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Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news

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Manassas, VA and Bleienbach, Switzerland:

Electra expands footprint in US and Europe to advance Hybrid-Electric Ultra Short Aircraft

Electra’s rapid growth and top engineering talent drive production of the EL9 forward.

Electra.aero has announced the expansion of its facilities in Manassas, Virginia, and Bleienbach, Switzerland, to support the company’s rapid growth and the development of its nine-passenger hybrid-electric EL9 Ultra Short aircraft.

“Electra is on a mission to transform aviation, and expanding our facilities ensures we will continue attracting the world-class engineering talent to design, develop, and commercialize our groundbreaking EL9,” said Marc Allen, CEO of Electra.

“We’re giving our teams the resources they need to get our Ultra Short aircraft into the hands of our customers and deliver on the promise of Direct Aviation, making regional air travel more convenient, affordable, and sustaiable.”

At its headquarters at Manassas Regional Airport in Virginia, Electra has opened a new 15,000-square-foot hangar and 6,000-square-foot office space.

The expanded facility will house development and engineering teams. This addition complements Electra’s existing 36,000-square-foot headquarters facility in Manassas.

Electra has more than doubled the size of its workforce in 2025 and will add dozens more engineering team members in the coming year.

Gogo Plane Simple Ka-band terminal certified for Dassault Falcon 7X and 8X models

Gogo's Plane Simple Ka-band tail mount antenna system has received European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) supplemental type certification (STC) approvals for Dassault Falcon 7X and 8X aircraft.

Gogo worked with Dassault Falcon Jet in Le Bourget, France, to obtain the STC modification, which has already been installed on a privately owned Dassault Falcon 7X. The installation of the Plane Simple Ka-band terminal complements existing onboard L-Band and SwiftBroadband solutions to further bolster connectivity through the aircraft.

The latest STC gives all Dassault Falcon 7X and 8X operators equipping airframes with the Plane Simple Ka-band terminal immediate access to global connectivity, powered by the Viasat next-generation Ka-band GX network.

The constellation optimizes satellites and terminals designed with dual polarization capability, enabling on-the-ground broadband speeds at altitude.

The high-performance solution allows multiple passengers using multiple devices to access video streaming, conferencing, email, voice calling, and multiple digital applications simultaneously.

Gulfstream introduces the all-new G300

Gulfstream has announced the all-new, super-midsize Gulfstream G300 as the latest aircraft to join its next-generation fleet.

The aircraft will replace the Gulfstream G280 and feature signature Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows as well as an all-new Harmony Flight Deck, which includes next-generation avionics to enhance safety and operational efficiency.

Gulfstream announced the G300 at its exclusive Discover the Difference customer event in Savannah. During the event, Gulfstream President Mark Burns revealed a full-scale mock-up of the G300 and showed photos of the first aircraft in production.

“Fueled by a decade of investment and our future-forward approach, the Gulfstream next-generation fleet offers our customers the most innovative family of aircraft,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream.

“We know how important the super-midsize cabin segment is to our customers, so building on the highly successful G280 program, the G300 will reenergize the category with its heightened technology and safety enhancements, alongside the legendary comfort and styling of a Gulfstream.”

Tropic Air expands fleet with Cessna Grand Caravan EX trio

Recently, three new Cessna Grand Caravan EX aircraft were delivered to regional operator Tropic Air based in Belize.

The aircraft joined the company’s existing fleet of Grand Caravan aircraft used to provide travel and cargo services across Belize, Honduras and Mexico.

Founded in 1979 with a mission to develop the tourism industry in Belize, Tropic Air utilizes their fleet to provide reliable and convenient travel opportunities for customers across the region.

“Whether supporting business travel, tourism or cargo operations, the Cessna Grand Caravan EX is equipped to access diverse terrain and remote runways around the globe,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing.

“Tropic Air’s continued investment through these aircraft underscores its adaptable performance and dependable comfort—qualities that are ideal for connecting communities and travelers across Latin America.”

Peru:

Beechcraft King Air turboprops transform emergency response in Peru

In Peru today, Beechcraft aircraft are saving lives. The government recently expanded its emergency response capabilities with a second Beechcraft King Air 360C air ambulance, equipped with vital sign monitors, incubators, stretchers and cold chain systems for organ transport.

