Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news
Washington, DC:NBAA fact checks misleading report on business aviation sustainabilityThe National Business Aviation Association has challenged a report for selectively using data, making statements based on faulty analysis and ignoring facts to produce a one-sided set of conclusions about sustainability and business aviation - an industry that is on pace to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050In a letter submitted to news outlets that have covered the report, NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said the study, published on November 7th in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, relies “on a cherry-picked data set, flawed analysis and omission of key facts.” Specifically, the report focuses only on aircraft hours flown during a selective window, largely focused on the global COVID moment. “That moment included an uptick in business aviation activity, as the airlines dramatically reduced or halted flights, making business aviation the best - and often, the only - option for essential travel,” Bolen said. “Predictably, the report’s narrow look at flight activity misses the fact that in the years following the pandemic, business aviation activity has largely returned to pre-pandemic norms,” Bolen added. The report also makes an oversimplified assumption that flights taken in the summer are inherently for non-business reasons, ignoring the fact that business aviation is often necessary for critical, face-to-face meetings with clients or customers, regardless of the season or flight destination.
Santa Ana, California:Clay Lacy Aviation breaks ground on Orange County FBO - the largest private infrastructure investment in John Wayne Airport historyWorld’s first ISI Envision Gold Certified FBO will advance sustainable operations, create aviation careers, house Orange County Sheriff’s Department air support facility.Clay Lacy Aviation began a new era of investment, service and commitment to Orange County aviation and the communities it serves when it broke ground on a sustainability focused FBO facility at John Wayne Airport (SNA).The FBO, aircraft management, maintenance and charter services provider will redevelop its existing 14 acres on the airfield and establish the world’s first ISI Envision Gold Certified FBO by the Institute of Sustainable Infrastructure, creating 180 jobs, investing in the local economy and workforce, as well as constructing a new purpose-built home for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) Air Support Unit.
“I’m so honored today to be standing here to break ground and celebrate what will be one of the finest FBOs and aviation facilities in the world,” said Brian Kirkdoffer, Owner and Chairman of Clay Lacy Aviation. “This development is an investment in the future of Orange County, making it stronger and more competitive on the world stage, attracting and retaining great businesses.”
Abu Dhabi, UAE:VoltAero partners with AltiSky for Cassio aircraft assembly and supportVoltAero has signed a strategic partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AltiSky for the Cassio electric-hybrid airplane family’s local assembly and distribution across the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, selecting a partner that brings proven capabilities in aircraft marketing, distribution, maintenance, training and support.Under terms of the new agreement, AltiSky will become a VoltAero partner, and is to build a 30,000-square-foot Cassio assembly facility with an adjoining delivery center in the US along with a state-of-the-art training complex that includes a flight simulator. AltiSky also is to establish a network of regional maintenance support facilities in its area of responsibility. This strategic partnership was announced at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, where VoltAero is present as part of the company’s strategy to expand its global industrial and support network while readying the production, certification and service entry of its Cassio aircraft product line. The agreement follows VoltAero’s inauguration earlier this month of its primary Cassio final assembly facility and new headquarters at France’s Rochefort Airport. Bill Minkoff, the President and Co-founder of AltiSky, has significant expertise in aircraft sales, distribution, flight operations and advanced air mobility. Under his management, AltiSky became the first US stocking dealer and service center for Tecnam Aircraft.
Columbus, Ohio:NetJets and Signature announce landmark partnership for first new-build facility in Las VegasNetJets and Signature Aviation have broken ground on a cutting-edge facility in Las Vegas - the first-ever new-build collaboration between the companies.The extensive campus at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) will feature a custom-designed NetJets exclusive-use terminal, NetJets Service Hub, and two hangars. Projected to be operational by 2027, this state-of-the-art space will allow NetJets to augment aircraft access and elevate the day-of-travel experience for its customers - respectfully referred to as “Owners” by the company - flying to or from the western US and beyond.
The new NetJets-only terminal will present Owners with an inviting lobby, dedicated parking, and vehicular ramp access for seamless arrivals and departures. NetJets Service Representatives will also be on site to greet and assist Owners and support Crewmembers. The latest of NetJets’ strategically located aircraft maintenance facilities, this new NetJets Service Hub will have an expansive hangar attached to the private terminal and operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Like many of the other NetJets Service Hubs across the globe, this facility will be home to a robust inventory of aircraft parts and a dedicated team of aviation specialists committed to ensuring NetJets’ aircraft are pristine, maintained to the highest standards, and mission-ready, further enhancing Owners’ access to reliable private travel.
Maximizing your connectivity on a pre -owned jet By Michael Skou Christensen, chief commercial officer, Satcom Direct. Connectivity is one of the most important considerations when buying a pre-owned business jet. Michael Skou Christensen, chief commercial officer at Satcom Direct, explains why.At SD, we have always based our connectivity recommendations on what, for us, is the most important factor: the user experience.We know that while the principals at the highest levels are not necessarily interested in what the system is, they just want it to work so they can optimize video conferences, stay connected, follow the news and ensure that they are always connected to those that matter. Yet understanding what is needed to deliver these outcomes is critical in guaranteeing productivity and seamlessly transitioning from terrestrial life to above the clouds. In addition, flight departments, operators and fleet managers increasingly welcome the opportunity to remotely monitor aircraft performance and record digital logs, which helps streamline maintenance and retain asset value. Today, connectivity is about so much more than communications. A robust connectivity system is no longer a nice to have. It is essential, and for those acquiring a pre-owned jet, it is vital to establish what existing systems an aircraft offers and assess them against future mission and operational requirements.
