International Business and Private Aviation Industry News
 Brazil: Embraer and Boeing welcome Brazilian Government approval of strategic partnership Embraer and Boeing have welcomed approval by Government of Brazil of the strategic partnership that will position both companies to accelerate growth in global aerospace markets. The government’s approval comes after the two companies last month approved terms for the joint venture that will be made up of the commercial aircraft and services operations of Embraer. Boeing will hold an 80 percent ownership stake in the new company and Embraer will hold the remaining 20 percent.
United States: Mente Group has record year worth $500m in bizjet sales But outlook for 2019 and beyond not as glowing. Mente Group, a leading global aircraft brokerage and consulting company active in mid-size and larger business jets, registered a record year for the company in 2018 for transactions. Since its founding in 2009, Mente Group has expanded into a full-service business jet strategic consulting company. "This past year was a record year for Mente Group transactions in the aircraft segments where we operate," said President and CEO Brian Proctor. "The dollar volume of our business jet transactions was very close to $500m, up more than 40 percent over 2017, which was also a good year for the company. In addition, our team really came through as the number of Mente's business jet transactions increased over 20 percent on higher average aircraft values, as sales represented larger and newer aircraft in 2018." Prices to climb on fewer aircraft
Brazil: Embraer presents preliminary forecast for 2019 and 2020 Embraer has presented its preliminary forecast for 2019 and 2020 at a meeting with investors at the New York Stock Exchange. For 2019, Embraer expects to deliver between 90 and 110 executive jets, 85 to 95 commercial jets - including light and large jets - 10 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and two multi-mission KC-390 aircraft. Total consolidated revenues should be between US$ 5.3bn and US$ 5.7 bn. The Company expects to achieve a consolidated EBIT margin of breakeven (approximately zero) for the year 2019. It is important to highlight that 2019 guidance includes potential costs and expenses associated with the creation of the Commercial Aviation JV in a strategic partnership between the Company and The Boeing Co. under the terms of the associated material facts published by Embraer.
Ireland: Shannon Airport welcomes opportunity to extend US Preclearance facilities Shannon Airport has welcomed the proposed changes to Ireland/United states Preclearance agreement which it says will allow it to enhance its US Preclearance service at Shannon for its airline customers and their passengers, in particular, its business jet customers. The decision, announced by the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr. Simon Coveney TD and the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr Shane Ross TD, is expected to come into effect in the coming months. Commenting on the announcement Niall Maloney, Shannon Airport Director of Operations said: “This is a welcome announcement as it will allow us to extend our US Preclearance service. Currently our US Preclearance operates from 09:00am to 17:00 daily, but with the new US agreement we will now be able to extend these hours and offer an out of hours service. This is something which our executive jet customers in particular have requested."
United States: US News & World Report names Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University the Top US Online Undergraduate Educator The world’s premier aviation and aerospace institution, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earned the No.1 spot on US News & World Report’s 2019 ranking of the United States’ best online bachelor’s degree programs, affirming the school’s focus on academic excellence, affordability and promising career opportunities for graduates. US News & World Report identified Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus as the No. 1 online undergraduate educator among 348 schools ranked on the 2019 list. It was the sixth consecutive year that Embry-Riddle’s online bachelor’s degree programs ranked within the Top 5 on the list. This year’s list placed Embry-Riddle among outstanding company: The university successfully competed with many of the country’s most distinguished research institutions, and it was the only private university among the top schools. Also ranking within the Top 5 were Arizona State University, Ohio State University-Columbus, Oregon State University and Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus.
Training: ASTM International announces certification program for business jet cabin crews ASTM International, headquartered at West Conshohocken, PA., has announced a new certification program for business jet cabin crews from the organization’s affiliate, the National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT). The Business Aviation Cabin Crew program, administered by SpaceTEC Partners, Inc., will require candidates to demonstrate knowledge of and skills in aircraft safety procedures and cabin-service safety as well as professionalism and discretion. The program aims to ensure the comfort and safety of domestic and international passengers.
