Montreal:Bombardier secures $1.7bn firm order for 50 Challenger and Global jets from first-time customerUndisclosed buyer elects to remain anonymous prior to unveiling service offering.Bombardier has announced a significant firm order for 50 of its performance-leading Challenger and Global aircraft, combined with a first-of-a-kind service agreement. Together, the firm aircraft and service agreements are valued at $1.7bn with deliveries set to begin in 2027. The first-time Bombardier customer will also hold 70 new aircraft purchase options. If all purchase options are exercised, the combined aircraft and service agreements’ value would reach more than $4bn. The customer, who has elected to remain anonymous prior to unveiling their offering in the marketplace, has selected Bombardier’s top-ranked maintenance offerings to create an innovative partnership that will deliver an unmatched level of care and convenience for customers. United States:Family offices in the US prepare to upgrade their business aircraft, research revealsA desire to reduce operational costs and benefit from new, more efficient aircraft are the key drivers for US family offices wanting to upgrade their business aircraft.A survey of US-based family offices that own or lease business aircraft reveals that 93% expect to upgrade to better or newer models within the next five years. The study, commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ), reveals that 75% cite a growing focus on operational costs as a reason for wanting to upgrade their business aircraft, followed by 73% who say it is because newer, more fuel-efficient models have been launched. Other reasons cited for wanting to upgrade include the need for larger aircraft as more family members and staff are using business aviation, and the need for larger aircraft with greater range. Of those US family offices surveyed that charter business aircraft, 87% say they are focusing more on chartering newer, more efficient jets to help reduce the impact of their flights on the environment. SAF currently has a price premium compared to standard jet fuel, but 97% of US family offices interviewed say they would be prepared to increase their travel budget for business aviation to enable their flights to use SAF more. Broomfield, Colorado:Gogo C1-LRU gains STC approval for multiple aircraft types$35,000 installation incentive for C1 installs.Gogo has confirmed its Gogo C1 line replaceable unit (LRU) has received Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for 42 aircraft models through an Approved Model List (AML) granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The confirmation covers 70% of North American Gogo legacy air-to-ground (ATG) customer aircraft and, once equipped, will ensure continued compatibility with and connectivity to Gogo’s forthcoming LTE network upgrade. The Gogo C1 ensures continued inflight connectivity for legacy air-to-ground (ATG) customers. Metrea Aerospace Design (MASD) collaborated with Gogo to generate the AML STC, which covers aircraft including Cessna Citation, Gulfstream, Bombardier Challenger and Learjet, Dassault Falcon, Embraer, and Hawker family models. Equipping the Gogo C1 will enable current customers operating with legacy ATG 1000, 2000, 4000 or 5000 systems to seamlessly transition to the upgraded Gogo Biz North American 850MHz Licensed LTE network when it comes online in May 2026 to ensure uninterrupted service. Melbourne, Florida:Eve, Aerosolutions, and Bluenest sign LOI for up to 50 eVTOLs and TechCare servicesEve Air Mobility has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Aerosolutions, developers of an innovative eVTOL operator called Aeros Electric Airlines, and Bluenest by Globalvia - Globalvia's Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) infrastructure developer and vertiport operator - for the sale of up to 50 electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The agreement also includes access to Eve's comprehensive TechCare services - an all-in-one portfolio of services designed to streamline eVTOL operations, maintenance, and customer support, and is a significant step toward developing a robust AAM ecosystem in Costa Rica. "Joining forces with Aerosolutions and Bluenest by Globalvia allows us to accelerate the introduction of safe, sustainable, and efficient air mobility in Costa Rica,” said Johann Bordais, CEO of Eve Air Mobility. "We're eager to see our eVTOL transform travel in regions like Guanacaste, easing congestion and bolstering the nation's leadership in ecotourism." The collaboration will focus initially on the Pacific region in northwest Costa Rica, connecting airports to premium resorts and eco-destinations via routes ranging from 20 to 50 kilometers. With tourism driving over three million foreign visitors annually, Costa Rica is the most visited nation in Central America. However, its extensive but often congested road network can lead to lengthy travel times. Saudi Arabia:Bombardier begins landmark Challenger 3500 deliveries to Saudi's Aloula AviationBombardier has announced the commencement of deliveries of three state-of-the-art Challenger 3500 aircraft to airline company Aloula Aviation