Top stories from our friend's at GearUp.TV
Short stories with video is an industry superpower - and here's what it looks likeThis video is an excellent summation of why decarbonisation is so important, given by two young industry practitioners. And because I know the power of video, I’ll be jumping on live on LinkedIn starting next Tuesday 26th November at 1pm UTC to answer any questions you might have about capturing social content - in particular at shows and conferences as MEBA and Rev are on the horizon.
Stanton & Partners Aviation Michael MacDermottAllan Stanton, the Founder of Dubai-based Stanton & Partners Aviation, has announced a key strategic hire for the North American private jet marketplace with the appointment of Michael MacDermott to spearhead North American sales.MacDermott is a seasoned executive in the US aviation and business development arena, with a proven track record of building high-value connections. While at Aerion Supersonic, Michael played a pivotal role in securing US$12bn in contracts, and as SVP of Sales and Business Development at Sierra Space, he developed key partnerships and revenue streams, including a landmark contract for human-rated missions to Low Earth Orbit. A licensed pilot, Michael blends deep industry expertise with a lifelong passion for aviation. Allan Stanton said "I am delighted to welcome a highly regarded aviation professional to the Stanton & Partners team as we continue to strengthen our presence in the US market. Our unwavering goal has always been to set the highest standards in the sale and purchase of business jets. "This strategic expansion reflects our dedication to that mission and a strong commitment to our clients." |
In Week 46, (11th-17th November), there were 72,358 business jet departures globally, 5% fewer than W46 in 2023, dragging the four-week trend down to just 1% ahead of last year, according to WINGX weekly Global Market Tracker published today.For 2024, to-date, global business jet activity remains at 1% below last year.
Business jet departures, US States, November 2024. North America Post US election, bizjet activity in the United States has steadily fallen. In Week 46 (11th-17th November), bizjet activity fell 7% compared to W46 in 2023, marking an end of 4 weeks of year-on-year weekly growth. The four-week trend in the US is now just 1% ahead of comparable last year.
Worldwide:Air charter industry steps up again in 2024 responding to humanitarian crisesThe air charter industry has stepped up once again in 2024 responding to crises around the globe, once again highlighting the importance of chartered aircraft.This year the industry has been busy assisting in humanitarian operations in the Far East, Africa, the Middle East, Caribbean, as well as North and South America, in the aftermaths of a number of natural disasters and civil unrests.
Ben Dinsdale, Air Charter Service’s Director for Government and Humanitarian Services, explains: “The industry has been called into action multiple times this year, all around the globe, to facilitate charters into disaster-stricken regions. It is the time that the aircraft charter community really pulls together - in such situations, multiple skillsets are required, from a range of professionals all over the globe."
Wichita, Kansas:Peruvian Air Force receives its first aeromedical evacuation-equipped Beechcraft King Air 360CHWTextron Aviation has delivered the first of two multi-mission Beechcraft King Air 360CHW aircraft to the Peruvian Air Force. The King Air 360CHW is cargo door equipped and fitted for heavy weight operation.
“The King Air 360CHW delivered to the Peruvian Air Force for aeromedical evacuation (MEDEVAC) can also execute troop and cargo transport, command and control and many other missions,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “From the coast and the highlands to the Amazon rainforest of Peru, the versatile King Air is well suited to operate in diverse, austere and remote locations.” Delivery of a second aeromedical evacuation-equipped King Air 360CHW is expected in 2025.
New York:VistaJet celebrates 20 years of powering champions as sports travel demand expandsRenowned for its unmatched expertise in managing complex travel itineraries, VistaJet is marking 20 years of transforming travel for the world’s gamechangers.From Formula 1 drivers to golf legends, VistaJet ensures every client arrives in peak condition, ready to perform at the highest level.
Jon Rahm. In the US, sports tourism is entering a dynamic phase of growth, with an impressive projected CAGR of 18%1 between 2024 and 2030 as sports continue to captivate a vast domestic and international audience.
Amsterdam, Netherlands:Savback partners with Bucher Leichtbau to expand multi-mission helicopter interiors’ clienteleIndependent aircraft vendor, Savback, announced a global partnership with Bucher Leichtbau, Switzerland’s leader in multi-mission helicopter interiors, during European Rotors 2024 in Amsterdam.Bucher Leichtbau is celebrated for its flexible, high-performance interiors, designed to meet the unique needs of private helicopter operators. Unlike government or foundation-run services, these operators often prioritise versatility to maximize aircraft usage across a range of missions - from HEMS and VIP transport to law enforcement, cargo, firefighting, and military roles.
