Rolling Business Aviation Daily Briefs (January 2025)

February 03, 2025

Vantage Aviation To Build FBO In Rifle, Colorado

Vantage Aviation in Rifle, Colorado, in partnership with Business Aviation Group, will begin construction on a fixed base operation (FBO) featuring a 40,000 ft.2 hangar and a 25,000 ft.2 hangar with premier lobby. The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners approved the development, which includes an expanded apron, doubling of fuel storage on the airfield and heated hangars with a deicing pad. Construction will begin in summer 2025 with completion expected in late 2026. Under the plan the apron and parking areas will expand by nearly 25%.

Qatar Executive Adds MedAire’s MedAir360 Services To Fleet

MedAire is integrating its MedAir360 services across Qatar’s executive fleet, including Qatar’s newly acquired Gulfstream G700s, to elevate aviation safety, MedAire announced. Qatar Executive is expanding its fleet with the G700s. Integration of MedAire 360 throughout the fleet enhances its capabilities to deliver advanced medical and security support, it says. MedAire360 will give Qatar Executive immediate access to medical expertise and security intelligence, including access to advanced diagnostics and security insights through MedAire’s Aviation Security Portal it says.

January 31, 2025

Titan Aviation Acquires U.S. Bank National Association’s Multi-Service Aviation Card

Titan Aviation Fuels announced its acquisition of the Multi-Service Aviation Card and related payment card network and processing services platform from U.S. Bank National Association. The acquisition enables Titan Aviation Fuels to offer competitive fees and options for all network-accepted cards, flexible payment options and PCI-compliance, it says.

PlanseSense, Jetfly Partner To Share Fleet Access

PlaneSense and Jetfly announced their partnership to allow customers to use flight hours with both programs’ fleet of aircraft beginning in April 2025. Between the two companies, customers can utilize a fleet of nearly 100 fractionally-owned Pilatus PC-12 turboprops and PC-24 jets. “This collaboration is a tremendous value-add for our clients,” says George Antoniadis, president and CEO of PlaneSense. “Enhancing our program with distinctive benefits such as this is aligned with our constant drive over the last 30 years to improve our service. We have come to know Jetfly well over the years and we share the same values on safety, service and aircraft maintenance. I am confident PlaneSense share owners will be in good hands while traveling in Europe.”

January 30, 2025

Eve Air Mobility, JetSetGo Partner On Urban ATM In India

Eve Air Mobility entered an agreement with JetSetGo, an India-based private charter company, to implement the use of Eve’s urban air traffic management (ATM) software, Vector. The agreement was announced during the Bharat Mobility AAM Conference and marks JetSetGo as Eve’s second customer in India and 14th internationally. “Urban Air Mobility has the transformative potential to reshape urban living by making travel faster, cleaner and more efficient while addressing the growing challenges of modern cities,” says Kanika Tekriwal, co-founder and CEO of JetSetGo. “This technology is vital for tackling issues like traffic congestion, wasted hours, worsening air pollution and the need for eco-friendly travel solutions.”

Cornwall Airport Newquay Selects Airport Coordination For Operations Enhancement

Cornwall Airport Newquay (NQY) has entered into a three-year contract with Airport Coordination Ltd (ACL) to provide the airport with data collection services. According to NQY, the airport handled more than 400,000 passengers and over 20,000 aircraft movements between 2023 and 2024. “We’re excited to partner with Airport Coordination Limited as we work to expand our route network and enhance our operations,” says Amy Smith, head of commercial at NQY. “This collaboration comes at a crucial time, as demand for travel to and from Cornwall grows. ACL’s expertise in data collection and operational efficiency will support our mission to deliver a seamless experience for passengers and airlines alike, strengthening our position as a key regional gateway.”

