Rolling Business Aviation Daily Briefs (October 2024)

October 31, 2024

Million Air Dallas Opens Texas Ramp

Million Air Dallas, a fixed base operator at Addison Airport in Texas is opening its new 61,973 ft.2ramp, Million Air Dallas International Services, on Nov. 15, 2024. The ramp is designed to streamline the international arrival and clearance process and connect to U.S. Customs for ground services. The expansion increases the FBO’s total ramp space to 366,854 ft.2.

National Aeronautical Association Recognizes MedAire

The National Aeronautical Association Henderson Trophy was presented to MedAire during NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas. MedAire was recognized for pioneering medical and security assistance. It was the first to provide live emergency call assistance directly to medical experts from the cockpit. Their professionals provide expert medical advice and assistance through dedicated call centers.

October 30, 2024

Universal Aviation Adds Ground Handling Services in Portugal

Universal Aviation, a ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, has formed a strategic co-branding agreement with Safeport, a business aviation ground handler in Portugal. It is Universal’s first entry into the Portuguese market and the strategic Cape Verde archipelago, and a move that significantly expands its network and strengthens its logistical position for trip support on key Atlantic crossing routes, the company says. All six of Safeport’s ground handling locations there will be cobranded with Universal Aviation.

MBA Aviation Announces Launch Customer For Jumpseat SMS

MBA Aviation announced its launch customer for Jumpseat SMS in the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector—UrbanLink. Jumpseat SMS is the company’s risk management software designed to streamline SMS development and implementation for air operators under Part 135 and 91.407 along with flight departments, flight schools and utility operators.

October 29, 2024

Pipistrel announced Triple J Aviation Engineering as its newest UK-based distributor. Triple J Aviation Engineering, based at the London Oxford Airport, took delivery of its first Pipistrel Explorer and a Velis Electro to be used as demonstration models.

Satcom Direct (SD) announced the availability of its Plane Simple Ku-band tail-mount terminal for Gulfstream G650, G650ER, G500 and G600 production aircraft. According to SD, the first G600 installed with the system has been delivered, with additional Gulfstream installations in progress

October 28, 2024

Paragon Aviation Group announced Jackson Jet as the newest addition to its Paragon Network in the Pacific Northwest. Jackson Jet Center, located in Boise, Idaho, offers a unique U.S. Customs Reimbursable Services Program (RSP) — making it a popular FBO for international travelers, according to Paragon.

Aero Star Aviation announced its expansion to two larger hangars at its Dallas Love Field (DAL) facility. According to the company, the first 44,000 ft² hangar contains 30,000 ft² of hangar space and 14,000 ft² of office space. Additionally, the second hangar measures in at 32,000 ft², including 22,000 ft² of hangar space and 10,000 ft² of office space.

October 24, 2024

NATA To Grant Prestigious Airport Executive Partnership Award

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) announced plans to present its Airport Executive Partnership Award to Prescott Regional Airport Director Richard “Rick” Crider. According to NATA, the award recognizes the airport manager for its work as a liaison between aviation businesses and airport operators. The award will be presented during NATA’s Industry Excellence Awards Presentation and Luncheon in Nashville, Tennessee on Nov. 13.

October 23, 2024

Trimec Aviation Developing Gogo Galileo HDX STC On Gulfstream G200

Trimec Aviation announced its ongoing development of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for Gogo’s Galileo HDX for the Gulfstream G200. Trimec, an FAA Part 145 Repair Station and authorized Gogo Business Aviation dealer, aims to serve the fleet base of more than 230 G200s in operation today, it says. Gogo Galileo offers high-speed, in-flight internet using Eutelsat OneWeb’s Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network. According to Trimec, the STC is under development in response to a strong demand for the platform on the G200.

Ingenio Aerospace Announces Cockpit Tablet EFB STCs

Ingenio Aerospace Announces Cockpit Tablet EFB STCs Ingenio Aerospace received Supplemental Type Certificates from Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) for its Cockpit Tablet Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) on Bombardier Global series and Challenger 600 series aircraft. The upgrade enables USB Type-C charging capacity up to 60W, EFB mounts, USB 2.0 data passthrough and structural brackets for pilot and co-pilot configurations. “Access to Global and Challenger 600 series immediately opens a potential market of more than 3,000 aircraft worldwide, plus the new aircraft rolling off the assembly line every day,” says Ingenio President and CEO James Bell.

