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Features

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

Washington, DC:

GAMA welcomes James Viola as new CEO, saluting Pete Bunce for his contributions to industry

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Board of Directors has announced that James Viola will lead the association as the next President and CEO starting in the Spring of 2025 as current President and CEO, Pete Bunce, is set to retire after 20 years at the helm.

“James Viola has an incredible passion for general aviation and will do a remarkable job representing the interests of GAMA member companies and leading the tremendous GAMA staff," said Chuck Wiplinger, GAMA Chair and President and CEO of Wipaire.

"His military, flying and regulatory experience, along with his proven leadership of a renowned international aviation association, will make him an extremely effective advocate for the economic and societal contributions of the global general aviation industry.”

“GAMA has an outstanding reputation as a leader across the international aerospace ecosystem and I am honored and excited to work with GAMA’s members and team to further advance the critical interests and contributions of the aviation industry," said James Viola.

"I look forward to championing general aviation’s significant work to provide growth and opportunity for individuals and businesses, enable innovative and technological advancements for safety and efficiency, and support the economic development and welfare of communities across the globe.”

GKN Aerospace officially opens $55m repair facility for aero-engine components in San Diego

GKN Aerospace has opened a new 150,000 square-foot facility in San Diego, California, strengthening the company’s global repair network and commitment to sustainable, cutting-edge MRO solutions.

The $55m investment increases its capacity and underlines the company's dedication to delivering best-in-class support to the growing Aero-Engine MRO market worldwide.

Joakim Andersson, President of Engine Systems, said: “We are incredibly proud to open this new state-of-the-art facility and to share this milestone with our customers, employees, and stakeholders.

"This significant investment brings the latest automated manufacturing technologies to our business, while emphasizing our commitment to our customers in North America and helping to meet the growing demand for MRO in the region. We appreciate the support of the local government and community in making San Diego the ideal location for this facility.”

Cessna SkyCourier achieves Canada type certification, bringing operational support to remote regions of North America

Textron Aviation's twin-engine, large utility turboprop, the Cessna SkyCourier, has been awarded type certification by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), expanding the aircraft’s ability to support operational activities in some of the most remote areas of North America.

The first SkyCourier in the region - a freighter variant - is expected to be delivered this year to Air Bravo Corporation, a passenger, cargo and air ambulance flight service company based out of Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Barrie and Meaford, Ontario since 2001

“The SkyCourier’s outstanding performance will be a game-changer for our customers across Canada,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “The maximum flexibility and low operating costs of this aircraft make it an excellent choice for a wide range of missions throughout the region.”

Eve and Signature Aviation collaborate to study AAM ground ops and ecosystem requirements

eVTOL manufacturer Eve Air Mobility and Signature Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding to research ecosystem requirements as well as the ground services necessary for safe, efficient and scalable Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) ground operations.

"Following the rollout of our first full-scale eVTOL prototype, we continue to build on that momentum and are looking forward to teaming with Signature Aviation to support eVTOL operations," said Luiz Mauad, vice president, Services, Operations Solutions, Strategic Design & Ecosystem at Eve Air Mobility.

"Eve and Signature will leverage the companies’ combined global presence and experience in servicing aircraft and creating seamless passenger experiences. Signature Aviation’s insight into ground services needs, local knowledge, private aviation terminal operations and passenger services will inform the procedures and ecosystem needed to accelerate preparations for eVTOLs to launch and scale.”

The agreement brings together two seasoned, major players in the global aerospace industry: Eve Air Mobility’s expertise as an eVTOL manufacturer and Signature Aviation’s global network of private aviation terminals. As part of the MoU, the two companies will also explore potential future commercial partnerships.

Gogo completes acquisition of Satcom Direct and announces leadership transition

Chris Moore appointed CEO, succeeding Oakleigh Thorne who transitions to Executive Chair.

Gogo Inc. has announced the completion of its acquisition of Satcom Direct (SD), creating the only multi-orbit, multi-band, in-flight connectivity provider serving the needs of every segment of the global business aviation and military/government mobility markets.

Gogo paid $375m in cash and issued five million shares of Gogo stock to SD ownership at close and could pay up to an additional $225m tied to realizing performance thresholds over the next four years. The transaction, including fees, was funded with $250m of debt and $150m of cash from the Gogo balance sheet.

