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

Atlanta, Georgia:

Wheels Up transitioning its fleet to Phenom 300s and Challenger 300s

Announces acquisition of GrandView Aviation's Phenom fleet.

Wheels Up has announced a series of major aircraft, commercial and financing transactions that lay the foundation for the company's fleet modernization strategy.

Upon closing, the transactions will initiate the transition of Wheels Up's four existing jet aircraft types to two of the most preferred and successful aircraft types in the industry - Embraer's Phenom 300 and Phenom 300E aircraft and Bombardier's Challenger 300 and Challenger 350 aircraft.

Once complete, the transition of Wheels Up's jet aircraft to the highly reliable Phenom 300 series and Challenger 300 series models is expected to lower the average aircraft age of its fleet by approximately 10 years - a fleet transition with wide-reaching operational implications, including expected improvement in operational performance, operational efficiency and, in turn, an enhanced customer experience.

The company intends to continue to operate in support of its customers a fleet of King Air aircraft within its existing service areas.

"Fleet modernization is the next critical step in the journey of Wheels Up," said George Mattson, CEO of Wheels Up.

"We believe our flexible, accessible offerings across programmatic membership and global charter, enhanced through our one-of-a-kind strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines, already deliver the most customer-centric global aviation solutions available in the market today."

Atlantic Aviation preps Manhattan heliport for eVTOLs

Atlantic Aviation has extended its concession agreement with New York City’s Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and the City of New York for operations at the East 34th Street Heliport for the next five years.

Located on Manhattan’s East River waterfront, Atlantic Aviation’s facility provides support for helicopter operations in and around New York City and serves as a key facility to handle flights for the adjacent NYU Langone Health Center.

In keeping with NYCEDC’s mission of delivering sustainable infrastructure for communities and the city's future economy, Atlantic will soon begin a project to upgrade utility infrastructure and install charging stations at the heliport to support electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operations.

This project will include a utility upgrade and expects to facilitate technology-agnostic eVTOL operations from the site via the installation of both Combined Charging System (CCS) and Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS) charging solutions.

Atlantic is actively working with partners BETA Technologies, Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, and others to understand aircraft needs and adapt the site for eVTOL operations.

The project will ensure that all certified and site-compliant eVTOL aircraft can land at the heliport and is expected to be completed in time to align with early eVTOL aircraft entry into service dates.

“Atlantic Aviation is firmly committed to continuing our position as the leader in innovation and sustainability within the business aviation industry,” said John Redcay, Chief Commercial and Sustainability Officer at Atlantic Aviation.

Supernal and Clay Lacy partner to prepare FBO network for eVTOL ops

Initial focus on Southern California to align with Supernal’s 2028 entry into service.

Supernal LLC - Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company - and Clay Lacy Aviation announced a partnership at 2024 NBAA-BACE to prepare Clay Lacy’s FBO locations for electric vertical and take-off landing (eVTOL) operations.

This marks Supernal’s first official FBO partnership, which will benefit future operators of the company’s eVTOL vehicles.

As part of the five-year partnership, Supernal and Clay Lacy will develop end-to-end operational plans for integrating AAM into existing airport infrastructure, with a focus on developing standards and procedures for ground handling, MRO and battery management. Supernal will also support Clay Lacy’s work to integrate sufficient power and charging infrastructure for electric aviation.

Initially, the partnership will focus on two of Clay Lacy’s FBO locations: SNA (Orange County) and VNY (Van Nuys), which aligns with Supernal’s Southern California launch plans. In subsequent phases, the companies will apply their best practices and learnings to prepare Clay Lacy’s broader FBO network for AAM.

Release of new FAA rule critical to continued US leadership in advanced air mobility

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has welcomed the Federal Aviation Administration’s release of a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to establish requirements for the safe, efficient integration of advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft into the nation’s aviation system.

FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker unveiled the SFAR during the keynote at NBAA’s 2024 Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas.

Sitting alongside NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen on the keynote stage, Whitaker said the SFAR will be key to making AAM flights a reality.

“Advanced air mobility promises to change the very definition of on-demand aviation worldwide,” Bolen said. “Given the speed at which the technology is developing, it is critical that all stakeholders have clear, official guidance for AAM operations. We commend the FAA for providing that guidance with the publication of this new rule.”

The SFAR, “Integration of Powered-Lift: Pilot Certification and Operations; Miscellaneous Amendments Related to Rotorcraft and Airplanes,” contains important operational and airman qualification requirements for powered-lift and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.