October 22, 2024

JSX To Expand New Mexico Service In December

SX, an air charter provider, announced plans to resume its seasonal flight service to Toas (TSM) from Dallas (DAL), Austin (EDC), Burbank, California (BUR) and Carlsbad, New Mexico (CLD) starting Dec. 9, 2024. According to JSX, introductory fares will begin at $219 one-way. JSX operates as the only public air charter service to Taos Regional Airport.

Quality Fly Completes Fleet Modernization

Quality Fly announced completion of its fleet modernization efforts with the addition of four new Tecnam P2008JC MKII aircraft to its training fleet. As part of the modernization, the school is now selling its three Tecnam P2002 aircraft. According to Quality Fly, the transition to a fleet of Tecnam P2008 single-engine piston (SEP) aircraft improves the student learning curve by over 30%. The new aircraft also enables alignment with its ATP integrated program. Each new aircraft is equipped with FLARM, a collision warning system, to enhance operational safety.

October 21, 2024

Heart Aerospace Gains Air Canada And Saab As Minority Shareholders

Heart Aerospace announced Air Canada and Saab as its newest minority shareholders, in support of the development of its electric ES-30 aircraft. The aircraft is poised to fly as a clean-sheet hybrid-electric regional aircraft, capable of carrying 30 passengers. The expected range of the aircraft measures in at 200 km. According to Heart Aerospace, type certification of the aircraft is targeted for 2029.

AOPA Issues Travel Advisory For Bahamas

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) issued a travel advisory regarding high fees for general aviation pilots in the Bahamas. According to the AOPA, private pilots visiting the area have recently been met with “egregious” entry and departure fees. AOPA President Mark Baker sent a letter to Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Edward “Brave” Davis urging him to rescind the high fees. “I’m ready to fly to the Bahamas as soon as the Prime Minister is able to meet on this issue,” Baker said in a statement. “Pilots understand the need to impose fees for infrastructure improvements, but it is a real shame the Bahamian government has chosen to penalize private pilots whose desire is to enjoy all the Bahamas has to offer.”

October 18,  2024

Regent Craft Enters Next Development Phase For Seaglider Prototype

Regent Craft, an all-electric seaglider manufacturer, has begun hardware and systems integration for its full-scale seaglider prototype. The aircraft, called the Viceroy, represents the company’s goal to innovate regional coastal mobility. According to Regent, crewed sea trials will start later this year. “We’re moving more quickly than any other advanced electric mobility platform to create the world’s first passenger-carrying seaglider,” says Regent Co-Founder Billy Thalheimer. “The integration phase is a major moment that brings us closer to experiencing float, foil and fly firsthand. I’m looking forward to getting onboard myself.”

West Star Aviation To Add Hangar At Grand Junction MRO Facility

West Star Aviation announced plans to construct a 109,000 ft.² hangar at its Grand Junction (GJT) MRO facility. According to the company, the project will be executed in partnership with Tectonic Management Group and will add 40,000 ft.² of hangar space, 38,000 ft.² of dedicated office and back shop space and an additional 31,000 ft.² of ramp space. The project will expand West Star Aviation’s capacity for avionics installations and interior refurbishments, according to the company.

October 17,  2024

Elliot Aviation Installs First Starlink On King Air 350

Elliot Aviation announced its first successful installation of Starlink on a King Air 350 at its facility at Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) in Atlanta, Georgia. The in-flight connectivity solution offers download speeds up to 220 Mbps, upload speeds up to 25 Mbps and latency as low as 20 milliseconds. The company now offers Starlink installation on aircraft such as the King Air 350, the Citation XL series and Challenger 350, 300 and 604. “With Starlink, our customers can enjoy uninterrupted internet access from home, to the office and now in the skies,” said Bill Forbes, vice president of avionics programs at Elliot Aviation.

Empire Aviation USA Opens Hangar At Teterboro Airport

Empire Aviation USA opened a new maintenance hangar as part of its strategic expansion at Signature West, Teterboro Airport (TEB). Along with the new facility, the expansion includes new state-of-the-art equipment to increase its capabilities for scheduled inspections, repairs and AOG services. “This new hangar, coupled with our investment in the latest maintenance equipment, enables us to better serve the region’s aviation community as we head into the colder months,” says Mark Reyes, Empire Aviation USA president.