Airbus delivers first of up to 82 H145M helicopters to the German Armed ForcesLess than a year after the contract was signed, Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of up to 82 H145Ms ordered by Germany at its Donauwörth site.The Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) have named their new H145Ms “Leichter Kampfhubschrauber” (light combat helicopter), or LKH for short. The helicopter's missions include training, reconnaissance, special forces operations and light attack.
The H145M is a multi-role military helicopter that provides a broad range of mission capabilities. Within minutes, the helicopter can be reconfigured from a light attack role with axial ballistic and guided weapons and a state-of-the-art self-protection system into a special operations version with fast rappelling equipment. The comprehensive mission packages include hoisting and external cargo capabilities.
United Kingdom:Farnborough Airport completes one of the largest solar installations in the South EastFarnborough Airport has completed one of the largest light-weight solar installations in the South East of England, enabling the Airport to generate 25% of its own power.
Over the past eight months, the innovative and extensive project has seen over 4,000 solar panels mounted on Farnborough Airport’s iconic curved hangar roofs, as well as its state-of-the-art terminal building, the Airport’s control tower and its award winning 169 room hotel, the Aviator Hampshire. The installation will also enable the Airport’s operational fleet of electric vehicles to be charged using self-generated electricity.
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 Toulouse, France:ATR axes 42-600S STOL variant'Reinstating core business focus'.Following an extensive market review and in light of lingering tensions on its supply chain, ATR has decided to focus efforts on further boosting the competitiveness of its current product portfolio.As a consequence, ATR will stop the development of its Short Take-Off and Landing variant (STOL), the ATR 42-600S, reflecting the company’s commitment to aligning operations with evolving market dynamics. The comprehensive review of market conditions, technological advancements and future projections shows a reduced addressable market for the variant compared to the initial forecast.
In Southeast Asia, for instance, the number of targeted airports requiring STOL-capable aircraft has significantly decreased, primarily because of runway extensions or the construction of nearby alternative airports, and this trend is mirrored in other key target markets. While this reduces the addressable market for the ATR 42-600S, it means that our current product line can operate at its full capacity. Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, ATR’s Chief Executive Officer, stated: “As a global leader on the regional market, ATR has a responsibility towards its customers, stakeholders and the industry at large to continuously evaluate its product portfolio to meet market demand. The decision to halt the STOL project reflects our dedication to operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.”
San Marino:AXIS Aviation expands San Marino fleetLeading business aircraft management company AXIS Aviation is continuing to expand its fleet, welcoming a Bombardier Global 5000, Dassault Falcon 2000LX and Dassault Falcon 7X.The three aircraft will be privately managed and added to AXIS Aviation’s San Marino AOC, which opened in April 2024. AXIS Aviation selected the San Marino registry due to its international standards of safety, reliability and efficiency. Owners and family offices of the aircraft joining the fleet will be able to receive real-time updates of jet activity including maintenance and financial records via the AXIS Aviation owner app. Kerstin Mumenthaler, managing director at AXIS Aviation Europe, says: “We obtained our San Marino AOC earlier this year and are proud to have already welcomed three new customers. Our rapid growth trajectory to date demonstrates the value of digital-forward solutions and thriving demand for personalised aircraft management services in Europe.
Kerstin Mumenthaler and Niall Olver, AXIS Aviation. “We are grateful for the trust of our new customers, which evidences our dedication to providing outstanding management services with the highest level of transparency and operational efficiency.” Niall Olver, chairman of AXIS Aviation, adds: “We’re committed to providing the best possible service for our clients and our latest fleet additions demonstrate this. We will continue to identify new growth opportunities as we expand throughout EMEA.” AXIS Aviation currently manages a fleet of more than 35 aircraft across its bases in Austria, San Marino, Switzerland and South Africa.
United Kingdom:Artemis Aerospace to support The Air League as a corporate sponsorArtemis Aerospace has announced that it will be supporting aviation charity The Air League as a corporate sponsor.
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Joby joins the Microsoft Flight Sim fleet
Pilots around the world can now take the controls of the Joby aircraft in the next generation of one of the most beloved simulation franchises, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.
The Joby electric air taxi is available in the latest edition of Microsoft Flight Simulator, released this week, offering all generations of aviation enthusiasts an opportunity to experience the future of flight from the pilot’s seat.
The Joby aircraft is available in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, offering everyone the chance to pilot an electric air taxi | Image: Microsoft
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby, commented: “We’re incredibly excited to share our revolutionary aircraft with aviation enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds, giving everyone an opportunity to experience the intuitive and effortless controls we have designed. We can’t wait to see where people will choose to take off and land with our aircraft, using its flexibility to explore cities and communities in a new way.”
The Joby aircraft uses a novel approach to flight controls to enable pilots to intuitively transition from vertical take-off to wingborne flight. Known as “unified flight controls,” the aircraft is piloted similar to vertical-lift military aircraft such as the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter.
Players will be able to fly the Joby aircraft between helipads and airports worldwide in the game, including potential routes for Joby’s air taxi service such as from JFK Airport to Downtown Manhattan, where Joby completed real-life piloted exhibition flights last year. Joby recently brought its aircraft to Grand Central Terminal in New York City and The Grove in Los Angeles, sharing the Company’s vision for the future of flight with local communities.
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