Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news
 São Paulo, Brazil:Embraer soars to record Q1 as business jet revenues jump 30%Embraer reported the strongest first quarter in its history, with revenues reaching US$1.4bn in Q1 2026, up 31% year-over-year, driven by solid performance across its business units and continued momentum in Business Aviation. Executive Jets was one of the highlights of the quarter, generating US$418m in revenue, a 30% increase compared with the first quarter of 2025. The growth was supported by higher aircraft delivery volumes and a stronger product mix, reinforcing Embraer’s position in the global business aviation market.
The company also continued to benefit from steady demand for its Phenom and Praetor aircraft families, as operators and corporate customers maintain focus on fleet modernization and operational flexibility. Commercial Aviation revenues rose 45% year-over-year to US$293m, reflecting improved volumes and pricing, while Defense & Security revenues climbed 63% to US$227m, supported by stronger KC-390 revenue recognition and increased A-29 Super Tucano production rates. Services & Support also delivered another strong quarter, with revenues increasing 15% year-over-year to US$490m, driven by higher activity levels across all business segments.
Charleston, SC & Vero Beach, FL:Infinity Aviation expands FBO network into South Florida with acquisition of Corporate Air Vero BeachInfinity Aviation has announced the acquisition of Corporate Air at Vero Beach, FL (VRB). The new FBO delivers a comprehensive suite of services, including on-site customs and hangaring along with general aviation and commercial fueling services. “With the acquisition of the Corporate Air FBO, we are adding a key South Florida location to our growing network,” said Steven Levesque, CEO of Infinity Aviation Group. “Vero Beach offers outstanding infrastructure with extensive modern hangar space capable of accommodating heavy jets, and additional hangar capacity is on the way. We are confident our Vero Beach FBO will quickly become South Florida’s preferred destination for private jet travelers.”
The new Infinity Aviation FBO in Vero Beach has eight hangars totaling more than 106,500 sq. ft., capable of accommodating aircraft up to Global jet size, with the most recent hangars having just been completed in 2024. All hangars feature climate-controlled environments with 24/7 security. Situated immediately adjacent to the airport’s primary runway, the facility provides fast, direct access to its 350,000 sq. ft. ramp area and full ground support services. |
Global bizjet activity expanded 2.0% year-on-year in Week 19 (4-10 May), with the year-to-date figure (1 January-10 May) at +3.9% ahead of last year, a slight deceleration compared to the +4.6% YTD trend reported through last week (through 3 May), and a sizeable improvement on the +2.6% achieved over the same period in 2025 vs 2024.While accounting for 72% of all bizjet sectors flown last week, North America grew 2.4% year-on-year, while South America and Asia led growth at 21.7% and 12.0%, respectively. Global Bizjet Departures Trends YTD (1 January-10 May).
As a preview for the World Cup, WINGX analysed three recent World Cups (Germany 2006, Russia 2018, Qatar 2022), to investigate the surge in bizjet demand that the tournament brings.
Brazil:Global 8000 makes its South American debut at Catarina Aviation ShowBombardier has announced that the Global 8000 will be on display at the Catarina Aviation Show in São Paulo, Brazil from May 21th-23rd, marking the tradeshow debut of the world's fastest business jet. The Global 6500 and the best-selling Challenger 3500 business jet will also be on display at the show, revealing their impressive design and performance attributes for clients in the region.
“Bombardier’s Global 8000 is at the pinnacle of business aviation today and the Global 6500 and industry-leading Challenger 3500 are proven performers," said Frank Vento, Vice-President of Sales, US and Latin America. "Being onsite at the Catarina Aviation Show provides Bombardier with the perfect opportunity to showcase the incredible performance and design attributes of these incredible aircraft. “Bombardier is uniquely positioned in the Brazilian market, and we are delighted to be showcasing the incredible attributes of these impressive aircraft.”
Chris Moore, CEO of Gogo explains why privacy is not a given, even at 40,000 feet, and why passengers should be querying the use of their data. Last weekend, the weather was unseasonably fine. So we loaded the family into the car and went down to the ocean. We stayed in a little bed and breakfast place, ate a picnic on the beach Sunday, then drove home. We got back later than expected and the children were tired for school next day, but we had the best time. Even if that scenario were real, you, the reader, don’t need to know about it. You don’t need to know that the family drove, where they stayed, where they went or that they have children of school age. Now imagine they posted photos and video about the trip on social media, they had apps on their devices that tracked their location and the websites they visited, and they went on a boat excursion and for that the parents entered bank account information into an online booking form - they used the free Wi-Fi in a coffee shop to do it.
Wichita, Kansas:Cessna Caravans to support USDA mission to safeguard US cropsThe US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has placed an order with Textron Aviation for three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support its sterile insect release program protecting citrus crops along the Rio Grande River in southern Texas.
APHIS will use the Caravans to carry and release sterile insects that help prevent the spread of destructive pests, including fruit flies. The environmentally friendly technique helps safeguard fruit-bearing trees, reduce crop damage and protect agricultural industries that rely on healthy harvests.
