Your essential weekly digest of International Business and Private Aviation Industry news
 Manassas, Virginia:Electra raises $115m to pioneer world’s first Ultra Short aircraftElectra.aero, Inc. has secured $115m in Series B funding to enter the pre-production and certification phase of the EL9, the first-ever Ultra Short aircraft, which can take off and land in 150 feet - roughly 10% of the footprint required for similarly-sized legacy airplanes.The round was led by Prysm Capital, and Jay Park, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Prysm, has joined Electra’s Board of Directors. “We are delighted to welcome Jay and Prysm to the Electra family,” said Electra Board Chair John Langford. “They’ve already become an indispensable partner and advisor as we transition from prototype to product with the EL9.”
By integrating blown lift technology with hybrid-electric propulsion, Electra’s 9-passenger EL9 Ultra Short offers a range of transformative dual-use capabilities. It operates with the landing and takeoff versatility of a helicopter, the quiet of an electric vehicle, and the cost advantage and safety of a fixed-wing, fixed-propeller aircraft. With the EL9, commercial operators can connect communities that lack traditional aviation infrastructure, fly into airports with strict noise restrictions, create new opportunities and business models for cargo services, and save travelers significant time. For defense operators, the EL9 introduces novel logistics and troop transport capabilities, including the ability to take off and land with a low signature in helicopter-sized spaces in remote, austere areas and providing mobile power capabilities while building on the safety, cost, and range advantages of a fixed-wing aircraft.
Savannah, Georgia:Gulfstream fleet amasses 700 city-pair speed records700th record-breaking flight completed by the all-new G700.Gulfstream has announced that its fleet has achieved an industry-leading 700 city-pair speed records with a Gulfstream G700 flight from Taipei to Miami. This flight commemorates the 50-year anniversary of Gulfstream’s first US National Aeronautic Association (NAA) accredited speed record, set in 1975 by the Gulfstream GII.
The G700 traveled 7,740 nautical miles/14,334 kilometers in 14 hours and 38 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.87 during its April 1st flight from Taipei to Miami. Gulfstream’s first speed record in 1975 was set by the GII on a flight from St. John’s, Antigua, to Dakar, Senegal. “The last 50 years have showcased remarkable innovation and advancements in the Gulfstream fleet as we continue to raise the bar in business aviation for speed, efficiency, range and cabin comfort,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream.
Broomfield, Colorado:Gogo Brazil signs first Gogo Galileo HDX customer in Brazil, South AmericaGogo has confirmed JBJ Participacoes LTDA (JBJ Agropecuária) as the first customer for Gogo Galileo HDX in South America. With the installation complete, the Brazil-based farming corporation can, for the first time, optimize high-speed broadband delivered by the compact, electronically steered antenna, ESA, which links with the Eutelsat OneWeb Low Earth Orbit, LEO, constellation. The terminal, which includes the Gogo Galileo half-duplex ESA and Gogo AVANCE SCS, is complemented by the Gogo Vision 360 service for comprehensive connectivity and inflight entertainment on the previously unconnected aircraft. The Gogo Galileo system also augments crew flight plan preparations, enables improved inflight weather monitoring, and supports the collection, aggregation, and analysis of operational data in real time for improved operational management. “We regularly fly across Brazil and South America, so we immediately saw the value of adding the Gogo Galileo HDX connectivity system to our aircraft. With the system installed, we can stay productive, keep in touch with our farms, and follow the latest relevant industry news, enabling us to make more informed commercial decisions during our extensive trips,” says José Batista Júnior, CEO JBJ Agropecuária.
Washington, DC:NBAA releases 2024 Annual ReportThe NBAA Annual Report highlights association activity and industry developments each year, and provides an independent auditor’s report and financial statements. The Report provides an overview of the association’s work during 2024 to advocate for the business aviation community and provide value to its members. It also highlights NBAA’s 2024 activities and award recipients, complete with photos, and includes full listings for NBAA’s Board of Directors and Advisory Council in 2024. Download the 2024 NBAA Annual Report (PDF)
Savannah, Georgia:Gulfstream G800 earns FAA and EASA certificationsGulfstream's all-new G800, the world’s longest-range business aircraft, has earned type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) along with certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and has done so with even greater performance capabilities than originally anticipated.The certifications confirm enhanced performance for the aircraft, including a range of 8,200 nautical miles/15,186 kilometers at the long-range cruise speed of Mach 0.85, an increase of 200 nm/370 km over original projections.