January 29, 2025

Tecnam Delivers Two Aircraft To Roraima Airways

Tecnam announced the delivery of two P2012 Traveller Continental aircraft to Roraima Airways in Guyana. According to Tecnam, the aircraft order comes as the government of Guyana makes large investments into its aviation infrastructure. The two aircraft are expected to be used for passenger and medical services. “We are expanding the VIP passenger experience, charter operations, cargo and medevac flights, offering a higher level of safety and luxury even in the jungle,” says Roraima Airways Director of Aviation and Chief Pilot Gerald Gouveia Jr. “Roraima has a very proud history of providing these services to the people of Guyana during the day and the night. Due to the risk of operating in the jungle without proper weather reporting and adverse weather conditions, we had actually restricted the night flying at the company. With the Tecnam aircraft and the added technology and safety standards, as well as the work that the government is doing to improve the quality of the airstrips across Guyana, we are looking to restart our night medevac service.”

Duncan Aviation Gains Factory Authorization From Ontic

Duncan Aviation has entered a licensing agreement with Ontic for service, support, exchange and sale of certain part numbers of its Thrust Reverser Actuation System (TRAS) product line. According to Duncan Aviation, Ontic acquired the product line from Honeywell in 2023 for production and repair. The TRAS part numbers will support Honeywell CF6 and CF34 engines on over 3,000 aircraft.

January 28, 2025

The UAV Leasing Company Launches BlinkShare

The UAV Leasing Company, a Dublin-based aerospace consulting firm, announced the launch of a Progressive Web App (PWA) to connect customers with Part 135 operators. The app, named BlinkShare, is an online digital platform that focuses on finding and utilizing opportunities for “hitch-jetting.” The app also includes a function to shop for empty-leg flights. “More than 40% of private jets fly empty. Every day, over 2,000 passenger-less flights, representing more than 30,000 seats, go unused,” says Charles Hergott, founder of The UAV Leasing Company. “These flights not only perpetuate inefficiencies and tarnish the image of private aviation but also represent a significant missed revenue opportunity for operators. BlinkShare aims to bridge the gap by optimizing empty legs—whether for passengers who missed commercial flights, those traveling with pets or those requiring special medical attention.”

Avilution Conducts First Flight For FAA-Approved ADC For Eclipse 500 Jet

Avilution, an avionics software company, announced the first successful flight of its FAA-approved modification to the Air Data Computer (ADC) for the Eclipse 500 Jet. According to Avilution, this milestone is the first FAA-approved implementation of its extensible Flight System (XFS) software. Additionally, the ADC is designed to address the Eclipse 500 ADC’s high failure rate, limited component availability and costly maintenance, it says. “A big adventure of this outcome was that nothing changed with the pilots’ interface to the avionics,” says Avilution Founder Mark Spencer. “This integration is completely invisible to the flight crew, avoiding the need for additional flight training or procedure changes.”
 

January 27, 2025

Tecnam Names Aerocorp As Exclusive Dealer And Service Center

Tecnam Aircraft announced Aerocorp as its exclusive dealer for sales and service in Costa Rica, Guatemala and El Salvador. Aerocorp will offer Tecnam’s range of light sport aircraft to the region, as well as the P2010 and P2006T series. Additionally, the company will market P-Mentor aircraft to flight schools and private owners, according to Tecnam. “We are very excited about this venture with Tecnam as it brings over 75 years of expertise to the regional market,” says Aerocorp CEO Esteban Artiñano. “Aerocorp is one of the top MROs in the region that can complement Tecnam’s heritage and grow the brand in this part of the world. I know that together we can bring a new generation of aircraft to the market that will be valuable to our customers along with the efficiency and quality that Tecnam offers.”

Integrity Jets Ends First Year Closing Nine Transactions

Integrity Jets, a business aviation brokerage founded in 2024, finished the year with nine completed transactions, it reports. The company is led by Eric Hammer, who gained several years of aircraft sales experience with Embraer and Cessna. “I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished and how quickly we have established ourselves as I open this new chapter—with nine completed transactions in our first year. But I am most proud of the level of service and satisfaction we have been able to continually deliver to our customers,” Hammer said. “We look forward to what 2025 brings and plan to continue building on our successes and delivering our unique level of customer service to our clients.”
 