Canada: IBAC mourns the loss of Michael W. Hohm The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) joins the business aviation community, family, and friends in mourning the loss of their colleague, Michael W. Hohm. As IBAC Director for Liaison to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Michael played a key role as the business aviation industry representative on the Air Navigation Commission (ANC) at ICAO and was responsible for day-to-day relationships with the ICAO Secretariat and national delegations to ICAO.  Michael W. Hohm. “Michael was a tremendous advocate for our industry and a dear colleague to all of us at IBAC and to all our Member Associations,” commented Kurt Edwards, IBAC Director General. “He will be missed dearly, especially for his sincere dedication and passion for aviation, and his kindness that fostered so many relationships throughout the industry during his career.” United States: JETNET releases statement on the passing of Vincent Esposito 'JETNET mourns the loss of our colleague and JETNET President, Vincent Esposito. 'Along with his brother, JETNET Executive Vice President Tony Esposito, Vincent helped grow JETNET from a small aircraft listing service to a worldwide aviation intelligence powerhouse. He kept our focus on growing JETNET’s research base, expanding our markets and products, embracing new technologies, and allowing us to thrive.  Vincent Esposito. 'Vincent brought a steady hand and great vision to JETNET, steering the firm to phenomenal growth, both domestically and internationally. He supported and encouraged his management team to constantly innovate and think ahead. The entire JETNET team will continue to honor and grow his legacy under the strong leadership of Tony Esposito'.
JSSI  Francisco Zozaya Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) has appointed business aviation veteran Francisco Zozaya to the new role of president of JSSI Latin America. Zozaya will also serve as senior vice president, business development & strategy for JSSI corporate. He will lead all JSSI activities throughout Latin America as well as oversee the global JSSI Alliance Program and JSSI Marketplace. Prior to joining JSSI, Zozaya spent more than a decade as pre-owned director for Aerolineas Ejecutivas (ALE), where he managed the pre-owned aircraft sales and acquisitions business unit. He established an extensive network within the global aviation broker and financial communities, and with OEMs and MROs, while facilitating key industry alliances for the largest business aviation company in Latin America. |
United States: NBAA joins more than 30 aviation groups urging end to shutdown As the deadlock in Washington enters its fourth week, the National Business Aviation Association has joined more than 30 aviation industry groups and unions in urging the federal government to end the partial government shutdown, citing its harmful effects on the industry. “As the partial shutdown continues, the human and economic consequences are increasing and doing greater harm,” the groups wrote in a joint letter to President Donald Trump, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-12-CA). “Civil aviation supports more than 7 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) and $1.5tr of economic impact, creating over 11.5m jobs, but this shutdown is hampering our ability to function effectively.” The letter cited several areas of concern to the industry.
France: Flies to AMAC Aerospace for VIP cabin outfitting.
Powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, the aircraft flies on to Basel, Switzerland where cabin outfitting will immediately commence by AMAC Aerospace. Its new Alberto Pinto cabin interior, which meets Acropolis‘s unique specification, will be installed over the coming months. “This is an historic day for Acropolis Aviation, and we are very much looking forward to presenting the aircraft to our clients at the end of the year,” commented CEO Jonathan Bousfield.
Latvia: Embraer authorized service center launched at FBO RIGA FBO RIGA and international MRO provider, Jet Flight Service, have announced the launch of an Embraer authorized service center at Riga Airport.
The first Embraer Legacy 650 has already finished C-check servicing at the new facility. The aircraft was undergoing a 96-month inspection together with the installation of ADSB OUT, FANS-1A systems and the replacement of fuselage nose section skins. A second Legacy 650 is now undergoing C-check servicing.
United States: Western Aircraft becomes first in US to add Pilatus PC-24 to its charter Western Aircraft, a Greenwich AeroGroup company, has added a Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet to WestAir Charter’s Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR) Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate. “We are extremely excited to be the first in the country to offer this amazing jet for charter,” said Western Aircraft’s Vice President of Aircraft Sales and Charter Management Phil Winters.
Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet | Library photo “This aircraft has superior speed, range and runway performance. It is also the first business jet in the world that has a standard pallet-sized cargo door, making the loading of even the bulkiest of items, such as a kayak, easy. It’s a true benefit for our charter customers.”
Macau: Extends international network to Asia Pacific Region. TAG Aviation has officially launched its first Fixed Base Operation in Asia Pacific. Located in Macau, the new facility marks a major milestone for the company’s ambitions in expanding its business to meet the continuing growth in the Asia Pacific region. The facility represents the fourth FBO for TAG Aviation globally.
“The opening of our Macau FBO expands our global network to Asia and provides TAG Aviation with the operational capabilities to deliver world-class FBO services in the region,” said Steven Young, TAG Aviation Holding Director & President TAG Aviation Asia. “Macau is rapidly developing as important destination of choice for business aviation and the industry’s development enjoys the strong support of the Macau Government.”
Medevac: Air Serv positions second aircraft in South Sudan An Air Serv aircraft has departed Entebbe International Airport for South Sudan to support ongoing humanitarian relief efforts within the region. The Cessna Grand Caravan took off from Entebbe on January 13, following an inspection by the Ugandan Civil Aviation Authority. It will refuel and receive a second inspection in Juba, South Sudan, before continuing on to its final destination in Wau.
South Sudan marked five years of civil war in December 2018 and experts estimate that there are currently 2.5 million refugees and 1.8 million internally displaced people within the country. Despite a peace deal signed between the South Sudanese government and the opposition in September 2018, violence continues and the humanitarian crisis has escalated. The aircraft will be based with a team of six in Wau, located approximately 400 miles northwest of the capital Juba, and is expected to remain for twenty-four months.
United Kingdom: London Biggin Hill Airport launches Unite to Inspire initiative London Biggin Hill Airport is launching Unite to Inspire, a new initiative encouraging young people to study STEM subjects, preparing them to become the next generation of aviation professionals.
Unite to Inspire brings together the airport’s thriving business community of 70 resident aviation companies to motivate students into pursuing STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths), by demonstrating how this path can lead to stimulating jobs within aerospace. Participating businesses include Bombardier, Textron Aviation, RAS Completions and helicopter specialists Castle Air.
United Kingdom: SaxonAir expands charter fleet with Phenom 300 hot based throughout Europe Private air charter operator SaxonAir has announced the addition of an Embraer Phenom 300 jet to their aircraft fleet. The 2016 manufactured aircraft G-KRBN is to be hot based throughout Europe operating from various key European locations. This addition brings the fleet at SaxonAir up to a total of 9 jet aircraft and 4 helicopters, giving SaxonAir one of the most unique and diverse charter fleets in the market place.
The Phenom 300 is the fastest jet in its class with a range of 1800 NM and cruise speeds of up to 518 mph able to transport up to 8 passengers from London to Moscow. The aircraft offers excellent safety, comfort and performance which alongside economical operating costs, means the aircraft is a very popular choice for charter clients. "Entering another aircraft into the market with no owners release and no fixed base strengthens SaxonAir's European wide presence significantly," said SaxonAir Charter Sales Manager Jack Hellewell. "Although we have aircraft bases at Stansted, Luton, Farnborough and Norwich, as well as Cannes in Southern France, we expect to keep this aircraft flying consistently with competitive point to point pricing."
United States: OK3 AIR gears up to greet traffic headed to the 2019 Sundance Film Festival As a special thank you for flying in, OK3 AIR will award AVTRIP Members five (5) points per gallon from January 22nd - February 5th. “Our team always looks forward to Sundance,” said OK3 AIR Owner Nadim AbuHaidar. “As the gateway to the event, we want to thank our loyal customers with this promotion - it’s our way of adding to the excitement and showing our appreciation to pilots who choose OK3 AIR.”
