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

Washington, DC:

Bizjet shipments climb as GAMA reports stronger aircraft delivery value in Q3 2025

The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has published the third quarter 2025 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report.

The results for the first nine months of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, show increased shipments in the business jets sector and an increase in the overall value of aircraft shipments.

Aircraft shipments through the third quarter of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, saw piston airplanes increase by five units to 1,238, turboprops decrease 6.0% with 409 units, and business jets increase 10.6% with 554 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the third quarter of 2025 was $19.4bn, an increase of 13.2%.

Helicopter shipments through the third quarter of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, saw piston helicopters decrease by six units to 149, and turbine helicopters decrease by 3.1% to 463. The value of civil-commercial helicopter deliveries was $3.1bn.

Sheltair unveils new Sarasota FBO showcasing world-class Gulf Coast hospitality

Sheltair Aviation celebrated the ribbon-cutting of its brand-new FBO at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (KSRQ) on November 19th, marking the official debut of a first-class gateway on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Sheltair Sarasota offers the hallmark hospitality and exceptional line services the company is known for, including full ground support and concierge care. Its convenient location - just minutes from downtown Sarasota and Bradenton—provides quick access to major business centers, shopping, and the region’s famous white-sand beaches.

Set on 24 acres in the airport’s north quadrant, the impressive facility features a 10,705-square-foot terminal crowned by an immense airside canopy designed to accommodate corporate aircraft of all sizes while covering guests during arrivals and departures. The facility also includes two modern hangars totaling 46,000 square feet of aircraft storage and more than 9,000 square feet of office space.

OK3 AIR set to debut new hangar and major infrastructure upgrades at Heber Valley Airport

OK3 AIR, the exclusive FBO at Heber Valley Airport (KHCR), has announced its new state-of-the-art hangar, to be completed by the end of the year, and a series of significant infrastructure enhancements designed to support the airport’s long-term growth.

The hangar will offer 31,500 square feet of modern, flexible space - large enough to accommodate an ultra long range business jet. With this addition, the airport will offer a total of 65,000 square feet of hangar capacity, giving both business and leisure travelers expanded opportunities to securely store their aircraft.

The project, overseen by Span Construction and Engineering, Inc., includes extensive airside improvements critical to enhancing operational safety and efficiency. Upgrades include a 20,000-square-foot ramp, FAA-compliant drainage systems and new aircraft markings—all designed to strengthen the airport’s ability to meet future capacity.

“This new hangar and its state-of-the-art infrastructure mark an exciting milestone for OK3 AIR and for the future of aviation in our region,” said Nadim AbuHaidar, owner of OK3 AIR. “We’re excited to open the doors and deliver expanded capabilities that meet the rising demand from private aircraft.”

Pipistrel achieves historic type certification in Colombia

Pipistrel, a Textron company, has announced that Aerocivil, the Colombian Civil Aviation Authority, has issued the type certificate for the currently produced Pipistrel Explorer, Velis Club and the X-Eye, a variant of the 121A Explorer for aerial surveying.

This significant milestone marks a prestigious achievement for Pipistrel, as it becomes the first organization to receive Colombian Aeronautical Regulation-Very Light Aircraft (RAC-VLA) type-certification from Aerocivil.

Pipistrel achieves historic type certification in Colombia

This achievement underscores the integrity of multiple Pipistrel traditional combustion engine aircraft, opening new opportunities for Colombian customers to own and operate Pipistrel aircraft, strengthening the company’s position in Colombia and its global reach.

"Pipistrel’s successful type certification by Aerocivil marks a crucial step in demonstrating our commitment to meeting international aviation standards,” Gabriel Massey, President and Managing Director of Pipistrel, said.

“This achievement not only opens up new opportunities in Colombia but also serves as a blueprint for our entry into other markets with similar regulatory frameworks.”

Jet Luxe grows managed fleet in key US and LATAM markets

Jet Luxe, the Dubai-based private jet provider, has expanded its commercially managed fleet with new aircraft now positioned across Florida and major Latin American hubs.

The additional capacity strengthens the company’s ability to support brokers, operators, and corporate travelers across the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and surrounding international markets.

Samuel Madrid.

Executive Vice President Samuel Madrid said the expansion reinforces the company’s operational approach and its long-term focus on dependable charter availability.

“Jet Luxe was built on the principles of excellence, service, and reliability,” he said.

“This fleet expansion strengthens our presence in key markets and enhances our ability to support brokers who count on consistent, safe, and impeccably delivered services.”

A fleet tailored for today’s charter ecosystem

Lynlee Espeseth

Fargo Jet Center has announced the appointment of Lynlee Espeseth as its new Director of Marketing.