January 24, 2025

Horizon Aircraft, Discovery Air Chile Sign LOI For Five eVTOL Aircraft

Horizon Aircraft, an electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer, signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Discovery Air Chile for the lease of five Cavorite X7 eVTOLs. The aircraft, expected to be delivered in 2028, will be used to transfer passengers, patients and sensitive goods. “We are proud to be the first South American operator of Horizon Aircraft’s Cavorite X7 Hybrid eVTOL,” says Álvaro González, General Manager of Discovery Air Chile. “Sustainable, cost-effective operations and innovative technology, such as what Horizon Aircraft offers, advances Chilean regional air services and is integral to maintain competitive operations. The Cavorite X7 is expected to transform the speed, flexibility and cost to transport people and critical goods. This will be transformative for Chilean air movements at a regional level.”

January 23, 2025

Bombardier Completes Partial Redemption Of Senior Notes

Bombardier announced its redemption of $300 million principal amount of its 7.875% Senior Notes due in 2027. According to Bombardier, the process was completed through the Depository Trust Company. “Bombardier has been disciplined and consistent in prioritizing debt reduction. This $300 million debt redemption, funded by cash from balance sheet, further underscores our continued commitment toward reducing leverage and improving the company’s credit metrics,” says Bart Demosky, Bombardier executive vice president and chief financial officer.

January 22, 2025

Jet Linx Reaches 200 Million Miles Flown

Private aviation provider Jet Linx, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is celebrating its 25th year of operations and 200 million mi. flown without incident. According to the company, its number of miles flown has doubled in the past five years. In December 2024, Jet Linx flew more than 1.6 million mi. during peak holiday travel season. “This extraordinary milestone exemplifies the balance we’ve maintained between accelerated growth and uncompromising safety,” says Jet Linx President and CEO Brent Wouters. “Our sophisticated Safety Management System (SMS) is the foundation of every mile we fly, and our local service model ensures our clients receive the personalized care that distinguishes Jet Linx in private aviation.”
 

January 21, 2025

Aerocor Launches Beechcraft Premier I/IA Training Program

Aerocor based in Henderson, Nevada, announced the launch of its type rating training program for Beechcraft model 390 Premier I/IA aircraft. Aerocor will begin with classes for initial type ratings for the light business jet but will add recurrent training in the near future. The program will meet a growing need for training options and instructor availability for Premier aircraft, officials say. “The release of this program is a game-changer for the Premier community,” says Jens Personius, Aerocor training manager. “By providing in-aircraft training, we’re delivering an experience that is not only personalized but also more practical, helping students gain real-world proficiency that’s invaluable for safe and effective operation of Premier aircraft.” Aerocor also provides aircraft training programs for the Eclipse 500 and Eclipse 550 and upset and recovery training in the American Champion Super Decathlon.

January 17, 2025

ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East Gains EASA Certification For Global 7500

ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to provide maintenance on Bombardier Global 7500 aircraft at its Al-Maktoum International Airport (DWC) facility in Dubai. “We are excited to extend our support to the Bombardier Global 7500 with EASA certification for our state-of-the-art DWC facility,” says Nick Weber, regional vice president for the Middle East at ExecuJet MRO Services. “With years of experience maintaining the Challenger and Global series, our team is committed to delivering the highest standards of quality, safety and craftsmanship.”
 

January 16, 2025

Textron Aviation Celebrates Two Employees’ 50 Years Of Service

Textron Aviation celebrated two of its employees, Dayton Hartley and Doncella White, for their service to the company over the past five decades. Hartley began his tenure with Textron in structural dynamics with Beechcraft and now serves as a senior engineer specialist with Textron Aviation. White, who began on the wash crew, now serves as an aircraft painter, where she’s served for more than 50 years. Both employees were presented with commemorative aircraft keepsakes with custom 50-year paint schemes.

