Geneva, Switzerland, 31 May 2018 – As the 2018 edition of the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) concluded its third and final day today, organizers reported that by every measure, the event once again served as a powerful and forward-looking showcase for the European business aviation industry.

EBACE is jointly organized each year by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

“This was a decidedly upbeat, optimistic EBACE week, which highlighted the passion and enthusiasm at the heart of the business aviation community,” said EBAA Chairman Juergen Wiese. “The show reflected a reverence for the industry’s history, as well as an embrace of its future.”

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen agreed, adding: “EBACE once again showed that business aviation is an industry focused on innovation and investment in the future. The new aircraft models, the new business models, the featured speakers and the trends we discussed all point to an energetic industry looking toward tomorrow.”

The EBACE week began with a pre-show Media Luncheon highlighting a new industry initiative to advance the development and adoption of Sustainable Alternative Jet Fuel (SAJF), and introduction of the “Business Aviation Guide to the Use of Sustainable Alternative Fuel (SAJF),” focused on raising awareness and adoption of available and sustainable alternative jet-fuel options.

EBACE2018 began its opening day with a standing-room-only session featuring an awe-inspiring keynote presentation by Yves “Jetman” Rossy. An accomplished military and commercial pilot, Rossy is also the inventor of a series of experimental individual jet packs that have given him the ability to soar like a bird over the English Channel and U.S. Grand Canyon, and even fly in formation with an Airbus A380.

A packed exhibit floor featured 418 exhibitors, an increase over last year’s event, from across the world.EBACE2018 also welcomed a number of first-time exhibitors to the show, while a host of companies chose EBACE as the ideal venue to announce new aircraft, products and services, with press conferences and media events throughout the week. Attendees at the show represented about 100 countries.

The sold-out EBACE2018 static display featured 54 aircraft on the ramp at Geneva Airport, ranging from intercontinental business jets, to turboprop and piston aircraft, to helicopters. The event also hosted introductions of new aircraft making their first appearances at EBACE2018.

Another prominent initiative on display throughout EBACE2018 was EBAA’s recently-unveiled Expanding Horizons program, a continent-wide awareness campaign to highlight the value of business aviation in the European region. The week included the release of the EBAA study “Expanding Horizons: How Millennials see the Future of Business Aviation,” which revealed that young professionals recognize the main benefit of the business aviation industry to be its ability to take people where they need, when they need.

Returning to EBACE2018 was the event’s second-annual Careers in Business Aviation Day, which introduced more than 250 students from high schools and universities across Europe to the broad range of potential career paths throughout the industry.

Also a part of EBACE2018 were the EBAA Awards of Merit, recognizing companies that have established a solid safety culture within their organizations. This year, EBAA recognized five European companies for achieving 100,000 accident-free flying hours. The award presentation kicked off a series of sessions focused on the latest insights for continually enhancing business aviation safety, a top industry priority.

In addition, the event hosted the well-attended International Aircraft Transactions Seminar, a day-long presentation addressing common questions and concerns with the purchase, importation and operation of business aircraft throughout Europe.

EBACE2018 also featured numerous informative education sessions addressing top concerns in the European business aviation community, including the implications of Brexit for business aviation,improving access to European airspace and airports for business aviation operators, promoting career opportunities within the industry and the role of business aviation in times of crisis.

During the event, organizers took a moment to recognize the life and legacy of Serge Dassault, who passed away on 28 May at age 93. EBACE2018 was dedicated to Dassault, who in 2009 received NBAA’s Meritorious Service to Aviation Award for his contributions to business aviation.

Review news stories, photos and more in the EBACE2018 online newsroom.

Next year’s EBACE will return to Palexpo and Geneva Airport from 21-23 May 2019.

2018 > News > Latest News > ‘Jetman’ Inspires at EBACE2018 Opening Session with Message of Perseverance

29 May, 2018

Those attending the 2018 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2018) Opening Session heard messages of innovation and perseverance as keynote speaker Yves “Jetman” Rossy shared his inspiring quest toward the “divine ability” to fly in the same manner as birds.

An accomplished military and commercial pilot, Rossy has spent close to 25 years progressing through learning to skydive, then gliding through the air on a snowboard and in wingsuits and ultimately to a series of powered, inflatable and rigid wings that have carried him across the English Channel and the U.S. Grand Canyon.

Each step brought Rossy closer to his dream, but not without discouraging setbacks. “All has been learning by doing… and, learning by crash,” he stated as images of a wrecked twin-jet wing were displayed on screens behind him. “This was a very frustrating moment; six months of work destroyed. I was afraid to go again in the air, so I had to do a break.”

But Rossy didn’t stay earthbound for long. Within a year, he was back in the air, ultimately adopting “a more scientific approach” that led to his current, four-engine carbon-fiber jetpack that allows him to fly level, perform aerobatics and even climb, remaining airborne for more than 10 minutes at a time.

That jetpack carried Rossy in perhaps his most recognizable feat, formation flying with a commercial Airbus A380, and he is now working on designs to allow ground takeoff, rather than launching at altitude from fixed-wing aircraft and hot air balloons.

“That’s what is fantastic about human nature,” he told attendees. “You forget bad things, and you remember the good ones. The small flame of passion is always here.”

Paying Homage to the Past While Moving Toward a Promising Future

Those themes also resonate throughout Europe’s business aviation industry, and EBAA Chair Juergen Wiese welcomed attendees to the EBACE2018 Opening Session with the news that European business aviation operations, following years of declines, have recorded 16 consecutive months of growth through April 2018.

“EBACE is the time of the year our industry comes together to highlight business aviation’s innovative spirit and its inherent value,” said Wiese. “This is a reality EBAA promotes not just at EBACE, but throughout the year.”

Wiese also highlighted the launch this year of EBAA’s Expanded Horizons initiative, a campaign to educate and enhance perceptions about the importance of business aviation to Europe. For example, the industry directly and indirectly supports more than 374,000 jobs throughout Europe – a total exceeding the number of available jobs in all of Cypress – and performing invaluable societal contributions including medevac operations.

“This sector provides a huge amount of value and benefit for the European economy, and for European businesses,” he continued. “We must continue to proactively and collectively tell our story to lawmakers, regulators, potential users and buyers and to the next generation of young people who will help to determine the future of our sectors in years to come.”

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen added, “We’re honored today to be here in Geneva with a message that’s about the future. Expanding Horizons talks about all of us collectively telling the story about business aviation, [and] the fact that it is about freedom, and it is about flexibility and it is about efficiency.”

Wiese and Bolen also paid homage to the legacy of Serge Dassault, chairman emeritus of Dassault Aviation, who passed away 28 May at the age of 93. Wiese led a moment of silence at the start of the event, and both men noted EBACE2018 is dedicated in Dassault’s memory. “Aviation has a reverence for those innovators and those pioneers who have worked so hard, for so long and in such a determining way to get us where we are today,” Bolen added.

Read more about Dassault.

Also speaking at the EBACE2018 Opening Session were Pierre Maudet, president of the Conference of Cantonal Judiciary and Police Directors, and Geneva Airport CEO Andre Schneider, who both talked about the importance of business aviation and the significance of hosting EBACE in Geneva.

“Business aviation has an important contribution to the economy,” Schneider said. “Last year we’ve seen growth of business aviation movements above six percent, substantially above the average growth of civil aviation – and frankly, this year we’re at 10 percent.”

 

 

Daher presents its TBM 930’s latest features in “The magic touch” video

Tarbes, France, December 10, 2018: The most recent features and functionality on the TBM 930 – the high-end model in Daher’s very fast turboprop aircraft family – are spotlighted in a new video: “TBM 930 – The Magic Touch,” available on the Daher TBM YouTube channel at:  http://bit.ly/TheMagicTouchVideo.

Enhancements available with the TBM 930 flight deck’s latest software version include:

–       Surface Watch™, which helps the pilot maintain enhanced situational awareness in the airport environment,

–       Baro VNAV, allowing approaches with vertical guidance when WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) navigation is not available, and

–       Visual approach assistance for pilot in performing visual approaches with vertical guidance at non-controlled airports.

Connectivity also reaches a new level on the TBM 930 with implementation of Garmin’s Flight Stream 510 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth linkup system to mobile devices running Garmin Pilot – which includes now FltPlan Go – and Foreflight apps.

Building on the cabin restyling implemented by Daher last year, every seat in Model Year 2018 TBM 930s and TBM 910s are the new heated seats, with the heating function controlled. Once the mode is engaged by the pilot via a master control in the cockpit, each occupant can choose whether to utilize the heating – and select either light or moderate heat settings.

Other new features introduced on Model Year 2018 aircraft are tailored for further improvements in pilot interface. This includes backlighting on the cockpit’s central console to provide enhanced visibility at night for the manual trim, power lever, flaps lever and override controls. Additionally, a high-fidelity microphone has been incorporated in the pilot’s oxygen mask for clear communications with air traffic control when the mask is in use.

Daher’s superior level of service for TBM aircraft is further evolving to meet customer expectations. In addition to the continued inclusion of Daher’s Total Care Program (TCP) coverage as part of the TBM “Elite package,” TBM 930/TBM 910 customers will receive a host of new services, such as subscriptions to the Garmin Pilot database and Jeppesen Pilot Pak™ bundle and, in countries where available, a three-month subscription to Sirius XM weather and radio.

Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit commented: “The ‘Magic Tough’ video underscores what we offer today to our customers in bringing the most modern cockpit technology available to make every flight with our TBM 900-series aircraft an ultimate pilot experience.”

The aviation sector is working together for fossil-free aviation from Kalmar

Kalmar, December 6, 2018 – Kalmar Öland Airport and Kalmar Municipality, together with airlines SAS and BRA and fuel supplier Air BP, have cooperated to meet a 5% biofuel target on all flights from Kalmar to Stockholm.

Kalmar Öland Airport has, together with its owner Kalmar Municipality, been working actively for many years to create the conditions to secure funding for the additional cost of aviation biofuel, with a long-term goal of having fossil-free aviation from Kalmar. As a first step towards fossil-free fuel locally, domestic flights between Kalmar and Stockholm flew on biofuel during the Kalmarsundsveckan 2017 sustainability week.

The next step in the process was to establish the conditions for funding the aviation biofuel more broadly. During this process, both Kalmar Municipality and the airport, and many of the municipal companies, took the decision that all their own business travel on flights from Kalmar should be powered by biofuel. The procurement of aviation biofuel, equivalent to three years’ supply, for Kalmar Municipality took place this autumn.

As part of the project, airlines SAS and BRA are coming on board too and joining forces with Kalmar Municipality and Kalmar Öland Airport, which represents a unique investment in aviation biofuel for the industry and the region.

• “The cooperation between these organisations is proof that with combined strength you can make things happen when you look at the bigger picture rather than just individual benefit,” explains Ronny Lindberg, Managing Director and Head of Kalmar Öland Airport.

The approximate 80 tonnes of biofuel required for flight services from Kalmar to Stockholm in 2019 will be supplied by Air BP to Kalmar Öland Airport for SAS and BRA to refuel their aircraft. Together, the airlines will finance 50% of the additional cost of the biofuel, whilst Kalmar Öland Airport, as the representative for the region, will secure financing for the remaining 50%.

• “Air BP is delighted to be able to support our client airlines and airports to reduce the environmental impact of aviation. This is an important first step that has been taken for all passengers between Kalmar and Stockholm to reduce their emissions and we are proud to be part of this cooperation,” adds Thorbjörn Larsson, General Manager of Air BP Nordics.

On 29 November, coinciding with a large delivery of aviation biofuel, representatives from the various organisations met at Kalmar Öland Airport to talk about the cooperation, the challenges and the industry’s transition.

• “For us at BRA, access to biofuel is essential to successfully achieve fossil-free domestic air travel in the future. We need large-scale, continuous production nearby in order to have access to sustainably produced biofuel for reasonable pricing,” explains Anna Soltorp, Head of Sustainability at BRA.

Daher introduces the TBM 900 very fast turboprop aircraft series to India

New Delhi, India, September 17, 2018 – Daher today announced the first presentation of its Daher TBM 900-series in India, introducing the very fast turboprop aircraft to the sub-continent’s business aviation community.The presentation will be organized on September 20th at New Delhi business aviation Signature’s terminal at Indira Gandhi International Airport in cooperation with SRK Aviacom Pvt. Ltd, which is the Indian Area Sales Representative for TBM aircraft. Based at New Delhi’s Airport, Aviacom is a leading sales organization for aircraft and helicopters in the country, as well as a provider of professional flight simulators.

Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit, said the rising interest for fast transportation in Asia is creating a market opportunity for the company’s current very fast turboprop family members: the TBM 930 and TBM 910.

Aviacom CEO Capt. Sanjay Kumar added: “By introducing Daher’s TBM family of very fast turboprop aircraft, we aim to offer a cost-effective corporate aircraft for Indian businesses and entrepreneurs.”

Daher recently enhanced the TBM 930 and TBM 910 passenger cabins with interior restyling, and further increased the comfort with electrically-heated seats. By design, the cabin offers multiple quick-change capabilities, including an innovative closed toilet compartment as an option.

The superior level of service for TBM aircraft is further evolving in meeting customer expectations. In addition to the continued inclusion of Daher’s Total Care Program (TCP) coverage as part of the TBM “Elite package,” customers of the TBM 930 and TBM 910 receive a host of new services: subscriptions to the Garmin Pilot database and Jeppesen Pilot Pak™ bundle and – in countries where available – a three-month subscription to Sirius XM weather and radio.

Air BP’s Olivia Stone elected as Joint Inspection Group’s first female Council Chair

• Air BP’s Global Operations Standards Manager, Olivia Stone has been elected as the new Council Chair of the Joint Inspection Group (JIG), marking the first female Chair in JIG’s 50-year history.
• IATA endorsed JIG, is the world-leading organisation for the development of aviation fuel supply standards covering the entire supply chain for aviation fuels from refinery to wing-tip.
• Stone will provide leadership to the council and help ensure that refuelling quality and safety is maintained at airports globally.

September 3, 2018 – Air BP’s Global Operations Standards Manager, Olivia Stone, has been elected as the new Council Chair of the Joint Inspection Group (JIG), effective immediately. She takes over from John Buxton who served as Chair for the past two years. Endorsed by IATA, JIG is the world-leading organisation for the development of aviation fuel supply standards, covering the entire supply chain for aviation fuels from refinery to wing-tip. Significantly, Stone is the first female Council Chair in JIG’s 50-year history.

As Chair, Stone will play a major role in ensuring that refuelling quality and safety is maintained at airports globally. She will also provide leadership to the council and its various committees which includes representatives from ExxonMobil, Total, Q8, Chevron, Shell and ENI.

 A Chemistry graduate from the University of Kingston, UK, Stone has 12 years’ experience in the aviation fuel industry and is an expert in fuel operations, standards, monitoring and capability development. Her appointment was decided by an election of JIG Council members and is testament to her skills, capabilities and leadership. It is also a reflection of the high regard in which she is held by her peers.

Since starting her aviation career at Air BP in 2006 as Product Quality Advisor, Stone has held two key operational roles at the company. These include Operations Manager for Air BP’s UK joint venture, North Air, where she was responsible for managing two of the busiest and largest into-plane operations in the UK and her current role as Air BP’s Global Operations Standards Manager, which she has held since 2015. In this role, Stone is responsible for developing and delivering the standards required to ensure safe, reliable and efficient Air BP operations at around 900 locations in over 50 countries.

Commenting on the appointment, she said: “I am honoured to be elected to the role by JIG members and thank them for their support. I am also delighted to be the first female Council Chair. I am looking forward to the challenges ahead and leading the association to even greater success as it grows and develops with the industry.”

JIG was set up in the 1970’s by a small group of major oil companies and developed its first set of guidelines in 1973 to coordinate inspections at joint venture locations. Today, JIG Standards are followed by Air BP and over 100 other member organisations operating at more than 2500 airports and supply and distribution locations in over 100 countries globally.

 Caption: Air BP’s Global Operations Standards Manager, Olivia Stone

Air Astana demonstrates strong traffic and revenue growth in the first half of 2018

August 28, 2018 – Air Astana recorded a 10% increase in passenger traffic and a 17% uptick in revenues in the first half of the year compared with the corresponding period of 2017. Between January and June 2018, the airline carried more than two million passengers.

The traffic growth was driven by the strong performance on international passenger traffic that is up 22% compared to the same period in 2017.

International transit traffic in the first half of 2018 grew by 75% to 320,000 passengers on a strong base of 2017. The share of transit passengers reached 30% of Air Astana’s international traffic, up from 21% for the same period last year.

Capacity was bolstered 8% as a result of the introduction of new flights from Astana to Tyumen and Kazan, as well as additional frequencies from Astana to London Heathrow (now daily), Omsk, Dubai, Delhi, and from Almaty to Dushanbe, Baku, Hong Kong, Seoul and Bishkek.  Additional services were added to Beijing, Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kiev from both hubs. In addition, on March 26, the airline launched new Atyrau-Frankfurt-Atyrau services.

Air Astana demonstrates strong traffic and revenue growth in the first half of 2018

In March, Air Astana concluded a codeshare agreement with Cathay Pacific, offering passengers convenient connections when travelling on to Asia and Australia via Hong Kong, becoming its 11^th codeshare partner.

Air Astana is also continuing with its fleet renewal program. It welcomed three new A321neo aircraft into its fleet as part of a total order for 17 aircraft.

In spring the airline commissioned its Aviation and Technical Center at Astana Airport, which now provides maintenance support to Air Astana’s fleet and intends to provide services for third party airlines flying to Kazakhstan. The facility has been further bolstered with the addition of a new School of Aviation Mechanics, operating under EASA Part 66 License.

Commenting on the results, Peter Foster, President and CEO stated: “Passenger numbers continue to be strong for international traffic and network business. Domestic and regional routes face tough pricing and cost headwinds”

Satcom Direct (SD) signs Avionics Services as first Latin American hardware reseller.

São Paulo, 21 August 2018 – Satcom Direct Brazil, the regional headquarters for business aviation connectivity, software and hardware provider SD, appointed São Paulo-based Avionics Services as the first SD hardware dealer and installer in Latin America during LABACE 2018. The deal gives Latin American business jet owners and operators a single, local, source for purchasing, installing and supporting SD equipment for executive aircraft and rotary machines. SD customers operating in and around Latin America also benefit from enhanced customer support as immediate access to full SD hardware maintenance and installation expertise is now available through Avionics Services.

Latin America is a growing market for SD, and as the range of products and services continues to expand the need for local installation partners and dealers is significant. “It is essential for our clients that they can easily call on reliable, responsive, experienced technicians, that literally speak their language,” said SD Brazil Managing Director, Ewerton Libaino. “We have customers using and needing a range of connectivity, from basic data link services through to Inmarsat’s high-speed Jet ConneX technology, and we want to ensure a seamless purchasing, installation and maintenance experience for them. Avionics Services provides us with that solution.”

“It really is a milestone for us to work with SD to provide improved business aviation connectivity options in Latin America. It heralds a new era as regional owners and operators will now have the confidence to install these complex systems, knowing they have a local business with extensive avionics experience to support them. We are excited for the possibilities,” says João Vernini Filho, Sales and Marketing Director, Avionics Services.

During LABACE the SD team promoted the new arrangement, along with its full product and service portfolio including the latest enhancements to its digital flight operations platform SD Pro®.  A new Advanced Connectivity module enables users to generate a predictive connectivity map for each flight which graphically highlights network coverage, and any associated issues along the route.  The feature aims to prevent loss of connectivity as it highlights dead zones and regional areas where data may be at threat from intrusion.

The latest SD Pro Threat Monitoring module upgrade gives flight departments more visibility into the types of threats identified, as well as the ability to view and sort threats by category. Data analysis enables flight departments to make better informed connectivity decisions about user behaviors and security policies and stay ahead of any potential vulnerabilities. Combined with SD hardware, SD Pro gives users more insight and control over onboard connectivity and how it is functioning.

“As connectivity becomes increasingly important we are innovating and adding new products to our suite of services. Our enhanced SD Pro technology, the signing of the new Avionics Services agreement, and our growing local-language training portfolio adds real value for our local customers and represents a strengthening SD presence in the region. It exemplifies our commitment to giving the best customer connectivity experience in Latin America,”  concludes Libaino.

Flying Colours Corp. completes installation of Ka-band on Gulfstream GV

August 21, 2018 – North America-based completions and MRO specialist Flying Colours Corp., has completed its first Ka-band installation on a Gulfstream GV airframe. Installation by the Flying Colours avionics team required the mounting of the radome, tail antenna and cabin hardware to bring powerful connectivity to the cabin and flight-deck. The work, part of a major refurbishment of the cabin interior, and revamp of the fuselage exterior, was completed in July at the Peterborough, ON. headquarters.

The service, supplied through the Honeywell JetWave™ system, is powered by Inmarsat’s Global Xpress satellite constellation to deliver ultra-high-speed broadband connectivity to the aircraft. Web-surfing, voice calls and texting, the use of messaging apps, email exchange, gaming, streaming television and video services are now available throughout the cabin. Onboard hardware serves data via the WiFi system to multiple personal devices carried on board, as well as the aircraft’s own cabin management and inflight entertainment systems which were also upgraded as part of the major refurbishment project.

 Rockwell Collins Venue™ revitalises cabin management system

Existing controls, screens and operating systems were also switched out and replaced with the Rockwell Collins Venue™ CMS. High-clarity touchscreen displays, intuitive controls and seamless integration into monuments enables optimal management of the cabin environment, ambience, communications and entertainment. Cabin-crew and passengers can now control mood lighting, cabin temperature, or music choices, as well as view Airshow® moving maps or box office movies from the convenience of their own smart devices.  The future proofed system architecture will also support new technologies as they come online.

“We knew this client was going to be regularly flying international routes and needed a robust connectivity solution, as well as a sophisticated CMS/IFE to effectively manage the passengers on-board experience. Both systems were the most logical choice to fit the aircraft’s demanding missions and customer expectations,” said Kevin Kliethermes, director of sales for Flying Colours. “Passengers increasingly want to replicate their terrestrial digital lifestyle, entertainment and communication options in the air. Ka-band, more sophisticated CMS and a growing array of satellite services make this possible. We anticipate we will be carrying out many more installations like this one across a range of airframes over the next twelve months,” said Kliethermes.

Flying Colours Corp. installing its first Gogo L3 AVANCE in Challenger aircraft.

July 24, 2018 – North America-based Flying Colours Corp. is installing Gogo AVANCE L3™ air-to-ground connectivity systems in two Bombardier Challenger aircraft, a CL604 and CL605. The installation of the small form, fully integrated AVANCE L3 inflight connectivity and entertainment solution represents a first for Flying Colours which has already installed several of the AVANCE L5 systems.

“As the privately-owned aircraft operate predominantly across North America we advised our clients that the Gogo AVANCE L3 system will fulfil the flexibility, reliability and meaningful data-speeds, needed by them,” said Kevin Kliethermes, director of sales for Flying Colours. “The solution is proving popular on mid-size aircraft with missions based mainly in North America.  We have more AVANCE installations confirmed, and expect the trend to continue as the ever-increasing demand for feature rich, high-speed data access at affordable prices continues.”

Each of the Gogo AVANCE L3 installations form part of a wider work scope which exemplifies the range of capabilities supplied by Flying Colours at both the company’s North American facilities.  The first Bombardier Challenger 604 is undergoing an interior refurbishment of all soft goods, cabinetry, and avionics at the Flying Colours Peterborough, ON. headquarters. The Challenger 605, is undergoing major maintenance work including a complete gear overhaul, a scheduled 96-month inspection, full external paintwork, and a flight-deck upgrade to the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21™ Advanced system at the Flying Colours St Louis, MO. Facility.  Both aircraft will have fuselage paintwork revamps in the dedicated paint shop at the Peterborough location.

“Underlined by our status as a Bombardier Aerospace ASF, we have the ability to complete a wide variety of interior and exterior enhancements, as well as maintenance and avionics upgrades on Bombardier aircraft. It means we can ensure owners maximise budget and aircraft downtime by completing a number of different projects in parallel,” explains Kliethermes. Work on both aircraft is expected to complete in late summer.

Once installed the Gogo AVANCE L3 system will provide passengers with access to the Gogo Biz® Broadband network and will support, dependent on package, access to voice, email, web browsing, moving maps, and a selection of movies and TV programmes.

DAHER : 900 deliveries and going strong: A new program achievement for Daher’s TBM very fast turboprop aircraft family

Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 23, 2018 – Daher today announced the delivery of its 900th TBM very fast turboprop aircraft, with the milestone TBM 930 version provided to Thomas Solano, an IT entrepreneur in Jacksonville, Florida.

The achievement comes as Daher’s TBM 900 family maintains a solid market position in the entry-level turboprop and small jet category of the business aviation and general aviation sectors.

Daher currently is producing TBM 900-series aircraft – the sixth evolution from the original TBM 700 configuration – which are offered in two production versions: the TBM 930, incorporating Garmin’s G3000 integrated flight deck and touch screen controls; and the TBM 910, with Garmin next-generation G1000 NXi avionics technology.

“We are committed to maintaining the TBM as best-in-class for the long-term, and will continue a sustained production rate for the aircraft,” said Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit. “This will be supported by our extensive in-house design, development and engineering capabilities, backed by the full support of our Daher parent company’s technical and financial resources.”

Chabbert noted that the TBM 900 family members have become the fastest-selling TBM versions ever – with 238 aircraft produced since the series was unveiled in March 2014.

As part of the TBM’s continuous improvement strategy, Daher regularly introduces enhancements for the aircraft, its avionics and cabin, along with developments in the services and support offerings. The enhancements include aerodynamic optimization of the airframe, the creation of a quick-change lavatory compartment for the aft cabin, and development of the “Me & My TBM” application for Android and iOS devices to provide unique and valuable feedback on TBM flights.

The no. 1 TBM’s maiden flight occurred in July 1988, with its 30-year milestone of the original TBM 700 version’s initial takeoff being recognized this week during Daher’s participation at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in. EAA AirVenture is one of aviation’s largest gatherings worldwide, and the event is regularly attended by many TBM owners and operators.

“It’s appropriate that we are welcoming TBM community members from around the world to EAA AirVenture at the three-decade mark of the TBM 700’s maiden takeoff,” Chabbert added. “For the past 30 years, our TBM family has set the standards in its class, becoming business aviation’s second-best selling aircraft.”

The milestone 900th aircraft that was delivered to Thomas Solano becomes this owner’s second TBM. His new TBM 930 replaced a TBM 850 that he acquired in 2012.

Solano is a successful entrepreneur in the software development sector who created his company just a few years after graduating from college. A passionate pilot with both aircraft and helicopter ratings, he uses the TBM for business and private trips. “You just don’t buy a TBM, you became a part of the family,” Solano said. “Since my introduction to the TBM and Daher in 2012, I’ve had a very positive experience. The company has been responsible, attentive and caring.”

AVIAÂ partners with hullo Aircrew for easy access to ad hoc crewing

July 24, 2018 – AVIAÂ, the world’s first global purchasing organisation for business aviation, is widening its supplier base with the addition of business aviation flight and cabin crew resource, hullo Aircrew, and its streamlined mobile application.