October 16,  2024

Avitor.ai Adds 3,300 Operators To AI-Powered Marketplace

Avitor.ai announced the addition of over 3,300 operators and 15,000 aircraft to its AI-Powered private jet booking and trip planning platform. According to the company, the platform’s algorithm was developed using 1.5 million flight records and over 25,000 sales queries to provide “highly personalized private flight services with unprecedented speed and efficiency.” The platform offers enhancements to aircraft and flight crew management, empty-leg flight options and tools to track revenue.

Elliot Aviation Installs Starlink On King Air 350

Elliot Aviation announced its first installation of Starlink on a Beechcraft King Air 350 at its facility at Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) in Atlanta, Georgia. The company now offers Starlink installations at its facilities in Des Moines, Iowa; Moline, Iowa; Minneapolis and Atlanta. Starlink offers inflight download speeds up to 220 Mbps, upload speeds up to 25 Mbps and latency as low as 20 milliseconds. “With Starlink, our customers can enjoy uninterrupted internet access from home, to the office, and now in the skies. This installation is a game-changer for business and leisure travelers alike,” says Bill Forbes, Elliot Aviation’s vice president of avionics programs.

October 15,  2024

Jet Aviation Redelivers Two BBJ 737-8s Within 10-Month Downtime

Jet Aviation announced the redelivery of two Boeing Business Jet 737-8 aircraft to an undisclosed customer, completed in less than 10 months. According to the company, it is the shortest downtime the completion center has achieved for two simultaneous aircraft. “Our in-house teams worked hand-in-hand with the customer to understand their specialized requirements and craft interiors that met these through a combination of state-of-the-art engineering and innovative production techniques,” says Chirstoph Fondalinski, Jet Aviation vice president of completions.

Lilium Jet Completes First Systems Power-On Milestone

Lilium announced the completion of a major milestone for the Lilium Jet, an electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The aircraft conducted a ground test where all systems were powered on for the first time. The lab test aircraft, referred to as MSN 1 or ironbird, will eventually become a “fully functional aircraft and key asset for the certification program, being used to prove safety of flight and compliance with airworthiness requirements,” according to Lilium. MSN 1’s successor, MSN 2, is currently in final assembly and will be used for the platform’s first flight tests in 2025.

October 14, 2024

Duncan Aviation Refurbishes Gulfstream G200

Duncan Aviation announced its completion of a paint and interior refurbishment of a Gulfstream G200 at its Lincoln, Nebraska facility. According to Duncan Aviation, the design was provided by Autumn Elizabeth Design, featuring a merlot paint scheme with gold details. Additionally, the aircraft was outfitted with Gogo’s AVANCE L5 inflight connectivity system. The interior features off-white leather seating with custom quilted inserts made at Duncan Aviation’s Battle Creek, Michigan location. “When the aircraft first came to us, the interior and exterior had seen better days,” says Jeff Beaudette, Duncan senior modifications and completions sales representative. “It was looking tired and lacked an inflight connectivity solution. They took advantage of the downtime to complete the 192-month inspection to completely transform and customize their aircraft interior, exterior paint and equip it with a high-speed connectivity system.”

MBA Aviation Launches JumpseatSMS

MBA Aviation, an aviation advisory firm, announced the launch of its Safety Management System (SMS), JumpseatSMS. According to the firm, the SMS is designed to increase efficiency in SMS development and implementation for air operators, describing it as “engineered with the dynamic operational environment of aviation professionals in mind, JumpseatSMS integrates a comprehensive suite of tools to simplify safety management and operational efficiency in one intuitive platform.”

October 11, 2024

Fargo Jet Center Opens $25M Hangar Complex At KFAR

Fargo Jet Center (FJC) announced the opening of its $25 million hangar and office complex at Hector International Airport (KFAR) in North Dakota. The 112,000 ft.² complex includes a 27,000 ft.² maintenance hangar, a 23,000 ft.² hangar for special mission modifications and dedicated spaces for composite fabrication, paint, sheet metal and avionics, according to FJC. Each hangar will also be equipped with 30-ft.-tall doors to accommodate aircraft such as the Bombardier Global 8000. Additionally, the construction repurposes 32,000 ft.² of existing hangar into increased aircraft storage.