The G800 also can travel 7,000 nm/12,964 km at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 or an unprecedented 8,000 nm/14,816 km at Mach 0.87. The aircraft’s maximum operating speed has increased to Mach 0.935 from Mach 0.925. In addition, the G800 was certified with a balanced field length takeoff distance of 5,812 feet/1,771 meters and a landing distance of 3,105 ft/946 m (standard ISA day, sea level), both shorter than initially announced, giving customers access to more airports.
Avflight expands network with second Wisconsin FBOAvflight Corporation has announced its newest FBO, Avflight Green Bay at Green Bay/Austin Straubel International Airport (KGRB), further expanding premier aviation services in the Midwest. Effective April 7th, Avflight acquired the existing Executive Air facility at KGRB, establishing its second Wisconsin location and 27th FBO facility worldwide. With expertise in FBO acquisitions, tenants and transient customers alike are promised a seamless transition as Avflight rebrands the facility while remaining fully operational.
The premier FBO serves as a convenient Midwest stop, offering top-tier fuel and aviation services, and easy access to local attractions, professional sports and a vibrant downtown. The facility’s striking lobby features oversized windows with sweeping views of the runway, perfectly positioned to take in Green Bay’s breathtaking sunsets.
ACIA Aero Leasing Bradley GordonDublin-headquartered ACIA Aero Leasing, a leading provider of regional aircraft leasing and lease management services and solutions, has announced the appointment of Bradley Gordon to the role of SVP Banking & Capital Markets.Bradley joins ACIA Aero Leasing from his former role as Head of Aviation Finance at Investec Bank in South Africa.During his 12-year tenure at Investec he provided or arranged more than $2bn in funding via senior debt (recourse and non-recourse), mezzanine debt and PDP financing for airlines, leasing companies, operators and high net worth individuals spanning commercial aviation, cargo, helicopters and private jets. He was also a member of the Corporate Banking credit committee. At ACIA Aero Leasing Bradley will be responsible for debt raising and institutional investor relationships. Bradley is a qualified chartered accountant, with a Bachelor of Accounting Science (Hons) degree from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. |
Two weeks post ‘Liberation Day’, Week 16 (14-20th April) global bizjet activity fell 4% compared to last year, although, the decline is likely due to Easter celebrations falling later this year compared to last year.According to WINGX`s weekly Global Market Tracker published today, the core US market recorded 3% declines in Week 16, meanwhile in Europe, activity fell 17% compared to Week 16 last year. Despite these declines, when comparing to Easter week last year, US activity was 4% ahead and overall activity in Europe during Easter week this year was 2% ahead of Easter week in 2024. The global last four-week trend is 2% above last year, with charter and fractional markets on par with last year. Year to date (1stJanuary – 20th April), the global bizjet fleet has flown 1.1 million departures, 3% more than comparable last year. International bizjet connections from the United States this month are up 2% compared to last April, in contrast domestic activity falling 1%. US to Canada connections have fallen 4% compared to last April, flights to Mexico 3% ahead of last April. Bizjet flights from the US to China have fallen 16% compared to last April. There are currently 188 active bizjets based in China that have flown this year, Gulfstream has the most exposure, with 86 active aircraft based in China. Almost half of bizjet flights departing China this year have been on Ultra-Long-range jets, Gulfstream having the most of that segment based in the country.
Daytona Beach, Florida:First Embry-Riddle students set for immediate ATC employment through new FAA hiring pathThe first cohort of students in Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s air traffic control program is on track to bypass the Federal Aviation Administration Academy and head straight to FAA facilities for controller training.This more direct path was made possible after Embry-Riddle signed an agreement with the federal agency late last year for a critical new training initiative to allow the hiring of air traffic controllers from approved university programs.
Four students have begun the testing process, which includes a written exam and evaluations in simulators at Embry-Riddle’s newly enhanced air traffic control labs on the Daytona Beach, Florida, campus. The FAA has certified two faculty members in Embry-Riddle’s Air Traffic Management (ATM) program to evaluate the students, who are on track to complete testing before they graduate in May.