Situated 20 minutes from the Sundance Resort, OK3 AIR boasts an eight-acre parking ramp, hangars that accommodate aircraft up to a G-IV, deicing, rental cars, full concierge services, a conference room, and a pilot's lounge with Wi-Fi and flight planning. www.ok3.aero |
 United Kingdom: UK aerospace industry will suffer if no Brexit deal agreed Britain’s world-leading aerospace industry risks losing investment and will face supply chain problems if the government fails to negotiate a Brexit deal which maintains the current strategic relationship with the European Union, according to a new report from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. The UK aerospace industry generated £35bn in turnover in 2017, with £30bn in revenue from exports which grew 39 percent between 2012 and 2017. The sector employs over 120,000 people, many in highly skilled engineering roles. The research found that the movement of skilled workers, access to engineering resources and the freedom to trade with customers, group companies and suppliers across the EU are key factors behind decisions to invest in the UK. “The effect of Brexit and a “no-deal” scenario would be felt in the long run and would impact future investment decisions,” said the report “UK Aerospace: The Impact of Brexit”.
Austria: GlobeAir releases Amazon Alexa skill Austrian private jet company GlobeAir is becoming the first bizjet company to release an Amazon Alexa skill for immediate private jet bookings. With many leading travel companies putting voice search first - and over a hundred million Amazon devices sold so far - GlobeAir has taken on the challenge to become the pioneer of voice-driven applications for private jet bookings.
Currently the GlobeAir Alexa skill can be triggered via a set of phrases: 'Alexa, ask GlobeAir to search for a flight’ ; 'Alexa, ask GlobeAir what are some popular destinations', and 'Alexa, ask GlobeAir I would like to search for a flight'. There follows an intuitive dialogue at the end of which the user can either book a private jet or request an info call with GlobeAir’s customer care team.
Bahrain: DFS Aviation Services sets up subsidiary in Bahrain DFS Aviation Services GmbH, a subsidiary of the German air navigation service provider DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung GmbH (DFS), has signed a contract with the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications of Bahrain for the provision of personnel. DFS Aviation Services Bahrain Co. W.L.L, based in Manama, was founded for the purpose and commenced operations on January 1st. The object of the company is the provision of operational and administrative personnel in Bahrain. For this purpose, the personnel of the previous organisation was taken over so that the ongoing operation can continue smoothly. In 2018, DFS Aviation Services won the international tender.
 Paula Kraft, founder and President of Atlanta, GA-based Tastefully Yours Catering. One of the most often asked questions during my training classes is about serving fish on board. Questions about its selection, its handling, its cooking or reheating. There is so much information to share about fish - more than we can cover in one article - so I will attempt to hit the high spots. First and foremost, keeping fish safe requires proper handling and considerable attention; not only by the caterer, but by the delivery person, the intermediate handlers (the FBO or crew member) right through to onboard handling during, and on completion of, the cooking process. Fish poses a risk for you, A large risk. Fish deteriorates quickly. Fresh fish has as a very short shelf-life and should ideally be consumed within a day or two of purchase. And if the fish has been marked on the grill and left raw (or 80% undercooked to finish on board) it is especially critical to get that fish delivered and wrapped with some sort of ice pack, and close to freezing, as soon as possible. A few simple rules I think we should start out with a few rules: (I guess not really rules, but things I want you to know and think about when the catering request has fish on the menu). These are my personal precautions for you.
Catering: On Air Dining wins prestigious Luxury Travel Award for second year Leading executive in-flight culinary specialist and concierge, On Air Dining, has been recognized by Luxury Travel Guide (LTG) for the second year in a row for its best in class cuisine and culinary innovation, being named the Specialist Caterer of the Year (Europe) in its prestigious Food & Drink publication. The publication released this week, recognises and celebrates excellence across all sectors of the hospitality industry.