Chimes Aviation Academy Expands Training Fleet With Tecnam

Chimes Aviation Academy has purchased four Tecnam P2010 TDI aircraft for the school’s training fleet. The academy, based in India, operates from two airbases and maintains a fleet of 22 aircraft. According to Tecnam, the school has an additional 90 aircraft on order, expected to enter operation by 2030. Each P2010 TDI aircraft comes equipped with a Continental CD170 engine and Garmin’s G1000 NXi avionics suite.

October 10, 2024

National Aviation Hall Of Fame Inducts Garmin Co-Founders

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) inducted Garmin Co-Founders Dr. Min Kao and Gary Burrell during its 60th annual enshrinement ceremony, held at the National Museum of the U.S.Air Force in September. Dr. Kao currently serves as Garmin’s executive chairman of the board. Gary Burrell, whose leadership inspires the company today, passed away in June 2019. “Thirty-five years ago, Gary Burrell and Dr. Min Kao founded Garmin with the strong belief that superior navigation and communications products could enrich and even save people’s lives,” says Garmin President and CEO Cliff Pemble.<\/p>

Fokker Services Asia Becomes Authorized Embraer Service Center

Fokker Service Asia has been appointed as an Embraer Authorized Service Center. The deal was made during Aviation Week’s MRO Asia Pacific 2024 event in Singapore. The center is now authorized to provide maintenance services for Embraer’s first-generation E-Jet family, with a focus on E190 aircraft, according to Fokker Services Group (FSG). “This will potentially provide more capacity, capability and help us to keep expanding Embraer’s Authorized Service Center footprint in Asia-Pacific,” says Frank Stevens, vice president of MRO services at Embraer Services & Support.

October 9, 2024

Elfly Group, Nordic Seaplanes Sign Agreement For Noemi Electric Aircraft

Elfly Group announced its new partnership with Nordic Seaplanes, which will become the first “Noemi” airline, it says. Elfly’s Noemi, short for “No Emissions,” is a fully electric seaplane. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for five Noemi aircraft with an option for an additional 10. According to Elfly, the order will be delivered over the coming decade.

Clay Lacy Aviation Receives NBAA Sustainability Accreditation

Clay Lacy Aviation has received the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) Sustainable Flight Department Accreditation in the category of infrastructure. The accreditation acknowledges flight departments that meet exceptional environmental sustainability standards across flight, operations, ground support and infrastructure. According to Clay Lacy Aviation, it is one of eight companies globally to achieve the status, and the first FBO to receive the accreditation for infrastructure.

October 8, 2024

Corporate Angel Network Moves To Connecticut

The Corporate Angel Network (CAN), an aviation nonprofit organization, has moved its offices to Danbury, Connecticut. The organization provides free transportation to cancer patients on business aircraft. Since its inception in 1981, it has coordinated more than 68,000 flights. “Corporate Angel Network provides an incredible and valuable service to cancer patients in their most significant times of need, and I am so glad to welcome this respected organization and its staff to Connecticut,” says Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont.

Flexjet To Open New Private Terminal At Farnborough Airport

Flexjet announced plans to open a new private terminal at Farnborough Airport. According to the company, the terminal is scheduled to open in early 2026 and will be Flexjet’s biggest infrastructure development outside the U.S. to date. The planned terminal will feature a 2,098 m² ramp-side building, which will begin construction in early September. The terminal will complement its existing facilities and complement Flexjet passengers travel experience, the company says.

October 7, 2024

Flightways Columbus Celebrates 15th Anniversary

Flightways Columbus is celebrating its 15th anniversary of aviation service. The FBO is located at Georgia’s Columbus Airport (KCSG) and has served as an Avfuel-branded location since 2021. During the celebration, the FBO announced plans for a new facility, which is expected to be completed over the coming years.

Signature Aviation Receives Green Power Leadership Award<\/p>

Signature Aviation announced it has received a 2024 Green Power Leadership Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its clean energy initiatives. According to Signature, the company currently uses more than 97 million kilowatt-hr. (kWh) of green power annually. “As an organization committed to shaping the future by meeting 100% of our electricity needs through green power procurement, we have seen firsthand that clean energy is an affordable, accessible choice that can reduce the risks brought about by climate change,” Signature CEO Tony Lefebvre says.