AVIAÂ members have access to a dedicated hullo Aircrew client manager, responsive 24/7, to help with crewing issues.  They will benefit by having complete control of costs and no expensive agency fees.  Both innovative aviation technology companies have offices at London Oxford Airport, where they swiftly became familiar with each other’s technology and became keen to realise synergy.

AVIAÂ and hullo Aircrew management will also collaborate when future platforms, hullo Heli and hullo Engineer, are added.  These are both work-in-progress with planned release in early 2019.

AVIAÂ members can call on qualified and type-rated business aviation air crew at short notice when all too often the lack of pilots can delay confirmation of a charter or owner flight.  The hullo Aircrew platform will help its operators to find the crew they want quickly and efficiently, without any agency fees.

hullo Aircrew securely holds information on over 1,000 active crew members on its web and app-based platform, with all relevant information available with immediate effect – how much they cost, where they are based, their experience and holding all licence and training documents electronically. AVIAÂ members in Europe and the US can tap into transparent pricing, paying only when a pilot or flight attendant is booked.

“We’re excited to see that AVIAÂ have already evolved their software with the new AVIAÂ Dashboard.  This gives operators instant access to their spending and clear visibility on the savings of membership, now including freelance and contract crew via hullo Aircrew. We’re very excited that future development between our two cloud-based platforms will give even more control directly to the operator,” commented Steve Payne, COO, hullo Aircrew.

Matthew Smith, AVIAÂ VP of Business Development, is equally convinced in the power of the hullo platform. “Our members, even those with large full-time crews, are in desperate need of ad hoc crewing. The safe, secure, and reliable hullo platform answers this need.”

“AVIAÂ is a forward-thinking team, they have identified a real need in the market to help save costs and we are very pleased to team with them,” added hullo Aircrew CEO, Keiron Blay.

AVIAÂ, just over a year old, has brought ‘professionalised procurement’ to business aviation on a global scale.  Streamlining the procurement process for owners and operators, it maximises collective buyer power.  Purchasing by volume, it can obtain best rates for key operational spends such as insurance, training, connectivity, fuel, maintenance, parts, aircraft handling, FBOs and more.

Lauded by industry peers and a judge’s panel AVIAÂ scooped the Innovation in Business Aviation accolade in the recent Sapphire Pegasus European and Middle East Business Aviation Awards at EBACE in Geneva.  hullo Aircrew was also a finalist in the same category.

Hullo aircrew is AVIAÂ’s latest supplier. 

Both companies have HQ’s at London Oxford Airport.

Daher enhances its “Me & My TBM” cloud-based app for owners and operators of TBM very fast turboprop aircraft.

Oshkosh, Wisconsin, July 23, 2018 – The first upgrade to Daher’s “Me & My TBM” application for owners and operators of TBM very fast turboprop aircraft was unveiled today at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in.

This enhanced version has a redesigned main screen for better readability, larger touch areas for improved interface, and 3D visuals with a TBM silhouette whose movement more realistically reflects the aircraft’s orientation in flight.

Also new in the app’s V2 version is the My TBM Challenge, a friendly competition that enables pilots to compare their flight performance with others in the TBM community. The challenge is based on such parameters as the number of airports visited, distance flown, fuel efficiency during flight, and the pilot’s ability to meet optimum conditions during take-off and landing.

Introduced by Daher in April, the cloud-based “Me & My TBM” app is offered in versions for Android and iOS devices, leveraging data automatically collected using the Pratt & Whitney Canada FAST™ flight data retrieval and transfer solution.

Unique and valuable feedback is provided during every phase of a TBM’s flight, from key parameters of the engine and other systems to a full range of statistics accessible wherever the aircraft goes. Data management also is provided for updates to the CAMP maintenance tracking system.

The Me & My TBM application leverages Daher’s expertise in the field of big data to collect, process and analyze the more than four million datapoints generated each day by the TBM in-service fleet.

At the heart of digital transformation, Daher – a leader in Industry 4.0 – continually invests in the digital supply chain (automation, robotics, connected objects, predictive analytics, etc.) to offer innovative solutions to its customers, as well as in the development of proprietary tools bringing them productivity, real-time visibility and mobility.

“While the application originally was developed as a ‘nice to have’ feature for customers, the tremendous level of interest from TBM owners has encouraged us to provide more capabilities for the app,” commented Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit.

All new TBM 910s and TBM 930s delivered by Daher since January 2018 are outfitted the FAST™ flight data retrieval and transfer solution, and therefore are compatible with the “Me & My TBM” app.

For earlier production TBM aircraft, Daher is including the Bad Elf “Wombat” accessory in the TBM catalog of options and upgrades. This portable SD Card reader can wirelessly transmit data for use by the “Me & My TBM” app. With it, the application could be used with more than 400 previously-produced TBMs by using a non-automated process.

SKYTRAX WORLD AIRLINE AWARDS NAMES AIR ASTANA A WINNER SEVEN YEARS IN A ROW

July 18, 2018 – London, UK – Air Astana, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, has been recognised for 4 Star service excellence, retaining the accolade of ‘Best Airline in Central Asia and India’ in the Skytrax World Airline Awards for the seventh consecutive year.  The prestigious awards ceremony took place at the Langham Hotel in Central London yesterday.

The Skytrax World Airline Awards are recognised throughout the world as a valued benchmarking tool that is independent, impartial and global. The survey measures passenger satisfaction among business and leisure travellers, across all cabins (First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy Class and Economy class).

Over 19 million air travellers were surveyed about their experiences with airlines on the ground and in the air over a 10-month period. The survey measured passenger satisfaction across a wide range of performance indicators of airline front-line product and service, including check-in, boarding, on-board seat comfort, cabin cleanliness, food, beverages, in-flight entertainment and staff service. The survey covered over 200 airlines, from the largest international airlines to smaller domestic carriers.

“We are of course delighted and honored to be recognised once again. This award is particularly important and valued as it has been won based on the personal choice of our customers. I would like to offer them my sincerest thanks and look forward to welcoming them on board again soon. I would also like to recognise our team of dedicated employees who go the extra mile each and every day to provide consistently outstanding service to all our passengers. We will continue to work hard and strive for even higher standards.” said Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana.

 

 

From left to right: Margaret Phelan, vice-president, Inflight Service, Aigul Kerimbekova, on board coach, Inflight Services, Peter Foster, president & CEO, Zhanna Tashtenova, passenger service agent, Ground Services, Alexandr Neboga, vice-president Ground Services.

Vertis Aviation to market Privajet’s first Bombardier Global 6000.

July 3, 2018 – Vertis Aviation, the Switzerland-based, boutique long-range charter specialist, is working with executive aviation management company Privajet to market a privately owned, Sub-Saharan-based, Bombardier Global 6000 for international charter. The aircraft is the first Bombardier type to be registered on the Privajet Maltese AOC and heralds a new era for Privajet, as it executes a strategy to increase the number of large cabin, and executive airliner aircraft, registered on its Maltese certificate. The Global 6000 aircraft is suitably registered 9H-ONE.

When the aircraft begins operations at the end of July, Vertis Aviation will collaborate with Privajet to provide marketing and promotional services to support international charter activity. Designed to suit either business or leisure needs the 14 business class seats include a forward four place club and four place conference seating arrangement,  in addition to an aft three place divan with complementary two seat club formation. The seats convert into sleeping places for up to six passengers. The elegantly appointed cabin’s rich chocolate and cream palette is complemented by brushed nickel metals on lights, side ledges and controls.  SwiftBroadband connectivity supports always-on voice, internet and data to power communication, entertainment and information needs.

With a range of over 6000 nautical miles and speeds of up to Mach 0.89, Vertis and Privajet anticipate the Sub-Saharan base will appeal to African corporations and governments demanding intra-continental travel not well served by local airlines, international conglomerates seeking to navigate the complex African skies efficiently, and high-net-worth individuals requiring comfortable, multi-leg, inter-continental trips.  Regular routes are likely to include Lagos to Houston, Cape Town to London and Luanda to Singapore.

Privajet has elected to work with Vertis to build on the existing relationship, which has seen Vertis market and promote the Privajet Boeing Business Jet since November 2014. In the last twelve months Vertis clients have chartered more than 580 hours on the jet, the highest number since the beginning of the relationship.

“We have experienced a real uptick in African business in the last 12 months which is being driven by stronger commodity prices, increased political stability and the growing demand for newer charter aircraft. With this aircraft added to our unique portfolio clients have access to a beautiful long-range, large cabin jet that we know will be managed and operated by Privajet to the highest standards. This will appeal to many of our clients, not just in Africa but around the globe,” said Jeffrey Emmenis, Partner, Vertis Aviation.

“Vertis has extensive experience marketing this type of aircraft and we have worked closely together for a number of years. As we begin to operate our first Bombardier aircraft on our Maltese AOC we know that Vertis has the knowledge and expertise to ensure the aircraft is regularly chartered.  Africa is a market where we know the potential is enormous and Vertis is well positioned to exploit this,” said Jerome Franier, Commercial Director, Privajet.

Vertis Aviation specialises in marketing and chartering long range business aircraft operating out of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.  It currently markets two Airbus ACJ A319, a Boeing Business Jet BBJ, Gulfstream G450, a Bombardier Global 6000 and a Bombardier Challenger 350.

Daher salutes the TBMOPA’s exceptional 2018 European Gathering, hosted by Apache Aviation Training & Services

Tarbes, France, June 30, 2018 – Daher today congratulated the TBM Owners and Pilots Association (TBMOPA) on the success of its 2018 European Gathering, which brought together the international TBM very fast aircraft community for technical briefings and camaraderie – reinforced by an emphasis on safety and the passion for flight.

Held at France’s Dijon Bourgogne Airport during May and organized by TBMOPA President David Fabry, the meeting attracted more than 90 participants from across Europe and the U.S. – with 25 TBMs flown in for the event.

In addition to technical sessions organized by the Daher team and TBM equipment suppliers, the event’s unique feature was the occasion for TBM owners and pilots to fly aboard the Breitling Jet Team’s high-performance L39 jet trainers – a unique opportunity provided by the team’s operator, Apache Aviation Training & Services, which hosted the TBMOPA 2108 European Gathering.

“Daher salutes the TBMOPA and David Fabry for this truly successful event,” commented Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit. “Our thanks also go to Apache Aviation Training & Services for their outstanding welcome, and for giving TBM customers the unforgettable chance to experience aerobatics and formation flying with the world’s largest professional civilian jet team.”

Jacques Bothelin, CEO of Apache Aviation Training & Services, said the TBMOPA 2018 European Gathering also enabled his company to introduce a new type of training for TBM pilots: Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) – using a fleet of six ex-French Air Force TB 30 Epsilon aircraft, and established with the support of Daher.

UPRT is increasingly considered as a valuable and necessary experience for pilots – particularly those flying high-performance aircraft such as the TBM. It will be mandatory for all European air transport pilots as of 2019.

“We are the only organization able to offer this unique experience with a focus on developing airmanship and flying skills in a highly comfortable training environment,” Bothelin explained. “Our philosophy is to give pilots the possibility of gaining key skills while also enjoying the experience.”

The TB 30 Epsilon is a piston-engine basic trainer produced by Daher predecessor company SOCATA. Utilized by multiple air forces since the 1980s, this aircraft is well-suited for UPRT.

Bothelin added that Apache Aviation Training & Services also intends to develop a full package, called the Platinum Burgundy Experience, which is to include UPRT and aerobatic flying, along with driving a sports car on a nearby speed circuit and wine tasting in a typical Burgundy chateau.

Another business of Apache Aviation Training & Services is providing a wide range of aviation services in government contracts with a fleet of aircraft, including a TBM 700C2 for liaison purposes.

Zeusch Aviation medevac and charter business takes off with addition of King Air 200

Lelystad, Holland/ 26 June 2018 – Zeusch Aviation, the Netherlands-based aerial services provider, has taken delivery of its third aircraft, a King Air 200. The latest addition to the young Lelystad airport-based operator will join the existing fleet of two King Air C90A aircraft, and begin operations in mid-July.

With a dual-purpose role, it becomes the first Zeusch aircraft to support medevac and passenger charter operations. In medevac configuration the aircraft carries a Lifeport  PLUS-system which incorporates a stretcher for a single patient, as well as high-tech medical equipment including a vacuum system, compressed air, a three-outlet 1000 watts inverter (230VAC) and a 3500-litre oxygen system with remote filling port. Additional equipment can be added with the requisite patient care administered by up to two clinicians, depending on each individual mission. On the flight deck a dual-system Garmin G600/750 glass cockpit supports efficient emergency and charter operations.

With it its versatile performance capabilities, including the ability to land and take off from short and unpaved runways, the King Air 200 is an ideal rapid, first responder for emergency evacuation situations within Europe, the Middle East and Africa. When in service it will transport patients directly to ground-ambulances for transfer to hospital, offer repatriation services and link with longer-range aircraft to take critical medical cases to clinical centres of excellence. It will also be used for fast delivery of life saving organs.

To maximise the aircraft’s operational efficiency for Zeusch, the medevac format can be switched out in less than two hours and reconfigured to support private charter operations. The stretcher and medical equipment are replaced by a divan and six seats to provide comfort on flights of typically up to two hours for up to four passengers. With a central European base, it is anticipated the King Air 200 will be regularly chartered to support business travellers flying between principal European city pairs, as well as providing a convenient option for leisure travellers flying to ski resorts or southern European destinations.

The G-registered King Air 200, G-MEDZ, will operate in partnership with UK-headquartered private air ambulance company IAS Medical, which holds the AOC on which the aircraft will operate. “We recognise that we are a new player in the medevac market which is why we have chosen to work with our highly experienced IAS Medical colleagues. We are using the company’s extensive knowledge as a guideline to further develop our own reliable, responsive, operational standards. We want to achieve the highest levels of quality as the safety and security of our passengers, and crew, are always at the top of our priority list,” said Managing Director, Herman van Kranenburg.  Zeusch Aviation will also support IAS Medical during busy periods providing them with extra medevac cover when needed.

The existing two Zeusch King Air C90 already serve TV relay, surveillance and mapping missions with versatile interiors configured for rapid change-out to suit the mission purpose.  The addition of the third turboprop supports the young company’s ambitions to develop new charter markets and business sectors within the EMEA region. Plans to further extend its charter offering include the addition of a longer-range aircraft before the end of 2018.

“We believe Beechcraft aircraft offer the flexibility needed to support our increasing range of missions. Our fleet has been in operation since June 2017 with mapping, TV relays and survey services making up the majority of the business. We wanted to add a robust aircraft to support growth of our charter business and medevac operations as we continue to expand our remit,” added van Kranenburg. “The addition of a further aircraft to serve longer legs will complement our existing business and improve our charter service offering.”

Planet Nine Private Air LLC (“P9”) launches its first Falcon 7X ultra long-range charter aircraft

 New operator secures FAA Part 135 certificate

• • Two additional Falcon 7X to enter service in August and September 2018
  • A fourth aircraft expected to be added in December, 2018.

June 25, 2018 – Planet Nine (P9), a brand new boutique US-based ultra long-haul charter specialist, secured its FAA Part 135 operating certificate on Friday, June 22, and is making its first Dassault Falcon 7X available for charter.  The company intends to have four 7Xs operational by year end, with deliveries scheduled for August, September and December this year.

Headquartered out of Los Angeles, California and London, U.K. with a staff of 28 full time employees, co-founders Matt Walter and James Seagrim are positioning Planet Nine to offer a compelling and competitive offering in the premium end of the ultra long-range charter market.

From London, Kirti Odedra heads the Sales Department and Bill Wulf, a former Senior VP and Chief Financial Officer of NetJets with a 20-year tenure serving the group in the US and internationally, serves as Chief Financial Officer.  Combined, the management team has over 75 years’ experience in business aviation.

P9 brings a new offering into the long haul business jet market with the 5,950 nm range Falcon 7X, stylishly configured for 11-16 passengers, with six beds for overnight flying. With operating costs at least 30% lower than equivalent Gulfstream G550 and Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft, the 7X has a distinct advantage over its competition.   Its aircraft will all feature sparklingly refurbished cabin interiors, including full Wi-Fi and IFE from Gogo/Swift Broadband.  On all domestic charters in the US, Wi-Fi will be complimentary.

“Charter broker relationships will be very important to Planet Nine, and we are looking forward to working with all the traditional and disruptive companies,” said Director of Sales, Kirti Odedra.

Dassault Falcon support

The company’s launch has been enthusiastically welcomed by Dassault FalconJet CEO Jean Rosanvallon: “We congratulate Planet Nine on securing its operating licence.  We have been supporting their team closely over the six months since the company’s formation and are thrilled that their mainstay aircraft choice is the Falcon 7X.  The aircraft will deliver an extremely comfortable ride for Planet Nine’s passengers with its quiet 50dBA cabin. With its impressive 5,950 nm range, the 7X was the first fully fly-by-wire business jet in its class and much of its stellar technology has been adopted on other models.  The aircraft is economical as well, with fuel consumption from its Pratt & Whitney Canada PW307 engines up to 30% lower than many other comparable jets. The Falcon 7X can serve shorter runways, giving Planet Nine unrivalled operational flexibility. Of course, Planet Nine will also have 24/7 access to the Dassault Falcon’s highly ranked worldwide customer support organization and MRO operations.”

Floating Fleet Model

“Our operation will centre on a floating fleet model, and the efficiency it brings to our operations we can then pass on to our customers and friends in the form of better pricing,” said James Seagrim, Director of Operations.  “From our previous careers at Advanced Air Management, we built an unbeatable boutique operation, renowned for its service, safety and efficiency.  Under our stewardship Advanced Air quickly became the “go to” operator in California. The excellent performance the Falcon 7X affords will give us an even greater competitive advantage than before.  We duly look forward to welcoming back many clients who worked with us previously, as we will offer the same level of service, care, and unbeatable value for money that built our reputation.”

World Class Finance Team

“I am delighted to have joined the energetic and dynamic management team at Planet Nine,” adds Bill Wulf, Chief Financial Officer. “Their enthusiasm, integrity, work ethic, and commitment to succeed is infectious. From my own experience, there is an acute shortage of premium ultra-long haul aircraft available for ad hoc charter out of the US, and those charter management companies that have aircraft available have typically one or two aircraft at most.  Our decision to go with a number of environmentally friendly Falcon 7X’s and we plan, to build up a sizeable fleet of this type, is going to make us appealing to clientele who want a special experience, and not feel like they are traveling on an airline.  The charter market is strong now, prices at the top end of the market are very frothy, and this is an opportune time for a well-funded, premium aircraft owner operator to debut.  As we start to prove ourselves, delivering a reliable service, paying close attention to detail, which is hugely important, Planet Nine will become a valued niche player.”

All Planet Nine’s aircraft have undergone thorough C Checks with accredited MRO’s overseen by its Director of Maintenance, Joe Ponce.

Planet Nine is planning a launch to introduce the team and showcase its new aircraft ahead of the NBAA Convention in October, where it will make its formal debut.

GLOBAL JET ADDS AN EXQUISITE & UNIQUE GLOBAL 5000 AVAILABLE FOR CHARTER

June 22, 2018 – Global Jet’s strikes again by adding another Global 5000 in their charter fleet which brings the south of France aircraft availability to three.

Since the beginning of 2018, a Global Express XRS and three Global 5000 were added in the Global Jet’s charter fleet. Global Jet’s growth does not stop there; due to the high activity on the French Riviera, a new charter department has been created in Monaco with the arrival of a new “Charter Sales Executive”, Nils Lovag who will guide clients and find optimal solutions exceeding their needs comments Léonard Bertholet, Charter Sales Director.

The Global 5000 is configured for 12 passengers in the utmost comfort and designed in a high-class and stylish interior.

The cabin is divided into three sections enabling passengers to enjoy every moment of their flight by relaxing on the comfortable divan in the afterward cabin, appreciating a five star dining in the middle cabin or simply work in the calm in the forward cabin, thanks to a complete range of entertainment features as well as Wi-Fi.

 

FAI grows its fleet with the addition of fifth Global Express

20 June 2018 – 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.

The new Global Express will be German registered and operated on behalf of a corporate client. It will be based at FAI’s corporate headquarters in Nuremberg following a full cabin refurbishment and new exterior paint undertaken by FAI’s growing MRO subsidiary, FAI Technik GmbH. This project marks FAI Technik’s third Global Express full cabin refurbishment in just six months. It is anticipated that the project will be complete by mid-November when the aircraft will be available for charter.

Siegfried Axtmann, FAI Aviation Group Chairman, comments: “We are very pleased to welcome a fifth Global Express to our managed fleet. Through our management contracts we provide value for aircraft owners and offer charter clients a diverse fleet from which to choose. We are delighted to be undertaking another full cabin Global refurbishment marking yet another major project for FAI Technik this year. We are seeing growing demand in our MRO business which is proving to be increasingly successful following an outstanding 2017.”

The additional aircraft also serves to strengthen the company’s position as one of Europe’s largest Bombardier operators, which brings significant operational and cost benefits.

FAI is one of the world’s largest air ambulance jet operators by revenue, having logged more than 200,000 hours flying air ambulance missions. It is also Germany’s largest general aviation operator by fleet operating more than 13,000 hours of airtime in 2017.

This latest news follows FAI’s recent Diamond Safety of Flight Award from the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) marking the highest safety recognition awarded by EBAA to member companies operating business aircraft for 50 years or 100,000 hours without an accident.

Photo caption: FAI adds its fifth Global Express to the fleet

Daher announces the development of a new TBM configuration for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions

Paris, France, June 11, 2018: Daher today announced a new configuration of its TBM 910 and TBM 930 high-speed single-turboprop aircraft as efficient and capable platforms for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

The enhanced ISR capability for Daher’s in-production TBM family aircraft was announced at Eurosatory 2018, the international defense and security show being held June 11-15 at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition center (Daher booth is K99 in the hall 6).

This new TBM configuration is characterized by underwing hardpoints with electrical connections that enable the aircraft to be equipped with various sensors and large-format cameras. A Daher flight test campaign, followed by the use of a 110-lb. (50 kg.) ultra-high definition camera for photo-taking trials, validated that the TBM retains its handling qualities and flight envelope performance in the ISR configuration.

In addition to photographic duties, the TBM 910/TBM 930 ISR version can perform surveillance missions with a multi-sensor optronic retractable turret, as well as Synthetic Aperture Radar/Ground Moving Target Indicator radar (SAR/GMTI), a communication interception system, and secure transmission means. In the cabin, a quick-change console can be mounted behind the pilot for an operator in charge of the various systems and tactical situation monitoring.

“The new TBM ISR version brings a fast, all-weather airborne platform to the market for surveillance operations and aerial photography, with a very competitive cost-performance ratio compared to existing solutions,” commented Nicolas Chabbert, director of the Daher Airplane Business Unit. “As a result, we are now offering the TBM ISR as an alternative – or complement – to medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles and to heavier aircraft in a platform that is rapid and efficient to deploy, with limited logistics requirements.”

In the ISR configuration, the TBM 910 and TBM 930 can fulfill a wide range of defense, security, medical evacuation and transport missions, benefitting from the autonomy of more than six hours on a surveillance mission, and the ability to be reconfigured rapidly for its various duties.

Advantages of the TBM 910 and TBM 930 ISR include:
– Higher speed range for sensitive missions and rapid travel time to the mission zone,

– Reduced external noise for discretion,

– Reduced takeoff and landing distances, enabling operations from 2,455-ft. (750- meter) runways,

– Sufficient power generation allowing a full range of mission equipment to be  integrated,

– A modern human-machine interface (main functions available on control yoke, single power lever), allowing the crew to fly comfortably during long-duration missions

Air BP renews contract at UK’sBlackbushe Airport

• Air BP has renewed its contract at Blackbushe Airport in Surrey to supply Jet A-1 and Avgas
• The contract renewal reinforces Air BP’s commitment to general aviation in the UK
• Air BP customers will benefit from continued safe and efficient aviation fuel operations and the ability to use their Sterling Cards to pay for fuel 

June 11, 2018 – Air BP, the international aviation fuel products and service supplier, has renewed its fuel supply contract atBlackbushe Airport (BBS/EGLK) in the UK, effective immediately. Air BP will continue to supply Jet A-1 and Avgas 100LL. Customers will be able to use their Air BP Sterling Card to purchase fuel, in addition to ordering and paying for fuel via the RocketRoute MarketPlace platform. Air BP has been supplying Blackbushe since 2012 and during this period has invested in the installation of a new fuel storage facility and two new fuel bowsers.

Russell Halley, Air BP general aviation regional sales manager, UK said: “We are very pleased to continue to supply Blackbushe Airport demonstrating our continued commitment to our general aviation customers in the UK. We look forward to deepened co-operation between our team and that of the airport and to welcoming our customers this summer.”

Chris Gazzard, Blackbushe Airport manager, added: “Maintaining a robust and safe fuelling operation is critical for any aerodrome, and I am pleased that this will continue at Blackbushe in collaboration with Air BP.  Their service and equipment quality has been second-to-none.  We were supported in our previous contract, benefitting from the much-needed investment in the fuelling facilities.  We can continue to deliver an excellent quality product.  We are excited to continue to welcome Air BP Sterling Card holders.”

Conveniently, Air BP can provide Avgas from the airport’s fuel storage facility, or both Avgas and Jet-Al on stand from Mercedes mobile bowsers.

Introduced by Blackbushe in late 2017, Rotors Running Refuelling for helicopters is available by prior arrangement, enabling faster and more efficient refuelling.

Customers can refuel at Blackbushe Airport from 08:00 local time, 7 days per week, or at other times by prior arrangement. It offers convenient access to the capital being located just 40 miles from Central London on the borders of Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire. Blackbushe handles over 30,000 movements each year comprising a mix of training aircraft, general aviation and business aviation traffic.

COBALT AIR AGREES INTERLINE AGREEMENT WITH ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Cyprus’ largest airline to interline on Abu Dhabi services – Opens up 100-plus route connections to the East from Cyprus

Larnaca, Cyprus, June 6^th – Cobalt Air, Cyprus’ largest airline, is pleased to announce it has entered into an interline agreement with global carrier Etihad Airways.  The deal will help Cobalt Air to widen its passenger reach and encourage more tourism from the Middle East and  beyond to Cyprus.

The agreement opens Cyprus to a wealth of 100-plus routes from Abu Dhabi to the East.  Cyprus originating passengers can book onward services via Abu Dhabi to Sydney, for example, checking in their luggage at Larnaca Airport through to final destination – but with two boarding cards. At present, all Interline reservations (reservations connecting Cobalt flights via Larnaca and Etihad flights via Abu Dhabi) should be made via your preferred travel agent.

The arrangement gives Cobalt a stronger presence in the Middle East and Etihad has a connection once again to Cyprus, a route it stopped serving in its own right in 2014.  Cobalt started flying to Abu Dhabi from Larnaca at the end of February this year with Airbus A320 aircraft, with economy fares from 75 Euros one way.