In this role, Espeseth will lead marketing strategy, brand development, and integrated communications for each division within Fargo Jet Center’s family of companies - Weather Modification International, SPEC Inc., ICE Crystal Engineering, Premier Jet Center, and Exclusive Aircraft Sales.

Espeseth brings over a decade of both in-house and agency experience in industries ranging from government and healthcare to tourism and philanthropy.

Her expertise includes the development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns, strategic planning, project management and team leadership, most recently with Agency MABU where she served as Director of Client Services.

A native of North Dakota, Espeseth has held marketing leadership roles in both Colorado and North Dakota.

In her new role, Espeseth be instrumental in developing cross-company initiatives in brand strategy, media relations, digital content, creative development, event management, and partnership engagement.

King Aerospace

J.D. Detwiler

Respected international aircraft modification and maintenance support provider King Aerospace recently named James “J.D.” Detwiler as the company’s vice-president of strategy.

In this role, Detwiler will draw upon his decades of expertise to enhance the company’s services to its civilian, government and military customers.

Detwiler previously spent 16 years with Boeing in roles including President of Boeing Business Jets; Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Mobility, Surveillance & Bomber Division of Boeing Defense, Space & Security; and as Director, Global Sales & Marketing for P-8 and Maritime Programs within the Mobility, Surveillance & Engagement Division of Boeing’s defense operation.

Detwiler also brings significant experience working in and with the Maritime Patrol Aviation community. Prior to joining Boeing in 2008, he served as a civilian contractor to Headquarters, US Pacific Command, serving in the Training and Exercises Directorate, with a specific focus on US-Australia relations.

Before that, Detwiler served 11 years in the United States Navy as a Naval Flight Officer in three different squadrons operating the P-3C Orion, accumulating over 3,000 flight hours.

WINGX Global Market Tracker:

November shows 7% growth in bizjet demand

In Week 48 (24-30 Nov) 2025, global bizjet activity reached 70,779 departures, representing 3% more flights than in Week 48 of 2024.

On a rolling last four-week basis (W45-W48), global business jets have notched almost 310,000 departures, a 7% increase compared to the same period last year. This four-week trend of 7% is outperforming the global year-to-date (1 Jan-30 Nov) trend of 5%.

Fractional giants NetJets and Flexjet were behind 83% of all the fractional flying and saw a combined 14% more flights year-overyear.

full report

Samaná, Dominican Republic:

Universal Aviation and AERODOM launch premier FBO in the Dominican Republic

Universal Aviation, a global leader in business aviation ground support, and AERODOM, part of the VINCI Airports network, have the official inauguration of a new, purpose-built FBO terminal at Presidente Juan Bosch International Airport (El Catey – MDCY) in Samaná, Dominican Republic.

The opening marks a significant milestone in the growth of premium business aviation infrastructure in one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing luxury destinations.

The new facility becomes Universal Aviation’s third FBO in the Dominican Republic, joining existing locations at La Isabela International Airport (Santo Domingo) and Gregorio Luperón International Airport (Puerto Plata). Together, they strengthen the Dominican Republic’s position as a leading regional hub for private aviation.

Atlantic Aviation grows Caribbean presence with acquisition of ExecuJet Sint Maarten

Atlantic Aviation has expanded its presence in the Caribbean with the acquisition of ExecuJet’s FBO at Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in Sint Maarten.

The acquisition coincides with ExecuJet’s relocation to the recently completed dedicated state-of-the-art General Aviation facility and marks another milestone in Atlantic’s continued international growth. As Sint Maarten enters its peak travel season, operations at Princess Juliana International Airport continue to thrive.

click to visit DaVINCI Training Institute

Payerne, Switzerland:

JEKTA unveils 1:9 scale model of PHA-ZE 100 amphibious aircraft as flight testing continues in Italy

JEKTA, the Switzerland-based manufacturer of the zero-emissions Passenger Hydro Aircraft - Zero Emissions 100 (PHA-ZE 100) amphibious aircraft, has revealed photographs of the 1:9 scale model of the PHA-ZE 100 amphibious flying boat that it is using to gather test data representative of the full-size aircraft.

While the final aircraft configuration will evolve based on data generated by operating the model in the air and on the water, the model is closely representative of the definitive PHA-ZE 100 design. Details include a distributed electric powerplant based on eight electric motors, advanced aerodynamic configuration and large cockpit and cabin windows.

Canada’s TCCA certifies Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander

UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman has received Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) type certification for the BN2T-4S Islander, the Rolls-Royce Model 250–powered turboprop variant of the company’s iconic utility aircraft.

This approval complements existing Type Certificates held with the UK CAA, EASA and FAA, and marks a significant step in Britten-Norman’s global expansion. Certification in Canada opens new opportunities across one of the world’s largest remote and regional aviation markets, where operators rely on proven, rugged and reliable short-field aircraft capable of year-round operation.