Since October 2024, more than 100 aeromedical flights in Peru have evacuated over 145 critically ill patients - many from remote areas - demonstrating the life-saving capabilities of Textron Aviation’s special mission platforms.

“Special Missions Beechcraft and Cessna aircraft continue to prove their value in some of the world’s most demanding environments,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales.

“It’s an honor to support these life-saving efforts through the Peruvian Air Force’s emergency response missions.”

Million Air launches brokerage division

FBO chain Million Air has expanded its aviation services portfolio with the launch of a dedicated business aircraft brokerage division - Million Air Craft Sales & Acquisitions.

Drawing on decades of leadership experience in the preowned aircraft market, the company has long guided customers through the purchase, sale, and upgrade of business jets and turboprops. The creation of Million Air Craft Sales & Acquisitions formalizes that trusted advisory role.

Million Air launches brokerage division

The new division is led by Tyler Bowron, formerly a partner at Hatt & Associates and previously head of sales and acquisitions at QS Partners, the brokerage arm of NetJets. Focused exclusively on aircraft ownership, the team will support clients in every stage of buying and selling.

“As pilots and aircraft owners ourselves, we know the complexities and opportunities inherent in aircraft transactions,” said CEO Roger Woolsey, calling the expansion a natural progression for the brand. “Million Air Craft Sales & Acquisitions brings the same expertise, trust, and hospitality our clients count on in our FBOs directly into the aircraft sales marketplace.”

IFS

Mihita Podobnik

IFS, the leading provider of Industrial AI software, has announced the appointment of Mihita Podobnik as Chief People Officer, succeeding Debra McCowan, who is stepping down from her role as Chief Human Resources Officer.

Podobnik was most recently IFS Chief of Staff, where she partnered closely with the executive team to lead strategic initiatives and drive transformation across the business. Her leadership skills and ability to connect strategy with execution will be central to advancing IFS’s people-first agenda.

“Mihita is highly respected across IFS and I’m delighted to welcome her into this role,” said Mark Moffat, CEO of IFS. “Her leadership, strategic mindset, and deep connection to our people make her the ideal person to take our high-performance agenda forward at pace. I look forward to seeing her impact as we continue to scale globally.

“Debra has played a key role in shaping IFS’s people strategy. Her leadership has left a lasting impact, and I wish her every success in her next chapter.”

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

Global bizjet activity flat in Week 39, four-week trend to +7%

In Week 39 (22-28 September), global bizjet activity reached 74,368 departures, down 6% compared to the prior week (Week 38) and flat versus Week 39 of 2024.

Looking at the rolling last 52 weeks, Week 26 remains the leader, with a total of 79,930 bizjet departures, while the slowest week is still Week 2 2025 recording 60,319 departures.

On a rolling last four-week basis (W36 – W39), global business jets have reached 307,288 departures, a 7% increase compared to the same period last year.

“While Week 39 was flat compared to last year, the four-week trend shows we're still up 7% which reflects solid underlying demand.

"The New York events, both the UN General Assembly and Ryder Cup, generated strong traffic as expected."

Combined Part 91K and 135 traffic slightly underperformed the overall global trend last week, recording 1% less flights in W39 2025 compared to W39 2024. Part 91K and 135 traffic rolling four-week (W36 – W39) trend is still up 6% compared to the same weeks in 2024.

North America: Slight weekly decline masks strong four-week trend
The North American market recorded 1% less activity in W39 2025 vs W39 2024, with total departures at 51,746. The U.S. market performed in line with this trend with a 1% contraction and 49,791 flights. Among key states, trends varied widely with Florida notching 9% year-on-year growth, while California and Texas were both behind, -11% and -6% respectively. North America’s rolling four-week trend is now 8% ahead of the comparable period in 2024.

full report

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London:

Otto Aerospace secures record-breaking 300 aircraft deal with Flexjet

Otto Aerospace has named Flexjet as the launch customer for the next-generation Phantom 3500 business jet - a clean-sheet, ultra-efficient aircraft that leverages breakthrough laminar-flow aerodynamics and precision all-carbon-fiber composites to cut fuel burn by over 60%.