London, UK:Luxaviation UK welcomes Bombardier Challenger 604 to fleetLuxaviation UK is expanding its fleet with the addition of a Challenger 604, available for charter, making this the fourth aircraft added to its fleet in 2026.
Based at London Stansted Airport, the aircraft has a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 km), offering long-distance travel between major global hubs such as London - Dubai and London - New York. The aircraft can also serve shorter-distance journeys, for routes within Europe. The aircraft boasts a brand new exterior design and stylish interior, as well as Starlink connectivity onboard.
Wichita, Kansas:WingsLeasing signs dry lease agreement with University of Nebraska-Kearney flight school, advancing new model for growthWingsLeasing has announced the signing of a dry lease agreement of seven Tecnam P-MENTOR aircraft for the University of Nebraska-Kearney flight training program, marking a significant step forward in reshaping how flight schools access capital, scale operations and meet accelerating demand for pilot training.
The agreement reflects a growing shift in aviation training: moving away from traditional ownership models toward flexible leasing strategies that unlock capital, expand fleet capacity and improve long-term financial performance. Through the dry lease structure, the university gains access to aircraft without the upfront capital burden typically associated with fleet expansion. This approach enables increased student throughput, improved aircraft utilization and more predictable operating economics.
United States:FAA Weather Cameras: Advancing safety for 27 years and runningFor more than a quarter century, pilots have counted on FAA weather cameras to provide clear and timely images of weather conditions to help them safely get to their destinations. Today, there are 299 FAA camera sites installed at airports, in mountain passes, and on rocky coasts in Alaska and Hawaii, and in 30 of the continental US states.
Spurred by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and the Brand New Air Traffic Control System initiative, the FAA plans to add 64 new weather camera sites at covered airports in the National Airspace System by the end of 2028. This is in addition to the previously planned installation of 160 additional weather camera sites by 2031.
Miami, Florida:Fly like a rock star: Elevate Jet acquires one of the world's only VIP-configured B757sElevate Jet has announced the successful acquisition of one of the few VIP Boeing 757-200 airliners in the world on behalf of a long-standing private client. The specially configured aircraft represents a rarified category within US private aviation: a true airliner-class platform configured to VIP standards, capable of transporting up to 50 passengers in complete comfort across long distances and supporting complex, multi-city itineraries.
Designed to meet a vast array of diverse, mission-critical demands from professional sports teams playing across the country, global touring productions, and large-scale executive travel for the world’s largest corporations, the new aircraft addresses a longstanding gap in the domestic market for high-capacity, ultra-premium group transport. |
Beyond the runway: How business aviation airports are evolving into integrated aviation ecosystemsBy Robert Walters, Commercial Director, London Biggin Hill Airport. |
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Business aviation airports have traditionally been defined by runway access and aircraft movements. While these remain essential, they no longer offer a complete picture of the industry’s complexity and demands.
Aircraft are flying more frequently. Fleets are increasingly professionally managed. Operators are under greater pressure to maximise utilisation.
In this environment, a readily reachable airport alone is not enough, as aircraft turnaround time and planning certainty now play equally important roles. The focus is shifting from solely the runway to the wider operating environment that surrounds it.
Kigali, Rwanda:
AfBAA sees membership double under new executive leadership
One year after electing a new Chairperson and Vice Chair, the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) has made huge strides in its mission to support and promote the business aviation community across the continent.
Highlights include more than doubling the membership, with the current listing rising to 55 members with many former members returning. A new UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems or Uncrewed Aircraft Systems) committee has been formed in recognition of the growing numbers and vast potential for the unmanned aerial vehicle sector across Africa.
The Association has also established an Operators Committee to attract more operators and bolstered the Safety and Training Committee in support of its mission to raise standards across the continent.
Close ties with both regional and international bodies have also been established. A milestone meeting with the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) focused on creating and sharing valuable aviation data, enabling the prominent agency to advocate on AfBAA's behalf. Initiatives were agreed that will see AFCAC represent business aviation interests at national CAAs and external agencies such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
"This was a breakthrough discussion, and we are delighted that the AFCAC can better support us in conversations with government and regulatory bodies. This cooperation will benefit all African aviation stakeholders, not just the individual organizations," said Dawit Lemma, Chairperson AfBAA.
United Kingdom:
Air Charter Service reports record Q1
Leading aircraft charter specialist, Air Charter Service, has reported an excellent first financial quarter of the year, with charter numbers up, and revenue growth of more than 35% year-on-year; up to $380m.
Chris Leach, ACS’s Founder and Chairman, commented: “Our financial year begins on February 1st, so the end of April closed our first quarter. We are our delighted with our performance, with record results for a first quarter, in all divisions, with overall charters up by 19%, and revenue by 37%.
ACS Founder and Chairman,
Chris Leach.
“Removing some of our larger on-going contracts - which are low value / high volume and have remained at the same level as last year - our underlying growth is a healthy 13% in private jet charter flights, with revenues up 27%.