based in Saudi Arabia. Aloula Aviation will be receiving the first Challenger 3500 aircraft to be registered in Saudi Arabia. “The business jet market in the Middle East is thriving, and we are witnessing a significant increase in demand for super midsize aircraft, particularly for travel within the region and to Europe," said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. "As the undisputed market leader in this segment, the Challenger 3500 is perfectly positioned to meet the needs of clients such as Aloula Aviation, as well as our growing client base in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. “Bombardier and Aloula Aviation both share an unwavering commitment to excellence, and the Challenger 3500 will surpass their expectations on every front." Jetcraft![]() Jeremi AustinBusiness aircraft sales, acquisitions and trades specialists, Jetcraft, has announced the appointment of Jeremi Austin and Ricky Gioconda as Sales Directors, strengthening the company's team across Canada and the US, respectively.Joining at a time of continued demand across the Americas, Austin and Gioconda bring extensive aviation and customer relationship experience to Jetcraft’s network of experts.As Sales Director, Canada, Jeremi Austin will lead aircraft sales and client engagement throughout the region. With a background in aircraft transaction consulting and a proven track record of building long-term relationships, Austin is well-placed to guide Canadian buyers and sellers through complex deals. Ricky Gioconda![]() Ricky Gioconda, appointed as Sales Director, Mid Atlantic US, will oversee business development and customer relationships across the region, supporting the US market, which is the most active for pre-owned transactions. Bringing more than five years of experience in aircraft sales and a driven mindset, Gioconda will play a key role in Jetcraft’s continued growth in the industry’s busiest domain.CEO Chad Anderson says: “As the US continues to lead in business aviation activity, investing in our regional presence brings a more tailored, personalized service to our clients, enabling them to make full use of our market expertise. Jeremi and Ricky’s deep knowledge of the industry makes them strong additions to our team. |
In the last week, Week 26 (23rd- 29th June), global bizjet activity grew 2% compared to Week 26 last year, marking the 10th consecutive week of year-on-year growth.According to WINGX`s weekly Global Market Tracker published today, global Part135 & 91K activity grew 3% compared to Week 25 last year, the last four-week trend 5% ahead of comparable last year.
North America In Week 26 business jet activity in the United States grew 3% compared to Week 26 last year, the last four-week trend standing at +4% compared to last year. Part 135 and Part 91K sectors grew 6% compared to last year, matching the last four-week trend. Ireland:ECT Aviation launches time-critical cargo routes with the BN2T-4S IslanderRepublic of Ireland based ECT Aviation has acquired its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander aircraft, expanding its operations into dedicated cargo services between Europe and North Africa.The aircraft will be deployed on high-frequency freight routes, notably linking Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport (LFLL) with key North African destinations. Milan, Italy:Exquisite cabin design from the air to the waterFlexjet & Ferretti Group unveil the Riva Volare private jet and helicopter interior.Flexjet and luxury yacht leader, Ferretti Group, have unveiled their highly anticipated design collaboration Riva Volare - a unique cabin design for Flexjet’s aircraft interiors, inspired by the iconic Riva motoryachts.This bespoke design project is a lavish realisation of the official partnership formed in May 2024 between the two luxury leaders, which each share a passion for high performance, exceptional craftsmanship and sleek, bold design. Part of Flexjet’s range of customised and boutique-style LXi Cabin Collection interiors, Riva Volare is fitted aboard one of the private aviation leader’s Gulfstream G650 ultra-long-range jets. Texas:JSX to begin ATR operations in the USATR, the world’s leading manufacturer of regional aircraft has announced that JSX intends to begin ATR operations in late 2025.The Texas-based, award-winning public charter air carrier will lease two ATR 42-600s to expand its hop-on service, reaching more private terminals, FBOs, and underserved airports across the United States. The ATR operations will be supported by a comprehensive ATR Global Maintenance Agreement to maximise aircraft availability and reliability. JSX will offer its customers a premium configuration that is part of the ATR HighLine cabin collection, featuring a spacious interior with plans to certify and install Starlink high-speed internet connectivity. Saint-Cloud, France and Mumbai, India:Dassault partners with Reliance Group to manufacture Falcon 2000s in IndiaFirst-ever assembly line for Falcon executive jets outside France.Dassault Aviation and Reliance Infrastructure Ltd subsidiary, Reliance Aerostructure Limited (RAL), have partnered to manufacture Falcon 2000 LXS