In an effort to continually elevate the standard of in-flight catering, the decision was made to change categories this year and compete against Europe’s elite caterers. The judging and announcement of the awards took place in September following a period of collating nominations from a combination of LTG subscribers, a research team, past clients and partners from the hospitality industry all around the world who were competing for a place on the shortlist.
Apps: Flightworx Aviation launches new online fuel platform Flightworx Aviation's fuel division, Flightworx Fuel Services Ltd - better known as ‘Fuelworx’ - has launched its new Fuel Portal application. Fuelworx can now offer the ability to see global prices at a click of a button through this web-based system, create and send instant quotations, choose from the various options available in any location and request fuel, all in one easy to use platform. “Speed is key and we have created what we feel exceeds our client’s expectations," explains James Kossick, Fuel Manager. "The portal is so convenient for all users due to its web-based nature which means that you can access it anywhere in the world at any time of day. We are continually growing the database with new locations being added daily and we hope to achieve over 5000 locations by the end of the year." For more information, contact ClientServices@flightworx.aero France: Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur has announced an increase in business aircraft movements on its three platforms at Nice Côte d’Azur, Cannes-Mandelieu and Golfe de Saint-Tropez. Its FBO activities set a new record of +9.7%, driven by the performance in Spain and at Paris-Le Bourget. Another key performance indicator was the average weight per aircraft, which rose by 3.5% in one year to 21.6 tonnes, consolidating the group’s vision and strategy to develop infrastructures capable of receiving larger aircraft.
Countering the threat of unlawful drones. Matthew Borie Head of Analysis at Osprey Flight Solutions. European flight activity continues to weaken, especially for jet charters. The WINGX Report. December US flight activity posts very slight decline after Christmas week. Email marketers segment customers for targeted campaigns. Shae Blevins, digital strategist, at Greteman Group. Asian "Pastas". Paula Kraft, founder and President of Atlanta, GA-based Tastefully Yours Catering.
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Hi Fly’s ‘plastic free' flights hailed great success
Hi Fly’s world-first single use plastic-free flights have been hailed as a rip-roaring success by passengers, travel industry executives and environmental campaigners alike.
The Portuguese wet-lease carrier replaced plastic cutlery with bamboo and cups, spoons, salt and pepper shakers, packaging for bedding, dishes, individual butter pots, soft drink bottles and toothbrushes were switched with compostable alternatives crafted from recycled material on a series of full passenger test flights to and from Brazil over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
The world's first single use 'plastic-free' flight took passengers on a Boxing Day trip from the carrier's base in Lisbon to Natal, Brazil, on an Airbus A340 and was followed by three further 100% single use 'plastic-free' test flights in addition to a series of 12 reduced plastic journeys between Lisbon and Oporto to Fortaleza, Recife, Maceió and Salvador.
The total of 16 trial flights, are all part of Hi Fly’s long-stated commitment to be single use 'plastic-free' on all its flights by the end of 2019.
“We are delighted that the test flights went so well," said Hi Fly President Paulo Mirpuri. "Seeing the reaction from passengers, full of smiles, and happy, even proud to be involved, only confirms to us that this is the right direction for us. Our target of being plastic free by the end of the year seemed ambitious to many in our industry, but by believing in our project and working hard to make it happen, we can see that it is entirely achievable and our focus now will be to commit to our deadline.”
The eco-alternatives used were plant-based catering disposables made from renewable, lower carbon or recycled materials, that can be composted along with food waste. Also, paper, card, pla&cpla, bamboo, chinaware, glass & stainless steel.
After the flights, excess food waste and packaging were collected and delivered to a licensed waste management operator where they were processed for energy production. Bamboo cutlery was sanitized by Hi Fly’s catering arm LSKY to be reused. Glass bottles were returned to the supplier to be cleaned and re-filled, while card and paper were grouped for collection and recycling. The total weight of plastic saved across the whole trial was 1500 kg.
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