The landmark deal includes a firm order for 300 Phantom 3500 business jets with additional options. First flight of the Phantom 3500 is expected in 2027, with deliveries beginning in 2030. The agreement represents one of the largest aircraft orders to an OEM in business aviation history.

By Vytautas Ledakas, Chief Simulator Training Officer at BAA Training.

For decades, the full flight simulator (FFS) has been the centerpiece of pilot training. From take-off emergencies to low-visibility landings, it is still considered the gold standard - sometimes even the only standard.

But with its recent update to the task-to-tool model, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has proposed a change: training tasks no longer must be tied to the most advanced simulator by default, but to the one best suited for the task.

It’s a deceptively simple idea with far-reaching consequences: more innovative use of simulators, lower training costs, and more agile programs - without compromising safety. How can training organizations strike the balance between fidelity, flexibility, and cost?

The EASA task-to-tool model explained

Flying into the Future: The Dawn to Dusk Electric Challenge

What happens when you take an electric aircraft, two passionate aviators, and a whole day of flying from sunrise to sunset?

At Fairoaks Airfield in Surrey, 4Air’s Adam Twidell and Synergy Flight Training’s Glen Heavens set out to find out - by introducing the ePipistrel to as many new flyers as possible in one action-packed day!

The duo attempted two world records: the most flights in an electric aircraft in one day and the most student pilots ever taught in a single day on electric power. With every moment captured on participants’ phones and brought to life through AI editing, the result is a film that’s as fun and pioneering as the challenge itself.

This wasn’t just about records - it was about sharing the pure joy of electric flying and inspiring the next generation of pilots.

watch the video

Basel, Switzerland:

Jet Aviation Design Studio wins industry award

The Jet Aviation Design Studio has won in the Elite Aviation Concept category at the Elite Awards 2025, organized by design et al. The company won with its Cirrus concept cabin for a VVIP business jet interior.

The concept explores Jet Aviation’s commitment to innovation in aircraft interiors, considering the integration of cutting-edge design techniques such as 3D veneer and integrated LED lighting in cabinetry, and curved valance panels, in a reimagined cabin concept of the future.

Flexjet unveils first Gulfstream G700

Flexjet has marked the formal introduction of the industry-defining Gulfstream G700 to its fleet, expanding one of the world’s largest and most refined collections of large-cabin aircraft.

The largest and fastest Gulfstream ever produced, Flexjet’s fleet of G700s delivers to the fractional jet ownership marketplace an offering unparalleled in its boldness, luxury and performance.

Current and prospective Flexjet aircraft Owners can gain immediate access to this sought-after aircraft without waiting on the years-long manufacturer backlog. The number of these aircraft in circulation globally remains in just the double digits, and Flexjet is officially launching the programme with three of these $96m aircraft operating within its global fleet.

The Human Hack:
Why people still outperform AI in business aviation sales

The potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the hottest topic across global industries. You can’t open a newspaper, attend a conference, or scroll through LinkedIn without reading how AI is about to replace a significant part of the workforce.

AI is great; it can perform and improve many tasks, and the aviation industry has certainly embraced AI in every area, from improving operational efficiency and safety to supporting financial decision-making.

Already widely used for predictive maintenance, route optimisation, air traffic management, fuel optimisation, and cockpit assistance, among others.

AI-piloted aircraft are also currently under development, although humans need to buy into a pilotless aircraft, and that’s where things begin to get a little more sensitive.

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE; Santa Cruz, California and London:

RAKTA, Joby and Skyports partner to launch air taxi service in Ras Al Khaimah by 2027

The Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (“RAKTA”), Joby Aviation and Skyports Infrastructure have announced a long-term collaboration to launch a passenger air taxi service network in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (“RAK”) by 2027.

The announcement followed the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, marking a significant milestone in advancing innovative and sustainable mobility solutions in the UAE.

The partnership will bring together the direct support of RAKTA, Skyports’ leadership in developing vertiport infrastructure, and Joby’s all-electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to design, develop and operate the first air taxi service in RAK.