The interest rate on Gogo’s incremental debt is SOFR plus 6%, and the Company’s annual interest expense will increase by an estimated $25m to $27m. Gogo’s net leverage ratio at yearend 2024 is estimated to increase to 3.6x, and the Company expects to be back inside its target leverage range of 2.5x-3.5x within one to two years.

The transaction is immediately accretive, with $18m of annual recurring cost savings achieved immediately after closing, and a total expected $25m to $30m in annual run-rate cost synergies to be achieved in the two years after close.

William Oliveira

Guardian Jet LLC, a global leader in aircraft consulting, appraisals and brokerage, is strengthening its international sales team with the appointment of William Oliveira as Sales Director for South America.

Oliveira’s aviation career spans industry giants and diverse global markets. His journey began in customer support at Embraer Executive Jets, where he ensured top-tier service across Brazil. Driven by a passion for sales and client success, he later joined TAM Aviação Executiva, representing Cessna jets as a Textron channel partner. William successfully supported TAM in becoming one of the world’s leading Citation jet sellers for two consecutive years.

His global experience deepened when he spearheaded international business development for a Brazilian defense company, securing high-profile contracts across the Middle East and South Asia.

Now, Oliveira is set to lead Guardian Jet’s expansion efforts throughout South America. His mission: to build lasting client relationships and enhance the company’s footprint in the region.

Oliveira holds a degree in Business Administration and two MBAs - one in Business Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and another in Sales Management from the University of São Paulo.

Christmas Break

click to visit London Biggin Hill Airport

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

Bumper month for leading US bizjet charter and fractional operators

In Week 50 of 2024 (9th-15th December), 72,682 bizjet departures were recorded globally, 2% more than W50 last year, inflating the four-week trend to +5% growth compared to 2023, according to WINGX weekly Global Market Tracker published today.

Global Part135 &91K activity was up 1% ahead vs last year, the last four-week trend at an impressive +7%. Globally, year-todate there have been just over 3.5 million bizjet departures, 1% fewer than last year.

North America

Bizjet activity in North America rose 3% compared to Week 50 in 2023, the four-week trend up to +7% compared to last year. Part 135 & 91K activity in the US grew 3% compared to last year, the four-week trend stretching out to +9%.

full report

Sion, Switzerland and Bergen, Norway:

H55 and Elfly Group forge partnership for the BRM Aero B23 Energic: A pioneering step in electric aviation

H55, a global leader in electric propulsion technology, and Elfly Group, a trailblazer in zero-emission regional air travel and green mobility solutions, have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to introduce the BRM Aero B23 Energic - the first EASA CS-23 certified fully electric aircraft - to the Nordic market.

Under the MoU, Elfly Group will acquire three B23 Energic aircraft through the exclusive Founders’ Edition launch program, plus options for two additional aircraft. Delivery of the first three units is scheduled for 2026, catapulting the expansion of the B23 Energic across the Nordic region.

This landmark agreement also establishes a strategic collaboration among H55, BRM Aero, manufacturers of the B23 aircraft and Elfly Group.

Material World

By Anita Gradwohl, Group Director Customer Relation & Sales Business Unit New Market Aircraft Interiors, F/LIST.

At F/LIST, we know what it takes to design an aircraft cabin. Whether pushing the boundaries of possibility, creating a relaxing haven, or creating a highly personalized space, we recognize that experts constantly seek new inspiration, concepts, and materials.

Decades of experience have shown us that the key to an extraordinary cabin experience is often in detail, and the most memorable details frequently rely upon beautiful materials.

It is in our DNA to source the finest quality materials from the world's leading suppliers, including our traditional wood and stone veneers. We literally travel around the globe to seek out a specific wood grain that meets the designer’s needs or source the perfect tone of a natural stone to ensure we deliver precisely what our customers need.

However, we are never satisfied with the status quo and always want to offer our customers never-before-seen options to ensure the creation of one-of-a-kind interiors.

Bahrain Ministry of Interior orders 9 Airbus H145 helicopters

Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with His Excellency, Sheikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Interior of Bahrain, for the purchase of nine H145 helicopters.

These aircraft will be operated by the Police Aviation Command for law enforcement missions and emergency medical services in the kingdom.

How AI is transforming aviation

There’s a revolution going on in the aviation industry and it’s being driven by artificial intelligence technologies. Artemis Aerospace looks at the difference it’s already making.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping our future in every arena worldwide. From communications to business, and space travel to medical research, there isn’t a sector left untouched by its seemingly limitless capabilities.