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Lithium-ion battery fires - A real threat to General AviationBy Kevin Singh, Icarus Jet Founder and President. |
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Let’s be honest; most of us simply throw our power banks, tablets, and chargers into flight bags with abandonment. It’s just equipment, right?
But the fact is, lithium-ion batteries, convenient though they may be, can become fire-starters in a heartbeat. And in general aviation, with fewer crew and fewer resources, that’s a very big deal indeed.
These fires aren’t rare flukes anymore. They’re occurring with greater frequency. Do you recall that Air Busan flight in 2024? One passenger’s power bank ignited during boarding. The cabin was filled with smoke, the passengers panicked, and the crew rushed to put out the flames. The device was stored in a backpack in the overhead bin - nobody saw it coming. And although all got out safely, it was enough to prompt a new push in Asia for stricter regulations on shipping lithium batteries.
Brazil:
McCauley Propeller secures ANAC certification for Beechcraft King Air B300 series high-performance propeller
McCauley Propeller Systems has announced that its newest C780 propeller for the Beechcraft King Air B300 series, featuring four aluminum swept blades and a 105-inch diameter, has successfully achieved certification from the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC).
Brazil is the second largest installed base globally for Beechcraft King Air turboprops.
"The high-performance McCauley C780 propeller, with its lightweight scimitar blade design, will improve the flying experience for over 700 King Airs in Brazil," said Jason Hull, vice president and general manager, McCauley Propeller Systems.
Arlington, Virginia:
Boeing to sell portions of digital aviation solutions to Thoma Bravo
Jeppesen, ForeFlight, AerData and OzRunways assets valued at $10.55bn.
Boeing has entered into a definitive agreement to sell portions of its Digital Aviation Solutions business, including its Jeppesen, ForeFlight, AerData and OzRunways assets, to Thoma Bravo, a leading software investment firm. This all-cash transaction is valued at $10.55bn.
Boeing will retain core digital capabilities that harness both aircraft and fleet-specific data to provide commercial and defense customers with fleet maintenance, diagnostics and repair services. This digital expertise will continue to provide predictive and prognostic maintenance insights.
"This transaction is an important component of our strategy to focus on core businesses, supplement the balance sheet and prioritize the investment grade credit rating," said Kelly Ortberg, Boeing president and chief executive officer.
"This enables all parts of the digital portfolio to focus on their strengths," said Chris Raymond, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Global Services. "Our commitment to meeting our customers' needs is unwavering as we move forward with our core products and services to support their fleets."
Oxford, UK:
Unifi expands UK operations with ground handling and security contracts at London Oxford Airport
Unifi has secured its first business aviation ground handling contract and its third FBO security contract in the United Kingdom, marking a major expansion of its services and a new milestone in its global growth.
Effective April 15th, Unifi takes over ramp handling operations and fuelling services at London Oxford Airport, which is ranked fifth in the UK for business aviation movements.
In addition, effective May 1st, Unifi will become the first-ever external company to manage ramp operations at the airport alongside whole airport security, providing 24/7/365 support, including ID center management, access control, visitor and delivery coordination and NASP passenger screening through the airport’s FBO.
The airport, owned by the Reuben Brothers, is experiencing strong growth on its on-demand flight operations as it invests in the future, including a £48m newly commenced construction of its AerOx Science and R&D Park and another 70,000 sq.ft. hangar, No.16.
Cologne, Germany:
Air Charter Service opens fourth office in Germany
Leading aircraft charter specialist, Air Charter Service, has opened a new office in Cologne, Germany, the company’s fourth in the country, complementing its charter operations in Frankfurt and Munich, and its ACS Time Critical headquarters, also in Frankfurt.
Caroline Werf, CEO of ACS Germany, commented: “We have been looking for some time at opening an office in Cologne - it’s a key hub for the aircraft industry in Germany.
The office will be headed up by Melanie Hentschel.
"Not only are there a great deal of professionals in charter aviation in the city and the surrounding area, but both the headquarters for the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) are based here."