“This partnership reflects Ras Al Khaimah’s strategic vision to shape the future of mobility by integrating advanced transport solutions within its urban and tourism ecosystem,” said H.E Esmaeel Hasan Alblooshi, RAKTA Director General.

“This step is an extension of Ras Al Khaimah’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan 2030, which focuses on innovation, sustainability, and the integration of transport modes.

"The launch of air taxi services represents a qualitative addition that provides fast, efficient, and eco-friendly mobility options, meeting the needs of both residents and visitors. It also contributes to enhancing quality of life and reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a modern, smart city and an attractive global destination.”

Research highlights expanding role of business aviation in Asia’s corporate and humanitarian sectors

A new study commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) reveals that corporate aviation is playing an increasingly strategic role for Asian based businesses.

The report finds that the majority of organizations in Asia that already use business aviation are using it more to support their operational efficiency, which includes providing access to a broader group of employees.

Many also use their business aircraft to support humanitarian causes.

The research was conducted amongst senior professionals based in China, Hong Kong and Singapore, comprising 34 senior executives at some of the largest corporations in Asia and 33 Asian based family offices, hedge funds and private equity firms with a combined AUM of US$141bn.

The research reveals that 63% of their overall business air travel is now conducted via business aviation for the senior executives surveyed at Asian corporations. The corresponding figures for the private equity and hedge fund managers, and family offices surveyed are 69% and 69% respectively.

The findings indicate that business aviation is delivering substantial time savings made on journeys compared with using commercial airlines. Almost all (94%) Asian organizations surveyed estimate that they save between two and three hours when using a business aircraft rather than a commercial flight; and a further 5% say they save three hours or more.

More than seven in ten (72%) also state that 25% or more of the business routes they make using corporate aircraft are not served by commercial flights.

UK-based On Air Dining acquired by Air Culinaire Worldwide

On Air Dining, the award-winning inflight catering provider at London-Stansted and Farnborough airports, has been acquired by Air Culinaire Worldwide, a global leader in private aviation catering.

This move expands and enhances both companies’ ability to serve the private aviation community across the UK and Europe.

As part of the acquisition, the entire On Air Dining team will remain in place, ensuring continuity of relationships, operations, and high service standards.

Known for its culinary innovation, bespoke service, and meticulous attention to detail, On Air Dining has earned a trusted reputation among operators and clients seeking high-end in-flight dining experiences. With locations at both London-Stansted and Farnborough, the company is uniquely positioned to serve two of the UK’s busiest private aviation hubs.

“This acquisition is a natural progression for On Air Dining and aligns with our long-term growth strategy,” said Daniel Hulme, Founder of On Air Dining.

“Our clients value consistency, flexibility, and personal service. Backed by the support of Air Culinaire Worldwide, we are in a stronger position than ever to deliver all three. With our team unchanged, our kitchens in Stansted and Farnborough receiving further investment, and enhanced logistics capabilities, this move sets us up for significant growth throughout Europe.”

Weston Aviation awarded ISCC EU Sustainability Certification

UK and Ireland FBO operator, Weston Aviation, has achieved ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification) for ISCC EU.

By achieving ISCC EU compliance, Weston Aviation is ensuring full traceability of sustainable aviation fuel throughout the supply chain and are now in a position to issue Proof of Compliance (PoC) documentation to its fuel customers effective for all fuel purchased from 22nd September 2025 onwards.

To comply with the Certification process, the company is fully committed to maintaining a robust and fully ISCC-compliant management system, recognising the critical importance of adhering to the ISCC standards, which ensure environmental, social, and economic sustainability throughout the entire supply chain. The system is designed to guarantee full traceability of sustainable material and accurate application of the mass balance approach.

All biomass and waste-based fuels supplied comply with ISCC sustainability criteria, including land use restrictions, biodiversity protection, greenhouse gas emissions reduction and respect for human and labour rights. Internal procedures include regular audits, staff training, and data verification processes to uphold the integrity of our ISCC certification. By aligning operations with ISCC regulations, Weston Aviation actively contributes to the development of a credible, transparent, and responsible global bioeconomy.

