Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news
Orlando, Florida:Stratos Jets is giving away five jet charter franchisesFive turn-key brokerages will be awarded to top agents, offering a zero-cost path to business ownership.Leading private jet charter franchisor, Stratos Jets, is taking another bold step to revolutionize private aviation by giving away five fully turn-key jet charter brokerages to the most qualified agents in the industry. The organization is urging ambitious producers to submit their qualifications and story for a chance to own and operate their own Stratos Jets agency. Recipients of this unprecedented opportunity will become their own jet charter brokerage owner with the backing of industry leader Stratos Jets. Each franchised agency will benefit from the organization’s credible reputation and established infrastructure: “Stratos Jets is revolutionizing private aviation by aggregating demand under one brand and is projecting exponential growth in 2025,” said Joel Thomas, President and CEO of Stratos Jets. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for top producers in the industry to own their future and join an organization that is thriving in a booming market.”
Washington, DC:GAMA: 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing ReportThe General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has released the 2024 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report during its annual State of the Industry Press Conference.Overall, when compared to 2023, nearly all aircraft segments saw increases in shipments and preliminary aircraft deliveries were valued at $31.2bn, an increase of 13.3%. “As we report on the strength of the general aviation manufacturing industry over the past year, it is notable that for the first time in a decade our companies again exceeded $30bn in annual billings and for the second year in a row, we shipped more than 4,000 units," said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO. "This strong performance provides great momentum into 2025, but it is essential that policymakers and regulators on both sides of the Atlantic recognize that for continued growth, they must work with industry on policy issues such as taxes, trade, regulations and supply chain. "General aviation is at the forefront of advancing technology that makes flying safer and more sustainable, while providing efficient and reliable global economic connectivity, and air accessibility to rural and small communities that lack commercial airline services. It would be a travesty to see any of this progress halted due to policy decisions that could have unintended consequences for an industry that contributes so much.”
Vero Beach, Florida:M700 FURY helps Piper Aircraft deliveries jump 20% in 2024Piper Aircraft closed 2024 with a strong performance, delivering 291 aircraft, a nearly 20% increase over 2023, with 46 more aircraft delivered year-over-year.A key contributor to this growth is the M700 FURY, Piper’s new 300-knot flagship aircraft, which launched in March 2024. In its first year, 46 M700 FURY aircraft were delivered, further strengthening Piper’s position in the high-performance turboprop market.
US domestic deliveries totaled 217 aircraft, up 7.0% when compared to 2023. International deliveries grew by 76%, with 74 aircraft delivered, underscoring Piper’s growing global presence. “Our continued growth, both domestically and internationally, is a testament to the strength of our product lineup and the trust our customers place in Piper. The increase in international deliveries highlights Piper’s expanding global footprint and the growing appeal of our aircraft worldwide,” said John Calcagno, President and CEO of Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Everett, Washington:ZeroAvia confirms first sale of standalone electric propulsion systemZeroAvia has agreed a deal for the first sale of its 600kW electric propulsion system (EPS) to Jetcruzer International for electric flight testing to hone the design of its Jetcruzer 500E.Delivery of the development unit EPS is expected this spring.ZeroAvia has secured well in excess of 2,000 pre-orders for its full hydrogen-electric powertrains from commercial airlines and last year the company launched a component offering to serve the market for novel electric air transport applications.
Jetcruzer 500E The 600kW EPS has just received an FAA G-1 issue paper outlining the basis of certification. The system comprises the company’s proprietary inverter and electric motor technology to deliver a highly efficient electric engine with exceptional fault tolerance and specific power.
Washington, DC:NBAA applauds FAA decision allowing electronic filing of aviation documentsThe FAA recently published its final rule allowing online submission of aircraft registration, though the new rule still allows for original document filing.“The FAA is modifying FAA regulations in a way to help the industry do business with today’s technology,” said Scott McCreary, aircraft practice group leader at McAfee & Taft and a member of NBAA’s Tax Committee and Regulatory Industry Advisory Group.