The aviation industry has fully embraced its potential. We look at how it’s transforming every aspect of the flying experience.

Aircraft design and manufacturing

AI applications are used extensively in aircraft design and engineering. Algorithms and machine learning use statistical models to produce optimal aerodynamic designs which increase speed, improve sustainability and enhance safety and durability. AI can enable engineers to select the optimal raw materials for components and plan the production process to minimise waste and maximise performance, thus reducing costs. It can also play an important part in preventative maintenance by analysing historical data and predicting which parts will be needed and when an aircraft should be scheduled for repair, avoiding an expensive AOG situation.

Voluxis moves to new HQ in Farnborough Main Terminal

Voluxis, the charter operator and aircraft management company, has invested in new, expanded office space at Farnborough Airport to facilitate the company’s growth strategy.

Warren Gravell, CEO at Voluxis, commented: “We’ve had an office at Farnborough for several years, but have decided to take a larger space in the terminal for our growth plans.

"We have now moved into a bespoke suite of offices in the main terminal, with the prestigious position of overlooking the ramp at the country’s leading private jet airport. It marks the start of a new era for Voluxis - with a focus on company expansion and with this new office we hope to attract the calibre of employees that we have identifies as being required to expand our operation, without compromising on quality.

Middle East now a robust market for qualified aviation personnel - Zenon

Global aviation recruitment specialist, Zenon, returned to the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Show this week as the region ramps up after a few slow years.

Zenon highlights an influx of start-up companies in the UAE, and especially in Saudi Arabia, requiring a raft of qualified personnel - post holder roles and engineers, the latter for short and long-term contract work.

Andrew Middleton, Zenon Owner and CEO.

Zenon, which facilitates permanent and contract positions, has seen the number of roles available in the region increase 24% since January this year.

FAI named ‘Most Innovative Air Ambulance Service’ at the Middle East Aviation Business Awards 2024

FAI rent-a-jet GmbH, Germany’s leading global provider of mission-critical aviation services, was named as the ‘Most Innovative Air Ambulance Service’ at the Middle East Aviation Business Awards 2024 on 12th December, coinciding with the MEBAA show in Dubai.

The award was presented to the group’s Dubai-based Managing Director, Barbara Baumgartner by MEA Business magazine’s Kenneth Mitchen at a Gala Evening attended by senior aviation industry leaders.

Colomiers, France:

Inauguration of the Daher Learning Center: A new era for aeronautical talent development

Daher is strengthening its commitment to technical talent development with the inauguration of the Daher Learning Center in Colomiers, near Toulouse, France.

This 1,000 m² facility - featuring a state-of-the-art 650 m² technical workshop - marks a significant milestone in addressing the growing demand for skills in the aerospace industry while adapting to the increasing pace of industrial programs.

The center can host up to 40 learners simultaneously, offering customized training for such technical professions as systems mechanics, assembly fitters, and cabin integrators. The programs range from short modules (1-3 days) to career transition courses lasting 1-3 months.

Training: A strategic priority for Daher and its customers

Since the 2000s, Daher has made skills acquisition and transmission a key driver for both its employees and clients. With this new center, the company's goal is to address the shortage of technical skills while reinforcing its leadership in industrial services. In 2024, nearly 700 learners were trained, with a target of 1,300 trainees for 2025, supported by this new infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia’s civil aviation regulator enlists CAAi to harmonise safety regulatory framework with EASA

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia has appointed CAA International (CAAi), the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s technical cooperation arm, to harmonise Saudi Arabia’s aviation safety regulatory framework with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

This collaboration officially launched in November, with a series of project launch meetings and industry briefings in Riyadh.

Over the next 14 months, regulatory experts from CAAi will work closely with GACA’s experts to develop updated aviation regulations that continue to meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.

These new regulations will cover Air Operations, Airworthiness, Personnel Licensing and will be harmonised with European standards while being tailored specifically for Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.

This initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, with the aviation sector positioned as a key driver of economic diversification.

FAI Technik completes 7,800 landings’ inspection and full cabin refurbishment on Challenger 604

Leading MRO services provider, FAI Technik, has successfully completed a 7,800 landings’ inspection on a Bombardier Challenger 604, marking a significant milestone in its maintenance capabilities.