Cobalt’s inflight experience was recently enhanced by the introduction of Bluebox Wow IFE on all aircraft. All of Cobalt’s flights to Abu Dhabi also feature its new Business Class featuring large bespoke business seats and dine on demand catering.

Paul Simmons, CCO of Cobalt Air, commented:

“Cobalt is less than two years old and to be adopted as an interline partner by Etihad Airways, one of the biggest and most prestigious carriers in the world, is major recognition for us.  We are delighted to start this exciting new relationship and offer Cyprus people more convenient connections beyond Abu Dhabi.  We anticipate great demand year-round from the UAE for our beautiful Island and this new connection with Etihad opens the market up even more.  UAE originating passengers can also fly onwards from Larnaca on our growing network.”

Paul Simmons CCO Cobalt Air

Cobalt Air, which joined IATA at the end of last year, flies Airbus A320 aircraft from Larnaca to Abu with 12 seats in Business and 144 in Economy.  Its new business class product is in a two-by-two configuration with a 40” pitch and economy a generous 30”.  Its business fares include a large seat and a generous baggage allowance (2 X 20 kg checked bags) plus inflight entertainment, where passengers can wirelessly stream movies directly on to their own devices.

Cyprus’ largest airline offers flights to 21 destinations in 12 countries.

FLYT celebrates ‘Best Start-Up’ at Sapphire Pegasus Business Aviation Awards

June 6, 2018 – FLYT, the industry’s first digital helicopter booking platform has won the title of ‘Best Start-Up’ at the prestigious third annual Sapphire Pegasus Awards held on May 29^th, at the EBACE show in Geneva, Switzerland.

On accepting the award, Andy King, FLYT’s CEO and Co-Founder said: “I am delighted with the recognition which reinforces our passion to offer greater choice, transparency, comparison and booking speed in helicopter charter. Thank you to the judges and industry peers who voted for us. And importantly, to our investors who believe in what FLYT is setting out to achieve.”

Andy King CEO and founder of FLYT with his award.

Based out of The London Heliport Pod in Battersea, the company’s booking platform went live in April and aims to bring the same technology to commercial helicopter bookings that clients are enjoying in the private sector. Users can view quotes instantly from an extensive range of UK helicopter operators and book online via desktop, tablet or smart phone.

Prior to FLYT, booking a helicopter flight had been a largely manual process, and preparing quotes was time consuming for both operators and brokers. FLYT aims to streamline the process and integrate with private jet booking platforms.  By opening up the online marketplace to book helicopters, FLYT increases supply and demand, thereby bringing in lower prices and enabling clients to tap into empty legs.

One of the first operators to get on board with FLYT is SaxonAir, which operates the Airbus H120 and several Leonardo AW109s, alongside a growing range of business jets.

FLYT has secured backing from significant investors including Links of London and Annoushka co-founder John Ayton MBE, mobile technology group Apadmi Ventures and EarlyMarket.

The team is currently working on a booking app and will be reaching out to lifestyle and sporting event partners, including luxury hotels with helipads, to support it.

The company’s management team were in Geneva last week to promote the concept to helicopter operators and companies to get them on board.

The Sapphire Pegasus awards were founded by Media Tribune’s Antonia Lukacinova in 2016 to recognise excellence in companies and individuals within the business aviation sector around Europe.

London Oxford Airport scoops ‘Best Business Aviation Airport’ accolade for second time at prestigious Sapphire Pegasus Awards 

The London Oxford Airport and Oxfordjet FBO team was in celebratory mood at the third annual European Sapphire Pegasus awards held during the EBACE convention in Geneva when they were awarded the accolade of  ‘Best Business Aviation’ Airport’  for the second successive year.

The award was accepted by James Dillon-Godfray, London Oxford Airport’s Head of Business Development from Cdr. Bud Slabbaert at an awards event at EBACE, together with international business aviation professionals.

London Oxford Airport’s Head of Business Development James Dillon-Godfray far right celebrates with fellow winners from AVIAÂ – Gillian Hayes, CEO (left); Cameron Dillon-Godfray, Sales Executive and Stacey Tucker, Finance Director

“London Oxford Airport has grown to become a significant player in business aviation.  Years ago when they rebranded they were determined and resolute to get positioned among the best.  Now they can proudly claim to be an award-winning business aviation airport,” said Cdr Slabbaert.

Managing Director of London Oxford Airport, Andi Alexander, commented: “We’re delighted to be recognised for the second year in succession, especially surrounded by our peers at EBACE.  It’s an excellent endorsement for us which has been achieved by the sheer hard work and dedication of our great team and our continued investment in the airport.”

The award comes as London Oxford Airport continues to experience consistent growth.  It is one of only a handful of UK business airports that has seen consistent growth over the past 10 years and remains one of the top 20 busiest European business aviation airports.

Continuing to announce its business aviation offering, it was one of the very first airports in Europe to gain IS-BAH accreditation for its in-house FBO, OxfordJet and it now has Stage Two accreditation, the highest quality and compliance benchmark.  IS-BAH represents a global standard in best business aviation safety practice and a standard still only held by a handful of European FBOs.

The airport was the third in the UK to be EASA-certificated, moving away from the previous UK CAA oversight.   Both these achievements involved stringent SMS, training and oversight protocols that smaller regional or general aviation airports can find challenging to meet and maintain.

Additional investments include a ed new 16,000sq ft hangar (Bombardier Global 7000 compatible plus office space) for home-based and visiting business jets. It is also proposed that new GNSS RNAV LPV200 precision approaches, will be introduced at both ends of the runway for maximum access – affording a major improvement in poor weather capability.

A further enhancement confirmed earlier this year includes a brand new 101-room Premier Inn hotel adjacent to the airport entrance, which is scheduled to open summer next year.

London Oxford continues to offer the London region the most attractive packages for business jet and helicopter interlining with helicopter shuttles into Central London taking just 22 minutes.   It offers a 50% discount for customers using both London Oxford Airport and the London Heliport, under its shared ownership.

The Sapphire Pegasus awards were founded by Media Tribune’s Antonia Lukacinova in 2016 to recognise excellence in companies and individuals within the business aviation sector around Europe.

London Oxford Airport tenant, global purchasing company AVIAÂ took the award for Innovation, with fellow neighbour hullo Aircrew also in the top three finalists.  The airport’s external PR company Emerald Media took the honour for excellence in business aviation communication.

Air BP becomes a National Partner of the Royal Flying Doctor Service

4 June 2018 – The Royal Flying Doctor Service is delighted to announce that Air BP, one of the world’s largest suppliers of aviation fuel products and services, has become their third National Partner.

Air BP supplies jet fuel at around 60 locations in Australia; this includes an extensive network of facilities offering a reliable service to rural and remote locations. As part of the partnership agreement, in addition to offering the bespoke fueling services required in each of the regional communities that RFDS services, Air BP will also be sponsoring the ongoing operation of the service.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service is Australia’s third largest airline, with 69 aircraft in service, as well as a large fleet of ground service vehicles. They provide emergency medical and primary health services to regional, remote and very remote areas of the country.

People that live in remote communities in Australia have less access to health care services and as a result are known to suffer poorer health than those that live in the cities. Country Australians see a doctor at about half the rate, a medical specialist at one third the rate and a mental health professional at one fifth the rate of those that live in the city.  As a consequence, country people are expected to die two and a half years earlier and expected to have up to three times the amount of avoidable chronic illness.

“We want to thank Air BP for signing up to be one of our National Partners”, says Martin Laverty, CEO of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia. “As a direct result of Air BP fuel, the Flying Doctor will be able to provide continued health service access to those needing it.”

“At Air BP we are proud of our long standing relationship with the Royal Flying Doctor Service” says Alan Wilson, Managing Director Air BP Asia Pacific. “Air BP is uniquely placed to provide a quality aviation refueling solution throughout rural and regional Australia and to support this essential and iconic service for the communities in which we operate.”

Horix Aerospace successfully exhibited for the first time at EBACE 2018

Quartino, Switzerland – 1st June 2018 – Horix Aerospace exhibited for the very first time at EBACE 2018 in Geneve (Switzerland), which just concluded as a strong and forward-looking show.

“It has been a powerful event to promote our activities in the spare parts sector and ground support equipment. We have been excited about our debut during such a premier event”, said Marco Taufer, Head of Spare Parts Division. “EBACE represents a must-attend tradeshow to enlarge and strength worldwide industry network. We are looking forward to exhibiting next year at EBACE2019”, continues Marco Taufer.

Horix Aerospace is the only Swiss company specialized in spare parts distribution to the global aerospace industry and development of innovative ground support equipment for skidded helicopters and wheeled aircrafts (HELIFTTM). Although the company is still a start-up, Horix Aerospace already reached many objectives in terms of commercial goals and quality certification (ISO9001:2015 and AS9120B).

HONEYWELL EXPANDS GODIRECT FLIGHT WITH NEW CONNECTED SERVICE OFFERINGS FOR PILOTS, DISPATCHERS

 New integrated services reduce pilot workload and streamline scheduling and flight planning

            GENEVA, May 31, 2018 – Honeywell (NYSE: HON) is expanding its range of GoDirect^® connected services to deliver improved flight support within its signature program, GoDirect Flight. Using the new integrated services, business aviation operators will benefit from improved flight planning and in-flight communications through Honeywell’s GoDirect Flight Planning, GoDirect Flight Tracker and GoDirect Weather applications. As a result, flight crew workload can be reduced while enhancing flight safety and operational efficiency.

            “In today’s fast-paced business aviation environment, our customers are increasingly looking for end-to-end integrated solutions that will help them quickly, easily and cost-effectively manage their flight operations so they can remain competitive,” said John Peterson, senior director, Connectivity Services, Honeywell Aerospace. “Our range of updated services act as a flight department’s premier partner, providing the insight needed to make informed decisions using real-time data and automation.”

            GoDirect Flight is a part of Honeywell’s GoDirect family, one of the industry’s most complete portfolios of more than 50 services and applications that provide business aviation operators, flight crews and maintenance teams with the critical information they need to control their services and network. Combined, these applications improve the overall support service for pilots, dispatchers and schedulers while increasing the safety, efficiency and cost-effectiveness that business aviation operations require.

GoDirect Flight is taking pilot services to the next level in many ways:

• Flight planning and scheduling: Thanks to a partnership with scheduling and trip-planning provider Professional Flight Management (PFM), operators can now link their existing scheduling system with Honeywell’s datalink and flight planning services, enabling the sharing of data between their two most important systems. Customers’ datalink positions and “Gate Out, Wheels Off, Wheels On and Gate In” reports can be forwarded to PFM systems to automatically create flight logs, send flight-following notifications and provide flight-following on-maps. This integration creates a reduction in flight-logging errors and the added ability to complete flight logs without saving data from flight management systems. Ground handlers can receive real-time updates on the position and state of the aircraft while executive assistants can receive updates on expected arrivals and delays.
• Flight tracking: With GoDirect Flight Tracker, Honeywell customers can estimate future aircraft positions in 3D based on the last-known coordinates, heading, speed and altitude. With geo-fencing features, operators will be notified in advance if an aircraft is leaving or entering coverage areas and special use airspace. Constant emergency alert monitoring ensures flight teams are immediately notified when emergency response plans are needed.
• Weather avoidance and safety: Thanks to a new partnership with data provider DTN, weather services now offer a broader range of higher-resolution information so that pilots receive more insight along their routes to avoid extreme weather events. The application provides access to the industry’s first vertical situation display that combines a bird’s-eye view with a vertical flight path, improving pilots’ situational awareness and the flight experience of passengers. With this service, Honeywell customers will also be able to better detect and navigate lightning, turbulence, cloud tops and volcanic ash.
• Flight quality and passenger satisfaction: In addition to the vertical situation display showing the vertical flight path, GoDirect Flight Bag Pro can also improve situational awareness through Jeppesen Instrument Procedure charts. Both tools can help pilots improve their flight planning and weather avoidance.

e-Enabled Cyber Security Expertise for the Digital Airplane – Bruce Jackson

May 31^th, 2018 – Air Informatics^® LLC (www.airinformatics.com) are the most experienced e-Enabled Aviation experts in the industry. We do not talk about e-Enabled Aircraft Cyber Security; we live it and do it. Each of our team members possesses decades of hands-on airplane, fleet management and security experience. From the aircraft core computing network, aircraft Loadable Software Parts and aircraft digital security certificates, aircraft health management system, file server module, SatCom, IFE, passenger Wi-Fi, aircraft and crew wireless local area networks and links to the ground gatelink network, our team understands how to manage and secure the aircraft computing, data and communication systems.

We are aircraft and cyber experts which is why IATA has asked Air Informatics to teach their Aviation Cyber Security. As past members of the Eurocontrol and RTCA Aeronautical Security Committee, we know how the Airplane Network Security Program should function. Team members have conducted the 787 Red Team Penetration Testing, e-Enabled ground infrastructure security audits and In Flight Wi-Fi assessments. We addressed wireless airplane health management data delivery for Gulfstream and a Global 5000/6000 security architecture review for Bombardier.

From our hands on experience we offer the best e-Enabled aircraft security management training and services in the industry. Cyber Security demands transparency and independence. With today’s challenges you need to go with a solid team that knows the digital e-Enabled airplane design, management and operations!

Fabian Cancellara appointed as brand ambassador for FLYINGGROUP

May 30, 2018 – The Swiss former pro cyclist and current Olympic time trial champion Fabian Cancellara becomes a brand ambassador for FLYINGGROUP. After having been a satisfied and loyal charter customer for many years he now upgrades to the shared ownership formula.

Cancellara: ” Although my travel needs have changed since I stopped professional cycling I still find Safety and flexibility very important. Even being based in Switzerland the people of FLYINGGROUP have served me perfectly whenever the usual scheduled services couldn’t meet my needs. Over the years we have developed a good relationship and I am happy and proud to become a brand ambassador.”

FLYINGGROUP’s shared ownership is a fast and cost-effective way of travelling, ideal for people who travel regularly. With this formula you can fully tailor the use of a business aircraft and related expenses to your actual flying need at only a fraction of the cost of full ownership of an aircraft.

“Although it remains a niche product it is good to see that there is a renewed interest in the shared ownership formula from various clients in Europe. It is exciting to see that this clientele is very diverse: from the occasional leisure traveller in Malaga to the frequent business traveller based in Paris or even clients with different bases according to the seasons”, says Johan Van Lokeren, CEO of FLYINGGROUP. “We have just added a brand new Citation CJ3+ to the shared ownership fleet to meet demand.”

AirNav Systems First Space Based ADS-B Satellite

Now Streaming Data Live

May 30, 2018 – It is with immense pleasure that AirNav Systems announces the live streaming of data from the first space based ADS-B nano-satellite network. The initial network of nano ADS-B satellites, build and implemented by GomSpace, Denmark, were launched in early 2018 have successfully completed all tests with outstanding results. Not only is this a huge leap forward in terms of 100% global ADS-B coverage, but also proves that high quality, reliable, and accurate satellite flight data can be obtained by customers at relatively inexpensive prices.

To see a demonstration (demo) of live flights tracked by satellite over Europe, please visit the AirNav Systems booth Q109 at the 2018 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2018) in Geneva. If you would like a personalized demo for you or your company, please request that at the booth. Your request will be gladly accommodated.

Visitors to the booth will also be able see flights tracked conventionally via ground based ADS-B & MLAT along with the satellite feed. AirNav Systems has been a long time player in the flight tracking space, and offers the lowest market prices for Space Based ADS-B Satellite tracking.

Space based ADS-B one of the newest innovations in the industry, as it allows tracking of aircraft over extremely tough terrain, wide expanses of water bodies, and in places where ground-based ADS-B systems simply cannot get through. AirNav Systems’ Space based ADS-B network uses data from receivers that are placed on nano-satellite constellations to carry out tracking, thereby enabling nonstop global air traffic surveillance regardless of terrain, location or infrastructure. This global coverage nano-satellite network is unaffected by weather or other natural phenomenon. Aircraft are not required to have any special equipment on board their aircraft or fleet other than an ADS-B out transponder.

No special permission is required from the FAA or national & civil aviation regulators for this service. Customers who operate an aircraft or an aircraft fleet and are looking to be compliant with the mandatory FAA/ICAO/EASA flight tracking requirements that come into effect in the year 2020, can do so now with AirNav’s ground and space ADS-B network service – Radarbox24. Customers subscribed to this service will also receive real-time updates from 8 other flight data sources such as ADS-B, MLAT, FAA ASDI, Oceanic Reports, Flight Plans, CPDLC and HFDL.

AirNav Systems also offers a range of business solutions such as:

• Airport & Fleet Tracking
• Flight Data & History
• Ground Based ADS-B Tracking

These services can be availed by purchase of their newly released Business Accounts that are currently available on their primary flight tracking site – http://www.Radarbox24.com. Customers with business accounts are also entitled to up to 100 downloads of RAW Flight Data per month.

TITAN AVIATION GOES GLOBAL WITH NEW AOCs AND MULTI-NATIONAL EXPERTS PILOTING AMBITIOUS WORLDWIDE GROWTH STRATEGY

Geneva – 29 May, 2018: Titan Aviation, a leading provider of aircraft management, aircraft sales and air charter services in the Middle East and India, has secured two new international Air Operator Certificates (AOC) and laid out its ambitious global growth strategy at EBACE 2018 – Europe’s premier aviation event.

Having recently obtained an AOC from San Marino and FAA Part 135 charter operator certification, adding to its existing EASA, Cayman and DGCA accreditations, Titan Aviation’s immediate growth strategy has already seen the Dubai-headquartered company – now in its 14th year of operation with Titan Aviation India launching nine years ago – open eight new bases across Europe and the USA, and hugely strengthen its operations team.

“We are growing and expanding into the global market with the latest two certifications facilitating our international aircraft management and charter business with aircraft registered in San Marino or the USA now flying all over the world,” said.

With offices in San Marino, Italy, Germany, France, the UK, Florida, New Jersey and New York, Titan now has 25 aircraft in its globally managed fleet, including Lineage 1000, Bombardier Global 6000, Legacy 650 and Gulfstream, with several available for charter.

“Our target is to have 20 jets under management in Europe within two years and 50 in the USA within the same timescale of 2020,” explained Sheik. “The new AOCs and offices leave us well placed to reach these aims. We are now servicing the main European and American business and leisure destinations preferred by our clients in the Middle East and India, while providing seamless access to and from the USA and Europe.”

Titan’s new global operations team heading up the growth programme includes: Captain Joachim Begründe who becomes Head of Europe Base; Henri Lauras as President of Aircraft Sales; Ilaria Cecere who takes on the mantle of Support Services Manager for Europe; James Coak who becomes VP Business Development; Horm Irani, General Manager and Head of US Base; Louis Ridley, Chief Pilot, and Steve Zirelli who joins the Titan Board in the USA.

“This is a highly-skilled cadre of multi-national experts who bring a deep understanding of US, European and global aviation to the business. As we look to greatly widen our wing print within a jet-speed timeframe, Titan is now offering 360-degree aviation solutions around-the-clock,” said Sheik.

Titan’s international growth march also includes expanding its influence into the medevac arena, particularly in the UAE where a gap in the market has arisen with the withdrawal of Abu Dhabi’s Royal Jet from the sector. “We are looking at medevac aircraft that can also be converted into a VIP charter aircraft – and we are looking far beyond the Middle East, with our current footprint which is truly global,” added Sheik.

As a first step towards a fully-fledged medevac operation, Titan is currently finalizing a partnership with a large hospital group in the United Arab Emirates, to provide its specialist medical care operations.

Titan Aviation is gearing up for a series of major announcements during the last quarter of 2018.

Jetex Expands Global Network to Abidjan

30 May 2018 – Jetex announces it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AERIA airport management company to be the exclusive FBO operator and manager of the newly built FBO in Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Jetex made the announcement during the 2018 European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland.

For the current FBO—at the Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport—the handover is scheduled for July of this year.

“We are happy to appoint Jetex as sole and exclusive FBO operator in Abidjan,” said Mr.Gilles Darriau, CEO of AERIA. “Jetex has high standards for FBOs, which is exactly what we were looking for.”

“We chose Abidjan because it is an economic powerhouse for West Africa. It’s a very urbanized and industrial city,” said Jetex President (Europe) Salem Youssef. “We’re excited to offer VIP service and become the first to do so in the region. We’re looking forward to welcoming passengers at our new FBO very soon.”

This adds to the Jetex portfolio with our first FBO in West Africa and second location in the region after Morocco. This 1,000 m2 location is expected to open by July 2018 with full VIP services.

A full spectrum of flight support, ground transfer, and bespoke concierge services will also be available via Jetex’s operations centers in Dubai, Miami, and Beijing.

AERIA (International Airport of Abidjan) is part of the wider EGIS airports network, which includes 17 airports across 8 countries.

Jetex to Open New FBO on the Emerald Isle

30 May 2018 – Jetex will open a new FBO adjacent to the main terminal at the Dublin Airport in Ireland’s lively capital city. The new terminal will provide private jet passengers a gateway to the home of Dublin Castle and city streets filled with music and mirth.

“Ireland is preparing for a surge in air traffic in the coming years,” said Adel Mardini, Jetex CEO and

President. “We’re excited to expand our FBO network to include Dublin.”

The Dublin Airport, located 6 miles north of Dublin, is Ireland’s busiest. Over 80,000 passengers pass through the airport every day. It has an extensive short and medium haul network and significant long haul traffic focused on North America, Middle East, and East Asia.

Private jet traffic is around 3,500 departures a year and is expected to grow at a steady pace.

“It’s the perfect time for Jetex to open here,” said Brendan McQuaid, Managing Director for Jetex’s

Dublin FBO. “Dublin is booming right now, the airport itself is scaling up, and there are so many jet

operators and corporations that generate a lot of air traffic. We needed Jetex in Dublin.”

The opening of this FBO highlights the company’s continuous expansion in the European market with Jetex facilities located in Italy, France and Spain.

The new FBO will have a lounge for crew and for passengers, access to a world-class platinum lounge. The services at this location will include, ground handling, fuel, concierge, and full dispatch package. It should be operational in the next few weeks.

A full spectrum of flight support, ground transfer, and bespoke concierge services will also be available at the facility or via Jetex’s operations centers in Dubai, Miami, and Beijing.

HONEYWELL’S LATEST CONNECTED AIRCRAFT HARDWARE ENHANCES THE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE FOR AIR HAMBURG

Charter airline selects Honeywell’s GoDirect Router and GoDirect Access service to provide high-speed, in-flight Wi-Fi to its passengers while keeping a closer eye on operator costs

            GENEVA, May 30, 2018 – Honeywell’s (NYSE: HON) GoDirect^TM Router and GoDirect Access service have been selected by Air Hamburg to bring advanced cabin and passenger connectivity features to its fleet of Embraer Legacy 650 jets. Combining the GoDirect Router with GoDirect Access allows the private jet operator to manage in-flight Wi-Fi connections more easily while monitoring network access to keep a close eye on data usage and associated costs.

            “The next generation of business jet travelers will be young millennial workers who expect fast and reliable connectivity as standard,” said Torben Mundt, deputy director, Flight Operations, Air Hamburg. “By working with Honeywell, we can meet these expectations and get access to all kinds of data bandwidth monitoring options and services that help us improve the inflight experience, all while saving time and money.”

With the smaller, more power-efficient GoDirect router, Air Hamburg can create new cost structures that make connectivity more readily available and ensure passengers can remain productive in flight. GoDirect Access offers enhanced network control to operators with monitoring options to ensure consumption charges never exceed budgets. These features can help streamline billing and eliminate the chance of operators absorbing costs that can be better met by passengers who benefit from the availability of Wi-Fi services in the cabin.

“Operating in the price-sensitive charter market means you have to strike the right balance between managing costs and providing a great passenger experience,” said Stephen Alcock, senior director, B&GA Aftermarket – Europe, Honeywell Aerospace. “Previously, Air Hamburg could commit to only occasional internet availability due to cost considerations. Now, access to in-flight Wi-Fi never has to be limited, and with easier monitoring, chasing related invoices can become a thing of the past.”

            Introduced in March, Honeywell’s GoDirect Router provides all the speed, performance and reliability of today’s best routers in a package that is half the size and weight, and one-third of the price of comparable products. These features make it ideal for business jets. By enabling reliable connectivity in an easy-to-install system, the new router offers the broadest and most secure set of features available.

SchedAero launches APIs to boost customers’ efficiency and business

EBACE, Geneva, 30^th May 2018: Pioneering bizav technology leader Avinode Group (EBACE booth D69) is helping customers build their business, improve decision-making and increase efficiency with the launch of a suite of APIs (application programming interfaces) for the group’s SchedAero charter sales and operations system.

The APIs, available globally, connect SchedAero to a company’s existing applications, such as customer relationship management and business operations systems.

Johan Sjöberg, SchedAero’s business manager, says: “This integration means users can access the trip, scheduling, quoting and crew data held in SchedAero through their existing IT platforms, without having to separately access SchedAero.

“SchedAero is a data goldmine that our customers can really exploit through our APIs. Information about customers, quotes, scheduled trips and crew can now be carefully analyzed, interrogated and turned into a strategic asset, helping clients spot patterns and release untapped potential. Targeted marketing campaigns will become easier and more effective than ever before.”

Using the APIs, duplication of data entry is minimized, as information held in SchedAero can simply be shared automatically, in real time, with a client’s other systems. The resulting efficiencies not only save time (and headaches!) but also minimize the risk of errors.

 Sjöberg continues: “We see seamless data exchange and systems integration as increasingly important to the growth and success of business aviation. Everyone in our industry wins when the many different companies involved in putting together a great flight – from brokers, operators, caterers and FBOs to ourselves at SchedAero and across the Avinode Group – ‘talk’ to each other electronically. The latest developments in API infrastructure mean software products and multiple stand-alone systems can now share data easily. We know our customers really appreciate how APIs strengthen existing platforms, so we’re thrilled to be improving our digital offering with these new products.”

DocuSign integration

SchedAero is a web-based aircraft and crew scheduling system for operators, flight departments and private aircraft owners. Users have access to software allowing activities including scheduling, quoting, flight and duty logging, invoicing and customer management. 

Continually moving forward, SchedAero is now integrated with DocuSign, a leading player in the field of electronic signatures. As a result, customers and partners can sign electronic agreements including quotes. The process dramatically increases the speed and efficiency of digital workflow and document exchanges during flight scheduling and booking.

Sjöberg says: “We’re the first European company offering the DocuSign service for business aviation quotes and we’re really excited about the benefits. When you use SchedAero and DocuSign together, everybody wins. Not only does your organization become more efficient but you also make it so much easier for your clients to do business with you. Scanning, printing and faxing become things of the past.”

EMBRAER JETS CERTIFIED TO FLY WITH HONEYWELL’S JETWAVE HIGH-SPEED WI-FI SYSTEM

Aviation safety regulators certify the installation of Connected Aircraft hardware on Embraer Lineage 1000E jets

Honeywell (NYSE: HON) has received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration, European Aviation Safety Agency and Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency for the installation of its JetWave^TM satellite communications hardware onboard Embraer Lineage 1000E Executive Jets. Certification allows Embraer to significantly enhance operators’ in-flight connectivity, as well as the connectivity of passengers, pilots and crew.