Artemis Aerospace expands with new European hub and additional warehouse

Global aviation component solutions specialist, Artemis Aerospace, has announced two new facilities to accommodate rapidly growing demand for its services.

A new hub in Hamburg has been opened to streamline supplies and delivery for Artemis’ customers across Europe and to further support the company’s vision to provide a faster and more efficiently connected global service. Hamburg joins Artemis’ existing hubs in Miami, Los Angeles and Singapore.

Artemis Aerospace's new UK warehouse facility.

In addition, Artemis has invested in and opened a new warehouse as its principal UK logistics facility, in Ashington, West Sussex. This provides not only far larger storage and handling capacity for the management of a greater volume of inventory, but also a much-improved capability to offer genuine 24/7 AOG support for Artemis’ global customer base.

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates:

Gama Aviation’s new Sharjah Business Aviation Centre close to completion

By Alison Chambers in Sharjah.

“We’ve never been one to follow the herd,” said Tom Murphy, Managing Director FBO Services at Gama Aviation, taking the opportunity of the Dubai Air Show to give international media a sneak preview of its impressive new business aviation facility at Sharjah - on track to complete and open on 15th January, 2026.

He sees this significant project, representing an investment of US$65m, the biggest in Gama Aviation’s 42-year history - as ‘future proofing’ access to downtown Dubai from its home in the northern Emirates.

Elevating Data

Drowning, driving or leaking, how is the flood of data shaping your business?

By Catherine Buchanan, Director of Business Development, STACK.aero

In the latest column from STACK.aero Catherine Buchanan discusses the security requirements around data protection in a CRM platform.

The concept of data, its sources, applications, and reliability, is constantly transforming and being redefined.

From a trickle of manageable facts and relevant figures, it has become a flood of information that needs to be validated, analysed, controlled, and protected, if it is to drive, not drown, a business.

Accurate data is essential for effective management of business aviation operations throughout the charter trip lifecycle. It is also an invaluable tool that can predict and augment wider commercial activity.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia:

Saudi GACA certifies Flexjet for international corporate and private jet operations

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has granted Flexjet authorization to operate on-demand private jet flights within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Flexjet becomes the second international operator to receive this certification following the regulatory changes introduced on May 1st, 2025.

GACA’s authorization follows Flexjet successfully meeting all safety, regulatory, and operational requirements outlined under Saudi Arabia’s Civil Aviation Law, completing the full authorization process and satisfying every mandatory criterion.

The authorization was formally presented to Mr. Ben Watts, Chief Operating Officer at Flexjet EMEA, by Mr. Awad bin Attallah Al-Sulami, GACA’s Executive Vice President for Economic Policies and Logistics Services, during an official ceremony at GACA’s headquarters in Riyadh.

Al-Sulami said: “Authorizing Flexjet to operate domestic on-demand private flights demonstrates GACA’s commitment to enabling high-quality aviation services built on the highest international safety standards.

"This milestone enhances competition, elevates customer experience, and supports the wider transformation of the Saudi aviation ecosystem in line with Vision 2030.”

F/LIST expands Dubai facility to support growing aftermarket opportunities in the Middle East

F/LIST, the Austrian-based pioneer of high-end interiors for aircraft cabin interiors, has significantly expanded its footprint in Dubai.

In response to increased demand for F/LIST’s exceptional high-quality aftermarket services and customized cabin materials from Middle East-based aviation customers, the company has more than doubled its floor space at its new 900m2 facility.

The brand-new facility is located within the Dubai South Freezone, Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International Airport.

To support the growing roster of customers, the facility will be home to an expanded workforce of 25 experts, a showroom with an extensive display of products and customization choices, and purpose-designed workshops and studios from where technicians will offer full access to interior aftermarket services, including upholstery and carpentry repairs.

“As business aviation in the Middle East continues to expand, Dubai, and particularly the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai South, has established itself as a key location for the industry. With its central position, excellent connectivity, and strong infrastructure, it provides the ideal base for F/LIST to support customers across the region”, says Michael Mueller, Managing Director Aviation, F/LIST.

AXIS Flight Simulation unveils AI Debriefing Station

Full-flight simulator (FFS) manufacturer AXIS Flight Simulation is launching the AXIS AI Debriefing Station, an advanced automated platform designed to improve pilot training, support instructors and standardise assessment across training organisations.

The system automatically monitors and evaluates pilot performance during training and checking, recognising flight manoeuvres, identifying the pilot flying and analysing aircraft parameters in real time.

This automation allows instructors to focus fully on crew behaviour and decision-making in the cockpit, while the AI handles the detailed technical assessment.

