International News from the Business and Private Aviation Industry
 United States: Battle to preserve Santa Monica airport continues after 'disappointing' court ruling The National Business Aviation Association has called a court's decision to deny its petition to overturn a questionable agreement between the FAA and the city of Santa Monica on procedural grounds 'disappointing'. The Association noted however that the ruling did not address the merits of NBAA’s legal filing and that the work to keep the historic airport open continues. “We're obviously disappointed by this decision, but it's important to note the court did not make a determination as to the merits of our arguments against the validity of the original settlement agreement,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “This ruling was purely a matter of procedure, and in no way does it establish a precedent by which the FAA may enter into similar agreements affecting the fates of other vital general aviation airports.”
Specifically, the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia (DC) Circuit has denied on procedural grounds a petition filed by NBAA and others that sought to overturn a settlement agreement between the FAA and the city of Santa Monica, CA, which allows the city to curtail aviation operations at Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO) and grants the option to close the facility after Dec. 31, 2028.
United States: NBAA joins coalition expressing concerns about GPS interference from proposed cellular network The National Business Aviation Association has joined with 10 other aviation groups in expressing concern over the potential impact to satellite-based global positioning system (GPS) navigation capabilities from a proposed broadband cellular communications network operating within frequency bands currently used by GPS. A prior attempt to implement a high-speed nationwide cellular network by Ligado Networks, formerly known as LightSquared, revealed signals from its cellular towers significantly disrupted aircraft navigation systems. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ultimately denied LightSquared's plans in February 2012, following a strong chorus of opposition from throughout the aviation industry, including NBAA and the industry-wide Coalition to Save Our GPS.
Training: Gulfstream deepens technical expertise with enhanced employee training lab Gulfstream has recently enhanced its On-the-Job Training (OJT) Laboratory with two additional aircraft structures: an all-new Gulfstream G600 fuselage, main entry door and wing and an industry-leading Gulfstream G650 fuselage, door, interior and wing. The additions ensure Gulfstream technicians continue to provide aircraft owners and operators with a first-rate service experience. “The structured, hands-on OJT Lab has educated more than 500 of our new technicians in the longstanding Gulfstream tradition of providing customized, technically proficient service that exceeds customer expectations,” said Derek Zimmerman, president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “The ability to get hands-on training for the newest and most popular aircraft in our fleet in a realistic yet controlled environment elevates our technicians’ understanding of our product line and ensures they continue to hone their skills and practice new techniques.”
Sonia Greteman, president and creative director, at Greteman Group, a marketing communications agency based in Wichita, the Air Capital. We need to stop calling the visual and verbal messages we create “content.” The term devalues and commoditizes the key role creative plays. It slaps a generic term on what should be a very non-generic product. One copywriter in our office says it’s akin to calling wine “liquid.” It tells you little. We’re guilty of it, too. When we ask a client who will be supplying content for a website or social media - them or us? - it implies it makes no difference. That it’s simply pictures and words on the page. Stuff that fills the holes.
But it matters a great deal. These hole fillers are what attract customers trying to find an answer, to solve a problem, to buy a product. I’ve always loved the Bill Lear quote, “Strive for simplicity. You never have to fix what you leave out.” This is true for your marketing messages, too. Add Muscle to your Meaning United States: AvFab receives two new King Air product approvals from Transport Canada Clinton, MO-based Aviation Fabricators (AvFab) designs and produces interior products for corporate aviation ranging from seating upgrades and windowline improvements to special mission customization. The two newest authorizations - from Transport Canada - are for AvFab’s King Air two-place divans and its King Air toilet cabinet seat. The company received approval to install its two-place divans in Beechcraft King Air C90GT, B200GT, B300 (350) models. These divans offer 400-pound total occupant weight and an additional 20 pounds per storage drawer. They feature built-in shoulder harnesses eliminating the need to attach shoulder harness mounting brackets to the airframe. The divan installs easily by removing existing seats and furnishings and locating the new divan in the desired location.