“Since entering the business aviation market, Embraer Executive Jets has remained committed to raising performance standards through the use of innovative technology,” said Luciano Castro, vice president programs, Embraer Executive Jets. “Introducing JetWave to our Lineage 1000E platform will ensure we deliver reliable connectivity to both the cabin and cockpit, which is one of the ways we are enhancing the customer experience.”

JetWave is the exclusive high-speed communications hardware that powers a plane’s ability to connect with Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX service. It is optimized to ensure reliable and fast connectivity across the globe, allowing users to access business networks, connect to social media, and have a similar connected experience to what they get at the office or home.

“Passenger expectations for reliable in-flight Wi-Fi continue to soar. Our JetWave hardware addresses that need,” said James MacDougall, director, SATCOM, Honeywell Aerospace. “The JetWave system provides connectivity across the cabin and cockpit, allowing passengers, pilots and operators to experience the benefits of being online while they fly. Whether it is providing passengers with easy access to their office applications, or helping to reduce delays by allowing uninterrupted communication between pilots and ground crew, JetWave truly powers the Connected Aircraft.”

The certifications from the Federal Aviation Administration, European Aviation Safety Agency and Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency come after Embraer confirmed it will upgrade its Lineage 1000E Jets with JetWave with both retrofit and forward fit options.

Primadonna Lux Now Delivers an Even More Luxurious In-flight Experience

May 30, 2018 – Geneva, Switzerland – Primadonna Lux is about to make aviation luxury even better by unveiling the Diep Sleep System.

Other in-flight bed systems are inflatable, and thus susceptible to punctures, dependent upon noisy air pumps, bulky, air-flow blocking, only moderately comfortable, and time-consuming to set up. The Diep Sleep System solves all of these problems. In less than 30 seconds, the Diep Sleep System transforms from a ingeniously compact package into a stable, sturdy bed frame with a quiet, comfortable, memory foam mattress. Three comfort levels ensure the perfect restful sleep for up to two people. The ergonomic design allows for ample foot room.

When it’s time to wake, everything stows into a compact and stylish package in under a minute. Worries and patch kits can be left behind; this bed will never deflate, so it’s ready 100% of the time.

Thoughtfully designed with quality, efficiency, comfort and luxury in mind, the Diep Sleep System delivers an exceptional travel experience.

Private jet travel should feel like an oasis in the sky. With their Dine, Relax, Sleep and Refresh Collections, Primadonna curates everything needed for exceptional in-flight experiences. Primadonna is a full-service interior design showroom offering unparalleled design expertise and is a manufacturer of fine luxury goods.

Beechcraft King Air 350i rolls out improved situational awareness, navigation

GENEVA (May 30, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced during the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) 2018 that iTAWS is now standard on the Pro Line Fusion-equipped Beechcraft King Air 350i/ER turboprop aircraft. The system provides an integrated Terrain Awareness and Warning System (iTAWS) with the Fusion’s high-resolution Synthetic Vision System (SVS) for easy operation.

iTAWS brings aural and visual warnings to the primary flight display and multi-function displays, and it eliminates the standalone TAWS line-replaceable unit along with all related wiring and complexity.

Also newly standard for the King Air 350i is multi-scan radar with turbulence detection that automatically detects short, mid and long-range weather. This provides an optimized weather picture regardless of the aircraft altitude or the range selected. Additionally, mobile enablement is now available as an option that allows wireless chart and flight plan uploads from an iPad via the ARINCDirect app, in addition to allowing the avionics to wirelessly receive and upload v-speeds.

“Integration of the latest technology and comfort throughout the cockpit and cabin have made the Pro Line Fusion-equipped King Air 350i a success since it achieved certification and entered service in late 2015,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “We continue to invest in the world’s best-selling business turboprop family, bringing owners/operators features that are important to them. Better navigation, more accurate storm information and increased situational awareness lower the pilot workload and boost the comfort of everyone on board.”

All new Beechcraft King Air turboprops come equipped with Pro Line Fusion flight decks. The company expects to roll out the above new features on the King Air 250 in the near future.

About Pro Line Fusion

Pro Line Fusion for the King Air brings one of the most trusted avionics architectures to the first full touch-screen flight display system. The avionics system changes how operators fly through a one-of-a-kind intuitive flight deck interface. Its three 14-inch displays are interchangeable, high-resolution and touch controlled. Other performance-enhancing capabilities include:

Integrated touch-screen checklists

Intuitive graphical touch-screen flight planning

High-resolution SVS with patented airport dome graphics

Convenient presets to reconfigure all three displays with a single touch

Dual multi-sensor flight management system

Available automatic flight plan uploads

Open and scalable architecture for future upgrades and mandates

Pilot training for the Pro Line Fusion King Airs is offered at TRU Simulation + Training’s new ProFlight training center near Tampa, Florida. Additionally, TRU, also a Textron company, offers aircraft maintenance training for the new models in its newly renovated Wichita facility.

King Air leadership

More than 7,300 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964, making it the best-selling business turboprop family in the world. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 60 million flight hours in its first 54 years, serving roles in all branches of the U.S. military and flying both commercial and special mission roles around the world.

Embraer Sells 4 More Legacy 650E Business Jets to Air Hamburg

Geneva, Switzerland, May29, 2018 – Embraer announced today a new purchase agreement with Air  Hamburg for four more Legacy  650E  business  jets. The  agreement  was  announced on  the  opening  day  of the  18th  European  Business  Aviation  Convention  and  Exhibition (EBACE)  in  Geneva,  Switzerland. With  this additional  order,  the  Germany-based business charter  operator,  which  serves European,  Russian  and  Middle  East  destinations, will expand its  Embraer  flagship  fleet to 17 aircraft (15Legacy  600/650 and two Phenom  300). Air Hamburg is the world’s largest operator of the Legacy 600/650 aircraft models. The delivery of  these aircraft commence  in  the  second  quarter  of  2018 and  continue  at  a  rate  of  one  per quarter  through  the  first  quarter  of  2019. The  contract  has  a  value  of  USD 103.6 million, based  on  current  list  prices,  and  will  be  included  in the Company’s 2018 second-quarter backlog.

“As the global launch customer of the Legacy 650E, Air Hamburg has proven the success of the aircraft in delivering a superior customer experience,” said Michael Amalfitano, President & CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. “We  are  proud  to support  the continued  growth  of Air Hamburg’s flagship  fleet,  which reaffirms  the  value of  our partnership  and  of  the  Legacy 650E.”

“Our partnership  with  Embraer dates  back  to  2013  with  our  first  Legacy  600.  With  this additional order, we are eager to grow our Embraer fleet by 30% to meet market demand for these popular aircraft,” says Simon Ebert,Owner of Air Hamburg. “The premium comfort of the Legacy 650E’s three cabin zones and the convenience of all the amenities, the reliability, performance and generous baggage allowance help drive the satisfaction of our customers.”

With  more  than  70  aircraft  in  operation  in  Europe  and  over 260 aircraft  worldwide,  the Legacy  600/650/650E  is  based  on  a  proven  platform  with  over  25  million  hours  flown. The Legacy 650E is the first and only aircraft to offer a 10-year or 10,000-flight hour warranty for systems and  components  (OEM  and  supplier),  matching  the  warranty  period  to  that  of  the airframe. The  Legacy  650E  offers three  distinct  cabin  zones, with the largest  cabin,  galley, lavatory, and baggage compartment in its class.

The Sapphire Pegasus Awards honouring the elite of business aviation at EBACE

29th May 2018, Geneva; The Sapphire Pegasus Awards were presented at EBACE. Luxaviation, PrivateFly, Hunt and Palmer and other winners accepted their awards in fifteen categories in Geneva. The Sapphire Pegasus Award is a symbol of gratitude for the superb performance in an industry segment where mediocrity is unacceptable. The Award has been accepted as an asset of its own kind in the industry and already finds worldwide attention. In Europe, the professional business aviation organizations EBAA, BACA, WCA, CEPA and AfBAA are supporting partners of the awards.

Antonia Lukacinova, founder of the Sapphire Pegasus Business Aviation Awards said: “We are delighted to be able to present the third annual Sapphire Pegasus Awards at EBACE in Geneva, the premier business aviation gathering in Europe. Recognizing the wide-ranging expertise in this dynamic industry we were especially pleased to add more categories this year and the response to this from industry peers has been terrific. We congratulate all these stellar companies and individuals on their fine achievements.”

For the great achievement and recognition of the highest level of excellence, the Awards went to the following award winners:

Business Jet Operator – Luxaviation

Broker – Aircraft Broker, Charter Broker – PrivateFly

Handler / FBO – Jetex

Service Provider – Flight Support, MRO – UAS International Trip Support

Business Aviation Airport – London Oxford Airport

Innovation in Business Aviation – AVIAA

Lifetime Achievement – Mohammed Husary, UAS International Trip Support

Woman in Aviation – Julie Black, Hunt & Palmer and BACA Council Member

Young Talent / Start Up – Andy King, FLYT

Charity / Relief Effort – will be given during the Sapphire Pegasus Caribbean

Business Aviation Journalist / Topic Coverage – shared winners Liz Moscrop, GearUp TV and Chad Trautvetter, Aviation International News

Outstanding Design – Design Q

Outstanding Communication in Business Aviation – Emerald Media

Business Aviation Photography – Matthias Geiger

Outstanding Contribution to Business Aviation Winner – Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, MEBAA

“The Woman in Aviation award recognizes excellence and diversity in business aviation. Progress, leadership, courage, grace and determination are hallmarks of successful individuals and businesses in our industry. It was my honor to present this award to Julie Black,” Elizabeth A. Clark, CAM and Women in Corporate Aviation

The words of the winner in the Outstanding Contribution to Business Aviation category, Ali Alnaqbi, Founding & Executive Chairman of MEBAA may have reflected the feelings of all other winners: “It is an honor to receive this award. Business Aviation indeed is an important tool to grow the economy of a country.”

The Award for one of the most demanding categories Outstanding FBO and handler went to Jetex. Adel Mardini, Jetex CEO and President commented on their achievement: “First, we’d like to thank our clients for voting us outstanding FBO and handler. We’ve focused on creating an excellent passenger experience at our Dubai FBO, on setting a high standard of service and expanding it throughout our global network. We’re honored to receive this award.”

The Lifetime achievement award for the landmark contributions to business aviation throughout the career went to Mohammed Husary, Co-Owner/Founder and Executive President, UAS International Trip Support, who shared: “I’m honored to receive this award and the acknowledgement of my contribution to the industry that I have devoted myself to. My compliments to Sapphire Pegasus for highlighting the amazing standards being achieved in business aviation.”

Antonia Lukacinova summarised the Sapphire Pegasus Awards by saying: “The increased interest in the Sapphire Pegasus Award shows that the recognition of outstanding performances is widely appreciated and recognized by the international business aviation community. Based on last year’s success of Sapphire Pegasus Caribbean, we will present the trophy for eight outstanding performances and accomplishments during the Caribbean Aviation Meetup taking place in Nassau on 12th June.”

Textron Aviation delivers first Citations for Guernsey AOC operations in Channel Islands

GENEVA (May 29, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced it has delivered a Cessna Citation M2 and a Cessna Citation CJ3+ to ORTA°C (AOC) Ltd. — the first business to operate Citation aircraft under a Guernsey Air Operators Certificate (AOC) in the Channel Islands.

The ORTA°C operations team manages the aircraft on behalf of its clients, and will use the aircraft for international commercial charter.

“These deliveries are evidence of the increasing demand for general aviation in the Channel Islands,” said Tom Perry, regional vice president of European Sales. “We are thrilled to have ORTA°C join the Citation family, and we trust that the M2 and CJ3+ — renowned for their reliability, efficiency and comfort — will be phenomenal assets to further strengthen the region’s growing commercial charter market.”

Representatives from ORTA°C accepted delivery of the aircraft earlier this month at Textron Aviation headquarters in Wichita, Kansas.

“On behalf of our clients, ORTA°C is delighted to have taken delivery of two new Cessna aircraft — a Citation M2 and a Citation CJ3+,” said Tobi Mathews, ORTA°C managing director. “The purchasing process has been seamless, and we have been exceptionally pleased with the sales and technical support that we have received from the excellent team at Textron Aviation, at every level.”

Textron Aviation further expands European service footprint, features line maintenance at London Biggin Hill Airport

GENEVA (May 29, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced during the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) 2018 that it has expanded its London presence with a line maintenance station at London Biggin Hill Airport, further enhancing accessibility to factory-direct service and support for Citation, King Air and Hawker customers operating throughout Europe.

The Biggin Hill station opened earlier this month, making the expertise of Textron Aviation more accessible and convenient for business aviation operators who rely on the busy hub of London.

“In 2012, we committed to the European market to grow our service and support in the region. And five years later, we’ve delivered on that commitment,” said Kriya Shortt, senior vice president, Customer Service “Our expansion efforts in Europe have been driven by feedback from our customers within the region. We have made great strides to increase accessibility to factory-direct service and support, as well as to parts inventory through the parts distribution center in Düsseldorf. The combination of these investments is yielding significant rewards for Textron Aviation customers in Europe.”

The addition of the Biggin Hill line maintenance station is the latest expansion by Textron Aviation to bring factory-direct service and support to customers in Europe. Since 2012, the company has grown its support footprint in Europe to include six company-owned service centers, six line maintenance stations and a team of more than 400 Textron Aviation staff, including engineers, service technicians and field service representatives.

Furthermore, as part of the company’s global parts distribution strategy, it established its European Parts Distribution Center in Düsseldorf, Germany. With a diverse inventory of more than 225,000 parts, the centralized facility allows for expedited parts deliveries throughout the region, maximizing operational availability for customers operating within Europe.

“With flight activity continuing to increase in Europe, we are poised to support our customers operating throughout the region,” said Shortt. “And as we continue to see the market improve, we are committed to further strengthening our robust support network in Europe and around the world.”

Inmarsat celebrates 275th installation of Jet ConneX business aviation inflight Wi-Fi solution

Impressive milestone reached after next-generation service is selected by the world’s leading business jet manufacturers as a preferred linefit option

30 May 2018: Inmarsat (LON: ISAT), the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, announced today that its market-leading Jet ConneX business aviation inflight wifi service has been installed and activated on 275 business jets worldwide.

The impressive milestone was reached less than 18 months since Jet ConneX entered commercial service, highlighting its rapid uptake across the world. As the only global, high-speed inflight Wi-Fi option for business jets today, it offers the same fast and reliable connectivity in the air that has previously only been available on the ground.

Michael Rack, Senior Vice President of Core Business, Inmarsat Aviation, said: “The fact that 275 aircraft have been installed with Jet ConneX in such a short space of time is a major endorsement of the service from customers. In the business aviation market, it’s clear that manufacturers, owners and passengers all compete to have the very best products and services, so positive word-of-mouth about standout offerings travels fast.

“Early adopters of Jet ConneX from Fortune 500 flight departments have put the solution through their own rigorous testing and commended its merits after experiencing the results first-hand. Without their endorsement we would not be reaching this milestone so quickly.”

Market-leading business jet manufacturers Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault and Embraer have all selected Jet ConneX as a preferred line-fit option. In addition, Inmarsat has experienced substantial adoption of the solution on a retrofit basis, with more than 40 type certificate and supplemental type certificate (STC) approvals already secured, including for all Boeing and Airbus VVIP type models.

“We are delighted that manufacturers, maintenance professionals and owners all recognise the unparalleled quality and potential of this solution,” added Michael Rack. “Since entering commercial service, Jet ConneX adoption has made ground-breaking progress globally and we see no signs of it slowing down. Demand continues to be incredibly strong among executive travellers, particularly amongst Fortune 500 companies, and we look forward to even more activations in the coming months.”

Using Inmarsat’s advanced Ka-band satellite network, Jet ConneX offers data plans up to 15Mbps and consistent global coverage across all airline routes enabling the business traveller to do business wherever and whenever.

Aircraft connect to the service using Jet Wave hardware, which is manufactured exclusively by Honeywell Aerospace. To date, more than 1,000 of these JetWave systems have already been delivered by Honeywell to business aviation and commercial airline customers.

New era beckons for Acropolis Aviation

•           Returns to EBACE 2018 to confirm IFE partner on new ACJ320neo

•           Empty legs now feature on new website

•           ACJ319 G-NOAH features on static

Acropolis Aviation, the Farnborough Airport, UK-based VVIP charter operator returns to EBACE Geneva this week (Stand D69) to confirm another important supplier on its brand-new Airbus ACJ320 –  which entered production at Airbus’ Toulouse facility this month.

Acropolis is due to receive the first ACJ320 in the world during the fourth quarter of 2019.  The aircraft is due to be delivered green by Airbus to Acropolis’ chosen outfitter, AMAC Aerospace before year end.  AMAC will be installing a new Alberto Pinto cabin at its Basel, Switzerland facilities.

Maintaining the tradition of making supplier announcements coinciding with Europe’s largest business aviation show, Acropolis, via AMAC Aerospace of Switzerland, has specified Rockwell Collins as cabin management system provider for the ACJ320.

Acropolis is specifying Rockwell Collins’ high-definition Venue cabin management and entertainment system; Stage on demand; Air show moving map and the company’s innovative Vie^t LED interior lighting system.

The decision to keep loyal to Rockwell Collins builds on a successful relationship which first began with the introduction of Skybox IFE in 2015, through to the upgrade to Stage aboard G-NOAH earlier this year, said Acropolis CEO Jonathan Bousfield.

G-NOAH is participating in the EBACE static park this year, available for viewing by appointment, taking time out from what has been a busy year to date, on both sides of the Atlantic.

The aircraft is booked through to mid June, undertaking increasingly more leisure / family flying to destinations including the Middle East.  Saudi Arabia is especially strong and the USA, where there is increasing demand for flights to movie premiers and music tours – covering the US, Europe and Asia, adds Kuky Salazar, VP Americas.

Acropolis is also pleased to showcase its new website. www.acropolis-aviation.com

 Acropolis Website screenshot

Empty legs added to website

A new addition to the site, which has been created by creative partners, London based Design Inc, is empty leg availability.

Acropolis often repositions G-NOAH to other global locations in time for its charter flight, notes Charter Manager Carlo Montanni, who joined Acropolis a few months ago from VistaJet.

“Where there is availability, our charter sales team is pleased to be offering empty leg flights at a competitive rate,” he notes.

Asia’s ASA Group and L’VOYAGE agree merger

• Creates ALLAVITA to combine expertise in air charter and ground services
• Responds to demands from new generation of travellers

EBACE, Geneva May 29, 2018:   Asia’s leading business aviation specialists, the ASA Group and L’VOYAGE, announced today at EBACE, they are to merge their operations, capitalizing on the region’s double-digit growth for private jet charter and on-the-ground services.

They will combine under a new brand – ALLAVITA – meaning ‘towards a good life’, reflecting that private jet usage in the region is shifting with more high net worth, younger individuals chartering for leisure – than ever before.

ALLAVITA Holdings Ltd will hold interests in ASA’s ground handling supervision, security, protection and luxury concierge services, plus L’VOYAGE’s expertise in travel curation and private jet charter activity.  L’VOYAGE will take over all charter and luxury services activity, with ASA focusing on handling, permits and security.

The combined business will merge staff from both companies and continue to have its HQ in Hong Kong, plus offices in China, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and The Philippines.

Since 1999 ASA, founded by chairman Simon Wagstaff, has focused on FBO and charter service, security knowledge, travel risk management, including journey planning and lifestyle service.  With the latter. ASA has enjoyed a long and close association with Remote Lands, Inc in New York and Simon is a small minority shareholder in the business. L’VOYAGE’s strength is its ability to have direct access to ultra HNWI across the region and tailor charter and lifestyle solutions to their needs.  During the four and a half years of its existence it has built up a strong and loyal international client base.

Simon will oversee all operational expertise as chairman of ALLAVITA, ASA Group and L’VOYAGE, supported by his long serving senior management colleague Julie Ambrose, who becomes Chief Operating Officer.  L’VOYAGE founder, Diana Chou, will continue to be chairman of her DGA Group, overseeing the business’ unique bespoke customer relationships and data technology of her aviation portfolio.

“Over the next six months we are looking forward to consolidating our sales and on-the-ground operations to offer our clients a wider range of services in Greater China and South East Asia,” added Simon Wagstaff.

Asia’s business aircraft fleet is expected to grow further by a compound annual growth rate of 13% in Greater China, 12% in South Asia and 6% in Asia Pacific up to 2027, according to a recent study by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA).

A wide concern however, is that the expansion of specialised aviation talent is not keeping up. “Enticing new talent is the biggest challenge we face in Asia.  Combining our skillsets, and encouraging more young people into the sector is one of our key objectives within this partnership,” said Diana Chou.

Business aviation travel in Asia is still dominated by the luxury travel demands of its billionaires, she noted.  In 2017, billionaires in Asia outnumbered their US counterparts for the first time.  A joint report by UBS Group AG and PwC estimates that on average, a new billionaire is created in Asia every two days. The total number of Asian billionaires rose by almost a quarter to 637 in 2017, compared with 563 in the US, with China being the lead source of new billionaires. (source)

“South Asia and Greater China are expected to lead global growth with 5.7% and 4.6% CAGR over the next 20 years, respectively, so Asia’s business aviation sector needs to catch up compared with other markets. Switzerland for example, has at least three registered business jets per billionaire, compared with less than one jet per billionaire in China currently. ALLAVITA is our response to this exciting development and enticing the new super class travellers,” Diana added.

SD highlighting importance of cyber security management with ‘live hacks’ at EBACE18.

Geneva, Swtizerland/ 29 May 2018 –  Satcom Direct, the business aviation connectivity, hardware and software provider, is hosting ethical hackers performing ‘live’ hacks at SD booth W115 during EBACE 2018. The “white hat” hackers are demonstrating how Identity information capture, social engineering, phishing, password cracking, and system compromise occurs. The revealing presentations explain the potential impact of malicious intent, and how data network vulnerabilities are exploited. Using real-world scenarios, the digital security professionals from security testing company Shorebreak Security, outline practical solutions that can reduce potential dangers from the “black hat” threats.

Demonstrations of the SD Cyber Security Solutions portfolio, which combines the benefits of SD’s hardware routers, software services, ground infrastructure and technical expertise to protect business aviation data, complement the presentations. The portfolio also includes the SD Threat Monitoring Module, a feature supported by digital flight operations dashboard SD Pro®. The proprietary software provides customers with current and previous views of network security, highlights potential threats, and identifies incidents. With SD’s secure network infrastructure, SD customers also benefit from full data encryption from the air to the ground, while SD’s certified cyber security experts actively monitor data traffic to evaluate any risk.

The SD family of routers, added to SD connectivity and SD Pro software solutions, will then also provide detailed connectivity information, aircraft performance details, and cyber security data giving the customer real time flight management feedback to better support network and operational planning. When combined with the SD Private Network, the full suite enables IT departments to apply full corporate compliance protocols to their fleets, just as they would in their offices. Customers using the combination of SD hardware, SD software and the SD Private Network benefit from the SD guarantee of network security.

“As business aviation becomes more connected, aircraft become digital platforms for incoming and outgoing data transfer, and we want to provide our customers with the most innovative solutions to protect vital information.  Each system will have its own vulnerability, so the need to constantly monitor, and proactively prevent cyber-attacks is now imperative. We anticipate that our independent data security experts will drive home just how important it is to be aware of the threat of cyber security, and the need to implement the necessary hardware and software to better protect data,” says Michael Skou Christensen, VP SD International.

SD is also introducing delegates to CyberSAFEÔ, (Securing Assets For End-users) the industry’s first certified training course which teaches aviation professionals how to avoid cyber security failures.  Delivered in partnership with Logical Operations, the course educates users about technology related risks, compliance considerations, social engineering, and other data-security-related concepts.  Those new to cyber security in aviation can benefit from SD’s free Cyber Smart Kit. Available at the booth, the kit gives real-world scenarios, quick tips, recommended actions and suggests protocols to implement specifically designed for aviation.

Bizav brokers risk falling behind using legacy processes, says Avinode

Avinode adds chat feature to digital platforms

EBACE, Geneva, 29^th May 2018: Pioneering bizav technology leader Avinode (EBACE booth D69) is inviting European charter brokers to adopt and enjoy the workflow benefits of the company’s TripManager sales management system, rather than rely on legacy processes.

Avinode says brokers globally, and especially in the US, consistently report improved workflow when using TripManager. Avinode wants to ensure European brokers do not miss out on the benefits being enjoyed by their counterparts.

Oliver King, CEO of the Avinode Group, says: “Seeing our game-changing technology drive the industry forward is incredibly exciting and rewarding. We understand some European brokers feel comfortable using long-established processes but those legacy solutions are painfully slow and inefficient now. If you don’t make changes soon, you risk falling behind your competitors.

“We want all our European customers to know how quickly and easily they can upgrade to TripManager, the only sales management system designed specifically for business aviation charter brokers. The benefits of the system include automating repetitive data entry tasks, whether planning flights, creating professional quotes rapidly or managing and updating the customer database. As all Avinode platforms are integrated, including PayNode, you only ever need to input information once. All the key data is held in one place, accessible 24/7 from anywhere in the world. The end result is what all brokers want – increased conversion rates, better productivity and a growing business.”

 Brokers praise “excellent” TripManager

Early adopters of TripManager love how the product improves their workflow.

Michael J. Ogulnik, chief executive officer of California-based private aviation broker Quantum Jets, says: “TripManager is one of the most valuable tools we use. All our trips are neatly organized and can be called up for reference in a matter of seconds, allowing us to easily manage upcoming trips and look back instantly at a client’s history.”

Luis Barros, founder and chief executive officer of Texas-based Leviate Air Group (formerly Horizon), agrees, saying: “TripManager is excellent in keeping all our trip information in one place. If anything happens to one of our team, someone else can step in and get to work on the trip without skipping a beat.”

Giles Vickers-Jones, chairman of UK-based international business aviation charter broker SHY Aviation, adds: “TripManager has definitely improved our efficiency and streamlined our business. We use TripManager to provide us with all client-facing information, from quote proposals to contracts and invoices.”

Avinode’s new messaging feature

Avinode’s product range is constantly being improved, leading to even higher levels of customer satisfaction and rising numbers of users.

New for May 2018 is a messaging/chat feature which can be used on Avinode’s desktop and mobile platforms. Brokers and operators can now instantly connect to discuss trip details with all the necessary information easily at hand, rather than needing to rely on phone or email contact. The many questions when arranging a private flight, from: “Will golf clubs fit on this aircraft?” to: “Will there be a VIP limousine waiting on arrival?”, can be asked and answered through the messaging service. Misunderstandings and missed communications can be minimized.

King says: “Switching between emails, phone calls and text messages when trying to confirm trips can be difficult and confusing. This new service simplifies and centralizes the process. Our customers have been calling for messaging and, as ever, we’ve listened. We love bringing new features to the market, so we’re really excited about this service. Over 600 messages were sent on the first day alone [May 7]. And the positive immediate feedback from our customers, including their social media comments, tells us we’ve had an instant success with instant messaging.”

