interview, all applicants are subject to the following testing: • Motorcoach Driver written assessment • Pre-employment drug screen • FMCSA Federal Pre-employment screen (PSP) • Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check • Behind the wheel road test
ONGOING TRAINING First Class Tours drivers are also subject to mandatory, ongoing training including: • Safe Driving Instruction • Federal Regulation Compliance Training • Customer Service & First Class Standards Instruction • Driver Skill & Aptitude Courses
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first class safety Your safety is our top priority, and we work hard to keep you safe every time you step aboard one of our coaches. Not all coach companies are created equal, and we want you to know that when you choose First Class Tours, you are choosing a company dedicated to keeping you safe on every move.
Safety and regulatory compliance are cornerstones of First Class Tours. Individually and as a team, our goal is to maintain a culture that fosters personal responsibility for the safety of our customers and fellow employees.
Driver SAFETY • Maintain a current "Driver Qualifications" file on each driver (as per federal regulations). • Random drug testing program for all drivers, administered via a third party. • On-board technology to actively monitor driver behaviors (such as speed and hard braking). • Continuing education classes for our drivers.
FLEET SAFETY • Routine preventative maintenance to guard against mechanical failures. • GPS devices to monitor vehicle speed and location. • On-board event video recorders to monitor driver behavior in critical situations. • Liability insurance limits exceeding federally required minimum amounts.
Regulatory Compliance • United States Department of Transportation - FCT received highest rating at latest audit. • United States Department of Defense - FCT received highest rating at latest audit. • Texas Department of Transportation - we routinely submit to volunteer vehicle inspections. • City of Houston - FCT is inspected annually as part of the city's permit program.
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TESTIMONIALS Don't take our word for it; check out what our customers are saying about us!
Consolidated Safety Services, Inc. (CSS) is the safety inspection contractor for the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO). CSS conducted a Facility, Terminal and Equipment (FTE) inspection of your operations on the date shown above. A copy of the inspection report is enclosed for your information. The inspection primarily measures performance in maintaining compliance with the Military Bus Agreement and its Addendum and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR). Your rating for this inspection is ONE 1. - Phil Hanley I just wanted to write a brief note of thanks to you and everyone at First Class Tours for providing our Big Ben trip wonderful support throughout our adventure. - Marty Thompson I, Pastor Titus Stewart, along with the Greater Emmanuel Family Worship Center Board of Trustees and the church membership, wish to thank First Class Tours, Inc. and your staff for excellent service. Our church recently charted a motorcoach with your company and we wanted to express that our driver, whose name is Gustabo, was an excellent driver, courteous, and friendly. He represented the company with class and dignity, and if and when we have another travel event the GEFWC would like to request his service, if he is available to be our driver. Once again, thank you and we will not hesitate to inquire of your services. - Pastor Titus Stewart On behalf of T.E.A.M., we would like to “Thank You� for assisting with our company bus trip to Fiesta Texas on Saturday, August 17th. The drivers were very professional and they made everyone feel comfortable on the bus ride there and back. Again, thank you and we are looking forward to using First Class Tours for our next event. - Dwayne James
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FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY
SERVICE. SAFETY. LUXURY. EXPERIENCE
First Class In Every Way
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SHOWING YOU WHAT FIRST CLASS IS ALL ABOUT.
TWENTY YEARS STRONG FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY
12703 Eastex Freeway Houston, TX 77039
www.firstclasstours.net Info@firstclasstours.net
Phone: (281) 590.8800 Fax: (281) 227.8265