January 15, 2025

AvAir Achieves Climate Neutral Certification

AvAir, an aviation aftermarket inventory provider, announced its status as the first climate neutral certified company in the industry, the company says. According to AvAir, the certification was attained after measuring 12 months of greenhouse gas emissions, enacted reduction plans and compensation through eligible-verified credits. “Climate Neutral Certified companies are demonstrating immediate action on climate change is possible and essential,” says Change Climate CEO Austin Whitman. “Climate Neutral Certified brands have built a powerful movement that gives companies and consumers meaningful ways to act on climate — today. They are leading the way, taking immediate voluntary action to address their carbon emissions and engaging their consumers around this important issue like never before.”

January 14, 2025

Riverside Jet Center Joins AEG Connect Network

AEG Fuels announced the addition of Riverside Jet Center to its AEG Connect Network. Riverside Jet Center, located at Tulsa Riverside Airport (KRVS) in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a full-service FBO and FAR Part 145 Repair Station. The FBO offers over 74,000 ft.² of hangar space, car rental services and catering. “Joining the AEG Connect Network allows us to broaden our reach and offer unparalleled support to a larger clientele. AEG Fuels has an outstanding reputation for reliability and innovation, and we are proud to be part of this prestigious network,” says Michael Curtis, FBO manager at Riverside Jet Center.

January 10, 2025

VIP Completions Converts Gulfstream G550 To Air Ambulance

VIP Completions announced its successful conversion of a Gulfstream G550, operated by Hatzolah Air, from a business aircraft to a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) air ambulance. According to VIP Completions, the aircraft reentered service in summer 2024 and immediately began flying life-saving missions. Hatzolah Air operates as a non-profit MEDEVAC provider, staffed by more than 360 volunteer flight physicians, paramedics and other emergency personnel. The configuration includes a life support zone, galley and lounge, with capacity for up to 12 medical crew and passengers in single stretcher configuration, or up to eight when transporting two patients. “For VIP Completions, the conversion of a business aircraft to an air ambulance is a departure from our typical projects. As an extension of our expertise, we are able to leverage years of experience in interior completions, exceptional craftmanship and the attention to detail of our team of experts. We invite other parties interested in MEDEVAC conversions to contact us at their convenience,” says VIP Completions President Ben Shirazi.

January 9, 2025

Robinson Helicopter Co. Receives EASA Approval For Improved Empennage

Robinson Helicopter Co. (RHC) has received EASA approval for its symmetrical horizontal stabilizer. According to RHC, the approval covers all Robinson helicopter models and is applicable across EASA jurisdictions, Argentina, Japan and India. The approval follows the FAA’s approval of the same configuration for RHC’s R44 and R22 models in 2024. “This is a significant milestone in our commitment to continuous safety, reliability and customer satisfaction around the world,” says RCH President and CEO David Smith. “This certification is a testament to our team’s tireless pursuit in enhancing the Robinson flying experience and setting new standards for safety and performance in the industry.”

January 8, 2025

Northern Jet Expands Fleet

Northern Jet closed out the fourth quarter of 2024 with the addition of seven aircraft to its operating fleet. According to the company, the new aircraft include an Embraer Phenom 300, a Cessna Citation XLS+, a Citation Jet CJ4, a Citation Sovereign+, a Bombardier Challenger 300, Challenger 3500 and a Gulfstream G450. Northern Jet’s choice of aircraft is made to address its capabilities for both short- and long-range missions. “These fleet additions reflect our dedication to delivering tailored solutions that prioritize efficiency, reliability and service excellence,” says Northern Jet CEO Chris Bull. “We are focused on offering a wide range of travel options that address the needs of clients who value their time and seek personalized travel experiences.”