Jet Aviation adds 39 aircraft to US managed fleet in 2024

Jet Aviation has added 39 aircraft to its managed fleet in the US since the beginning of the year. 16 aircraft have also been added to the company’s Part 135 Air Carrier Certification.

“We are delighted to have welcomed these 39 new aircraft and owners into our fleet this year,” says David Dalpiaz, vice president flight services.

“Our experience managing aircraft of all sizes, either operating P91, P125, P135, or Bermuda and Cayman Islands, means that we are able to tailor our offering to meet the needs of any owner and ensure a seamless service that evolves with their aircraft ownership journey.”

The 16 aircraft added to Jet Aviation’s P135 certificate include a range of mid-size to ultra-long-range aircraft, from Praetor 600 and Hawker 900XP, to Gulfstream 500 and 600.

Jet Aviation currently manages over 300 aircraft globally, and a charter fleet accessing thousands of aircraft, from business liner to mid-size cabin.

Air Partner

Eliska Hill

Global Aviation Services Provider, Air Partner, a Wheels Up Company, has announced the appointment of Eliska Hill as Senior Vice President of Cargo for UK and rest of the world.

In this key role, Eliska will oversee day-to-day operations and strategic growth of the company’s cargo division for all markets globally.

Bringing over 25 years of aviation experience, Eliska has previously held Senior positions at Chapman Freeborn in the UK and UAE, along with other cargo carriers and brokers including Emirates and Air Charter International. Prior to joining Air Partner, Eliska’s most recent role was Chief Commercial Officer at European Cargo.

Eliska will be based in the UK, and reporting into Kevin Macnaughton, Managing Director of Charter for Air Partner.

MAAS Aviation

Danny Hakker

Globally recognised experts in aircraft painting and exterior coatings, MAAS Aviation, has named experienced business professional, Danny Hakker, as Chief Executive Officer.

Hakker joined MAAS in 2023 in the role of Chief Financial Officer, quickly establishing himself as an important business partner contributing to the Company’s solid financial performance.

An energetic senior leader, he benefits from 20+ years of international experience in the transport & distribution, media & telecoms, and service industries.

MAAS Chairman, Andrew Hoad, comments, “Danny’s vision and expertise strengthens the senior management team, enhancing the Group’s commercial focus, driving change and providing strategic direction. He is a great fit for MAAS and I am confident that the business will continue to thrive and evolve under his leadership.”.

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

Business jet activity rebounds in 3rd week of October

In Week 42 (14th to 20th of October), there were 114,753 business jet and turboprops flights operated globally, 0.3% fewer than the same days last year, 2.5% up from last year, according to WINGX`s weekly Global Market Tracker published today.

Only three business jet segments have seen an increase in activity year-on-year, with outsized gains for Super Midsize aircraft missions, 16,459 sectors, and increase of 8.7% YOY, 12% up on two years ago. Other segments saw diminished activity this week, notably Entry Level, Very Light Jets and Bizliners.

The week 42 trend is stronger than month-to-date, with business aviation sectors trending down 3% on October 2023. Year-to-date, global turboprop activity is down by 3%, business jet sectors down by 2%.

North America

Week 42 saw 83,227 business aviation sectors flown from airports in North America, of which 32% were props, with an overall increase of 1.6%. It was a particularly strong week for Super Mid, with 13,940 missions up by 9% on the same week last year.

full report

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype takes flight, propelling the program into advanced testing

Textron Aviation's Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft took to the skies for the first time in early October.

The announcement of this milestone flight follows the company’s unveiling of three new Gen3 products to its Citation light jet family at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas.

These next-generation business jets - the Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 - build upon the legacy of the Citation family, which has long been recognized as the most popular line of business jets worldwide.

more, plus video

Montreal:

Bombardier Global 8000 manufacturing begins

Bombardier has announced that manufacturing of major structural components for the 1st Global 8000 production jet is underway across Bombardier facilities in Saint-Laurent (Québec), Red Oak (Texas) and Querétaro (Mexico).

Set to enter into service in the second half of 2025, the Global 8000 private jet will stand alone as the world’s fastest and longest-range purpose-built business jet, innovatively crafted with the smoothest ride and the industry’s healthiest cabin.

The aircraft also continues to impress in flight testing, achieving positive results throughout its campaign.

Stormy weather - how turbulence occurs

Changing weather conditions across the globe can lead to increased likelihood of turbulence during a flight. Artemis Aerospace takes a reassuring look at how an aircraft copes with extreme conditions.

We’ve all been on a plane when the captain announces an area of possible turbulence ahead and asks everyone to buckle up for a bit.