Embraer Sells  Legacy  500  to  Centreline, making  it Europe’s Largest Operator of this Business Jet Model

Geneva, Switzerland, May29,  2018 – Embraer announced today the signing of a purchase agreement for a pre-owned Legacy 500. The agreement was announced on the opening day of the  18th  European  Business  Aviation  Convention  and  Exhibition  (EBACE)  in  Geneva, Switzerland. The business jet will be operated by Centreline, a UK-based full-service private jet company, which  already  operates  two  Legacy  500s. Delivery  of this additional orderisscheduled for August 2018.

“We are delighted  and  eager to  support  the  growth  of Centrelinewith  the  revolutionary Legacy   500,”  said  Michael   Amalfitano,   President   &   CEO,   Embraer   Executive   Jets. “Beautifully  designed  and  brilliantly  engineered, the  Legacy  500 delivers true  value to operators and an unparalleled customer experience to its passengers.”

“We  are  very  proud  of  our  heritage  in  finding  the perfect  aircraft  that  meets our  customers’ unique  requirements  and  aligns  to our  brand  values,” said Tanya  Raynes, Centreline  CEO. “The Legacy 500 makes it easy to deliver an exceptional experience to our customers and its popularity sustains a good revenue stream for our aircraft owners.”

Centreline’s Legacy 500 has a premium cabin layout, with a berthing divan and six club seats that can  become three lie-flat  beds during flight,  offering complete  rest  and  relaxation, complemented by a full service galley, private rear lavatory with vanity and wardrobe, and the most generous baggage compartment in the jet’sclass.

“I am thrilled to grow our fleet with another Legacy 500,whose interior design and very quiet cabin  wows  our  customers,”  said  Captain  James  Pyne,  Centreline’sFlight  Operations Manager. “We always receive positive feedback from customers and the aircraft’s astounding runway performance gets our passengers conveniently closer to each of their destinations.”

With 15 aircraft in operation throughout Europe, Africa and The Middle East,and more than 60aircraft  worldwide,  the Legacy 500 is  a medium  cabin  jet  that has set  new  standards  in passenger experience, offering the smoothest flights possible will full fly-by-wire technology.

For more information about Centreline, please visit: http://www.centreline.aero

Piaggio Aerospace unveils new services to its customers

 Partnership with Lowcountry Aviation to develop a Supplemental Type Certificate for the upgrade of the Avanti I to the next-generation landing gear technology. ADS-B Out retrofit can be now installed on the Avanti II.

New Customer Web Portal is launched. New offers are aimed at aligning the P.180 fleet to the highest Avanti EVO standards and at expanding services wherever Clients are, anytime.

Geneva, May 29, 2018 – At EBACE, the premier business aviation event in Europe, today Piaggio Aerospace has unveiled a suite of new customer service solutions for its P.180 Avanti aircraft fleet.

 “Customer service is of paramount importance to Piaggio Aerospace, and in line with our long-term growth plans, our primary goal is continuing to put our global existing and future customers first”, said Renato Vaghi, Chief Executive Officer of Piaggio Aerospace, “With super-fast changing standard of excellence, we offer to our clients an ever-increasing level of support throughout the in-service life of their P.180 Avanti, completing the benefits of owning one of the top aircraft on the market”.

 Magnaghi landing gear retrofit installation for P.180 Avanti I and sales update for Avanti II

For private, commercial and government operators of the Avanti I that wish to upgrade their aircraft to the next-generation landing gear technology offered as a retrofit on the Avanti II and in baseline on factory-new EVO, Piaggio Aerospace has partnered with Lowcountry Aviation Company, of Walterboro, SC (USA), for the development of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). The new Magnaghi Aeronautica main and nose landing gears feature a state-of-the-art digital steering system with an enhanced rack and pinion actuation mechanism and provide improved reliability, extended TBO up to 15 years or 15.000 landings and lower overhaul costs compared to the current gear arrangement.

 “We are thrilled to do our part to provide Avanti customers with a next-generation landing gear system at a competitive price. The new Magnaghi landing gear system complements the Avanti’s superior flight performance in the market place and ensures that Avanti assets worldwide can continue to add value for customers for years to come”, said Marco Cavazzoni, Lowcountry Aviation.

 The STC, planned for year’s end, will approve the installation of the new Magnaghi landing gear under the authority of the FAA first and then EASA and government agencies. Lowcountry Aviation Company, a one-stop service provider having access to skilled and experienced engineering resources, provides FAA-regulated Part 145 maintenance, Part 135 charters and aircraft manufacturing. The company also has an established relationship with Magnaghi Aeronautica.

Carrying on Piaggio Aerospace’s strategy of enhancement of the legacy models, the retrofit program on the Avanti II of the new Magnaghi Aeronautica landing gear, often referred to as the “EVO landing gear”, announced a year ago, has already generated eight sales of the retrofit packages. With these come a state-of-the-art digitally controlled steering system, extended life components, and the capability to install LED taxi and landing lights, as well as the optional Anti-skid braking system. Additional sales and installations are expected this year, as the fleet gradually reaches the mandatory overhaul interval of the current gear.

 ADS-B Out retrofit installation for P.180 Avanti II

A factory option for the retrofit of the ADS-B Out capability to the Avanti II aircraft, integrated within the Proline 21 avionics suite, is now available from Piaggio Aerospace. A Service Bulletin was recently issued, allowing the customers to take advantage of the installation, standard in the Avanti EVO of new production.  For those aircraft in service still not so equipped, the ADS-B Out capability can be installed together with the upgrade of the navigation system for GPS WAAS accuracy and LPV precision approaches.

Enhanced online Customer Portal launch

To best manage clients’ requests and services, Piaggio Aerospace has also launched its new Customer Web Portal integrated within the company Customer Relationship Management software (CRM). The ongoing program is part of an overall quality improvement process and allows close tracking of all customer requests for technical support or services, and consequently a faster response.  With the assigned credentials, all customers, worldwide, will have easy access to Piaggio Aerospace’s support team and will be able to monitor the status of their requests. The CRM has already been tested and is used at internal level and a Beta Release of the portal (https://myaircraft.piaggioaerospace.it/) will be accessible to a selection of clients this month before implementation worldwide during the course of the year.

Renewal of Service Center Agreement with Banyan Air Service for the P.180 fleet maintenance in the US

Continuing a successful relationship, Piaggio Aerospace has renewed the Service Center Agreement for the maintenance of the Avanti, Avanti II and Avanti Evo with Banyan Air Service.  Located at the Ft Lauderdale Executive airport, Banyan hosts the Piaggio America South Florida Customer Support Unit, where a spare part warehouse is operated by a team of logistic specialists, serving the North and South American operators of the P.180. The Banyan facilities feature in the field a well-known FBO, a pilot shop, a restaurant, a repair station capable of aircraft completions and avionics upgrades, and rents out offices and hangars to local flight schools, private and charter operators and other repair stations. Banyan is also active in new and pre-owned aircraft sales.

Flying Colours Corp. first to outfit Bombardier Challenger 650 jet in medevac format

Geneva, Switzerland/28 May 2018 – Flying Colours Corp. the maintenance, refurbishment and completion specialist returns to EBACE, (booth W105), in a buoyant mood having just completed the industry’s firstBombardier Challenger 650 medevac interior. Number one in a trio, the medevac interior was completed on time and on budget, under contract from Bombardier Specialized Aircraft, and is already in operation with Switzerland-based air ambulance operator, Swiss Air-Rescue Rega. The achievement was marked with a handover ceremony at its Peterborough facility in mid-April.

To complete the first-of-a-kind interior the Flying Colours design engineers worked in conjunction with Bombardier and AeroLite, the medical equipment specialists, which supplied the intensive care unit (ICU), and interior re-configuration adaption plates. The multi-purpose, state-of-the-art medevac cabin focuses on ensuring operational flexibility.

The cabin operates as a fully functional ICU for up to two patients with attending critical care experts or can be easily configured to transport up to four patient units with an accompanying medical team. For very specific needs the cabin design provides ample space to accommodate additional medical equipment. The layout ensures easy egress and access for the patients and medical teams. To improve the patient, passenger, and attending clinician experience, focus was also placed on the soundproofing, which has been strengthened to reduce noise levels in the cabin.

A further four to six seats, depending on configuration, can be included for accompanying family, friends or colleagues. In the aft section a duo of galleys incorporates Enflite ovens, coffee makers and customized double-width fridges that provide extra space to store medical supplies. A lavatory is located next to the baggage area. The flight deck crew benefits from the latest in avionics to maximise operational capability, as well as two bunk rest areas at the front of the cabin.

The majority of non-medical monuments, furnishings and interior components were designed and manufactured by Flying Colours. On completion Flying Colours secured the STC from Transport Canada Civil Aviation and the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Externally a striking paint job features a red tail fin with a white cross, as well as a striking red design spanning the front portion of the fuselage. The artwork was inspired by the Swiss national flag and the design of Rega’s logo. The paint work was also completed at Flying Colours’ Peterborough headquarters in the dedicated paint shop.

“We welcome the challenge of designing and installing all our customised interiors whether it is for a VIP configuration or a special mission. However, knowing that this particular interior was the first one on aChallenger 650 aircraft, and will literally be responsible for life saving missions, gives all of our team great satisfaction,” said Sean Gillespie, Executive VP Flying Colours. “We know the customer is very happy with the outcome and we look forward to delivering two more aircraft of equal quality and standards.” The second and third Challenger 650 medevac aircraft are scheduled for completion by the end of 2018.

This is yet another industry first for Flying Colours this year as it follows hard on the heels of news it will be developing four different rapid change-out interiors for six multi-purpose Bombardier Q400MR aircraft. “Our special missions team continues to expand. As we complete each aircraft, so our knowledge increases exponentially. It is an area we will continue to focus on, along with our VIP completions and refurbishments,” concluded Gillespie.

At EBACE 2018, Daher introduces new services for its TBM aircraft family in commercial operations

Geneva, Switzerland, May 28, 2018: Daher is introducing several new services at this week’s European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) that underscore the TBM very fast turboprop family’s growing use in commercial flights.

The annual EBACE event – which brings together the business aviation community, and is being held in Geneva, Switzerland from May 29 to 31 – provides an excellent forum for Daher to highlight the TBM’s role as a fast, efficient corporate and charter aircraft.

“These European regulations, which enable the transportation of passengers aboard single-engine turboprop aircraft, opens up new market opportunities for the TBM, including the latest TBM 910 and TBM 930 versions,” commented Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit.

“As a direct result, the current TBM commercial operators in Europe have increased their activity, carrying more passengers – especially in France where labor strikes have impacted the scheduled air transport sector,” Chabbert added. “Looking ahead, we understand the importance of continuing to educate the market about the single-engine turboprop aircraft’s excellent performance-to-cost ratio.”

To increase its market penetration, Daher is committed to responding to the key priorities of charter operators and their passengers: providing high levels of service, tailored documentation such as safety briefing cards, and more generally helping to achieve savings in terms of time and money.

High levels of service for TBM operators is significantly enhanced this year by Daher’s revolutionary new “Me & My TBM” smartphone application. This cloud-based app for Android and iOS leverages data that is automatically collected during every phase of flight. Among a large array of potential services, the app also enables the operator to manage a fleet of several aircraft.

The app also enables the operator to directly update aircraft counters on the CAMP system.In addition, advanced customer support is now possible at operators’ discretion, as the “Me & My TBM” app gives TBM Care teams the capability to access and analyze all flight parameters within an hour of a flight’s conclusion.

The app benefits from Daher’s positioning at the heart of digital transformation and its leadership in Industry 4.0. The company is committed to continually investing in the digital supply chain (automation, robotics, connected objects, predictive analytics, etc.) to offer innovative solutions for its customers, as well as developing proprietary tools that bring advances in productivity, real-time visibility and mobility.

The “Me & My TBM” application leverages Daher’s expertise in the field of big data to collect, process and analyze the more than four million datapoints generated each day by the TBM in-service fleet.

Available for all TBM 910 and TBM 930 Model Year 2018 aircraft, the “Me & My TBM” app can be downloaded from Google Play Store for Android phones and from Apple Store for iOS phones.

With Daher’s latest TBM 910 and TBM 930 versions, connectivity also reaches a new level with the implementation of Garmin’s Flight Stream 510 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth linkup system to mobile devices running Garmin Pilot or Foreflight apps.

Other new features on these Model Year 2018 aircraft are tailored for improved pilot interface. This includes backlighting on the cockpit’s central console to provide enhanced visibility at night for the manual trim, power lever, flaps lever and override controls. Additionally, a high-fidelity microphone has been incorporated into the pilot’s oxygen mask for clear communications with air traffic control when the mask is in use.

MNG JET SELECTS HONEYWELL’S GoDIRECT FOR CABIN AND COCKPIT UPGRADES

 Turkish fleet management firm enhances its aircraft with Connected Aircraft services from Honeywell

            GENEVA, May 29, 2018 – Honeywell (NYSE: HON) has been selected by Istanbul-based MNG Jet to supply its GoDirect^TM Datalink and Cabin services to the company’s growing fleet. The agreement will see MNG Jet upgrade its aircraft by including connected services that improve cockpit communication, enhance flight efficiency and provide reliable high-speed Wi-Fi to the cabin.

                “MNG Jet is the leading business jet operator and maintenance organization in Turkey and Central Asia, and we take pride in ensuring our fleet of aircraft operates at optimum levels of efficiency and safety with an enhanced flight experience for our clients and customers,” said Can Sasmaz, general manager, MNG Jet. “Honeywell’s GoDirect Datalink and Cabin services will support us in improving our aircraft through cost-efficient connected aircraft services, which have the further benefit of flexible terms of use.”

                Honeywell’s GoDirect Datalink helps reduce a pilot’s workload by enabling seamless cockpit communications, like text messaging with air traffic control, using the robust two-way Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System, which is compatible with all Very High Frequency and satellite networks across the globe. In addition, GoDirect Cabin offers a comprehensive suite of satellite communication services, including dedicated access to GoDirect apps and all the benefits brought by reliable high-speed internet, thanks to its next-generation routers and routing software.

“We’ve worked closely with MNG Jet for several years as an authorized Honeywell Service Center, Channel Partner and Fleet Operator to provide a modernized aircraft experience; the latest selection of Honeywell’s GoDirect Datalink and Cabin services further enhance its fleet by keeping them better connected,” said John Peterson, senior director, Connectivity Services, Honeywell Aerospace. “Honeywell’s GoDirect Cabin provides the tools needed by operators to expand the in-flight experience for their passengers, while GoDirect Datalink offers pilots a dependable connected communication tool.”

Honeywell GoDirect Cabin has extended the benefits of its routing software, making it compatible with older routers through an exclusive refresh program. As such, operators will benefit from a highly innovative user experience and ease of control through the entire GoDirect chain, from aircraft satellite communications to ground networks, without changing any of the aircraft hardware.

Inmarsat to rollout European Aviation Network (EAN) inflight Wi-Fi in the business aviation market

 Award-winning solution developed with Deutsche Telekom will offer unprecedented connectivity to business jets, with commercial service expected by early 2019

29 May 2018: Inmarsat (LON: ISAT), the world’s leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, announced today that its European Aviation Network (EAN) inflight wifi solution will be available for the business aviation market by January 2019.

EAN is the world’s first inflight wifi solution that integrates connectivity from a satellite, operated by Inmarsat, and an LTE-based ground network, operated by Deutsche Telekom, covering all 28 member states of the European Union, as well as Switzerland and Norway.

 The unique combination of a satellite and 4G LTE-based ground network offers lightning fast, low-latency performance over land and water. It can therefore meet highly demanding internet use, such as working with remote business desktops, streaming high-definition videos, enjoying online gaming and sharing images, with service levels that compare to mobile broadband on the ground.

Aircraft connect with the network using award-winning small, ultra-lightweight, low drag hardware that is cost-effective to install and operate, making EAN ideal for small to mid-sized business jets, in addition to larger sized jets.

 The business aviation rollout follows EAN’s successful introduction in the commercial airline market, with major launch customers already announced and installing the service on aircraft, plus ongoing discussions with other interested carriers across the continent.

Philip Balaam, President of Inmarsat Aviation, said: “EAN is a game-changer for the business aviation market, offering gold standard inflight wifi to a broad spectrum of aircraft, from small turboprops to larger platforms such as the Citations, Learjets and Phenoms. It really is ideal for any business jet whose mission keeps them predominantly in Europe.

 “Our projections show that the European business aviation fleet will grow beyond 5,000 aircraft in the coming years. We expect a strong uptake for EAN by offering a variety of data plans to meet every budget. Work has already commenced with a large business aviation launch customer for the service and planning for our first STC is underway.”

 EAN’s integrated satellite and ground network is fully operational, with a number of flight trials successfully completed across Europe, demonstrating that the next-generation service meets its design performance in practice. The evaluations were conducted with partners Cobham, Thales and Nokia using a CESSNA 550 Citation II provided by Dutch company NLR.

Designed to meet the needs of European’s congested skies, EAN recently won the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) Award for ‘Best Inflight Connectivity Innovation’.

MILANO PRIME AT EBACE 2018 PREPARES FOR THE OPENING OF MILANO MALPENSA PRIME AFTER STRONG GROWTH IN 2017 EBACE

Geneva, 29-31 May 2018 SEA Prime will be present at EBACE 2018 with the Milano Prime brand, which includes the Business&General Aviation airports Milano Linate Prime and Milano Malpensa Prime, following positive results, a growing business and new investments in infrastructure. SEA Prime has closed 2017 with revenues of Euro 12.2 million (+7% over 2016), EBITDA equal to Euro 5.6 million (+43% over 2016) and a net profit of Euro 2.3 million, up 10% compared to 2016. SEA Prime is part of the SEA Group, manager of Milano Linate and Milano Malpensa airports. These figures confirm the recovery of the European business aviation sector which, in 2017, has recorded a total increase in flights of 3.7% and 9.3% in Italy, which confirms to be the fourth largest European market. In 2017, Milano Linate Prime has registered over 21,000 movements, up 2.7% compared to 2016, placing it first in Italy and among the largest in Europe, benefitting from the city of Milan becoming an increasingly international business, design and fashion hub. For Milano Linate Prime, the year 2018 has begun with the consolidation of existing partnerships and new, important collaborations such as the one that saw Leonardo Helicopters, global player in hightech sectors and leading international operator in Aerospace, Defence and Security, open a maintenance base at the Milano Linate Prime airport in a hangar dedicated to offering line maintenance services for the AgustaWestland AW109 and AW139 helicopters, for private and business customers. In 2018, the next new hangar will also be designed, the eleventh at Milano Linate Prime. “Milano Prime has proven to be an increasingly attractive partner for national and international players, who choose us to develop their business. While certainly gratifying, this pushes us to further improve and expand the range of services offered to our customers, also by building new, dedicated infrastructures”, stated Chiara Dorigotti, General Manager of SEA Prime. The key project for the next 12 months is Milano Malpensa Prime, the new Business & General Aviation airport at the intercontinental airport of Milan Malpensa, which is expected to open in the first half of 2019. The new infrastructure will consist of a terminal of around 1,400m2 to receive both passengers and crews, 50,000m2 dedicated apron and a 5,000m2 hangar, already operational, for latest generation aircraft. The external structure of the new terminal is designed as a polyhedron that is visible and recognisable from any direction, both on the ground and from the air. The interiors will feature elegant finishes for common areas and exclusive lounges, where passengers and crews will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere thanks to the sophisticated furnishings and lightings. Dedicated security controls and filters will complete the service. “Milano Linate Prime, with its unique position in Europe, at less than 7 kilometers from the city center, is the base to develop Milano Malpensa Prime which completes the accessibility to Milan for passengers and operators of Business&General Aviation, connecting them to the very heart of Lombardy and Europe. This will allow us to develop the market to its full potential, offering a service of excellence”, stated Giulio De Metrio, Chairman of SEA Prime SpA and Chief Operating Officer of SEA SpA

Air BP announces innovative Airfield Automation technology at EBACE

• New digital platform to enhance safety, reliability and compliance in airport fuelling operations
• Operators will benefit from faster, more comprehensive and more accurate fuelling data
• The first commercially deployed system in the world to provide an engineering barrier to help prevent misfuelling, Air BP is currently pursuing patent protection for this distinctive technology

Air BP, the international aviation fuel products and services supplier, is announcing its innovative new Airfield Automation technology at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition(EBACE) in Geneva this week. Developed by Air BP, this new digital platform for operators and airports is an integrated, real-time, global solution that strengthens safety barriers and mitigates risks during the fuelling process. It is the first commercially deployed system in the world to provide an engineering barrier to actively help prevent misfuelling. As a result, Air BP is currently pursuing patent protection for this distinctive technology.

The cloud-based platform consolidates the data related to airport fuelling operations and works via an app on a handheld device in the fuelling vehicles. The appropriately named ‘safe2go’ app captures fuel volume readings and provides fuel grade checks to add an additional misfuelling barrier. It then electronically captures customer details which are confirmed with an electronic signature from the pilot or airline. By using this automated, end-to-end, paperless system, accuracy is enhanced and any potential miskeying errors minimised.

Aside from the enhanced safety barriers, aircraft operators will also benefit from faster, more comprehensive and more accurate fuelling and delivery data. The cloud-based technology will enable Air BP to offer increasingly integrated information to customers, such as delivery records and precise delivery timings.

Air BP will begin introducing the technology to its operated network this summer and it is anticipated the new Airfield Automation technology will be fully operational at around 350 locations by 2020. The company will be promoting it at EBACE this week and inviting delegates to visit Stand B29 to view a demonstration first hand.

Air BP carried out a comprehensive two-year trial of the Airfield Automation technology at nine airports in the UK, Cyprus and Portugal involving commercial, business and general aviation customers. At one airport alone more than 5000 aircraft fuellings were completed over the last six months with the new technology, delivering over 46 million litres of fuel into customer aircraft.

Matt Elliott, chief commercial officer, Air BP, comments: “This new platform reinforces our ambition to be a leader in digital fuelling technology. Air travel continues to grow, putting more pressure on airports and operators to provide a seamless service to customers. With this new technology, we are playing our part in ensuring that the fuelling process is fast, efficient and safe. Future enhancements to our system will support wider digitalisation at airports.”

Kerry Rutherford, technical director, Air BP, comments: “Misfuelling is one of the biggest risks we face in our industry, the new Air BP Airfield Automation technology provides an engineering barrier to stop it happening. As aircraft engine technology advances and new unleaded fuel grades are introduced, we anticipate that it will become even more relevant in future.”

Flying Colours Corp. first to outfit Bombardier Challenger 650 jet in medevac format

 Geneva, Switzerland/28 May 2018 – Flying Colours Corp. the maintenance, refurbishment and completion specialist returns to EBACE, (booth W105), in a buoyant mood having just completed the industry’s first BombardierChallenger 650 medevac interior. Number one in a trio, the medevac interior was completed on time and on budget, under contract from Bombardier Specialized Aircraft, and is already in operation with Switzerland-based air ambulance operator, Swiss Air-Rescue Rega. The achievement was marked with a handover ceremony at its Peterborough facility in mid-April.

To complete the first-of-a-kind interior the Flying Colours design engineers worked in conjunction with Bombardier and AeroLite, the medical equipment specialists, which supplied the intensive care unit (ICU), and interior re-configuration adaption plates. The multi-purpose, state-of-the-art medevac cabin focuses on ensuring operational flexibility.

The cabin operates as a fully functional ICU for up to two patients with attending critical care experts or can be easily configured to transport up to four patient units with an accompanying medical team. For very specific needs the cabin design provides ample space to accommodate additional medical equipment. The layout ensures easy egress and access for the patients and medical teams. To improve the patient, passenger, and attending clinician experience, focus was also placed on the soundproofing, which has been strengthened to reduce noise levels in the cabin.

A further four to six seats, depending on configuration, can be included for accompanying family, friends or colleagues. In the aft section a duo of galleys incorporates Enflite ovens, coffee makers and customized double-width fridges that provide extra space to store medical supplies. A lavatory is located next to the baggage area. The flight deck crew benefits from the latest in avionics to maximise operational capability, as well as two bunk rest areas at the front of the cabin.

The majority of non-medical monuments, furnishings and interior components were designed and manufactured by Flying Colours. On completion Flying Colours secured the STC from Transport Canada Civil Aviation and the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Externally a striking paint job features a red tail fin with a white cross, as well as a striking red design spanning the front portion of the fuselage. The artwork was inspired by the Swiss national flag and the design of Rega’s logo. The paint work was also completed at Flying Colours’ Peterborough headquarters in the dedicated paint shop.

“We welcome the challenge of designing and installing all our customised interiors whether it is for a VIP configuration or a special mission. However, knowing that this particular interior was the first one on a Challenger 650 aircraft, and will literally be responsible for life saving missions, gives all of our team great satisfaction,” said Sean Gillespie, Executive VP Flying Colours. “We know the customer is very happy with the outcome and we look forward to delivering two more aircraft of equal quality and standards.” The second and third Challenger 650 medevac aircraft are scheduled for completion by the end of 2018.

This is yet another industry first for Flying Colours this year as it follows hard on the heels of news it will be developing four different rapid change-out interiors for six multi-purpose Bombardier Q400MR aircraft. “Our special missions team continues to expand. As we complete each aircraft, so our knowledge increases exponentially. It is an area we will continue to focus on, along with our VIP completions and refurbishments,” concluded Gillespie.

Advanced Connectivity and upgraded Cyber Security module added to SD Pro®  platform

Geneva, Switzerland / 28 May 2018 –  Satcom Direct, the business aviation connectivity, software and hardware provider, is showcasing enhancements to its digital flight operations platform SD Pro®, during EBACE 2018 on booth W115. Two new modules further supporting on-board connectivity management and giving even greater control of cyber security threat management are being demonstrated.

SD’s new Advanced Connectivity module enables users to generate a predictive connectivity map for the flight. The illustrative graphic highlights network coverage, and any associated issues along the route enabling users to adjust travel-plans accordingly.  The feature aims to prevent loss of connectivity as it highlights dead zones and regional areas where data may be at threat from intrusion. This adds to the existing connectivity module features which already indicate the real-time connection status, as well as detailed device usage information.

With cyber-threats to aircraft at all altitudes on the increase, SD has also enhanced the SD Pro Threat Monitoring module. In addition to the existing services, the latest upgrade gives flight departments more visibility into the types of threats identified as well as the ability to view and sort threats by category. Analyzing the type of threat in real time allows customers to apply sorting and filtering features to distinguish between the variety of threats e.g malware, active intrusion, phishing, etc. With this data, flight departments can make better informed connectivity decisions about user behaviors and security policies, and stay ahead of any potential vulnerabilities.

When combined with SD hardware,  SD Pro also gives users more insight and control over their onboard connectivity and how it is functioning. “As connectivity becomes increasingly important for flight departments, crew, and passengers we continue to find ways to add more value to their connectivity options and provide tailored solutions to their individual needs,” says Michael Skou Christensen, SD VP International. “We are an innovative company, and aviators ourselves, so understand the importance of continually developing our products to adapt to the changing market. Our constant improvement of our SD Pro technology exemplifies our commitment to improving the customer connectivity experience.”