Latvia: FBO RIGA expands services portfolio with helicopters, catering, concierge and transfers FBO RIGA is fuelling business growth with the launch of new services under a single brand to meet the needs of its customers. The new business areas cover helicopter charters in partnership with GM Helicopters, business aviation catering - in cooperation with Resto-Rātors - plus a world-class concierge service and luxury transfers. "Airlines and passengers choose FBO RIGA for unmatched personal approach along with modern infrastructure of our center of business aviation at the Riga International Airport," said FBO RIGA CEO and co-owner Roman Starkov. "We are proud of being a trusted partner to our customers. Striving to meet their needs we are expanding our portfolio of services to provide clients and partners with a single gold standard of quality, hospitality and privacy."
FlightSafety International 
Hector Zarate FlightSafety International has named Hector Zarate interim President of FlightSafety Services Corporation. He replaces Ron Ladnier who will retire at the end of June. In his new role, Hector assumes responsibility for all operations of FlightSafety Services which provides turnkey aircrew training systems (ATS) and contractor logistics support (CLS) to Customers worldwide. This includes military aircrew training, advanced technology training devices, support for computer based workstations and support for simulators at 15 U.S. military bases. Hector joined FlightSafety as an Instructor and Maintenance Manager in 1986 and has held a number of positions with increasing responsibilities since then - most recently as Program Manager for the KC-46. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Delaware and an A.A.S in Computer Engineering from Delaware Technical College. Hector is a member of the Project Management Institute and The International Council of Systems Engineering.
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United Kingdom:: Victor launches frequent-flyer programme for private jet charter Private jet charter marketplace Victor has launched the industry’s first ever global frequent-flyer points-based programme. Exclusive to Victor fliers, Alto aims to provide a uniquely rewarding experience for regular on-demand charter. The Alto points customers earn with their Victor flights can be quickly and seamlessly redeemed to offset the pricing of future flights. Alto represents a substantial investment by Victor in its growing customer base. In recognition of a successful 2017, and strong start to 2018, Victor will immediately reward its frequent-flying customers with over $800k of Alto points, based on the Victor charters they have made over the past 12 months. Over the next five years, Victor expects to deliver Alto points totalling tens of millions of dollars to jet-setting customers. Africa: Vertis Aviation flying high after most successful year yet Vertis Aviation, the Switzerland-based boutique charter specialist, marked its most successful year since launch in 2010 at this year’s EBACE.
The business restructured in 2016 to bring focus back to its core activity, the charter of large cabin, long-range jets and executive airliners, to an international customer base. This has resulted in significant growth in terms of hours flown, customer numbers and revenues generated. 
Statistics indicate that the numbers of clients maximising the benefits of private jets will continue to increase for the foreseeable future, and crucially the average user age will decrease.
Several factors are driving the change including the growing number of young million- and billionaires worldwide, competitive pre-owned jet pricing making aircraft affordable to a wider market, and flexible pricing structures providing easy access to charter through digital platforms and membership structures.
Switzerland: RUAG's PW206 overhaul success ensures readiness of Swiss Air Force helicopter fleet RUAG Aviation has successfully completed its first overhaul of a Pratt & Whitney Canada PW206 engine at its facility in Stans, Switzerland.
The PW206 is used in Airbus H135 and H135M helicopters, more than 20 of which (listed under their former name 'EC635') are used by the Swiss Air Force.
Trip Planning: The Essentials of International Trip Planning A Brief Guide for Private Jet Operators Flying Internationally. Following the recent success of his series of articles in BlueSky, Dr Adnan Branbo, CEO of leading international trip-planning and flight services management company, iJET, has produced an invaluable guide to the essentials of international trip planning for private jet operators.
Published as an eBook, this 'go-to' guide addresses Overflight & Landing Permits, Navigational Fees, Airport Slots, Crew Visas and Fuel Purchase, plus insights into country-specific regulations. The eBook is FREE to download here
Bahamas: US, Caribbean aviation interests honoured with Sapphire Pegasus Awards The prestigious business aviation Sapphire Pegasus Awards were presented at CaribAvia 2018 in Nassau, Bahamas, June 12-14th. The Awards - focused on improving airlift connectivity in the region - recognise outstanding performances by companies and individuals from the Caribbean and the United States who have distinguished themselves in the industry.