The AXIS AI Debriefing Station can be tailored to the specific needs of an Approved Training Organisation (ATO), providing a flexible and scalable solution for organisations seeking to improve consistency and quality.

It enables the straightforward adoption of Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA), applying type-, SOP- and organisation-specific evaluation criteria. By standardising assessments across instructors, aircraft types and whole fleets, the platform ensures every student is evaluated against the same objective benchmark, strengthening training reliability and fairness.

After each session, trainees and instructors receive a detailed data-driven evaluation accessible through an online platform on any device.

Paul Cremer is recipient of BBGA’s Contribution to Industry Award 2025

The British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA) has honoured Paul Cremer as recipient of its Contribution to Industry Award 2025, recognising his 43 years’ continuous experience in general and business aviation.

Paul Cremer is this year's recipient of BBGA's Contribution to Industry Award.

Handing over the award at The Little Ship Club in London in front of 140-plus industry peers, BBGA Chair Aoife O’Sullivan said she was delighted to be presenting this to Paul, a hugely popular figure, who continues to give back to the industry. “There isn’t an aviation discipline he hasn’t been involved in and very few people in bizav he doesn’t know.”

Paul has worked in Air Traffic, Operations, Aircraft Management, Air Ambulance, Ground Ops, CAMO, Charter Sales, MCC Co-ordination, Aviation Software and Contract Management. His current role is Head of Aviation Delivery for the Gama Aviation Group - a company he has loyally served for nearly 29 years.

FAI scoops Best Air Ambulance Provider win

FAI Aviation Services DMCC, a leader in the provision of mission-critical aviation services, has been honoured as ‘Best Air Ambulance Provider Middle East,' at the recent Middle East Aviation Innovation Awards 2025.

Setting sail on a mega yacht with international industry peers, Barbara Baumgartner, Managing Director of FAI in Dubai, accepted the award, alongside Michael Axtmann, Managing Director of Germany’s FAI Technik, during a gala evening, coinciding with the Dubai Airshow.

Barbara Baumgartner.

"It was terrific to celebrate with our guests and industry colleagues. This is a solid endorsement, once again, for our dedicated and brilliant team who work so hard," said Barbara.

Medevac business aircraft in demand in the Middle East

People buy from people

Most companies don't just need help looking good on camera, they need a partner who can see how and where video fits into their business model.

GearUp TV's Liz Moscrop explains . . . .

watch the video

Brussels, Belgium:

Bold new aircraft display and layout signal fresh era for EBACE26

The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) is announcing a reimagined static display for EBACE26, set in a new dedicated location at Geneva Airport and designed to deliver the most secure, flexible and customer-focussed aircraft showcase in the event’s history.

The reconfigured 40,000 sqm display area includes both airside and landside access, enabling tighter control over entry points and significantly enhancing overall security. It also allows VIP guests to directly enter the static display area without going via the convention centre first.

Additionally, for the first time at EBACE, outdoor display exhibitors will also have the option to host clients in bespoke hospitality structures, allowing them to create tailored brand experiences directly on the display.

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Another first for Hi-Fly: Airbus A330 lands in Antarctica

Hi Fly has once again made aviation history, successfully landing an Airbus A330 in Antarctica for the first time.

The flight marks a new chapter in the airline’s pioneering Antarctic operations, just one month after celebrating five consecutive years of flights to the White Continent.

Hi Fly’s Airbus A330-302, registered 9H-HFI and equipped with General Electric engines, touched down safely on the blue-ice runway at Wolf’s Fang Runway, Antarctica, on December 1st at 11:59 p.m. local time. Commanded by Captain Carlos Mirpuri, Vice-Chairman of Hi Fly, the aircraft connected Cape Town, South Africa, to the remote airfield, continuing Hi Fly’s ongoing partnership with White Desert Antarctica for the 2025/2026 season. Joining the flight was Captain Antonios Efthymiou, Hi Fly’s CEO, who was on board to celebrate this important milestone.

The A330 shares the same fuselage as Hi Fly’s A340 but is powered by two engines instead of four, delivering comparable performance with greater cost efficiency and an improved environmental footprint. Twin-engine operations at Wolf’s Fang runway are now possible thanks to additional ground support equipment that was not in place when Hi Fly began Antarctic flights. Highly reliable, comfortable, and with an excellent safety record, the aircraft performs exceptionally well in extreme polar conditions.

This milestone builds on the airline’s historic 2021 achievement, when Hi Fly became the first to land an Airbus A340 on the frozen continent. The introduction of the A330, renowned for its efficiency, versatility, and environmental credentials, represents a new era in sustainable, flexible operations to one of the world’s most challenging environments.

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

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