More often than not passengers don’t really notice, but occasionally flying through a rough patch can be a bit alarming and, very rarely, quite frightening.

Earlier this year a Singapore Airlines Flight from London to Singapore made global headlines when it encountered severe turbulence, forcing the plane to make an emergency landing in Bangkok. Unfortunately, it resulted in 71 passengers being injured, some seriously, and one sadly passing away due to a heart attack. The plane had dropped dramatically and any untethered articles such as cutlery and crockery, handbags and mobile phones were thrown in all directions. Many passengers who weren’t wearing seatbelts at the time hit the ceiling sustaining head injuries, and the entire interior of the plane was badly damaged.

So, what is turbulence?

Universal Avionics ClearVision solves new LED approach lighting challenge

Universal Avionics (UA), the global leader in advanced avionics, has announced that its ClearVision Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) mitigates changes recently reflected by the FAA to Approach Lighting Systems.

The EVS-5000 multispectral camera seeks to ensure pilots can identify Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) to land safely in low-visibility conditions.

In March 2024, the FAA announced that due to a dwindling supply of the incandescent lamps used in approach light systems, airports would have to replace these lamps with energy-efficient LEDs, following a similar runway lighting transition. While this shift increases efficiency, it renders many current IR-based EVS sensors ineffective at identifying runways.

Air bp adds Avalon Airport to global network

Air bp has expanded its global supply network to include Melbourne’s second busiest airport, Avalon Airport (AVV).

As part of the agreement, Air bp Australia will supply JetA1 as well as provide technical services for operations and equipment to Avalon airport. Avalon is a gateway for domestic travellers, serving around 900,000 passengers in 2023, and supports aviation businesses in the region.

Air bp adds Avalon Airport to global network

Through this collaboration, Air bp and Avalon Airport have a shared goal to attract new domestic, international and freight airlines that can provide Geelong and regional Victoria with greater connectivity to cities around Australia and the world. Adding this location builds on Air bp’s strong presence in Victoria, supplying fuel at key sites including Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL) and Essendon Fields Airport (EF).

Fort Worth, Texas:

Embraer's $70m investment in new Fort Worth commercial jet MRO will create 250 skilled aviation jobs

Embraer has announced the expansion and investment in the United States of its maintenance, repair and overhaul services network to support the growing fleet of E-Jets with the opening of a new Embraer owned service center at the Perot Field Alliance Airport, in Fort Worth, Texas.

In partnership with the City of Fort Worth, Denton County and the State of Texas, Embraer expects to begin operations in an existing hangar in the beginning of the second quarter of 2025, while building a second hangar that should be concluded by 2027.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Honeywell's 33rd annual forecast shows increased demand for new bizjets, stable growth for next decade

Honeywell has published its 33rd annual Global Business Aviation Outlook, which provides unique insights into current industry trends as well as longer-cycle developments and is informed by extensive surveys of business aviation operators across the globe.

Based on survey results, Honeywell forecasts up to 8,500 new business jets worth $280bn will be delivered over the next decade, an increase in value from last year’s forecast.

However, the five-year new jet purchase plans of business aviation operators surveyed remained on par with last year’s results, indicating that demand for new aircraft is stabilizing well above pre-pandemic levels. In addition, the survey reveals ongoing plans by business jet manufacturers to ramp up production in response to strong backlogs and stable book-to-bill ratios persisting through 2024.

“The business aviation industry is in a prolonged period of healthy growth, and we don’t see that positive trend changing any time soon,” said Heath Patrick, president, Americas Aftermarket, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies.

“Business aviation continues to see more users and, as a result, manufacturers are ramping up production to keep pace with growing demand, a trend we expect to continue for the foreseeable future. Despite a mixed macroeconomic environment and challenging geopolitical circumstances, operators are optimistic about their flight activity increasing in 2025 and beyond.”

Key findings

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Global regulatory changes are impacting bizav operations - says UAS

The demand for support with compliance has jumped massively in 2024.

The volume and pace of global regulatory changes for passenger regulation and monitoring, along with emissions regulations and taxation are presenting many challenges for business aviation operators.

Functioning in one of the most heavily regulated sectors, aviators are accustomed to having to adapt to an ever-evolving international framework of regulations. Recent times have brought more regulatory activity regarding passengers and the industry's environmental sustainability, and this has resulted in a huge increase in demand for compliance support.

Mohammed Husary, UAS Founder and Executive President.

This is a big challenge facing the business fraternity as it meets at NBAA-BACE this week in Las Vegas, states UAS.