Malmö, Sweden:
SolitAir selects Web Manuals to streamline air cargo operations across MENA
Web Manuals, the world leader in aviation digital documentation solutions, is welcoming UAE-based cargo operator SolitAir to its growing customer community in the Middle East.
SolitAir, the UAE’s only dedicated cargo airline operating express daily scheduled services between Dubai and high-yield key trade routes across the Global South, selected Web Manuals to streamline the production and distribution of its operational documentation.
With ambitions to build a more agile organization, SolitAir identified Web Manuals’ ability to simplify complex workflows and support its commitment to regulatory compliance and process efficiency.
Paul Sandström, Chief Operating Officer at Web Manuals, says: “Welcoming SolitAir to our community highlights the growing demand for flexible, scalable documentation tools in the air cargo sector. Our digital platform helps operators save time, reduce errors, and improve safety, which is critical when managing cargo across different regulatory environments.
"We're excited to support SolitAir on its journey to build an efficient and future-ready operation.”
Dublin, Ireland:
Airpart Supply announces new EU warehouse to enhance customer experience
Airpart Supply Ltd, a Pula Aviation Services company, has announced the opening of a European Union (EU) warehouse, strategically located in Dublin, Ireland.
The new facility will play a vital role in enhancing service and support for our customers across Europe.
Airpart's new EU warehouse will include a large stock holding, which will continue to be enhanced. Following soon will be a dedicated EU E-Commerce website, providing a seamless ordering experience for customers.
Supported by a local EU sales and support team, the facility will enable same-day shipping and eliminate all customs clearance issues, ensuring a faster and more efficient service.
Customers will also benefit from order consolidation options, thus reducing costs and streamlining shipments.
Matt Buckle, VP of Sales, said: “Our new EU Warehouse has been a long time coming. We've seen the issues, we've heard the feedback and we are very pleased to offer this solution to assist our loyal EU based customers. It will provide faster delivery, mitigate custom stresses and provide competitive pricing."
NBAA-BACE 2025:
Country superstar, passionate aviator Dierks Bentley to take center stage at NBAA-BACE keynote
Multiplatinum artist, accomplished pilot and aviation champion Dierks Bentley will keynote the opening day of the 2025 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) taking place October 14th-16th in Las Vegas, NV.
Bentley’s groundbreaking career in music making - including eight No. 1 albums, 22 No. 1 songs and 15 Grammy nominations - has been inextricably linked to business aviation.
Dierks Bentley.
From his earliest days on the concert circuit, Bentley’s use of aviation has allowed him to avoid the tour bus, and instead fly to concerts, then quickly return home to work and family obligations in his Nashville hometown.
World’s fastest business jet in final assembly and progressing on schedule
Country superstar, passionate aviator Dierks Bentley to take center stage at NBAA-BACE keynote
SolitAir secures AOC in the United Arab Emirates
Gogo announces first STC for direct current version of Plane Simple Ka-band terminal
KlasJet relocates additional Boeing 737 to Europe in preparation for upcoming summer season
KlasJet, an exclusive private and corporate jet charter company and part of Avia Solutions Group, is responding to the increased demand from the European market by reallocating one of its Boeing 737s from Dubai to Europe from April until the end of summer.
By relocating the jet, the company aims to offer even faster and more convenient service to its diverse clientele of VIPs, sports teams, music tours, HNWIs, and corporate clients, whose base has been steadily growing in recent years.
According to Marton Modis, VP of Business Development at KlasJet, the demand for private trips in Europe is steadily increasing, especially during the warm season, which is reflected in the number of inbound requests.
"Our goal is to be flexible in reacting to the seasonal fluctuations of the market. Summer months are typically more active in Europe since people go on holiday. Plus, there's an abundance of events - both corporate and cultural - across the continent. By moving one of our Boeing 737s to Europe from Dubai, we'll be able to respond to this demand appropriately," he says.
KlasJet's European fleet will be supplemented by the crimson-evening-colored Boeing 737-500 (LY-KDT). The aircraft is distinguished by its elegant cabin design featuring warm, sunset-inspired tones and premium finishes, further enhancing the travel experience. It offers 56 spacious and comfortable business-class seats for passengers who appreciate both luxury and functionality.
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