“As of now, the FAA has simply changed the governing regulations to allow use and submission of electronically executed documents and manually executed copies in certain circumstances, but it has not yet implemented the changes,” he added. Nashua, New Hampshire:WYVERN launches free app for air charter passengers to verify operator legalityAerospace safety and risk management solutions provider, WYVERN, has announced the launch of a new mobile app designed to empower air charter passengers with real-time verification of operator legality.Available now for free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the new WYVERN app provides a seamless way to confirm that an operator is properly certified before booking a flight. With this innovative tool, users can quickly look up a flight’s registration number or operator name to ensure it meets regulatory requirements. The app grants access to WYVERN’s Wingman Directory and Registered Operator Directory, giving passengers the confidence to choose only the safest and most reputable charter operators. Additionally, Android users benefit from exclusive features, including direct access to WYVERN’s ACES (Aviation Compliance Enhancement System) and the ability to sign up for an upcoming SMS Workshop, a premier program for aviation professionals dedicated to elevating safety standards.
Elfly Dr. Susan YingNorwegian aerospace innovator Elfly Group has announced the appointment of Dr. Susan Ying to its Board of Directors.Dr. Ying is a globally recognized leader in aerospace innovation and sustainability, with over 40 years of experience including NASA, Boeing, COMAC and the Aerospace Technology Working Group.Dr. Ying earned a spot as a NASA Astronaut Candidate finalist and has held executive roles at Boeing Research & Technology, served as Senior Vice President at Ampaire and played a key role in advancing electric aviation. A former president of the International Council of Aeronautical Sciences, Dr. Ying is a dedicated advocate for zero-emission flight solutions. She is currently a mentor at the Sustainable Aviation Lab, the only one in the world focused totally on Sustainable Aviation. As both an investor and Board member, she will be instrumental in driving the NOEMI all-electric seaplane project and shaping the future of sustainable aviation.
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In Week 7 (10th-16th February), 72,025 business jet departures were recorded worldwide, 2% ahead of W7 last year, according to WINGX`s weekly Global Market Tracker published today.Part 91k and 135 bizjet activity stretched further ahead, 4% more departures than Week 7 last year, and 7% ahead in the last 4 weeks – equivalent to an additional 2,342 sectors. For the year-to-date, January 1st through February 16th, bizjet flights are up 4% on last year, the active global bizjet fleet 1% bigger than at the start of 2024. United States In Week 7, business jet activity in the United States rose 1% compared to last year, part 135 & 91K sectors up 6%. Florida saw notable gains, departures up 11% compared to last year and 10% ahead of the previous week. Texas saw year on year gains in Week 7, although more subdued, just 4% ahead of last year, whilst flights from California slipped back 6% YOY, trending down 1% YTD. Branded charter flights in the US surpassed 51,000 departures through February 16th, 10% ahead of 2024. It was reported last week that flyExclusive intends to acquire Jet AI, so far this year; flyExclusive activity in the US is up by 24% in 2025, following a 19% growth last year compared to 2023. Other leading charter program providers Wheels Up and Vista both saw some decline in flight hours last year. Over the President’s Day weekend (Friday 14th-Monday 17th February), there were 27,321 bizjet departures, 204 fewer than the same Friday – Monday 2024 President’s Day holiday period.
Sharjah, UAE:Gama Aviation's Sharjah FBO breaks passenger records in 2024Major developments set to expand FBO footprint.Gama Aviation has announced record passenger numbers for 2024 - 10 years since opening its FBO in Sharjah.This achievement reinforces the company's strong growth in the sector and aligns with the brand’s continued investment in its FBO network.
With a focus on further expanding its FBO footprint, two major developments are set to redefine its offerings in 2025: a new FBO and hangar facility at Sharjah International Airport, UAE, and another in Jersey, Channel Islands. These projects, along with strong performance at the Glasgow FBO, underscore Gama Aviation’s commitment to delivering world-class facilities and seamless aviation experiences.