As air travel becomes more accessible, and private flying more popular, the need for better passenger control becomes inevitable. This is encouraging more countries to go electronic so that the rules are not only easier to apply, but also so no unnecessary congestion is caused at airport immigration.

This has led to many countries tightening regulations.

Universal Aviation enters Portugal and Cape Verde markets through strategic alliance with Safeport

Universal Aviation, the worldwide ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., announced at NBAA-BACE 2024 a strategic
partnership with Safeport, Portugal's leading business aviation ground handler.

This collaboration marks Universal Aviation's first entry into both the rapidly growing Portuguese market and the strategic Cape Verde archipelago, significantly expanding its network and strengthening its logistical position for trip support on key Atlantic crossing routes.

The partnership will see all six of Safeport’s ground handling locations cobranded with Universal Aviation, including:

• Lisbon Airport
• Cascais
• Oporto
• Beja
• Faro
• Sal Island, Cape Verde

“Portugal’s thriving business aviation market, coupled with Cape Verde’s strategic importance for Atlantic crossings, presents a unique opportunity for growth, said Greg Evans, Chairman of Universal.

“Safeport was the clear choice for this partnership due to their exceptional 30-year track record of top-tier service and deep local expertise. "Their proven ability to handle highprofile clients - such as top executives, government officials, and celebrities - aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering the highest standards of service and safety globally.”

Voluxis’s Singapore office launches newly refurbished Gulfstream 550

Voluxis, the charter operator and aircraft management company, has added a freshly refurbished Gulfstream 550 to its charter fleet, based out of Singapore Seletar Airport.

Gavin Copus, Senior Commercial Director at Voluxis, said of the aircraft: “The Gulfstream 550 is a hugely popular heavy jet with the cabin providing a quiet, bright, fresh-air environment for up to 16 passengers. It sets the industry standard for comfort and productivity, allowing you to make the most of your flight, be it for business or leisure.

“Having the aircraft’s base in Singapore means that it is perfect for routes to Dubai, around Asia and even as far as London. It also benefits from four beds, and a comparatively large baggage compartment, which is accessible during the flight.”

Top stories from our friend's at GearUp.TV

AI is having an enormous impact on the world - including our industry

George Galanopoulos, CEO of Luxaviation UK, discusses how it's affecting charter companies with GearUp TV's Liz Moscrop.

watch the video

Ireland:

IBGAA third annual conference to roll out a broad agenda, including future flight

The third edition of the IBGAA International Business Aviation Conference is fast approaching.

It will feature a line-up of exciting speakers and panels, with a spotlight on Sustainability, Future Flight/Advanced Air Mobility, Irish Airports, FDI & Tourism, The Global perspective, Aircraft Finance & International Insurance Risk, setting up an Irish AOC and doing business in Ireland, adds to the broadest agenda yet.

Minister James Lawless, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transportation and the Department of the Environment, Climate, and Communications will give an opening address.

Gulfstream's Chief Developmental Test Pilot Eric Holmberg will deliver a keynote presentation, sharing valuable insight on how the industry leader rigorously tests each aircraft before certification.

"We are delighted to welcome Eric and Headline Sponsor Gulfstream to our third annual event on 14 November," said IBGAA Chairman Josh Stewart.

"With Eric, we are going straight to the heart of how innovative and awesome business aviation is. During the conference, we will explore the many challenges we face operationally and commercially and look at what is upcoming in the rear-view mirror, too, in our Future Flight - Advanced Air Mobility session."

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Numbers don’t lie: The indisputable economic impact of private aviation. Kyle Patel, President & Founder of Bitlux.

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

AURA AERO selects Volusia County Florida for 500,000 sq ft electric aircraft manufacturing and assembly plant

Facility will create more than 1,000 high-valued jobs in the region, advancing the aerospace and aviation industry.

AURA AERO, Inc., the French designer and manufacturer of next-generation electric aircraft, announced its intent to build a 500,000-square-foot manufacturing and assembly plant in Volusia County at Daytona Beach International Airport.

To meet the needs of the important American market, developing its presence in the United States is an essential step for AURA AERO which is also continuing its industrial roll-out in Europe, notably with the AURA Factory project at Toulouse-Francazal airport.

The announcement of the selection of Volusia County - made at the Brown & Brown headquarters in Daytona Beach - follows the AURA AERO decision in July to narrow down the location of the new facility to the state of Florida. The company had previously considered a number of locations, quickly narrowing the decision to Texas and Florida as potential locations for the stateside manufacturing operations.