The SD Pro solution aggregates connectivity data to share with customers to add even more value to the service. “With this data the operator or owners can modify operations, improve standards and operate at maximum efficiency, it really does save money and improve performance,” concludes Christensen.

Successful year for AMAC Aerospace

Geneva, May 28, 2018 – Looking back to the latest news and achievements of AMAC Aerospace, the great success story of as one of the largest privately-owned facilities in the world offering maintenance and completion services continues.  

The construction of the new facility in Bodrum, Turkey is finished after a 9 months construction time and AMAC’s business down there is up and running and comprises a workforce of currently 35 personnel. AMAC has recognized the business potential of Bodrum and has decided to extend its presence further in Turkey. AMAC Aerospace’s newest hangar is located in the South West of Turkey at the popular tourist destination of Bodrum-Milas Airport and is the only MRO at this location. The hangar comprises of 4,626 m2 of hangar floor.

The business model for Bodrum includes line and base maintenance checks on commercial aircraft during winter season, with Line Maintenance support for Business Aviation clients in the summer as well as private aircraft handling, AOG support and parking for any Business Aviation clients during summer season. Tailwind Airlines has signed contracts with AMAC Aerospace for their fleet of Boeing 737-400 aircraft. In the beginning of 2018 the first aircraft arrived for maintenance and underwent a C13 check at AMAC’s new facility in Bodrum.

“It is a privilege to be involved with the launch of AMAC Aerospace’s name within the commercial airline market and reinforcing an already stable reputation in Turkey. I am confident that with our experienced team we have put in place that the quality will be high whilst still being competitive to the rest of the local and European markets.” said Mr. Tarek Muhiddin, Technical Director Special Projects of AMAC Aerospace.

AMAC Aerospace’s newest hangar is located in the South West of Turkey at the popular tourist destination of Bodrum-Milas Airport and is the only MRO at this location.

JCB Aero in Auch, France – globally renowned in composite and carbon fiber production techniques

After two years of successful integration of JCB Aero in Auch, France, the specialised services of our French affiliate are running very well. JCB AERO was acquired in May, 2016 by AMAC Aerospace and has become globally renowned in composite and carbon fiber production techniques, methods and can carry out completion work utilizing their DOA and POA approval status. With nearly 30 years of experience, JCB Aero has become the French leader in luxury design, manufacture & installation of civil, airline, VIP aircraft cabins and helicopter, combining latest technologies and expert craftsmanship on a rapidly developing market.

JCB Aero has over 10 years experience and expertise with the production of very light panels, these panels are customized in terms of surface finish and thickness. JCB manufactures the panels using a press machine and can report a weight reduction of 20% in comparison with traditional finished honeycomb panels.

JCB Aero has over 10 years experience and expertise with the production of very light panels

Aircraft type approvals at our facilities in Turkey

Recently added aircraft type approvals at AMAC’s facilities in Turkey comprise the following: AMAC Aerospace successfully renewed the FAA Part-145 approval in Q2, 2017. AMAC Aerospace Turkey is authorized to undertake repair station work on Airframes, Power Plants, Propellers and Accessories on N-registered aircraft. The renewed certificate continues in effect until Q3 2018.

In addition to that the following approvals and aircraft ratings have been awarded by the Aviation authorities to AMAC Aerospace Turkey in Bodrum: Country approvals from the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation & from Aruba and Aircraft ratings for the following Airbus and Boeing Models:

• Airbus A318/319/320/321
• Boeing B777-300/400/500/600/700/800/900
• Boeing B777-200/300

Recently added country approvals at our facilities in Basel, Switzerland
AMAC Aerospace received the maintenance approval to work on Taiwanese registered aircraft in Q3, 2017. The approval was issued by the CAA (Civil Aeronautics Administration – China) and allows AMAC Aerospace to perform further maintenance checks on aircraft that are registered in Taiwan. In addition, AMAC Aerospace has also recently received a new maintenance approval to work on aircraft, which are registered in Bahrain.

Successful re-delivery of a Boeing B777-200LR after VVIP Completion

AMAC Aerospace is proud to announce the successful re-delivery of a Boeing B777-200LR after VVIP Completion in Q2, 2017. This VVIP wide-body completion project was delivered on time after a downtime of 20 months to AMAC’s esteemed customer. State-of-the-art technology systems, high-end inflight entertainment systems including 64-inch monitors, the latest generation of customized soundproofing with noise levels as low as 50 dB, RGB mood lighting as well as customized commission artwork was installed by AMAC.

“We are all proud to have our third VVIP B777 Completion project returned to service since the establishment of AMAC ten years ago. And we are thankful that our esteemed customer recognizes the level of details, the commitment, the efforts and the highest quality standards coming from our skilled teams within AMAC Aerospace”, said Mr. Bernd Schramm, Group Chief Operating Officer, AMAC Aerospace.

Re-delivery of a Boeing B777-200LR after VVIP Completion in Q2, 2017.

STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) for the Ka Band Antenna Installation

AMAC Aerospace proudly announced that a new STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) for the Ka Band Antenna Installation on an Airbus A330 had been successfully developed by AMAC’s in-house engineering department in Q3, 2017.

The Ka Band System delivers broadband internet service to the business jet market and ensures an impressive connectivity experience. The increased data speed enables business jet users greater access to Internet TV and video streaming across multiple on-board devices. It also supports uninterrupted WiFi enabled email, web-browsing, video conferencing, data file transfers, and voice and text capabilities.

AMAC’s office of airworthiness in collaboration with all involved teams from engineering are taking care of the STC development. The team has developed a variety of multiple and single STCs, as you see on the screen our engineering department has developed many multiple STCs which are now available to the market.

AMAC Aerospace has already developed six multiple STC’s, which are available on the market.

AMAC’s expertise extends to supplemental type certificate (STC) work and the list of its most recent STCs makes for interesting reading; of 12 awarded since the beginning of 2017, half involve antenna installations. When the STC regulations were defined, EASA and the FAA acknowledged that there was a business case for an organisation like AMAC to market STCs to other companies. We are proud that AMAC has the capability to perform this work in-house.

Airbus ACJ350 XWB Completion Approval for AMAC Aerospace

Geneva, May 28, 2018 – AMAC Aerospace is proud to announce that Airbus Corporate Jets has appointed AMAC’s facility in Basel, Switzerland as an approved Completion Center for the ACJ350 XWB.

As the latest addition to the Airbus family of VIP widebodies, the ACJ350 XWB offers innovative technology and enables the most efficient and cost-effective flight possible, with “nonstop to the world” range in a typical configuration for 25 passengers.

With this Completion Approval, AMAC Aerospace’s completion facility in Basel, Switzerland is now authorized by Airbus to provide its completion services, expertise and know-how to ACJ350 XWB operators and owners.

As one of the largest privately-owned facilities in the world offering maintenance and completion services, AMAC Aerospace has returned to service over 20 VIP and VVIP completion and refurbishment projects since the first hangar was built 10 years ago. With AMAC Aerospace’s Design, Production and Maintenance Organization Approvals in conjunction with its in-house capabilities the MRO and Completion Center offers a one-stop shop for all enquiries.

“AMAC Aerospace has established an excellent working relationship with Airbus over the years and we are honored to be appointed an Approved Completion Center for the ACJ350 XWB. Further to this we look forward to welcome the first ACJ350 XWB operator or owner at our facility in Basel to demonstrate our capabilities when it comes to cabin outfitting” said Mr. Bernd Schramm, Group Chief Operating Officer, AMAC Aerospace.    

Renderings for an ACJ350 XWB cabin outfitting from the design studio ‘Pegasus Design’

“A bold, sophisticated interior showcasing a relaxed layout, characterised by a mixture of unique finishes, bespoke design and effortless style intrinsic to the DNA of Pegasus Design”, said Peder Thaulow Eidsgaard, Pegasus Design.

AviationGlass & Technology collaborates with Jet Aviation to certify and further develop glass lenses for window shade systems

– Pre-obtained EASA STCs for VIP aircraft speed up lens replacements with glass

– One-stop shop for upgrades to superior interior glass window panes combined with shade systems

– Replacement MSA window shade lenses available this year on show at EBACE (Booth L98)

EBACE 2018, BOOTH  L98, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – AviationGlass & Technology (AGT) – a Dutch innovations company manufacturing and supplying certified glass products to the global aviation industry – today announced a collaboration with Jet Aviation, a global business aviation services provider, to fully certify interior glass lenses with existing window shade systems on several Airbus and Boeing (VIP) aircraft and business jets. A replacement product for the MSA window shade lenses will already become available this year with other window shade replacement products following in 2019. A prototype of this product is being shown on AGT’s booth (L98) at EBACE 2018.

Together with Jet Aviation, AGT will obtain Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) for its AeroGlass Lens to be installed on any existing window shade system.  This will enable customers to easily replace vulnerable polycarbonate lenses with crystal clear, ultra-scratch resistant, light-weight glass without having to obtain the certifications themselves. Delivered products will be installation ready and provided with all the necessary documentation, including an updated IPC (Illustrated Parts Catalog), CMM (Component Maintenance Manual) and service bulletin amendment.

Replacement glass lenses will be provided with an EASA Form 1, entitling aircraft owners to replace any existing polycarbonate lens with AGT’s highly robust AeroGlass Lens providing visibly superior optical quality. Completely fire resistant , AeroGlass Lens has passed all flammability tests, including heat release.

Jaap Wiersema, AviationGlass & Technology’s COO, says, “It’s never been easier for business aviation customers to make the upgrade to glass and say goodbye to scratched plastic interior window panes.  Combining forces with Jet Aviation means we can already offer certified glass lenses with existing window shades, saving customers time and money!  Another area of focus will be the co-development of new combined offerings.”

Vincent Rongier, Jet Aviation’s Head of Refurbishment, Modification and Upgrades,adds, “The collaboration with AGT means we can now offer our customers a premium enhancement to the appearance of their aircraft while also saving them on cost of ownership. Clearer views from their interior windows could not be a more visible upgrade!”

European fuel supplier Valcora marks successful first year with launch of BioFuel programme at EBACE 2018.

Geneva, Switzerland/27 May 2018. Valcora, the Switzerland-based aviation fuel supplier, returns to EBACE 2018 – booth H99 – in a buoyant mood following a successful first year of operations. Since launch at EBACE 2017 Valcora has more than doubled its team, opened a Singapore office, and relocated its Geneva offices to accommodate future growth.

The Geneva-headquartered business has expanded the initial home-based team to a multi-cultural team of fuel professionals, based across its network of Geneva, Dublin, and Singapore offices. Business development has been driven by customers from Europe, China and Australia, that appreciate the intuitive digital platform which combines pricing transparency, a reliable fuel card and a team of dedicated 24/7 account managers, to enable real time fuel quotes and purchasing. North American aircraft flying into Europe are increasingly using the system and to ensure the high quality of customer support for these clients, office openings in Canada and the U.S. are planned before the end of 2018.

Valcora continues to improve its customer offering and during EBACE, founders Daniel Coetzer, CEO and Valerie Bouthiaux, General Manager, will launch a dedicated BioFuel programme. From June 2018 new and existing Valcora card holders can purchase biojet fuel through the online platform at selected airports. The “Be Smart, Fly Bio” initiative aims to encourage operators to switch to biojet fuel where available, and forms part of the company’s wider commitment to support the aviation industry’s move towards carbon neutral growth. “Our BioFuel programme makes uplifting biojet from our growing network of suppliers as easy as possible. The system will also, where appropriate, automatically calculate carbon offsetting, which reduces operational administration. With the CORSIA initiative just around the corner we want to make sure we play a part in making the planet a better place,” says Coetzer.

Coetzer and Bouthiaux continue to enhance the custom-made platform, which is available through iPads and other digital devices,  by incorporating customer feedback and implementing additional functionality. The simple three-step process also demystifies complex fiscal rules and regulations, a feature which has been of great appeal to the market. To date Valcora has averaged 7.5 million litres of fuel delivery per month. It is regularly selected as a preferred supplier by private owners, corporations, and small to large fleet operators, including one of the world’s largest private charter operators Luxaviation.

At its eye-catching pink and green booth Valcora will demonstrate the latest software upgrades and streamlined system to existing and potential clients.  “Our card holders value the reliability and efficiency of our service, which is supported by a dedicated back-office team that has worked extremely hard to make Valcora so successful.  Without them we would not have been able to deliver such high standards to our customers, who are at the heart of our business,” concludes Coetzer.

Piaggio Aerospace Announces Growth Plans And New Orders At EBACE

Four New Orders in Q1 2018

Company Celebrates 100 Years in Aviation

Geneva, May 28, 2018 – Piaggio Aerospace, a leading Italian aircraft manufacturer active in the business aviation and defense and security sectors, today presented the Company’s growth strategy outlined in the five-year industrial plan and announced the Avanti EVO’s increasing orders whilst attending the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE).

 “We secured four new orders of the Avanti EVO in the first few months of 2018, and the sales momentum is continuing”, said Renato Vaghi, CEO of Piaggio Aerospace at a press conference held at EBACE today. “Reinforced by a new financial stability, we intend to focus on aircraft, leveraging our revamped production and a new commercialization strategy for the P.180 Avanti EVO.”

 Vaghi continued: “In 2018 we are also celebrating our century-long history of excellence in the aviation business. We are proud of our heritage and we look forward to the next 100 years.”

 The industrial plan lays the foundations of long-term stability and is strengthened by comprehensive financial restructuring, including a €255m shareholder cash injection. Piaggio Aerospace focuses on aircraft as the core of its business aviation program and the industrial plan projects reaching break-even in 2019 and profit in 2021.

 The new strategic route is already leading to an increase in the production rate and new orders with twenty aircraft in the pipeline, of which twelve are Avanti EVOs. In the first quarter of 2018, Piaggio Aerospace secured additional orders for four units of the third generation of the legendary P.180, and expects to deliver in total eight aircraft by the end of 2018. The ambition of the company is to better position the Avanti EVO globally, to relaunch its Special Mission version, and to further invest in Customer Service, to support the fleet worldwide.

In 2018, Piaggio Aerospace celebrates its first 100 years in the aviation business. Returning to the roots which inspired the Italian Company’s innovative and creative culture, it now stands for excellence in performance and design. 1918 is considered the most meaningful milestone for the identity of Piaggio Aerospace. Even though its foundation by Rinaldo Piaggio dates back to 1884, with the Company’s business being the outfitting of ocean liners and the manufacturing of rolling stock for the railway infrastructure, it was November 1917 when the Company formally entered the aviation industry with the takeover of Officine Aeronautiche Francesco Oneto, in Pisa, incorporated in January 1918.

 Piaggio Aerospace is proud to celebrate its first centenary in the aviation business at EBACE 2018 and will announce other initiatives in the second half of the year.

 Piaggio Aerospace is present at the Indoor Display (booth T123) and exhibits its Avanti EVO at the Static Display (SD_10).

Visit Piaggio Aerospace dedicated EBACE web page: https://www.events.piaggioaerospace.it/

Avinode reports encouraging growth for European business aviation

 EBACE, Geneva, 28^th May 2018: The latest figures from pioneering bizav technology leader and data partner Avinode (EBACE booth D69) are showing a healthy rise in demand for European business jet charter.

 Oliver King, CEO of the Avinode Group, says: “As an industry, we have just experienced our best growth in a decade in Europe and another strong growth year in the US. Taken together, we are on a high of activity in the sector.”

 Analyzing flight requests submitted through Avinode’s online marketplace for buying and selling private air charter, for the year April 1 2017-March 31 2018, all the leading European destinations are showing increased demand for intra-European traffic.

France remains the most popular destination for intra-European business aviation flights, representing 20% of this market. Demand to fly to France rose from 379,771 requests in the year April 1 2016-March 31 2017 to 480,891 requests for the year April 1 2017-March 31 2018 (up 27%). The UK (325,433 requests, up 36%), Spain (321,898 requests, up 44%), Italy (316,032 requests, up 37%) and Switzerland (162,244 requests, up 33%) complete the list of the top five intra-European destinations.

 King says: “France remains the biggest player in European private aviation, although the UK is closing the gap and enjoys much higher traffic levels to and from the US. The substantial growth in demand for travel to Spain, after so many difficult years for the country economically, is great to see.

 “The strength of the British and French markets is also shown in the fact London Luton Airport-Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the most popular intra-European route,” continues King. “And Spain should take confidence from the fact Ibiza Airport was the destination for four of the 20 most requested intra-European routes in the year to March 31 2018, with all four of those routes growing in popularity over those 12 months.”

 The Cessna Citation Mustang is the most requested business aircraft for intra-European flights. In fact, Cessna Citations fill all five top spots on this list, with the Mustang being followed by the CJ2, XLS, CJ2+ and the XLS+.

 King adds: “The number of small jets listed on Avinode by European operators continues to grow. When looking at the entry-level jet, light jet and super light jet categories combined, for example, the numbers rose by 4% between April 2017 and April 2018.”

 Flights from Russia dominate traffic into Europe from outside Europe, representing 66% of requests in this market. Away from Russia and the CIS, departures from the US (6% of the market) and Saudi Arabia (4%) lead the way for requests for business aviation flights arriving into Europe from outside Europe.

 Four of the six most requested business aircraft types, when flying into Europe from outside Europe, are Bombardier Challengers. The Challenger 604 leads this market, with a 6% share, followed by the Embraer Legacy 600.

 King says: “Every day, across 89 countries, users log in to Avinode, SchedAero and PayNode to support their customers. Over the last 12 years, 20m searches have been made on Avinode as buyers look for the best charter option. Much has changed over that time. The question of whether customers will book online has been answered. They will and they do. The challenge for us as an industry is to provide the seamless and transparent service that defines the rest of the travel business. We can’t wait to play our part in this challenge.”

 King cautions, however, that uncertainty is growing on what the future holds. “We have seen a sustained period of wealth creation across the globe, combined with significant investment in digital charter models in both the US and Europe. Potential trade disputes, political uncertainty in the US and UK, as well as rising oil prices, threaten growth, particularly in the luxury leisure market of Europe.”

At EBACE 2018, Daher introduces new services for its TBM aircraft family in commercial operations

Geneva, Switzerland, May 28, 2018: Daher is introducing several new services at this week’s European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) that underscore the TBM very fast turboprop family’s growing use in commercial flights.

The annual EBACE event – which brings together the business aviation community, and is being held in Geneva, Switzerland from May 29 to 31 – provides an excellent forum for Daher to highlight the TBM’s role as a fast, efficient corporate and charter aircraft.

“These European regulations, which enable the transportation of passengers aboard single-engine turboprop aircraft, opens up new market opportunities for the TBM, including the latest TBM 910 and TBM 930 versions,” commented Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of the Daher Airplane Business Unit.

“As a direct result, the current TBM commercial operators in Europe have increased their activity, carrying more passengers – especially in France where labor strikes have impacted the scheduled air transport sector,” Chabbert added. “Looking ahead, we understand the importance of continuing to educate the market about the single-engine turboprop aircraft’s excellent performance-to-cost ratio.”

To increase its market penetration, Daher is committed to responding to the key priorities of charter operators and their passengers: providing high levels of service, tailored documentation such as safety briefing cards, and more generally helping to achieve savings in terms of time and money.

High levels of service for TBM operators is significantly enhanced this year by Daher’s revolutionary new “Me & My TBM” smartphone application. This cloud-based app for Android and iOS leverages data that is automatically collected during every phase of flight. Among a large array of potential services, the app also enables the operator to manage a fleet of several aircraft.

The app also enables the operator to directly update aircraft counters on the CAMP system.In addition, advanced customer support is now possible at operators’ discretion, as the “Me & My TBM” app gives TBM Care teams the capability to access and analyze all flight parameters within an hour of a flight’s conclusion.

The app benefits from Daher’s positioning at the heart of digital transformation and its leadership in Industry 4.0. The company is committed to continually investing in the digital supply chain (automation, robotics, connected objects, predictive analytics, etc.) to offer innovative solutions for its customers, as well as developing proprietary tools that bring advances in productivity, real-time visibility and mobility.

The “Me & My TBM” application leverages Daher’s expertise in the field of big data to collect, process and analyze the more than four million datapoints generated each day by the TBM in-service fleet.

Available for all TBM 910 and TBM 930 Model Year 2018 aircraft, the “Me & My TBM” app can be downloaded from Google Play Store for Android phones and from Apple Store for iOS phones.

With Daher’s latest TBM 910 and TBM 930 versions, connectivity also reaches a new level with the implementation of Garmin’s Flight Stream 510 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth linkup system to mobile devices running Garmin Pilot or Foreflight apps.

Other new features on these Model Year 2018 aircraft are tailored for improved pilot interface. This includes backlighting on the cockpit’s central console to provide enhanced visibility at night for the manual trim, power lever, flaps lever and override controls. Additionally, a high-fidelity microphone has been incorporated into the pilot’s oxygen mask for clear communications with air traffic control when the mask is in use.

At this week’s EBACE show, Daher is exhibiting the TBM 910 and TBM 930 on static display, position #19, and is demonstrating the functionality of its “Me & My TBM” app at exhibit stand U101 in Hall 6 of the Geneva Palexpo exhibition site, located adjacent to Geneva Airport.

AVIAÂ welcomes supplier partners UVair and Satcom Direct

 EBACE 2018, Geneva: AVIAÂ, the expanding international group purchasing organisation (GPO) ‘lands’ at EBACE with two new partnerships under its belt.   It has ratified deals with UVair, the fuel division of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. and business aviation connectivity, software and hardware provider Satcom Direct (SD), to deliver savings for its members – on fuel and inflight connectivity.

AVIAÂ’s partnership with UVair (Stand O90) introduces an AVIAÂ branded fuelling card, which brings exclusive rates for its members.  UVair is providing AVIÂA members with the best value possible on any given day for their fuel, resulting in savings of tens of thousands of dollars per year. (This equates to approx. 2% saving at the pumps.)

Other benefits include all-inclusive pricing; VAT compliance and exemption support.  It also offers online jet fuel management.

“UVair is known worldwide for its acceptance and savings. Their excellent service, which is integrated with its innovative do-it-yourself uvGO flight planning and trip management platform, and extensive network of locations, made them an obvious pick to join our global preferred partner network,” said Gillian Hayes, AVIAÂ’s CEO.

Importantly, uvGO is also able to easily integrate with Satcom Direct’s Flight Deck Freedom product, providing an integrated solution for members fuel and flight planning requirements.

“Lost time, inaccurate taxes, and hidden fees are all elements adding risk and stress to operators’ fuel purchases. Working with AVIAÂ, we will be able to give operators confidence in the value of their purchase, regardless of their aircraft size or fleet,” said Dave Diulus, Vice President, UVair.

With SD (Stand No W115) as its preferred satcom provider, AVIAÂ can deliver the best value in the business aviation sector.

“SD consistently invests in technology and with its strong international customer focus understands the market and quickly responds to changing connectivity needs.  “They are a very progressive, agile partner,” said Miles Bailey, Director, Global Supply Chain.  As the relationship grows, AVIAÂ expects to offer its members further savings across the SD product and service portfolio,” he added.

“AVIAÂ’s innovative business model reflects our approach to business. It will keep suppliers on their toes and make everyone think about how to best satisfy end user needs in a cost-effective way.  Working with the AVIAÂ team will help widen our customer base and we look forward to working with them to help members access our connectivity solutions,” said Michael Skou Christensen.

AVIAÂ has built up a substantial customer base across the US and Europe inside 12 months.

Founded by Hangar8 founder Dustin Dryden and GPO expert James Hall, AVIAÂ is streamlining the procurement process for owners and operators using the ‘collective’ buying power of its members to secure the best rates for key operational items.

As well as helping private jet owners and operators better compete with companies who already benefit from economies of scale, the GPO model also rewards cooperative suppliers.

Through accessing its member network, AVIAÂ collects historic and forecast spend data from them and shares it with their preferred suppliers.

AVIAÂ works with suppliers to help members reduce their friction costs (which comprise commissions, fees, interest rates, research time, etc).

The business is headquartered at London Oxford Airport and has two US offices in Irvine, California and Park City, Utah.   AVIAÂ’s early success is also due to its innovative young team’s ability to apply the latest research into data analytics to the day-to-day running of the company.

AVIAA is participating at EBACE for the first time on the static with its distinctive Bombardier Challenger 604 on the static.

Embraer Becomes  First Manufacturer to  Offer High-Capacity Ka-Band  Connectivity  for  Medium  Cabin  Business  Jets Through Enhancements to the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500

Geneva, Switzerland, May 28, 2017 – Embraer announced today the selection of Viasat Ka-band technology to power the medium cabin Legacy450 and Legacy 500 business jets’high-capacity high-speed   data   connectivity. The   announcement   was   made   during   a   press conference  at  the  18th  European  Business  Aviation  Convention  and  Exhibition  (EBACE)  in Geneva,  Switzerland. With  this  announcement,  Embraer  becomes  the  first  business  aircraft manufacturer  to  offer line-fit high-capacity  high-speed  Ka-Band  connectivity for  medium cabin  business  jets. The Viasat  solution  will  become  available  in the second  quarter of  2019 for new  Legacy  450  and  Legacy  500 customers  as  well  as  for current  customers  of  these models through a retrofit solution.

“In-flight connectivity is a key aspect of the user experience in business aviation and we are excited  to  lead  the  industry  with this solution,” said  Luciano Froes, Senior Vice  President Marketing,   Embraer   Executive   Jets. “By incorporating innovative technologies, higher performance  standards,  and  premium  comfort  for a  superior  flight  experience, we  are delivering true value to our customers.”

Initial Viasat  connectivity  service speeds  are  expected  to be 16  Mbps,  with  the  potential  to increase as Viasat expands its network capacity with additional satellite services.  In  addition to data connectivity, live TV streaming is expected to be provided for in-flight entertainment.

This  Ka-band  solution  for  the  Legacy  450  and Legacy  500  complements  the  already operational  Gogo AVANCE  L5 air-to-ground  connectivity  system, which has  since  been installed in both aircraft, allowing Embraer customers to benefit from higher  Internet speeds through  access  to  4G  networks.  The  AVANCE  L5  system  delivers  data  rates  of  up  to  9.8 Mbps for downlink, covering the Continental U.S. and portions of Alaska and Canada.

Last  year,  Embraer also announced  the  selection  of Honeywell to  provide  Ka-band  data connectivity  for  the  Lineage  1000E.  Honeywell has since received  certification  from  the Federal  Aviation  Administration  (FAA),  European  Aviation  Safety  Agency  (EASA),  and Brazil’s  National  Civil  Aviation  Agency (ANAC)  for  the  installation  of  its  JetWaveTM satellite communications hardware onboard the Lineage 1000E. Certification allows Embraer to significantly enhance the in-flight connectivity available to its operators, as well as to their passengers, pilots and crew.

Bermuda Aircraft Registry experiences large growth and expands its European reach

May 28, 2018 – The Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) has experienced a significant increase in registered aircraft, growing the Bermuda Aircraft Registry by 9% over the past year. The result has surpassed the forecast 3% increase. The shift from a Government run department to an Authority has provided a host of benefits to the registry, including becoming more business and customer-focused.