This inspection, one of the most comprehensive and rare procedures performed on the airframe, underscores FAI Technik’s expertise and dedication to delivering high-quality maintenance solutions for executive aircraft.

The 7,800 landings’ inspection, achieved in over 6000 manhours, required extensive disassembly of the aircraft. Components including the engines, fuel tanks, APU, thrust reversers, and flight controls were removed for detailed non-destructive testing (NDT) such as X-ray, ultrasonic, eddy current, and magnetic inspection.

In addition to the inspection, FAI Technik performed a full cabin refurbishment, elevating the existing unique 18-passenger configuration to new standards of elegance and functionality.

This layout, highly demanded by customers, now features enhanced superior comfort, making it ideal for larger groups seeking a premium travel experience. To further improve the aircraft’s operational capabilities, FAI Technik also installed a state-of-the-art SwiftBroadband (Aviator 350) Satcom system, offering seamless connectivity for passengers and crew.

ExecuJet MRO Services becomes Authorised Service Centre for Safran power units

Safran Power Units has appointed ExecuJet MRO Services in Australia, Malaysia and Dubai as authorised service centres (ASC) for the Safran auxiliary power unit (APU) used on the Dassault Falcon 6X.

President of ExecuJet MRO Services, Graeme Duckworth, says this is the first time ExecuJet MRO Services has become an ASC for Safan Power Units. The impetus for the move was the entry-into-service of Dassault’s new large-cabin, long-range Falcon 6X, he says.

Graeme Duckworth.

ExecuJet MRO Services’ workscope on Safran APUs includes: line maintenance, component removal and replacement, trouble-shooting as well as removal and replacement of the APU if required.

It has invested in tooling and spare parts for the Safran APU (model SPU150) and sent five engineers to Safran’s facility in Toulouse for specialised training.

Did you know . . . airplanes have number plates?

So many people don't know the first thing about our industry.

This piece of informational content is performing well for us and could be food for thought as you put together your content plan for next year.

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Future Opportunities for Seaplanes and Amphibious Aviation:

Dates for FOSAA25 confirmed

The organizers of the Future Opportunities for Seaplanes and Amphibious Aviation, FOSAA25, have confirmed February 11th, 2025, as the date for the second outing of the dedicated conference.

The event, which will be held at the Biltmore Hotel in Miami, is building on the success of the first event held in March this year, when commercial members of the burgeoning seaplane and amphibious sector gathered in Venice.

The inaugural event confirmed the pent-up demand for an industry conference devoted to the sector, and the second event will once again bring together stakeholders from across the world to debate and discuss the growing potential and opportunities in the industry.

Rob Ceravolo, CEO and founder of Tropic Ocean Airlines is confirmed as the keynote speaker. Having spent a decade as an Officer and Aviator in the United States Navy, where he flew fast jets and attended TOPGUN, Rob subsequently launched Tropic Ocean Airlines with one member of staff and an aircraft.

Today, fifteen years later, the operator is one of the world’s most successful amphibious airlines. Rob will share the lessons learned transitioning from fast jets to seaplanes and outline how applying skills learned in the force can support the evolution from start-up to established operator.

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Joby becomes first company to fly in Korea’s K-UAM Grand Challenge

Joby Aviation, a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service, has successfully completed a series of flight tests in Korea as part of the K-UAM Grand Challenge.

Joby is the first electric air taxi company to complete flights as part of the program, which was launched in 2023 by Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (“MOLIT”) to support the commercialization of air taxis in the Korean market.

Joby’s electric air taxi was the first to perform demonstration flights in Goheung, Korea, as part of the nation’s K-UAM Grand Challenge designed to support the commercialization of air taxis in Korea | Photo: Joby Aviation

Over the course of a week, Joby successfully completed a range of missions demonstrating various flight profiles and conditions, including fully wing-borne flight. Joby also demonstrated its capability to collaborate on aircraft operations with potential Korean partners ahead of future commercialization in the country.

“Completing our first flights in Korea marks a significant milestone towards launching operations in the Korean market, where our service has incredible potential to save people time and improve connectivity in densely populated cities like Seoul and more remote areas like Jeju Province, where natural barriers complicate ground transportation,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby.

Joby is participating in the Grand Challenge as part of the “K-UAM Dream Team,” a consortium that includes SK Telecom, Hanwha Systems, TMAP and Korea Airports Corporation, which operates the vast majority of airports in Korea.

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