"Part of this revenue growth was as a result of securing some higher value contracts – both on larger aircraft and with longer sectors. We also arranged evacuations from the Middle East on private jets. The higher aviation fuel prices across the globe have also affected revenue.
“Our group charter division has performed very well, with both charters and revenue up by 40%. This was buoyed by evacuation flights out of the Middle East, for various governments and large multinational companies. Underlying growth, however, is still very strong.
Istanbul, Türkiye:
Jetex and iGA Istanbul Airport unveil the world's largest VIP terminal
Designed to welcome private jet travelers and international commercial airline passengers, the newly inaugurated Jetex and iGA Istanbul Airport terminal merges the global expertise of Jetex with iGA’s operational strength and the warmth of Türkiye's hospitality.
The terminal’s architecture draws inspiration from Istanbul’s iconic nazende çiçeği (slender flower), featuring natural stone, wood and custom-crafted surfaces that create a distinctive and comfortable travel environment.
Far more than a transit point, the terminal offers a private members’ club atmosphere with seamless, personalized service covering every step of the journey - before, after or between the flights.
Highlights include: Private suites featuring relaxation areas, dining spaces, en-suite bathrooms and dedicated service teams; Luxurious lounges with full concierge services; Expedited passport and security formalities through dedicated checkpoints.
Mitigating the challenge of change
Change is challenging. Adapting is uncomfortable. This is why the demand to embrace new technology is often met with opposition.
In the latest column from STACK.aero, Catherine Buchanan, Director of Business Development, offers guidance on reducing resistance and optimising benefits to make switching successful.
Like all industries, business aviation is becoming increasingly and irresistibly digitised.
Staying competitive requires charter brokers to embrace technology that can handle their complex and time-sensitive needs.
Switching to a modern, cloud-based technology platform offers huge advantages, particularly in terms of operational efficiency, data security, and scalability, offering real-time data access, improved decision-making capabilities, and integration with other systems.
However, from an employee point of view (and sometimes even from a management point of view), letting go of spreadsheets and eliminating Post-Its can be challenging . . . but it does not have to be that way. Change can be positive for all involved.
First, let me be clear that I’m referring to technology platforms that improve and simplify commercial processes from the initial aircraft request through to invoice generation. Ours, STACK.aero’s Business Operations System (BOS), is essentially the central nervous system for charter brokers.
New Orleans:
Standout NBAA Maintenance Conference inspires and fuels momentum for NBAA-BACE
With a theme of “Big Easy, Bright Futures,” the National Business Aviation Association’s 2026 Maintenance Conference energized more than 1,000 registered attendees with a high-octane, business-driven event marked by a shared enthusiasm for an industry on the move.
The Maintenance Conference comes at a moment when the sector’s value is in sharp focus. Recent studies show that over the coming decade, hundreds of thousands of aviation maintenance specialists will need to be added to the workforce in order to meet demand.
Fittingly, NBAA’s conference highlighted the enthusiasm for being part of the dynamic and continually evolving maintenance profession in the years to come, drawing attendees from 44 states and five countries, 42% of whom were first-time attendees.
A packed exhibit hall featured more than 150 leading companies, including the most known and trusted brands, showcasing the latest business aviation products, services, tools and technologies.
“The success of the 2026 NBAA Maintenance Conference reinforces a critical industry imperative,” said NBAA Senior Vice President Events and Professional Engagement Jo Damato, CAM. “We must redouble our commitment to attract, retain, develop and celebrate a skilled workforce ready to lead a future defined by rapid change on many fronts.
“This week’s conference underscored that future-focused mindset, and fueled a momentum that will carry into NBAA’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), with a particular onsite emphasis on maintenance education and engagement.”
NextGen Praetor 600E earns triple certification: ANAC, FAA, and EASA
EBAA responds to proposals restricting business aviation in Europe
MedAire and NBAA expand Wellbeing support access to individual aviation professionals
Textron opens new Melbourne service facility at Essendon Fields
The technician shortage - a need for expert training: By David Bienvenu, CAE
SAF development gets a lift as House passes farm bill
Disabled people to take to the skies from Doncaster Sheffield AirportUp to 50 people with disabilities will get the chance to soar the skies of South Yorkshire, UK, thanks to a partnership between Doncaster Sheffield Airport and Aerobility - a charity making aviation more accessible. Later this month, Aerobility will operate two adapted light aircraft over four days from Doncaster Sheffield Airport. The charity, which transforms lives by enabling people with disabilities to experience the magic of flight, will be offering people the chance to go up in the aircraft for short flights around the skies of South Yorkshire.
Aerobility enables people with disabilities to experience the magic of flight. Between 26th-29th May, disabled people will be able to apply for introductory flights in the charity’s specially adapted light aircraft as part of a joint ambition for both the airport and Aerobility, to empower disabled individuals to challenges their limits, conquer fears and learn more about aviation. For over 30 years, the charity has provided accessible aviation activities to disabled people with physical impairments, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, neuro diversity and mental health challenges. Aerobility encourages all participants to ask themselves, “If I can fly an aeroplane what else can I do?”
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