Award Winners (L to R): William R. Bohlke, third generation to lead Bohlke International Airways; Women in Corporate Aviation Executive Director Elizabeth Clark ; William Bohlke, Sr; Commander Bud Slabbaert; Aviation Journalist Kathryn Creedy; NBAA Vice President of Regulatory & International Affairs Doug Carr and Hector Vasquez, Manager of Jet Aviation San Juan. Bohlke International Airways' Vasquez and Ryan Bohlke were cited for their harrowing humanitarian efforts in keeping aviation moving in the wake of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Other recipients included Women in Corporate Aviation Executive Director, Elizabeth Clark, NBAA Vice President of Regulatory & International Affairs, Doug Carr and veteran aviation journalist Kathryn B. Creedy. United States: World Fuel Services receives a Gulfstream Supplier of the Year Award Leading fuel and aviation services provider, World Fuel Services (WFS), has received a Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation 2018 Supplier of the Year Award.
This achievement was bestowed upon WFS to recognise its continued innovation and investment in Gulfstream’s journey toward environmental sustainability. Since 2016, WFS has provided Gulfstream with more than 375,000 gallons of a renewable fuel blend that has been used to fly the Gulfstream corporate fleet over 500,000 nautical miles.
Germany: German Special Mission Operator FAI rent-a-jet AG has expanded its fleet of managed aircraft with the addition of a fifth Global Express (S/N 9084). This brings FAI’s total fleet to 25, including its 10 managed aircraft.
In addition to the five Bombardier Global Express jets, FAI currently operates five Challenger 604s, 12 Learjet 60s, one Learjet 55, one Premier 1A and a King Air 350. All Bombardier aircraft are maintained by FAI Technik. Inflight Technology: Bose introduces the new Proflight Aviation Headset Bose, a leader in premium aviation headsets, has introduced its new active noise cancelling headset for the flight deck, the Bose ProFlight Aviation Headset. Designed for the professional pilot, the ProFlight is the industry’s smallest, quietest, and most comfortable active noise cancelling communication headset, and joins the acclaimed Bose A20 in the company’s aviation headset line.
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 Germany: Small jet charters on the Med keep the growth coming There were 79,601 business aviation departures in Europe in May 2018 according to WINGX`s latest monthly Business Aviation Monitor. This figure represents a 1% increase YOY, which is behind the YTD trend of 2.3% and trailing last year´s growth of >3%. The 3% growth in business jet activity this month was offset by a slump in Piston traffic. There were mixed trends for the biggest business aviation markets, with France down by 2%; the UK and Switzerland flat; departures from Italy down by 4%, but activity in Spain up 7%. YTD. Flights from Spain are up 5%, ahead of Germany, trending up by 4%. Among smaller markets, activity fell 5% in Austria, 3% in Russia, in line with YTD trend, and slumped 15% in Turkey, accelerating long term decline in demand. Greece had another month of robust growth with flights up by 15% - a 2018 trend of +20%. Brussels: European aviation facing serious capacity challenges now and in the future European aviation is seeing high levels of delay this year as the network struggles to cope with record levels of traffic. A new EUROCONTROL study - Challenges of Growth - finds that without urgent action, the network will be unable to cope with the demand for flights predicted by 2040. At the ACI General Assembly held today in Brussels on Tuesday, Eamonn Brennan, Director General of EUROCONTROL, addressed the capacity challenges faced by European aviation in 2018 and in the future. His keynote address underlined that the first five months of 2018 have seen much higher delays than in recent years. Traffic has increased by 3.4% (compared to the same period in 2017) but en-route Air Traffic Flow Management delays have risen dramatically from 0.46 minutes per flight to 1.05 minutes per flight. 28% of this delay was attributed to disruptive events (such as strikes) and 27% to weather.
United Kingdom: Air Partner Remarketing market update Air Partner’s Russ Hubbard comments on the Remarketing division’s recent activity and the current market for aircraft sales and leasing: The first half of 2018 has continued to be busy for Air Partner Remarketing in terms of both remarketing and ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance). The conclusion of one long-term contract involving the successful sale of four B777s, one spare GE-90 engine and two B737-700s for a national airline dovetailed with a remarketing programme for another national airline, covering several B777 aircraft. These projects, in addition to the remarketing of an ATR72, a B787-8 and some E145s, show that the used aircraft market remains buoyant across all sectors.
Air Partner Remarketing’s acquisition services have also been in strong demand in 2018, with the team receiving an increasing number of enquiries and mandates to help clients source and negotiate purchases or leases on their behalf. Far from being left behind by the new technology NEO and MAX variants, the ever popular A320ceos and B737NGs remain at the forefront of demand for airlines seeking additional lift.