On the ground in Italy: Chapman Freeborn enhances partnership with Oil Spill Response Limited

Global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn, a member of Avia Solutions Group, has further strengthened its working relationship with Oil Spill Response Limited (OSRL).

Gianluca Modonese, Chapman Freeborn's Cargo Sales Manager - Italy, and Jason de Beer, Senior Cargo Charter Broker - UK organised site visits with OSRL. The delegation inspected multiple Italian airports for their ability to manage oversized cargo, as well as visiting the one-of-a-kind equipment used in subsea blowouts at OSRL's storage facility.

Chapman Freeborn has been partnering for multiple years with OSRL, a global oil & gas industry cooperative that provides preparedness and response solutions for oil spills. The air charter broker provides consultancy and support in transporting outsized cargo used for oil spill emergency response, including equipment and spare parts. The in-person tour of relevant airports and facilities in Italy has further strengthened the relationship between the two partners.

Textron Aviation returns to NBAA-BACE 2025 with four of its industry-leading Cessna Citation business jets

Textron Aviation will showcase industry-leading Cessna Citation business jets - including the debut of the Cessna Citation Ascend at the 2025 National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas October 14th–16th.

The company will also feature its global customer support capabilities and the monumental Special Olympics Airlift event during the show. Attendees can experience the newly FAA qualified Veris Full Flight Simulator in the TRU Simulation booth at the hall.

Static Display

The company will feature four aircraft and one mockup at its static display, AC_08, October 14th–15th at Henderson Executive Airport.

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More stories on our Industry tabs at the top of the page.

Birddog community celebrates 75th anniversary with fly-in at Textron Aviation

Textron Aviation recently welcomed over 100 members of the International Birddog Association (IBDA) to its East Campus to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the iconic Cessna L-19/O-1 Birddog. The event honored the aircraft’s enduring legacy and the people who have kept its story alive for generations.

Originally developed at the company’s Pawnee Plant in Wichita, Kansas, to meet a US Army requirement, the Birddog - correctly spelled as one word, with no space - first flew in 1949 and entered service in 1950. It went on to serve in 24 militaries worldwide, including extensive use in the Korean and Vietnam wars as a forward air control and reconnaissance aircraft. Its design innovations like tandem seating, angled windows and overhead visibility panels made it a trusted tool for observation and liaison missions.

Birddog community celebrates 75th anniversary with fly-in at Textron Aviation

Twenty-eight Birddog aircraft arrived at Beech Field (KBEC) for the celebration, which included lunch, a narrated history presentation, static displays and manufacturing tours. Veterans, historians and international guests joined employees in commemorating the aircraft and the people who gave it purpose.

“Celebrating our heritage connects generations and fuels the future of flight,” said Travis Tyler, president & CEO, Textron Aviation Defense in his welcome remarks. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to welcome these aircraft back to their birthplace and to honor the veterans who flew them with distinction.”

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Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news

Manassas, VA and Bleienbach, Switzerland:

Electra’s rapid growth and top engineering talent drive production of the EL9 forward.

Broomfield, Colorado:

Savannah, Georgia:

Belize:

Tropic Air expands fleet with Cessna Grand Caravan EX trio

Peru:

Houston, Texas:

Million Air launches brokerage division

IFS

Mihita Podobnik

IFS, the leading provider of Industrial AI software, has announced the appointment of Mihita Podobnik as Chief People Officer, succeeding Debra McCowan, who is stepping down from her role as Chief Human Resources Officer.

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

In Week 39 (22-28 September), global bizjet activity reached 74,368 departures, down 6% compared to the prior week (Week 38) and flat versus Week 39 of 2024.

London:

By Vytautas Ledakas, Chief Simulator Training Officer at BAA Training.

Basel, Switzerland:

London:

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE; Santa Cruz, California and London:

Singapore:

London:

United Kingdom:

Italy:

NBAA-BACE 2025:

Textron Aviation will showcase industry-leading Cessna Citation business jets - including the debut of the Cessna Citation Ascend at the 2025 National Business Aviation Association Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas October 14th–16th.

Birddog community celebrates 75th anniversary with fly-in at Textron Aviation