executive jets in India for the global market.This is for the first time that Dassault Aviation will manufacture Falcon 2000 jets outside France, positioning India as a strategic global aviation hub. This is an epic moment for India as it joins the elite club of countries manufacturing next-generation business jets after United States, France, Canada and Brazil. For Dassault Aviation, DRAL will become Center of Excellence (CoE) for Falcon series, including Falcon 6X and Falcon 8X programs, the first such CoE outside France. Basel, Switzerland:Jet Aviation has redelivered two Bell 429 helicopters to a customer in the Middle East. The aircraft were the final two in a total fleet of six modified Bell 429s delivered to this customer.The contract was initially signed in 2019, and the first two aircraft were redelivered in 2020. Two more followed in 2024, with the final two redelivered in March 2025. For all six, the team worked closely with the customer as a Bell Independent Representative to understand their specific mission needs and propose both the most suitable aircraft and a series of customized modifications to meet these requirements. The aircraft include a custom package of mission equipment including EOIRS, mission mapping, video downlink, Searchlight, and mission communications. Fort Lauderdale, Florida:VIP Completions and YODEZEEN complete transformative G550 interior refurbishmentVIP Completions, providers of custom aircraft completions and refurbishment services, and YODEZEEN, an award-winning multifunctional architecture studio, have unveiled a spectacular Gulfstream G550 interior refurbishment project. Acquisition of this aircraft was brokered by VIP Completions’ sister company SmartJets, a leading turnkey aircraft dealer-broker. This project redefines the boundaries of aircraft interior design. For example, custom dynamic fiber optic accent lights seamlessly integrated into the headliner in a “starlight” pattern, real carbon fiber accents throughout the cabin, new mid-cabin bulkhead with pocket door and all-wood eucalyptus paneling. The aircraft is scheduled for delivery in eight weeks. |
Brussels, Belgium:EBAA launches organisational reform to strengthen the association and impactThe European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) has announced a series of leadership changes as part of a broader organisational reform initiative aimed at enhancing the association’s effectiveness, responsiveness, and value to its members, in partnership with its national associations. Effective immediately, Holger Krahmer has stepped down from his role as Secretary General. Robert Baltus has recently resigned and will also depart from his position as Chief Operating Officer later this year. Stefan Benz is appointed as interim Managing Director of the Association, effective today, with a mandate to guide the EBAA through a period of transformation. Stefan will lead an organisational change programme. This programme will bring a leaner, more agile Association closer to its members’ and its National Associations’ partners. This is necessary during a period where several existential threats are emerging in regulation, resource availability, environmental policy, taxation and access to airspace and airports. Rochefort, France and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:VoltAero signs agreement with Malaysia’s SEDC Energy and France’s ACI Groupe for Cassio aircraft production and equity stakeVoltAero, the French pioneer in electric-hybrid aviation and developer of the Cassio aircraft family, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with SEDC Energy (SEDCE) of Malaysia and France’s ACI Groupe, marking a major step toward establishing a regional hybrid-electric aircraft assembly facility and innovation center in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. As part of this agreement, SEDCE and ACI Groupe have expressed their interest in acquiring an equity stake in VoltAero and becoming a strategic investor. The investment forms the foundation of a broader strategic partnership aimed at supporting clean aviation development across the Asia-Pacific region. The agreement outlines a shared vision to create a state-of-the-art assembly center in Sarawak for VoltAero’s Cassio aircraft, which utilizes electric-hybrid propulsion for safe, quiet, efficient and eco-friendly regional transportation, as well as for pilot training. “This partnership is a major milestone for VoltAero and for the global transition to air transportation with reduced emissions,” said Jean Botti, CEO and Chief Technical Officer of VoltAero. “Establishing a regional hub in Malaysia allows us to expand our production capacity, deliver on regional demand, and transfer technology and skills to a key part of the world that is embracing sustainable aviation." Wichita, Kansas:Gogo Galileo HDX coming to Cessna Citation jet modelsExpected FAA Supplemental Type Certification in late 2025.Textron Aviation has announced that Gogo Galileo HDX will be available for aftermarket installation on Cessna Citation jets after FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) expected in late 2025. The global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) solution