Farnborough, UK:Gogo|Satcom Direct renews three-year preferred supplier agreement with Luxaviation Group for global connectivity solutionsGogo Business Aviation|Satcom Direct has signed a second three-year preferred supplier agreement with Luxaviation Group, continuing the close relationship first forged between the business aviation operator and Satcom Direct in 2021.
“The Gogo|SD offering brings real value to our business and, more importantly, our customers by enabling us to deliver broadband connection, regardless of aircraft size. This service differentiation means we can support our customers’ seamless transition from digital life on the ground to the skies,” says Stuart Williamson, MD of Luxaviation Technical Services.
Melbourne, Australia:Textron expands capabilities in Australia with new service facility at Essendon Fields AirportTextron Aviation has announced an expansion of its footprint in Australia with the construction of a larger and modernized service facility at Essendon Fields Airport in Melbourne to maximize support for Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker customers in the region.
The new facility will add more space for servicing aircraft, aiding in faster scheduling with minimal down time to keep customers flying. Construction is set to begin March 2025 and Textron Aviation expects to be fully functional in the new facility by early 2026.
Abu Dhabi, UAE:Tawazun Council and Mubadala invest in UAE's aerospace future with state-of-the-art Al Ain MRO facilityFirst-of-its-kind engine MRO in MENA and South Asia, developed by Sanad in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney.Tawazun Council and Mubadala Investment Company are partnering to reshape the aerospace landscape with a cutting-edge aircraft engine Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Al Ain.
This strategic collaboration underscores the UAE's commitment to becoming a global aerospace leader and will significantly contribute to the nation’s economy. Announced at IDEX 2025, this landmark project establishes the first engine MRO of its kind in the MENA and South Asia regions. Developed by Sanad in collaboration with Pratt & Whitney - a global leader in aerospace technologies - the state-of-the-art Al Ain facility will provide comprehensive MRO services and empower a new generation of Emirati talent.
Indonesia:20 years on, ACS reflects on the Indian Ocean tsunami relief effortOn December 26th 2004, an earthquake, measuring 9.1 on the Richter Scale struck off the coast of West Indonesia, causing a tsunami, with waves reaching up to 30 metres high.It devastated communities along the coasts of the Indian Ocean and killed approximately 228,000 people in 14 different countries, whilst displacing many more.
Now, 20 years on, the team that were at the heart of Air Charter Service’s response, tell their stories, and what it was like conducting one of the longest, largest and most complex relief operations in the company’s history, in a short video.
Catherine Buchanan explains why Data Matters for business aviation.
In today’s fast-evolving business aviation market, data is no longer just an operational by-product; it’s the lifeblood of a successful operation. From enhancing the customer journey to driving commercial growth, intelligent use of data can elevate how we deliver value. So why are so many companies still operating within ‘data chaos’? This is particularly true when it comes to the charter broker and operator community. Think about the sheer volume of information generated while arranging a single charter trip - emails, WhatsApp messages, phone conversations, excel spreadsheets, PDFs, Post-it notes, and maybe even a few key details stored in someone’s head, are all likely to play a part.
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 United Kingdom:Serious consequences for charters operating without a valid UK Foreign Carrier Permit, warns BBGAThere will be serious consequences if non-UK Air Carriers disobey rules and operate commercial business aviation charters in and out of UK airports without obtaining the necessary Foreign Carrier Permit (Charter Permit), The British Business General Aviation Association (BBGA) warns.BBGA highlighted a recent flight when an overseas operator, flying an international celebrity, flew from continental Europe to the UK, taking off without the required Foreign Carrier charter permit.