 Paula Kraft, founder and President of Atlanta, GA-based Tastefully Yours Catering. 4th European Cabin Service Conference Are you ready for the only European conference which brings together cabin crew, caterers, and pilots from around the world? The EBAA's 4th annual European Cabin Services Conference takes place at the Hilton Grand Place Hotel in Brussels on the 27th and 28th September. Presented in collaboration with WE-CARE (Worldwide EBAA - Cabin Attendants Resources and Expertise) the conference is designed to offer EBAA Operator Members a place to find pre-selected, professional, trained and experienced Corporate/VIP Cabin Attendants, whether on short notice for a specific flight, for a temporary replacement, or for a scheduled long-term mission.
The conference is jam-packed with outstanding programmes and networking opportunities and sets the standard for what it means to be a qualified cabin crew member Click here for further details and Registration See you in Brussels!
Switzerland: VIP cabin crew training welcomes 75th nationality in Geneva Swiss VIP cabin crew training specialists, Training Solutions, achieved another milestone when it welcomed a flight attendant from Venezuela to its monthly training course in Geneva. The flight attendant represents the 75th nationality taking the opportunity to attendent the internationally renowned training course. Training Solutions is Europe’s only VIP cabin crew training organisation focused solely on customer service excellence. Using exact sized private jet table mock-ups, trainees are provided with real case scenarios to practice and enhance their skills.
United Kingdom: TAG Aviation receives EBAA's Diamond Safety of Flight Award TAG Aviation (UK) Ltd and TAG Aviation SA have been honoured with the European Business Aviation Association’s (EBAA) Diamond Safety of Flight Award. The Award was presented at a special event held during last month's European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE18) in Geneva, Switzerland. Diamond status is the highest safety award to be presented by the EBAA to member companies operating business aircraft that surpass 50 years, or over 100,000 hours, of safe flying. Such recognition highlights TAG Aviation Europe’s ongoing commitment to making safety a number one priority.
United Kingdom: Funding sought for first stage of Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone Masterplan Blackpool Council are looking to secure funding to implement the first delivery stage of the approved Masterplan for Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone. As the accountable body to drive forward this ambitious scheme on behalf of Lancashire LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) and Fylde Council, Blackpool Council will present the report on 18th June 2018 to the Blackpool Executive Committee, to seek approval to an initial three year allocation of capital funding of £28.8m to deliver essential infrastructure and associated vital support for the Enterprise Zone Masterplan.
The council will use their ability to borrow at preferential rates. A positive decision on the funding will be key to the future success of the Enterprise Zone and is essential to help secure early investment in the site, kick start development, build momentum and reinforce market confidence.
GAMA and ADS Group urge EC to permit Brexit planning between EASA and the UK CAA Asia’s ASA Group and L’VOYAGE agree merger Doc Comes Home. Deanna Harms, executive vice president, at Greteman Groupwith an update on 'Doc' - one of only two fully restored, flying B-29 Superfortress bombers. Cooking with a Microwave. Paula Kraft, founder and President of Atlanta, GA-based Tastefully Yours Catering, offers her definitive guide to inflight microwave cooking.
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ACS leading the way in the race to Russia this summer
Leading aircraft charter specialist, Air Charter Service, has booked more than 160 flights for the World Cup in Russia. Flying for teams, fans, sponsors and the media, ACS now has at least one flight going to every single match of the tournament.
Matthew Purton, Commercial Jets Director at ACS, commented: “We have been arranging charter flights for the championship since the group draw was made in December, and we’re still booking them now. As the only company of our kind to have a presence in Russia, we are even working with other brokerages from around the world to source aircraft for their clients.
“Having two offices in the country, as well as being able to deal in the local currency, is really paying dividends - so far we have booked around €8.5m worth of business for the tournament. We are dealing with more than a third of the national football associations taking part, with many of the teams flying on aircraft chartered through ACS - all of which have flexible return dates, dependent on how far they progress in the tournament!
“We are also quoting for the second wave of charters as teams work out where they will be playing if they are lucky enough to finish top or second in their groups. We have warned everyone that there will then be a rush to secure aircraft availability as soon as their position is confirmed. acs-worldcup.com
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