Air India Acquires Three Diamond Aircraft

Air India announced its deal with Diamond Aircraft for the acquisition of three new twin-engine DA42-VI aircraft for Air India’s Flight Training Organization (FTO) based in Amravati, Maharashtra. The deal also gives Air India the option for six additional aircraft, with deliveries expected in summer 2025. “We are excited to partner with Diamond Aircraft as we set up India’s first airline-owned and operated cadet pilot school. We see this as the beginning of a partnership with Diamond to support Air India’s vision to strengthen the aviation training ecosystem in India and become self-reliant,” says Sunil Bhaskaran, director of Air India’s Aviation Academy.

January 7, 2025

Textron Aviation’s SkyCourier Earns Canadian Approval

Textron Aviation’s Cessna SkyCourier turboprop has earned type certification from Transport Canada Civil Aviation, allowing the aircraft to support operations in some of the most remote areas of North America, the company says. The first delivery of a SkyCourier in the region, a freighter variant, is planned for delivery in 2024 to Air Bravo Corp., a passenger, cargo and air ambulance flight services company based in Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Barrie and Meaford, Ontario. The company was founded in 2001.

WSU, Groover Labs Partner On Regional Business Support

Wichita State University’s (WSU) College of Engineering announced its partnership with Groover Labs, a nonprofit collaborative workspace, to innovate prototype building and low-volume manufacturing for regional businesses. The initiative provides WSU students with opportunities to pursue real-world engineering experience to support the needs of local businesses and entrepreneurs. “The partnership between the college and Groover Labs underscores a shared commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening the regional economy through collaboration, creativity and education,” says Dr. Anthony Muscat, dean of WSU’s College of Engineering.

January 6, 2025

Eve Air Mobility, Signature Aviation Partner On AAM Ground Operations

Eve Air Mobility, an eVTOL manufacturer and FBO provider Signature Aviation have signed a memorandum of understanding to research the ecosystem requirements and ground services that will be needed to support and scale advanced air mobility ground operations in a safe and efficient way, they say. They will leverage their expertise in aircraft and passenger services to gain insight on ground service needs, local knowledge, private aviation terminal operations and passenger services to guide the procedures and ecosystem required for eVTOLs to launch and to scale, says Luiz Mauad, Eve Air Mobility vice president of services, operations solutions, strategic design and ecosystem. The two companies will also explore potential future commercial partnerships, he says. The partnership means that 2025 will be a “transformative year” for Signature, officials say. The two companies have also signed a letter of intent (LOI) for Eve’s urban air traffic management software called Vector. Eve has LOIs for 2,900 eVTOLs.

Starlink Names Skyservice Business Aviation An Authorized Dealer

Skyservice Business Aviation has become an authorized Starlink dealer, which extends the availability of Starlink’s in-flight connectivity services to additional aircraft owners and operators, it says. Starlink’s advanced low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network delivers low-latency, resilient, high-speed internet connectivity. The company has obtained FAA approval for Gulfstream 450 and Bombardier Global aircraft with Transport Canada Civil Aviation approvals in progress.

January 3, 2025

Vantage Aviation To Build FBO In Rifle, Colorado

Vantage Aviation in Rifle, Colorado, in partnership with Business Aviation Group, will begin construction on a fixed base operation (FBO) featuring a 40,000 ft.2 hangar and a 25,000 ft.2 hangar with premier lobby. The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners approved the development, which includes an expanded apron, doubling of fuel storage on the airfield and heated hangars with a deicing pad. Construction will begin in summer 2025 with completion expected in late 2026. Under the plan the apron and parking areas will expand by nearly 25%.

Qatar Executive Adds MedAire’s MedAir360 Services To Fleet

MedAire is integrating its MedAir360 services across Qatar’s executive fleet, including Qatar’s newly acquired Gulfstream G700s, to elevate aviation safety, MedAire announced. Qatar Executive is expanding its fleet with the G700s. Integration of MedAire 360 throughout the fleet enhances its capabilities to deliver advanced medical and security support, it says. MedAire360 will give Qatar Executive immediate access to medical expertise and security intelligence, including access to advanced diagnostics and security insights through MedAire’s Aviation Security Portal it says.