October 4, 2024

Aerodynamics Academy Purchases 15 Tecnam Trainer Aircraft

Aerodynamics Academy, based in Spain, announced its purchase of 15 Tecnam P2008JC MkII aircraft. According to Tecnam, the academy is one of the fastest growing flight schools in Europe, instructing 200 students in 2024. The 15 aircraft will join the academy’s fleet of more than 30 aircraft and five “high generation” simulators, according to Juan Manuel Martín, CEO of Aerodynamics Academy.

Private Jet Services Launches VIP Boeing Fleet

Private Jet Services (PJS) announced the launch of its VIP Boeing 757 fleet. Each of its 78-passenger aircraft will feature a business-class configuration with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi. According to PJS, the new fleet is designed for corporate shuttles, meetings and incentive travel. Included in the service are nonstop flights and white-glove service “through every step of the planning and execution of travel logistics,” PJS says.

October 3, 2024

Private Jet Services Announces Boeing 757-200 VIP Configuration

Private Jet Services (PJS) announced its VIP configuration of three Boeing 757 aircraft. According to PJS, the configuration is the result of a multi-million-dollar investment, equipped with 78 business seats, high-speed Wi-Fi and in-seat power for every passenger. “As a hospitality-centric air services firm, our entire team is committed to making continuous investments in our mission to provide our clients with the very best product in the group travel market,” said Elevate Aviation Group CEO Greg Raiff.

National Aviation Hall Of Fame Inducts Garmin Co-Founders

The National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF) inducted Garmin Co-Founders Dr. Min Kao and Gary Burrell during its 60th annual enshrinement ceremony, held at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in September. Dr. Kao currently serves as Garmin’s executive chairman of the board. Gary Burrell, whose leadership inspires the company today, passed away in June 2019. “Thirty-five years ago, Gary Burrell and Dr. Min Kao founded Garmin with the strong belief that superior navigation and communications products could enrich and even save people’s lives,” says Garmin President and CEO Cliff Pemble.<\/p>

October 2, 2024

Jet Out Announces Expansion To Florida, Wisconsin

Jet Out announced its plans to open its first base outside of the Midwest at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in Southern Florida. The new operations will be located at Sheltair Aviation at FLL, where they will host two Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen 2 aircraft. Additionally, Jet Out is constructing a 22,000 ft.² private terminal at Waukesha County Airport (UES) in Wisconsin. Construction of the terminal is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.
 

Schweizer Names Elicuneo As Authorized Sales And Service Center

Schweizer is welcoming Italy-based operator Elicuneo P.S.C.R.L. as its latest Schweizer Sales and Service Center in Europe. According to Schweizer, Elicuneo serves as the largest operator of the Schweizer 300 line of helicopters in Italy. “Elicuneo’s expertise and experience with Schweizer helicopters made it an ideal partner for supporting our customers in Italy,” said Schweizer CEO David Horton. “As our parts and aircraft production have grown, so has the number of customers in Europe seeking maintenance, parts and aircraft.”

October 1, 2024

PremierMRO Dayton Designated As Williams Engine Service Center

PremierMRO announced its designation as a Williams Engine Service Center in Dayton, Ohio. The certification enables the company to service variants of the Williams FJ-44 engine, particularly on a “range of Cessna Citation models, including models retrofitted by Sierra Industries.” Additionally, PremierMRO offers service on Williams engines on Hawker Beechcraft Premier IA, Nextant variants and Syberjet SJ 30 models. PremierMRO is a division of Premier Private Jets, based in Stuart, Florida.

Heart Aerospace Unveils Full-Scale Hybrid-Electric Demonstrator

Heart Aerospace unveiled its first full-scale 30-seat hybrid-electric demonstrator aircraft (pictured). The aircraft, dubbed Heart Experimental 1 (Heart X1), is the company’s development platform for its planned regional hybrid-electric aircraft, the ES-30. The Heart X1 demonstrator sports a 32-m wingspan and will be used for testing ground-based operations. According to the company, the Heart X1 is scheduled to make its first fully electric flight in the second quarter of 2025.