Due to demand, the Bermuda Aircraft Registry has increased its accessibility to Europe by relocating its UK office to Farnborough Airport and hiring two additional Airworthiness Inspectors to cover the European region.

 Thomas Dunstan, Director General, comments on the new office, “Farnborough Airport provides the opportunity to grow in the European market and also allows for excellent response times to clients in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The airport terminal provides the added benefit of short notice aircraft inspections and Certificates of Airworthiness issued during a turnaround or layover.

 “Bermuda has always been an attractive option but we are always looking at ways to enhance the customer experience by continuously making improvements to be more flexible and responsive. We put a huge emphasis on putting the customer at the centre of everything we do” says Thomas.

 The Bermuda Registry has registered close to 2000 aircraft since it was created in 1931, which ranks it as the largest offshore Aircraft Registry, and 10^th largest in size worldwide.

Textron Aviation’s Cessna Denali enters new phase of development; company builds first flight test articles

GENEVA (May 28, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today updated the development status of its new high-performance Cessna Denali single-engine turboprop during the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) 2018. Fabrication of the nose section, fuselage, wings and tail cone of the first three flying prototypes is underway, paving the way for the aircraft to enter the market with best-in-class performance.

Program engineers are busy building and testing initial flight test articles using production assembly tools manufactured in-house, and continue to conduct static and fatigue tests on ground test articles.

“The clean-sheet Denali is unlike any other aircraft in its class in terms of advanced technology and performance. For that reason, we’re seeing great interest throughout Europe from piston owners looking to step up to more performance, as well as from turboprop operators,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing. “In the development of this aircraft, we’re combining proven processes used to design and develop our newest Citation jets with the innovative technology of GE’s new Catalyst engine to deliver customers a best-in-class aircraft.”

Throughout the program’s development, Textron Aviation has integrated new automation and robotic technologies into production, increasing product quality and efficiency throughout the assembly line. The company looks forward to achieving the first wing mate and completing the prototype airframes as the program nears first flight targeted for early 2019.

 The Denali will be equipped with the first clean-sheet turboprop engine to hit the business and general aviation market in more than 30 years – the GE Catalyst. GE Aviation announced first engine runs of its all-new advanced turboprop engine in late 2017.

First in this class of aircraft, the Denali equips customers with an optional, externally serviceable belted lavatory with pocket door enclosure located in the back of the cabin. Denali customers will also enjoy very large cabin windows, interior LED lighting, a forward refreshment cabinet and an in-flight accessible baggage compartment.

 Denali customers will have access to Textron Aviation’s unmatched global support network. Dedicated to complete life-cycle support, the company’s factory-direct service centers are staffed with expert service engineers offering maintenance, inspections, parts, repairs, avionic upgrades, equipment installations, refurbishments and other specialized services. Textron Aviation also offers a mobile support program featuring more than 60 mobile service units, a fleet of rapid-response support aircraft, and on-site service technicians and support.

European fuel supplier Valcora marks successful first year with launch of BioFuel programme at EBACE 2018.

Geneva, Switzerland/27 May 2018. Valcora, the Switzerland-based aviation fuel supplier, returns to EBACE 2018 – booth H99 – in a buoyant mood following a successful first year of operations. Since launch at EBACE 2017 Valcora has more than doubled its team, opened a Singapore office, and relocated its Geneva offices to accommodate future growth.

The Geneva-headquartered business has expanded the initial home-based team to a multi-cultural team of fuel professionals, based across its network of Geneva, Dublin, and Singapore offices. Business development has been driven bycustomers from Europe, China and Australia, that appreciate the intuitive digital platform which combines pricing transparency, a reliable fuel card and a team of dedicated 24/7 account managers, to enable real time fuel quotes and purchasing. North American aircraft flying into Europe are increasingly using the system and to ensure the high quality of customer support for these clients, office openings in Canada and the U.S. are planned before the end of 2018.

Valcora continues to improve its customer offering and during EBACE, founders Daniel Coetzer, CEO and Valerie Bouthiaux, General Manager, will launch a dedicated BioFuel programme. From June 2018 new and existing Valcora card holders can purchase biojet fuel through the online platform at selected airports. The “Be Smart, Fly Bio” initiative aims to encourage operators to switch to biojet fuel where available, and forms part of the company’s wider commitment to support the aviation industry’s move towards carbon neutral growth. “Our BioFuel programme makes uplifting biojet from our growing network of suppliers as easy as possible. The system will also, where appropriate, automatically calculate carbon offsetting, which reduces operational administration. With the CORSIA initiative just around the corner we want to make sure we play a part in making the planet a better place,” says Coetzer.

Coetzer and Bouthiaux continue to enhance the custom-made platform, which is available through iPads and other digital devices,  by incorporating customer feedback and implementing additional functionality. The simple three-step process also demystifies complex fiscal rules and regulations, a feature which has been of great appeal to the market. To date Valcora has averaged 7.5 million litres of fuel delivery per month. It is regularly selected as a preferred supplier by private owners, corporations, and small to large fleet operators, including one of the world’s largest private charter operators Luxaviation.

At its eye-catching pink and green booth Valcora will demonstrate the latest software upgrades and streamlined system to existing and potential clients.  “Our card holders value the reliability and efficiency of our service, which is supported by a dedicated back-office team that has worked extremely hard to make Valcora so successful.  Without them we would not have been able to deliver such high standards to our customers, who are at the heart of our business,” concludes Coetzer.

Citation Latitude thrives in Europe, achieves NetJets milestones

GENEVA (May 28, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, is today celebrating two milestones during the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) 2018 — the success of the NetJets European Citation Latitude fleet, which has recently surpassed 5,000 flight hours, and the delivery of the ninth NetJets Citation Latitude in Europe. The Citation Latitude has quickly become one of the world’s best-selling business jets since entering the market in August 2015, and is the leader in the midsize segment with more than 124 aircraft flying globally.

“We are thrilled to celebrate these milestones with such a valued customer and fierce advocate for the Citation Latitude,” said Scott Ernest, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “The Citation Latitude continues to achieve success across Europe and has rapidly become the most sought after aircraft in the NetJets fleet due to its low operating costs and superior cabin comfort — key attributes for operators and customers alike.”

Since taking its first delivery in 2016, NetJets has amassed more than 50,000 flight hours on its worldwide Latitude fleet.

“The Latitude is one of the most outstanding midsize cabin jets in the industry. It meets our Owners’ and our own high standards for performance and safety,” said Adam Johnson, Chairman and CEO, NetJets. “We are proud to have Latitudes in our global fleet, as the aircraft’s short-field performance enables us to access many small general aviation airports, resulting in time savings that allows our Owners to do more and miss less.”

Textron Aviation delivered 54 Citation Latitude business jets in 2017, securing the aircraft’s ranking as the most delivered midsize jet in the world for the second consecutive year, according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). The aircraft’s mission flexibility has also ensured its global popularity across a broad spectrum of fleet operators, corporate owners and special missions operators. With certification in 43 countries, the global fleet has surpassed 80,000 flight hours.

The Latitude, with a maximum range of 2,850 nautical miles (5,278 km) and a best-in-class four-passenger range of 2,700 nautical miles (5,000 km) at high-speed cruise, is set apart from the competition by its combination of comfort and efficiency. The aircraft delivers an unrivaled passenger experience featuring an industry-leading cabin environment distinguished by its open, spacious and refined design. With a flat floor and six feet of cabin height, innovation abounds with exceptional features integrated throughout the aircraft.

Textron Aviation’s wireless cabin management system equips each passenger with productive connectivity and entertainment through their personal electronic devices. Optimizing cabin comfort for passengers and crew alike, the Latitude features a new cabin cooling system and a new pressurization system that delivers a 5,950-foot cabin altitude at the aircraft’s maximum operating altitude of 45,000 feet. Standard seating configurations comfortably accommodate up to nine passengers. Extended maintenance intervals yield the lowest direct operating costs in the midsize segment.

P&WC’s FAST™ Solution to Bring Data-Driven Predictability to Operators of the PT6A-67P-powered Pilatus PC-12 NG Aircraft

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – (Marketwired – May 28, 2018) – Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) has achieved Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for its FAST™ prognostics solution on the single-engine Pilatus PC-12 47E NG aircraft powered by the PT6A-67P. The FAST solution captures and analyzes full-flight engine and aircraft data, enabling high visibility on a multitude of key operating parameters within 15 minutes of the pilot shutting down the engine, which can be used to optimize maintenance planning and operations and further increase aircraft availability. P&WC is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation (NYSE:UTX).

PlaneSense, a leading fractional aircraft ownership program, will launch the FAST solution on its fleet of PC-12 NG aircraft.

“We at PlaneSense have always been focused on safety, reliability, and maintainability,” said George Antoniadis, President and CEO, PlaneSense. “We’re delighted that the FAST solution will lead to improvements in all three, while also offering savings on direct operating costs.”

The PC-12 NG will be among a growing number of PT6A-powered aircraft that already benefit from FAST. The solution’s advanced predictive and preventive maintenance capabilities further enhance the overall engine value proposition, adding to the industry-leading reliability delivered by the PT6A. The PT6A is the only turboprop engine approved for single-engine instrument flight rules for commercial passenger revenue activity in Europe, North America and Australia.

“FAST has proven itself one of the aviation industry’s most effective turnkey predictive and preventive engine health management solutions; we’re delivering meaningful results to customers and opening up new opportunities to drive even greater availability and operational optimization,” said Tim Swail, Vice President, Customer Programs at P&WC. “FAST’s robust, OEM-backed data pipeline is optimized to work seamlessly within the P&WC analytics environment to meet our customers’ trending requirements and drive highly beneficial outcomes.”

In addition to the PC-12 NG, the FAST solution is certified on the Beechcraft King Air 200/300 series, Textron Aviation’s Cessna Caravan 208/208B as well as Air Tractor platforms. P&WC continues to invest in new FAST certifications, including in the development of an STC for the PC-12 45 and 47 series of aircraft to help meet the growing demand for advanced digital engine health management among 7,000 PT6A operators.

“We are moving customers toward fully preventive maintenance environments, including on-condition programs, and offering reduced rates on our pay-per-hour plans supporting many platforms, such as the Dassault Falcon aircraft family, the Cessna Citation Latitude (chosen by NetJets), PT6A-powered aircraft such as the Cessna Grand Caravan and numerous regional airline applications,” continued Swail.

Citation Longitude returns to EBACE, nears FAA certification

GENEVA (May 28, 2018) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, is showcasing the company’s new super-midsize Citation Longitude business jet this week at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) 2018. Fresh from its circumnavigation of the globe in March and now nearing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification, Textron Aviation’s flagship Citation Longitude will be on the vanguard of the FAA’s latest certification requirements.

“We’re in the home stretch now and eager to move one step closer to delivering this new Citation flagship jet to our excited inaugural customers around the globe,” said Brad Thress, senior vice president of Engineering. “This is the most robust certification process we’ve ever been required to conduct for a Citation, which means we will deliver an exceptionally verified, clean-sheet aircraft that will thrill pilots and passengers alike. We’re introducing one of the most thoroughly-researched passenger experiences — one that will revolutionize the super-midsize category with its low cabin altitude, class-leading legroom and low decibel cabin sound levels that are half of its nearest competitor.”

Based upon the FAA’s newest certification requirements, the number of the ground and flight test conditions to be met by the Longitude program is nearly double the amount completed on past certification programs. The team used five aircraft and nearly 50 ground test articles to expedite testing, whereas previous certification programs featured three aircraft and fewer than 30 ground assets. This innovative approach enabled the program to move swiftly through the development and certification process, while affording agility for enhancements driven by customer feedback.

Structural testing as well as component qualification testing is complete, while flight testing is wrapping up with nearly 3,000 total hours. The Longitude is built at Textron Aviation’s headquarters in Wichita, Kansas, where the assembly line is at full-rate production.

Earlier this year, the aircraft completed a 31,000-nautical mile world tour, demonstrating its performance and reliability throughout a broad array of environments across 12 countries. During the tour, the Longitude made various stops throughout Europe, including customer visits in Sweden, France, Italy, Switzerland and the U.K.

“Textron Aviation has more than 1,700 jets and turboprops based in Europe, so a key element of the Longitude’s development and certification process has been to seek out and incorporate feedback from our European operators,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing. “They are showing great interest in the Longitude’s class-leading amenities as well as its low operating costs, short field performance, cabin comfort and range.”

Vertis Aviation flying high at EBACE after most successful year yet.

Mai 27, 2018 Vertis Aviation, the Switzerland-based boutique charter specialist, flies into this year’s EBACE, booth D69, on the back of its most successful year since launch in 2010. 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.

The stars of the Vertis year have been the portfolio’s executive airliners and the continent of Africa. The Privajet operated Boeing Business Jet, which Vertis has marketed since November 2014, flew more than 580 hours in 2017, with a number of round the world tours keeping the aircraft busy for up to a month at a time. The two Airbus Corporate Jets ACJ319, operated by K5, have also seen an uptick in charter activity during the last six months, with increased demand from the U.S. Middle East and European markets. The ACJs have been busy on trans-Atlantic routes, which has been driven by a  general rise in North American charter activity and the low availability of this type of aircraft for charter in the region. Vertis has a strong international customer base, but has noticed a new set of customers are requesting charters that need access to the operational flexibility and the exceptional comfort provided by these aircraft.

The rising star of Africa is also proving a strong market for Vertis Aviation with the business seeing a  75% annual increase in activity from the continent as an increasing number of African customers recognise the benefits of business aviation. “We are seeing entrepreneurial development, a rise in venture capital investments and tremendous growth in the mining sector, all of which is driving our success across Africa. Initially we focused predominantly on serving government and hydrocarbon clients, but a dramatic increase in charters from the mining sector, amongst others, has seen our business grow beyond expectations here,” said Jeffrey Emmenis, Partner, Vertis Aviation.  The Bombardier Challenger 350, operated by Fireblade, and marketed by Vertis, has supported the growth intra-Africa, while the BBJ has supplied the inter-continental demand.

To further buoy up the African activity Vertis will begin to market a sub-Saharan-based, Privajet operated, 2015 Bombardier Global 6000 this summer, and will be adding a 13 seat Embraer Legacy 600, operated by Cronos Executive, to its portfolio before the end of 2018. “African executives are now realising that it is not a luxury to fly privately but a practical solution on a continent where commercial aviation is restricted when it comes to intra-continental travel,” Emmenis says.

With offices in London, Zug, Belgrade, Dubai and Cape Town the company is experiencing its busiest period yet and is setting its sights on an even stronger 2018.“We took a decision to restructure and it has paid off as we used our extensive expertise to do what we do best, which is to facilitate what are often incredibly complex, multi-leg trips flown by clients with some of the highest expectations in the industry. It has paid off and we are looking forward to the next twelve months as we add more aircraft to our offering,” concludes Emmenis.

EBACE 2018, Geneva: Falcon Aviation, the UAE’s leading business aviation services, charter, MRO and aircraft management company, returns to Europe’s premier business aviation show, EBACE, in Geneva this month (29^th to 31^st May) to highlight its new business jet MRO facility at its Dubai South, DWC, Al Maktoum International Airport.

Falcon Aviation’s new facility is built on a total 24,000 sqm plot size capable of accommodating up to four Boeing BBJ / Airbus ACJ sized narrow bodied aircraft for base maintenance.  It includes workshops, interior solutions, a wash bay, and landside office space, plus 13,000 sqm of apron.

Falcon Aviation supports its own and managed fleet of business jets and helicopters at its Al Bateen Executive Abu Dhabi Airport facilities.  But its new Dubai base has been built primarily for third party customers. Falcon Aviation is already talking with existing and prospective customers to grow its MRO business.

“Our goal at EBACE is to meet with the OEMs to see how we can support them and their operators by adding other aircraft types to our capabilities,” said Falcon Aviation COO Captain Raman Oberoi.

Falcon Aviation’s new facility, which has been in construction for 12 months, is pivotal to its overall long-term strategy to bring a ‘one stop MRO shop’ to the region.

It has committed to build the necessary infrastructure to support the region’s growing business aviation market – with a FBO, Heliport (running under Falcon’s AOC), Line maintenance – and now Base Maintenance and Technical services.  Additional engineers have been employed and with the growing business we will be adding more jobs into year 2019 to ramp, its dedicated MRO team.The new DWC facility will also offer 24/7 AOG support and aircraft parking.

Caption: Falcon Aviation’s business jet MRO facility

Big boost for DWC’s Aviation District master plan

Falcon Aviation’s investment is a significant boost to Dubai World Central’s ongoing investment in its dedicated 6.7 square kilometre ecosystem Aviation District, first announced in 2014. It comprises general aviation (home to the main VIP Dubai South Terminal, where Falcon Aviation has its FBO); its heliport; hangars, fuel farm, catering, ground handling;  MRO and technical support, MRO businesses and the aerospace supply chain.

DWC is also the permanent home of the Dubai Air Show and the alternate MEBAA Show.

MEBAA endorsement for infrastructure boost

Ali Alnaqqbi, Founding Chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) endorsed Falcon’s new facility commenting;

“I am very pleased to see Falcon Aviation spreading their wings into DWC with its new business jet MRO facility. This will positively boost the business aviation market standard.”

Last summer Falcon achieved approval from the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to perform third party line maintenance at Dubai South and is currently cleared for types including the Gulfstream G450/G550; Embraer 135/145/Legacy regional jets and Embraer 190/Lineage 1000. (Falcon Aviation is an Authorised Service Centre for Embraer Executive Jets at its Al Bateen base.)   It is also GCAA approved for the Pilatus PC-12; Airbus Helicopters, including the EC130, Bell 412 and Leonardo AW189, AW169 and AW109.

Falcon Aviation Director of Maintenance, Nicolas Tejera and Service Centre Manager Ronnie McCrae will support Falcon’s presence in Geneva and Ahmad Badreddine, FBO Manager will be meeting the clients and partners for the FBO business.

“We are looking forward to offer a solid proposition of full service MRO support to Business Aviation operators and owners in the region. Attending EBACE is optimally timed for us,” Nicolas Tejera added.

Firming up Pilatus PC-24 deliveries

Falcon will also use the occasion of EBACE to meet with Pilatus Aircraft to firm up its PC-24 deliveries.  It will be the first Middle East operator to take the game-changing light jet, with deliveries slated for the second quarter of 2019.  “The PC-24 will be a smart addition to our charter fleet and we expect it to be based at our Dubai FBO,” said Capt Raman.

Falcon’s new Dubai South FBO is attracting a steady base of loyal customers.  The charter business is currently seeing more leisure customers to popular destinations like the Seychelles, Maldives and Europe.

The Atlantis Heliport, which Falcon Aviation manages, had a great year, carrying 34,000 passengers.  It has quickly grown to be second busiest heliport in the world.

New website

To promote its enhanced capabilities, VIP Jet business charter MRO, FBO, Commercial and Offshore Helicopter operations Falcon Aviation has launched a new website. www.falconaviation.ae

Gulfstream

May 26, 2018

WATCH: The all-new, fully outfitted Gulfstream G600 lands in Europe for the first time

Demonstrating its maturity and capability, the all-new, fully outfitted Gulfstream G600 has landed in Geneva – marking its European debut. The aircraft flew from Savannah, Georgia, to Geneva on Gulfstream’s dedicated supply of a renewable-fuel blend and set a city-pair record, connecting the two cities in just seven hours and 49 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.90.

The entire Gulfstream fleet will be on display during EBACE.

 

Jet Flight Service opens New Maintenance Service Center in Riga and appoints Frantisek Budin to the position of Base Maintenance Manager

May 25th 2018, Moscow/Riga/Prague; Jet Flight Service with its headquarter in Moscow opens New Maintenance Service Center in Riga which belongs to its strategic plan of developing their maintenance and engineering services to international clients. New maintenance facility will provide Line Maintenance Services and Base Maintenance Services for Embraer aircraft( Legacy 450/500/600/650) and Gulfstream aircraft(G350/450/550/650).

Jet Flight Service appoints Frantisek Budin to the position of Base maintenance Manager of its new Maintenance Facility in Riga. Frantisek Budin joins the company with immediate effect, his extensive skills in aircraft maintenance and experience of working with Embraer aircraft means that his is a seamless match for his new role with Jet Flight Service.

Frantisek Budin is well known in aviation world thanks to his extensive knowledge and experience with Embraer business aircraft which he specialized in last 15 years and aircraft maintenance he worked almost 30 years. Prior to joining Jet Flight Service, he had spent 13 years with ABS Jets as Base Maintenance Manager and Technical Director where his main responsibilities were aircraft deliveries, incoming and pre-buy inspections, budgeting and forecasting for maintenance department.

Speaking about Frantisek ‘s appointment Jet Flight Service CEO Kirill Trushkovskiy said “I am very happy to welcome Frantisek Budin to our team, his extensive experience and expertise will be a major asset to our team. This appointment ensures that we can move forward with the plan to further enhance our portfolio of maintenance and engineering services in Moscow and Riga.”

Frantisek Budin added “Joining Jet Flight Service is a great accomplishment for me and I am delighted to become part of a company and I look forward to implementing strategies that will ensure the company delivers outstanding services to its customers.”

Satcom Direct strengthens European presence with addition of new Basel, Switzerland, office.

 Basel, Switzerland / 25 May 2018 –  Satcom Direct, the business aviation connectivity, software and hardware provider, has strengthened its European presence with the opening of its fourth European office. Situated at EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, one of Switzerland’s busiest executive aviation centres, the office is located in close proximity to a number of Europe’s leading completion, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centres where upgrades and completions of large-, narrow- and wide-body cabins form a significant part of the MRO business.
It positions SD at the heart of Europe’s satcom installation business and supports the increased demand for the installation of Jet ConneX, the ultra-high-speed data transfer service, for large-cabin, long-range jets. Powered by SD hardware and software applications Jet ConneX delivers the fastest connectivity in the skies.

SD was one of the first companies to prove the Ka-band technology for business aviation, and now supplies over 70% of activated tails using the service worldwide. To maximize this experience SD has developed industry-first Service Level Agreements (SLA), which include onsite support, proactive monitoring, outage notifications and guaranteed email and phone call response times. The Basel team will support the SLAs and provide configuration, installation and educational support to SD customers in the region.

“We have worked with the local MROs for a number of years from our Geneva office, but with the new base, operators, owners and dealers can be confident installations will run even more smoothly as our technical experts are literally just next door,” says Michael Skou Christensen, SD, VP International.  “Our strengthened presence in Europe means we can bolster our local support, along with our continent-wide service, to deliver on our promise of never being more than four hours from a customer.”

Europe welcomes first SD Connecting with Customers event

 To mark the office opening, members of the SD team partnered with business colleagues from Inmarsat, Gulfstream and Viasat to deliver Europe’s first SD CwC (Connecting with Customers) event.  The one-day meeting reflected the ethos of the annual U.S. experience which welcomes more than 300 SD customers and partners to a three-day forum covering every aspect of business aviation connectivity. More than 50 industry experts attended the inaugural event which heralds the launch of CwCinternationally.  “We do more than just provide connectivity solutions. We improve our customers’ understanding and knowledge which enables better decision making when selecting connectivity products. As well as providing a way of thanking our customers, it helps us evaluate what is essential to their operations and makes sure we develop products they need. We look forward to hosting more in Europe and beyond,” said Skou Christensen

During EBACE 2018, SD and Inmarsat will once again join forces to present a dedicated Jet ConneX Q&A workshop to elaborate on its functionality and capabilities. The sessions will take place at booth W115 on 29 and 30 May at 14:00.

SPARFELL GOES BIG

May 24, 2018 – The start of 2018 saw the formation of Sparfell Aviation Group, encompassing Sparfell & Partners, Sparfell International Lease Corporation (SILC), Sparfell Defence and Sparfell Design. As a flagship company to the group, within only three years since it’s founding, Sparfell & Partners has become a leader in VVIP aircraft sales and acquisitions, not only at home in Switzerland and in Europe, but worldwide.

In the past 12 months, Sparfell & Partners added six associates to their global network. Sparfell Design was launched in 2017 and a new division, Sparfell Defence, will be launched in the second quarter of 2018. The highlight of the group remains the impressive variety within the Sparfell & Partner portfolio, with a large range of commercial aircraft, from all major aircraft manufacturers like Airbus 319 to 380, a business jet portfolio featuring an array of models from very light jets to Bizliners and a diverse portfolio of helicopters to complete the list.

INDUSTRY BIG NAMES TEAM UP FOR ACJ380 HEAD OF STATE

Following last year’s announcement to sell Airbus ACJ380-800 aircraft for Head of State configuration, SPARFELL & PARTNERS is proud to announce the continuation of the project in association with Winch Design (UK), Jet Aviation (Switzerland) and DS Aviation (Germany). The four-way collaboration will see leaders in their respective fields coming together to offer a ready-to-go concept that opens a new horizon for the industry.

EBACE 2018 PRESENCE

Sparfell Aviation Group will present two aircraft for sale from their portfolio at this year’s EBACE. Featured at the static display, To discover by-invitation-only: VVIP Airbus ACJ319 and Leonardo 139 VIP Helicopter. Founding partners Philip G. Queffelec and Christian Hatje will be available on request for further information on products and services, as well as any additional aviation expertise.

AIR ASTANA CELEBRATES 16th YEAR  WITH OPENING OF NEW AVIATION TECHNICAL CENTRE IN ASTANA

May 24, 2018 – Largest aircraft repair centre in Central Asia offers services to national and international carriers across the region

Air Astana, the award-winning Kazakh flag carrier, marked its 16th anniversary with the opening of a new Aviation Technical Centre at Astana’s Nursultan Nazarbayev international airport today. The new Aviation Technical Centre enables Air Astana to undertake all aircraft engineering and servicing requirements up to heavy maintenance level. The project was financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development at a cost of US$ 19 million.

The Aviation Technical Centre’s energy efficient, single span hangar offers 5,556 square meters of floor space and can accommodate widebody types like the Boeing 787 or Boeing 767, alongside a single aisle aircraft like the latest Airbus A320neo family simultaneously.

The Canadian designed structure is built to a very high specification and designed to remain fully operational even under the extremely low temperatures experienced in Astana during winter months. In addition to the hangar, the Aviation Technical Centre incorporates a spare parts warehouse and a complete range of workshops for the repair and overhaul of aircraft components. An auxiliary building provides space for the existing Air Astana Engineering and Centre to significantly expand training of engineering and maintenance staff to international standards.

“With Astana, the futuristic capital of Kazakhstan, and Air Astana, the national flag carrier, respectively,  celebrating 20^th and 16^th anniversaries in 2018, the opening of this new Aviation Technical Centre represents a shared cause for celebration,” said Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana. ”For Astana, the added aerospace infrastructure contributes to the city’s standing as the leading air hub in Central Asia, whilst for Air Astana , it represents another significant step in expanding the carrier’s capabilities and boosting its international reputation for excellence.”