Another worrisome scenario is when a charter permit is impossible to secure in the timeframe available and an AOC operator, desperate to operate the trip, chooses to file the flight ‘private.’ The charter client may be totally unaware that the operator is flouting the rules to get revenue in. An air taxi or an air charter, is recognised in law as ‘commercial’ air transport and should never be considered as a private arrangement. The flight plan for such flights cannot thus be filed as “G,” as that denotes a private flight.
Stans, Switzerland:Pilatus reports successful 2024 despite ongoing challengesPilatus' Annual Report 2024, published this week, highlights 153 aircraft deliveries, total sales of CHF 1.633bn - an increase of more than 10% compared to 2023 - EBIT of CHF 243m and orders worth CHF 2.193bn. Aircraft sales breakdown to 96 PC-12 NGXs, 51 PC-24s and 6 PC-21s. In Government Aviation, Pilatus signed an important contract for 19 PC-21s and associated simulators with the Royal Canadian Air Force. In early February, the Netherlands also opted to buy eight PC-7 MKXs, thereby underlining the importance of this advanced Basic Trainer. In Business Aviation, the improved PC-24 Super Versatile Jet with extended payload and range enjoyed a successful market launch. Meanwhile, the PC-12, became the most flown business aircraft in the USA over a one-year period. Hansueli Loosli, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Pilatus, described the past year as very positive overall: “Despite the challenges, we achieved important milestones in 2024, with yet more portfolio development."
Valence, France and Bruchsal, Germany:Jet Systems and Volocopter to partner in eVTOL operations in FranceSustainable urban air mobility (UAM) pioneer Volocopter and Jet Systems Hélicoptères Services, a leading licensed air service offering with over thirty years of passenger flight services, have signed an agreement to bring electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft services to France.This long-term agreement covers the initial delivery of two VoloCity eVTOL aircraft after it is certified under the European Union Aviation Safety Authority (EASA). In addition, Volocopter will contribute its expertise in product, maintenance, pilot training, and VoloIQ, the digital backbone of fleet management and operations.
Jet Systems Hélicoptères Services will provide general airline services, including securing personnel (ground crew, pilots, and maintenance), while liaising with cities and infrastructure partners to secure operations. The services are set to begin in Paris, where European and French authorities have an established and approved network of eVTOL flight routes and infrastructure.
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ACIA Aero Leasing places ATR72-500 Bulk Freighter with Canada’s KF Aerospace
Ireland-headquartered ACIA Aero Leasing, a leading provider of regional aircraft leasing and lease management services, has announced the sale and delivery of an ATR 72-500 Bulk Freighter (MSN736) to Canadian aerospace and defence company, KF Aerospace.
The aircraft will be introduced into KF’s operational fleet as early as April 2025 as part of a renewed contract with Purolator to transport air cargo in the Canadian province of British Columbia.
ATR 72-500 Bulk Freighter (MSN736).
“We welcome KF Aerospace as a new trading partner for ACIA Aero Leasing," commented CEO Michael Mooney. "The Canadian market continues to present multiple opportunities for the ATR platform across both passenger and cargo requirements and KF is a key player in this market.
"This sale to KF, the second ATR freighter delivered by ACIA to a Canadian operator in the last six months, reaffirms our view that the customer base will grow as more and more Canadian airlines recognise the winning attributes of the type for the unique environment they operate in.”
KF Aerospace’s diverse business operations include aircraft MRO, aerospace engineering, air charter services, air cargo, aircraft leasing and military aircrew training for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). In November 2024 KF Aerospace was awarded the 10-year contract renewal for the BC Feeder Network with a fleet renewal of three cargo aircraft. KF selected the ATR72-500F to replace the Convair 580s - for which the company is the type certificate holder.
| “Following the awarding of our new air cargo contract, we have committed to a quick turnaround time to implement the fleet renewal. ACIA has provided a quality aircraft that meets our needs in a very short period of time. This latest transaction represents our first acquisition from ACIA, but our business relationship extends back over many years, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with ACIA.” commented Tracy Medve, President and CEO, KF Aerospace. |  |
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