“AURA AERO’s decision to establish its US headquarters at the Daytona Beach International Airport is a tremendous win for aerospace, aviation, education, the local and regional economy, and the people of Volusia County,” said Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald. “This partnership not only highlights the strength and strategic importance of our airport, it also positions our community as a hub for cutting-edge technology and opens the door for other innovative companies to choose Volusia County.”

Over the past decade, Volusia County has seen tremendous growth including the creation of over 7,000 jobs with a total economic impact of over $2bn.

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

Atlanta, Georgia:

Announces acquisition of GrandView Aviation's Phenom fleet.

Wheels Up has announced a series of major aircraft, commercial and financing transactions that lay the foundation for the company's fleet modernization strategy.

New York City:

Atlantic Aviation has extended its concession agreement with New York City’s Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and the City of New York for operations at the East 34th Street Heliport for the next five years.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Initial focus on Southern California to align with Supernal’s 2028 entry into service.

Supernal LLC - Hyundai Motor Group’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company - and Clay Lacy Aviation announced a partnership at 2024 NBAA-BACE to prepare Clay Lacy’s FBO locations for electric vertical and take-off landing (eVTOL) operations.

This marks Supernal’s first official FBO partnership, which will benefit future operators of the company’s eVTOL vehicles.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has welcomed the Federal Aviation Administration’s release of a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to establish requirements for the safe, efficient integration of advanced air mobility (AAM) aircraft into the nation’s aviation system.

Las Vegas:

Jet Aviation adds 39 aircraft to US managed fleet in 2024

Jet Aviation has added 39 aircraft to its managed fleet in the US since the beginning of the year. 16 aircraft have also been added to the company’s Part 135 Air Carrier Certification.

Air Partner

Eliska Hill

Global Aviation Services Provider, Air Partner, a Wheels Up Company, has announced the appointment of Eliska Hill as Senior Vice President of Cargo for UK and rest of the world.

MAAS Aviation

Danny Hakker

Globally recognised experts in aircraft painting and exterior coatings, MAAS Aviation, has named experienced business professional, Danny Hakker, as Chief Executive Officer.

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

In Week 42 (14th to 20th of October), there were 114,753 business jet and turboprops flights operated globally, 0.3% fewer than the same days last year, 2.5% up from last year, according to WINGX`s weekly Global Market Tracker published today.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Textron Aviation's Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 prototype aircraft took to the skies for the first time in early October.

Montreal:

Bombardier has announced that manufacturing of major structural components for the 1st Global 8000 production jet is underway across Bombardier facilities in Saint-Laurent (Québec), Red Oak (Texas) and Querétaro (Mexico).

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Universal Avionics (UA), the global leader in advanced avionics, has announced that its ClearVision Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) mitigates changes recently reflected by the FAA to Approach Lighting Systems.

Melbourne, Australia:

Air bp adds Avalon Airport to global network

Air bp has expanded its global supply network to include Melbourne’s second busiest airport, Avalon Airport (AVV).

Fort Worth, Texas:

Embraer has announced the expansion and investment in the United States of its maintenance, repair and overhaul services network to support the growing fleet of E-Jets with the opening of a new Embraer owned service center at the Perot Field Alliance Airport, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Honeywell has published its 33rd annual Global Business Aviation Outlook, which provides unique insights into current industry trends as well as longer-cycle developments and is informed by extensive surveys of business aviation operators across the globe.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

The demand for support with compliance has jumped massively in 2024.

The volume and pace of global regulatory changes for passenger regulation and monitoring, along with emissions regulations and taxation are presenting many challenges for business aviation operators.

Las Vegas, Nevada:

Universal Aviation, the worldwide ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., announced at NBAA-BACE 2024 a strategic partnership with Safeport, Portugal's leading business aviation ground handler.

Singapore:

Voluxis, the charter operator and aircraft management company, has added a freshly refurbished Gulfstream 550 to its charter fleet, based out of Singapore Seletar Airport.

George Galanopoulos, CEO of Luxaviation UK, discusses how it's affecting charter companies with GearUp TV's Liz Moscrop.

Ireland:

The third edition of the IBGAA International Business Aviation Conference is fast approaching.

Facility will create more than 1,000 high-valued jobs in the region, advancing the aerospace and aviation industry.

AURA AERO, Inc., the French designer and manufacturer of next-generation electric aircraft, announced its intent to build a 500,000-square-foot manufacturing and assembly plant in Volusia County at Daytona Beach International Airport.

Universal Aviation, the worldwide ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., announced at NBAA-BACE 2024 a strategic
partnership with Safeport, Portugal's leading business aviation ground handler.