allows customers to enjoy one of the best possible in-flight connectivity and aviation experiences, no matter where their journey takes them. By offering Gogo Galileo HDX as an aftermarket upgrade, the Textron Aviation support team is ensuring customers benefit from a global connectivity solution that delivers reliable performance. The system, which is purpose-built for business aviation, consists of two Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), a fuselage-mounted HDX antenna and the AVANCE technology router which minimizes installation downtime. Dubai, UAE:UAS supports global Hajj operations across three continentsLeading global aviation solutions provider, UAS, has proudly announced the successful execution of its extensive support services for Hajj 2025, delivering a seamless travel experience to thousands of pilgrims across Asia, Africa, and Europe.Demonstrating operational excellence and global reach, UAS assisted in the journeys of a total of 133,028 Hajj pilgrims, working closely with operators, government agencies, and airport authorities to ensure every journey was managed with operational precision and spiritual sensitivity. Operational highlights include a total of 845 sectors served; 31 origin and destination airports covered; a total of 2,516 flight permits obtained, and 2,083 dedicated handling services provided for aircraft, crew and pilgrims. FLY91: A year of strengthening regional connectivityAs the aviation industry gathered last month in New Delhi for the IATA Annual General Meeting, discussions centered on expanding air connectivity across India and ensuring that progress reaches every corner of the nation.Regional airlines are at the heart of this transformation, with government-backed initiatives like UDAN empowering them to expand their networks and making air travel more accessible and affordable for millions across India. Since its launch in March 2024, Goa-based startup FLY91 has strategically chosen ATR turboprops as the backbone of its operations, recognising them as the ideal aircraft for efficient, reliable and low-emission regional connectivity. In just over a year, FLY91 has rapidly expanded its footprint, acquiring four ATRs, operating across eight destinations, having flown 3500+ flights and transporting over 180 000 passengers across the sectors it operates in, proving that the right aircraft choice is key to sustainable regional growth. United Kingdom:Air Ambulance Captain bids a fond farewell to flying HEMS taskingsA Touring Pilot who flies with East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) completed his final Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) flying shift with the charity on 21st June.Upon reaching the age of 65, the regulatory upper age limit for Commercial Air Transport pilots in the UK, Captain Dave Surtees, EAAA Pilot and Type Rating Examiner with EAAA’s aviation partner Babcock International Group (Babcock), will now continue his distinguished 40-year career by training the next generation of HEMS pilots. Captain Dave Surtees. Captain Surtees was one of the pilots who supported His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales through his training with Babcock and EAAA when Captain Wales flew HEMS taskings with the charity from 2015-2017. The Air Charter Association:The Air Charter Regional Forum debuts in the US to tackle industry challengesLeading global trade body, The Air Charter Association (The ACA), is hosting its first Air Charter Regional Forum on 19th & 20th August 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.The Air Charter Regional Forum will be the third US industry event delivered by The ACA following successful roundtables in Colorado and Georgia, and will be hosted by Glenn Hogben, chief executive of The ACA and Ryan Waguespack, The ACA’s International Board Member for North America. The ACA is committed to supporting the air charter market within the US and already represents 50 US-based members. The ACA delivers value to its members through its networking events, with the Air Charter Regional Forum being a primary opportunity for engaging discussions between industry partners on current challenges and solutions. It is also the perfect format to create dialogue between brokers and operators. Norway’s Elfly signs contract with EASA for development of Noemi conceptual prototype aircraft JSX to begin ATR operations in the US NBAA mourns loss of visionary leader and business aviation champion Fred Smith CAE forecasts 1.5 million civil aviation professionals needed over next 10 years |
“During the past 55 years, the Wichita Service Center has been the cornerstone of our service center network, providing exceptional support to our global customer base. This legacy is built upon the dedication of those who worked here half a century ago and continues today with our current team members,” said Steve Schatzman, general manager, Textron Aviation Wichita Service Center. “When I talk with customers who bring their aircraft to the Wichita Service Center, they say they feel confident coming to the experts who built their aircraft right here in the Air Capital of the World.”