Harrods Aviation taps Flight Solutions as technology partner – Automated check in now live at London Luton and Stansted Airport FBOs

May 23, 2018 – Harrods Aviation is exhibiting at EBACE 2018 next week (stand A67) having recently gone ‘live’ with a new automated check in system for its VIP and group charter flights at its London Luton and London Stansted FBOs.

The system, from privately-owned British company, London based Flight Solutions, will help improve efficiency weekly speeding up passenger and ground handling (hitherto a manual process) through the fast capture of passport or other identity documents, automated generation of flight manifest and the issuing of baggage tags for tracking and baggage reconciliation.

The flexible (eDCS) system, designed specifically for FBOs, was installed in late February. Training was carried out in April and ‘it is up and running really well,’ said Harrods Aviation Sales and Marketing Director, Will Holroyd.

‘With this investment, we are well prepared for the stepped up requirements of electronic passenger and crew manifest data for Border Force that are being introduced and for UK Department for Transport (DfT) security compliance to the baggage process.’

This summer both FBOs are seeing bigger groups (music tours, sports charters, including World Cup movements) pass through its FBOs.

‘The eDCS solution is a simple but effective, off the shelf solution which is great  for support out on the ramp too, enabling ground handlers to quickly deal with any bag changes required. It is competitively priced, fit for purpose and tried and proven, which is why we chose it,’ added Harrods Aviation Kerry Besgrove, Operations Director.

‘We’re delighted to be expanding our business aviation activity with the prestigious and busy Harrods Aviation’s FBOs at Luton and Stansted,’ said Paul Secker, founder and CEO of Flight Solutions. ‘Our technology will help them to be more efficient and give them time to focus on what they are so skilled at; excellent customer service.’

Flight Solutions’ CEO Paul Secker will be in Geneva for EBACE (28 to 31 May 2018) and is looking forward to meeting with expanding business aviation FBOs in Europe.

Their solutions have been operational at other FBOs including at TAG Farnborough Airport for three years and since 2012 at the Inflite Jet Centre at London Stansted.

Falcon Aviation at Al Bateen Executive Airport, Abu Dhabi, introduced the system in 2016 (when it was white labelled as LocalCheck). It has helped the operator achieve regular on time performance with its 12 daily flights between Al Bateen to Zurku Island transporting 700 passengers a day. The operation, using Bombardier Q400 turboprops, supported 215,000 passengers in 2017.

Embraer Makes  EBACE  Debut  of Phenom  300E, new  model  of world’s most-delivered light business jetfor past 6 years

Melbourne, Florida, May23, 2018 –Embraer will debut the new Phenom 300E business jet at   the   European   Business   Aviation   Conference   and   Exhibition   (EBACE)   in   Geneva, Switzerland, from May 29 to May 31. The new light jet model was launched—and debuted—at  the  2017  National  Business  Aviation  Association’s  Business  Aviation  Conference  and Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), in October 2017.

The  new  aircraft is designated “E” for “Enhanced” in reference to its entirely redesigned cabin  and  the  addition  of  the  industry-leading  nice®HD CMS/IFE (Cabin  Management System/InFlight Entertainment) by Lufthansa Technik. The Phenom 300, the new model’s successful predecessor that entered the market in late 2009, has been the best-selling and most delivered light business jet for the last six years.

The new light jet received its triple type certification in the first quarter from the U.S. Federal Aviation  Administration(FAA),  the European  Aviation  Safety  Agency(EASA),  and  the Brazilian  Civil Aviation  Agency  (ANAC –Agência  Nacional  de  Aviação  Civil). The  first Phenom  300E  was  delivered  last  March,  only  five  months  after  its  launch,  to  a  Phenom  300 customer from South Africa. There are more than 75 Phenom 300 in operation in 17 countries throughout  Europe,  Africa  and  The  Middle  East,  and 435 are  in  operation in  30  countries around the world.

The Phenom  300E inherits the EmbraerDNA Design,  first  introduced  in  its  larger  siblings, the  Legacy  450  and  Legacy  500  midsize  jets. The  application  of  this design in  the Phenom 300E rendered   amore   spacious   cabin   with   more   customization   optionsand   ease   of maintainability.

Starting   with   the   new   Embraer-designed   and   manufactured seats,   the   aircraft   offers unmatched comfort and personalization in its class. The seat profile, with enhanced headrest, retractable  armrest,  along  with  the  new  table,  side  ledge,  side  wall,  and  valance  designs, optimize passenger  mobility  in  the  cabin  with  expanded  aisle  clearance  and  increased  cabin space.

The  new  seats  in  the  Phenom  300E  feature  broader  backs  for  greater  support,  extendable headrests with bolsters, and extendable leg rests for improved ergonomics. The aircraft’s seats were  designed  and engineered  by  Embraer  and are  being manufactured  at  Embraer  Aero Seating Technologies, in Titusville, Florida.

The  Phenom  300E features an  industry-exclusive upper technology  panel (upper  tech  panel) along  the centerline  of the aircraft’s ceiling, significantly  improving  passenger  ergonomics. The innovative upper tech panel presents passengers with pertinent inflight information, while allowing for convenient interaction with cabin management controls, as well as the option of inflight  entertainment with  audio  and  video  on  demand via  two slender swing-down seven-inch displays.The unit also offers an enhanced cabin lighting scheme,with a broad range of ambient  mood selections,  as  well  as integrates sleek,  silent  gaspers enhancing acoustic comfort. Bluetooth  connectivity also allows  passengers  to view inflight  information on  their personal devices.

Phenom 300E images: https://eej.imagerelay.com/sb/TheNewPhenom300E

Cobalt Air In-Flight Entertainment Goes Live – Fleet-wide IFE enhancement aboard expanding Cyprus carrier’s – Airbus A320/A319 fleet

May 23 2018 – Larnaca, Cyprus– Cobalt Air, Cyprus’ expanding airline, has enhanced its onboard experience for all its passengers with the introduction of in-flight entertainment (IFE) across its Airbus A319 and A320 fleet via portable wireless IFE platform, Bluebox Wow.   Cabin crew training was completed last week in readiness for the system to go live this week, across Cobalt’s route network.

Bluebox Wow, from Bluebox Aviation Systems Ltd. in Scotland, delivers wireless media content streamed to passengers’ own devices – including phones, laptops, and tablets.

Cobalt passengers can enjoy Movies and TV shows, with music, games and magazines to follow later, all accessed simply through a web browser.

Cobalt Air has specified three Bluebox Wow boxes per aircraft, which are conveniently secured in overhead lockers, ensuring that every passenger can access IFE content throughout their flight.

Bluebox Wow is a discrete, portable, lunchbox-sized unit.  Each box’s single, swappable rechargeable battery can deliver up to 15 hours of streamed video content.

“We are very pleased to be offering inflight entertainment on board our flights now,  just ahead of the peak summer and family holidays,” said Cobalt Air CEO Andrew Madar.  “From the outset we were clear that we didn’t want to have any disruption to our extremely busy fleet that a fitted system would incur.  This solution from Bluebox was ideal for us – affordable and excellent quality – just like us.   All our cabin crew have to do is turn it on and swap batteries when required.   Families always travel with multiple devices so we are making sure that every passenger can access our movies and tv shows.”

“As Cobalt Air is an airline committed to offering its passengers exceptional service – we’re thrilled to be part of this latest enhancement on board,” said Kevin Clark, CEO of Bluebox Aviation Systems.  “We’re delighted that Bluebox Wow will be engaging Cobalt passengers throughout the peak holiday season and beyond.”

Embraer Phenom 100EV Makes EBACE Debut

Melbourne, Florida, May 23, 2018 – Embraerwill debut the Phenom 100EV business jet at the   European   Business   Aviation   Conference   and   Exhibition   (EBACE)   in   Geneva, Switzerland,  from  May  29  to  May  31. The entry-level  Phenom  100EV,  an  evolution  of  the Phenom  100E,  delivers improved performance  with  modified  engines and  a new  avionics suite.

The  evolution  of Embraer’s very first  clean-sheet-design business jet, which  entered  into service   in   2008, is the result   of continuous customer   feedback   and   the Company’s commitment  to  continue  delivering revolutionary  aircraft  with  superior  value  to  the  market. The acclaimed Prodigy Touch flight deck, which was introduced in the market by the Phenom 300  light  jet,  is  now  featured  on the  entry-level Phenom 100EV. Pratt & Whitney Canada’s modified  engines  (PW617F1-E)  offer even more thrust, which renders more speed  with superior performance, especially in hot-and-high operations.

The Phenom 100EV’s outstanding hot-and-high  performance  is  gaining  traction  among  new and  current  customers  with  extra  performance  requirements. 14Phenom  100EV  have  been delivered to date and there are more than 50 Phenom 100, Phenom 100^E and Phenom 100EV in operation in 20 countries throughout Europe, Africa and The Middle East.

With  over  350  aircraft  flying  in  30 countries,  the  Phenom  100aircraft  platform is  renowned for its high utilization design and low operating and maintenance costs, among owner-pilots, corporations,  charter  and  fractional  operators. The  aircraft  is  also  considered  ideal  for preparing  cadets  for  multi-engine  jet  operations,  and  is  in  use  by  flight  training  academies worldwide, including the Finnish Aviation Academy, Emirates Flight Training Academy and Etihad Aviation Training.

Embraer New  Seat  Design  for  the  Legacy  450  and  Legacy  500 Business Jets Makes EBACE Debut

Melbourne, Florida, May 23, 2018 – Embraer will debut the new seat design for theLegacy 450 and  Legacy  500 business  jetsat  the  European  Business  Aviation  Conference  and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 29 to May 31. Recentenhancements to the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 includea best-in-class cabin altitude(5,800ft.), new seat design  with broader  selection  of options, new  internet  connectivity  and readiness  for  the Future AirNavigation System (FANS).

In support  of the Federal Aviation Administration’s NextGen investments to modernize the National Aerospace  System,  Embraer  is now  offering  customers  of  the  Legacy  450  and Legacy  500  FANS1/A+technology, which allows  datalink  communications  between  pilots and  Air  Traffic  Control. This  optional  feature was  made available  to new Legacy 450  and Legacy 500 customers in the  fourth  quarter  of  2017 and has  already been incorporated into aircraft in the existing fleet.

An additional enhancement in communications for the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 is Gogo’s latest air-to-ground connectivity system, the AVANCE L5, which allows Embraer customers to  benefit  from higher  Internet  speeds  through access  to  4G  networks. The AVANCE  L5 system delivers data rates of up to 9.8 Mbps for downlink, covering the Continental U.S. and portions  of  Alaska  and  Canada. In the  first  quarter  of 2018,  this  option  became  available  to Legacy  450  and  Legacy  500  customers,  and  aircraft  of  both  models  have  already  received installation of the AVANCE L5.

To  round  out  the latest  enhancements  to  these revolutionary  aircraft, the Embraer DNA Design introduces even greater comfort via an enhanced selection of Legacy 450and Legacy 500 seat  design options. Extensive  customer  interaction has  generated improved  ergonomics through design improvements, such as seat backrest and new headrest support. The new seat design also  offers customers  more  personalization  options  through new  styles  in stitching, leather material textures and color applications.

The previous maximum cabin altitude of the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 was 6,000 ft (1.828 m)  when  flying  at  45,000  ft  (13.716  m).  The  cabin  pressurization  differential  was  increased from 9.64psi to 9.73 psi to reduce the maximum cabin altitude to 5,800 ft. The aircraft’s environmental  control  system  also  preserves  a  sea-level  cabin  altitude  while  flying  under 27,050 ft.(8.245 m).

The  new  seating  options  for  the  Legacy  450  and Legacy  500  as  well  as  the  lower  cabin altitude became available to customers receiving aircraft in the second quarter of 2018.

Link to images : https://eej.imagerelay.com/sb/Legacy450500enhancements

Textron Aviation leading products landing soon at EBACE 2018

May 22, 2018 – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, will feature a broad product lineup –  including the Citation Longitude – at the upcoming European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE), May 29-31 at Geneva’s Palexpo convention center.

Products on display at Geneva International Airport

• Cessna Citation Longitude
• Cessna Citation Latitude
• Cessna Citation CJ4
• Cessna Citation CJ3+
• Cessna Citation M2
• Beechcraft King Air 350i 
• Cessna Grand Caravan EX

AfBAA to launch Commercial General Aviation Symposium at EBACE

 

May 21, 2018 – The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) will launch the AfBAA Commercial General Aviation Symposium (CGAS), at EBACE 2018, booth W43. Nairobi, Kenya will be home to the meeting that will take place 21-23 November 2018. This will be the Association’s first meeting focusing on flight operations in the turboprop hub of East Africa, as the spotlight shines on the CGA community.

 

Rather than a one-day conference, where attendees are seated in a single space, the event will take advantage of tailored, focused sessions and workshops discussing the operational needs of rotary aircraft, remotely piloted aerial systems, and business jets. The variety of missions, and the huge spectrum of aircraft serving the humanitarian, tourism, medevac, agricultural, and industrial sectors in East Africa have defined the parallel-session format. The symposium will aim to build a platform from which smaller suppliers and operators can interact with local, regional, national, intercontinental and international colleagues. Each session will address specific topics, and attendees will be encouraged to debate and discuss relevant issues currently affecting those operating in the sectors.

 

AfBAA is partnering with Nairobi-based The Aero Club of East Africa, which has been supporting aviation in Kenya since 1927. The members’ club serves those with an interest in aviation, and acts as a base for pilot training, air shows, safety seminars, and navigation education. It will provide the venue for the CGAS pre- and post-event networking activities, as well as hosting the table–top exhibition.

 

“As far as we know this type of format has not been undertaken previously for an aviation event in Africa, but the Association has a duty to represent the interests of these sectors in addition to business jets.  We’re delighted that our first Kenya event will focus on the aviation workhorses of the region,” said Rady Fahmy, CEO of AfBAA. “Unlike West Africa which maximises the capabilities of longer-range jets, East Africa depends on the flexibility, versatility and “off-road” capabilities of the smaller turbo-prop and helicopter machines. We are very excited to set this event in motion.”

Mente Group appoints Colleen Kelly as Vice President of Talent Acquisition

18 May 2018 – Mente Group, LLC, the Dallas, Texas-based international aviation advisory firm, announces the appointment of Colleen Kelly as Vice President of Talent Acquisition, effective immediately. Reporting to Brian Proctor, President and CEO, Colleen will lead all personnel staffing needs for Mente’s clients and the business aviation community. She will be based out of Mente’s Northern California office.

Colleen has extensive experience in this field, having served hundreds of clients and candidates over the past 11 years during her tenure at Aviation Personnel International (API). She joined API in September 2007 as Director of Candidate Services and was promoted in October 2011 as Vice President, Client and Talent Relations. Colleen was responsible for the retained recruitment of aviation professionals on behalf of corporate and private companies where she built a solid network of clients and candidates and successfully placed hundreds of professionals in career changing roles.

Earlier in her career, Colleen was a Director for a leading international clothing manufacturer where she gained extensive business management experience as the sole executive responsible for the brands P&L.

Her appointment as VP of Talent Acquisition establishes a new service offering for Mente, ensuring delivery of an even more diverse range of solutions – from consulting to asset advisory services for corporations and financial institutions; aircraft sales and marketing to talent management. For nearly 10 years, Mente’s objective has been to embrace each client engagement with a unique approach, focusing first and foremost on the customer’s needs and then developing an aviation solution to support those requirements.

Brian Proctor, founder, President and CEO of Mente Group comments, “Colleen’s wealth of experience with talent acquisition and management services will add an extremely important service for our valued clients. As the overall business aviation sector faces a challenging time sourcing business aviation pilots, Colleen’s extensive relationships with flight operations personnel will connect our clients with qualified leadership candidates and help to nurture future talent. In order to have a well functioning flight operation, we know human capital is as important as the physical capital in having a positive ownership experience. For this reason, we are delighted to bring on the best in the business to help recruit the very best talent for our clients. We are excited that Colleen has joined the Mente team to add that critical element to our portfolio of services.”

Mente Group’s Brian Proctor will be attending the forthcoming EBACE in Geneva, 29-31 May 2018.

TBM – Nicolas Chabbert’s viewpoint : Connectivity and longevity

May 17 2018 –  Edito Newsletter DAHER TBM

As we approach the mid-way point of 2018, two themes underscore our evolution of the TBM during this year as Daher continues to meet – and exceed – expectations of the owners and operators who fly the very fast turboprop family.

The first theme is “connectivity,” which was underscored by our unveiling of the “Me & My TBM” app at Germany’s AERO Friedrichshafen trade show in April. This new smartphone application represents a true breakthrough for the general aviation sector, as it considerably enhances the TBM’s operating efficiency, optimizes maintenance management, and contributes to pilots flying their aircraft at the highest safety standards.

Initial reactions to “Me & My TBM” were extremely positive from the TBM community – and across the general aviation sector at large – and included feedback that went well beyond the app’s direct advantages. Daher once again was recognized for its continued efforts to remain at the forefront of innovation, as well as its ability to capture the “new and different” while adding capabilities to TBM aircraft and providing benefits to their owners/operators.

Daher once again was recognized for its continued efforts to remain at the forefront of innovation

The app builds on other improvements we’re introducing on a regular basis. As an example, “connectivity” on the latest TBM 910 and TBM 930 versions is further augmented with the implementation of Garmin’s Flight Stream 510 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth linkup to mobile devices that run the Garmin Pilot or Foreflight apps.

This follows other enhancements for Model Year 2018 TBM 910s and TBM 930s announced earlier in 2018, ranging from new heated seats to such improved pilot interface updates as backlighting on the cockpit’s central console.

Our steps in regularly evolving the TBM family bring me to the second theme of 2018: “longevity.” With our philosophy of constant improvement, we’re ensuring the TBM continues at the top of its class for owners/operators, and its value remains strong for the long term – an approach we apply to new aircraft and on earlier production versions with our growing catalogue of retrofit options.

“Longevity” also is an appropriate word that links our loyal customers to the TBM’s country of origin – France. I was pleased by the positive atmosphere during the recent French state visit to the United States, reflecting the historically strong French-American relationship. The pride of our owners/operators in flying their TBM underscores how avant-garde they are in choosing “the French lady” as their preferred aircraft.

Looking to the second half of 2018, “longevity” also will be one of our themes at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in during July – where we’ll be exhibiting an aircraft that represents a true milestone in the TBM’s production run, while also celebrating the 30th anniversary of the TBM’s first flight in July 2008.

I wish you blue skies, good tail winds and safe flying.

Nicolas Chabbert – Senior Vice President – Daher Airplane Business Unit

Avantto and Air BP collaborate in carbon offsetting program for business aviation

São Paulo, May 17, 2018 – Avantto Aircraft Administration, in collaboration with Air BP, announces a pioneering program in Brazil to offset carbon emissions in the business aviation sector. The carbon emissions related to the use of all of the aviation fuel supplied by Air BP to Avantto for the next 12 months will be offset via BP Target Neutral, in line with the companies’ commitment to a lower carbon future.

“Through our partnership with Air BP, we have taken another step in our sustainability journey. Now, in addition to benefits such as safety, availability and convenience, our clients will also have the carbon emissions from the aviation fuel used in their flights offset, thereby responding in a practical way to the climate challenges,” says Rogério Andrade, Avantto’s CEO.

Avantto performs more than 750 take-offs per month, accumulating more than 4,500 flight hours per year, for about 400 users. Concerns about sustainability are at the heart of Avantto’s business model. Through shared flights between clients, it is possible to optimize aircraft occupancy by reducing fuel consumption and the number of “empty legs”. Also, Avantto operates in one of the world’s most modern heliports – HBR Aviation, whose construction respected and prioritized a minimum environmental impact.

The program will be launched on June 1, 2018, and initially run for one year, with the possibility of being extended into the future. This is Air BP’s first carbon offsetting offer for business aviation customers in Brazil and complements its carbon neutral into-plane fueling operations at 250 directly operated locations around the world, including a number of locations in Brazil such as Sao Paulo Guarulhos and Rio de Janeiro Galeao international airports.

“In addition to finding ways to reduce our own carbon emissions, we work closely with our customers to develop innovative offers that support them in the transition to a lower carbon future. We are proud to launch this initiative in Brazil in collaboration with Avantto, which gives business aviation customers the opportunity to reduce the carbon impact of flying ” says Ricardo Paganini, General Manager, Air BP South America.

All the carbon emissions related to use of the aviation fuel supplied by Air BP to Avantto will be offset through BP Target Neutral. The carbon emission reductions from its global portfolio of projects are independently verified and monitored in line with the ICROA (International Carbon Reduction & Offset Alliance) Code of Best Practice. Projects within the BP Target Neutral portfolio have been assessed  n the basis of their contribution to reducing carbon emissions and their potential to support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, for example, through their potential to help improve livelihoods for the communities they are based in through various educative, economic and social benefits.

Air BP to offset carbon emissions of fuel supplied to Teruel Airport in May

Madrid, May 17, 2018. To mark the fifth anniversary of Teruel Airport, Air BP and PLATA (Plataforma Aeroportuaria de Teruel) have launched an initiative where carbon emissions related to the aviation fuel supplied at the airport will be offset through carbon reduction projects around the world.
Carbon emissions from the JET-A1 and AVGAS 100LL supplied at the airport by Air BP during May 2018 will be offset through BP Target Neutral, a programme designed to help customers reduce, replace and neutralize carbon emissions. BP Target Neutral will balance the emissions from aviation fuel at Teruel by purchasing carbon credits from projects around the world that have reduced emissions. This process nets the emissions from aviation fuel at Teruel to zero for the month of May.
Valerio Ferro, General Manager Air BP West Med, said: “This initiative demonstrates Air BP’s continued commitment to Teruel Airport, providing it with leading-edge, innovative aviation fuel solutions and helping with the transition towards a lower carbon future.”
The aim of Plataforma Aeroportuaria de Teruel has always been to provide aviation services while respecting the environment it is operating in. It has achieved this through closely monitoring what best practice is in this area and then implementing it. “Minimizing our environmental impact has always been a priority and guided us in the development of multiple initiatives,” says Alejandro Ibrahim, General Manager of Teruel Airport. “Because of that, we are leading the Spanish airport
industry where carbon offsetting programmes are concerned.”
To balance emissions from Teruel BP Target Neutral’s global portfolio includes a variety of offset projects ranging from the installation of hydropower plants in rural China to biogas initiatives in Karnataka, India. All the projects are selected by an independent forum, independently verified and monitored in line with the ICROA (International Carbon Reduction & Offset Alliance) Code of Best Practice. The projects are chosen based on their contribution to UN Sustainable Development
Goals, which includes their contribution to reducing carbon emissions and improving livelihoods for the communities they are based in through various educative, economic and social benefits.

AVIAÂ appoints Clive Prentice as Consultant – MRO leadership specialist will identify partners, provide mentorship

May 16, 2018AVIAÂ , the expanding global group purchasing organisation for business aircraft owners and operators, has added to its team of experts with the appointment of UK-based Clive Prentice as Consultant, specialising in MRO and technical services.  In his new role, he will advise on suitable independent maintenance partners and mentor the global maintenance team as the business evolves.

Clive brings two decades’ experience running large maintenance organizations for business jet companies to AVIAÂ – originally supporting OEMs and then moving to third party independent MROs working in a consultancy role, –  from Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group, JETS (Bourmemouth) through to Gama Aviation PLC.  Previously, Clive served as Finance Director, BAE Corporate Jets; MD of Raytheon Aviation Services and VP and General Manager for Hawker Beechcraft, responsible for Customer Support in the EMEA region.

Typically a smaller business aircraft operator will  invest nearly US$200,000 per year on MRO per aircraft.  Working with established and leading independent maintenance suppliers in Europe and the US, AVIAÂ aims to help save its members 15% upwards on MRO costs, contributing to an overall US$100,000 saving per jet, per year, based on 520 flying hours.

The fiercely competitive MRO business has consolidated, and the independents face very slim margins.  The original manufacturers are more involved in supporting their jets now, duly creating MRO slots at leading independents who hold existing or expired authorised service centre status. “This is the area we are looking at, working with reputable, established players.  AVIAÂ’s offer is very attractive for both operator and owner and supplier,” noted Clive.

“I bring a good understanding of the traditional methodology that can be utilized to benchmark the services provided and ensure the regulatory framework is understood,” he added

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Oriens Aviation: demand for Pilatus PC-12NG continues

Oriens Aviation, the exclusive British Isles Pilatus Centre, is looking forward to a busy EBACE later this month, hard on the heels of completing three aircraft deliveries this Spring.  It is currently working on one sale which should be ratified later this summer.  Oriens’ London Biggin Hill-based demonstrator (G-DYLN), which replaced G-RABB, will feature on the static at EBACE, Europe’s premier business aviation trade show, during 28 to 31^st May for Pilatus.

“We had a lot of interest in the aircraft at AERO Friedrichshafen last month,” noted Edwin Brenninkmeyer, CEO of Oriens Aviation.  It is a show that goes from strength from strength for us, he observed.   Sales Director Craig Lammiman added that the business is seeing an increased interest from existing and potential customers about connectivity and Wifi installations – on both new units and retrofits.   We look forward to talking with specialist companies about this during EBACE, he added.

Piaggio Aerospace at EBACE 2018

Villanova d’Albenga, May 07, 2018 – Piaggio Aerospace will participate in the 18^th edition of the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE), the premier business aviation event in Europe. The Airshow will be staged in Geneva, Switzerland, at the Palexpo, between 29^th and 31^st May.

Piaggio Aerospace will be present at the indoor display (booth T123) and will exhibit its Avanti EVO at the Static Display (SD_10). The Avanti EVO is the latest generation of the P.180 Avanti aircraft of Piaggio Aerospace, leading Italian player in business aviation providing cutting edge aviation technology at global level. Currently more than 220 P.180 Avanti aircrafts are flying globally.

Horix Aerospace will exhibit for the first time at EBACE 2018

Quartino, Switzerland – 2nd May 2018 – Horix Aerospace announces that it will exhibit for the very first time at EBACE 2018 (Geneva, Switzerland), the European biggest business aviation event, form 29th to 31st of May. To introduce its offer, Horix Aerospace will exhibit its activities in the fields of spare parts and ground support equipment.

“We are excited about our debut during such a premier event”, said Marco Taufer, Head of Spare Parts Division. “It is a great opportunity for us to showcase our product line. Although we are a start-up, we already reach many goals in terms of commercial goals and quality certification (ISO9001:2015 and AS9120B). Exhibiting at European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition is part of our growth strategy to expand our activities”, continues Marco Taufer.

Horix Aerospace is the only Swiss company specialized in spare parts distribution to the global aerospace industry. During EBACE 2018, Horix Aerospece will showcase its product line: spare parts, aerostructures, wiring harness, maintenance special tools, fasteners, and more. Driven by aviation passion, Horix Aerospace mission is to be at the right time next to customers to keep them flying.

In addition, Horix Aerospace is the only Swiss company to develop and manufacture innovative ground support equipment for skidded helicopters and wheeled aircrafts (HELIFTTM). Thanks to professional experience in the logistic and aerospace sector, Horix Aerospace mission is to provide new and revolutionary solution to allow go flying in less possible time.