“This is an industry that creates absolutely gigantic amounts of emissions per person and it delivers essentially zero public benefit,” said Alethea Warrington, senior campaigner at environment charity Possible. “It is simply not viable for a small group of ultra-wealthy people to keep flying around on almost empty private jets, producing a huge amount of emissions, particularly given that these flights are virtually tax-free.”

All three of the speakers said that they were opposed to the inequality of business aviation as well as the environmental effects. “Ultimately, when mayors all across the world and politicians are asking people to change their habits,” said Zack Polanski, deputy leader of the Green Party of England and Wales. “How possibly can elected politicians do this when at the same time people are flying and soaring through the skies in private jets literally mocking those in poverty beneath them?”

“There’s no environmental justice without social, racial, economic justice too”

Polanski was asked if the inequality is more important than the environmental impact. “There’s no environmental justice without social, racial, economic justice too. All these things are inextricably linked. The environmental reason is clearly a top high priority because we’re talking about ecological collapse. Fundamentally, private jets are the pinnacle of climate justice because this is where super-rich get to do something that is disproportionately polluting, disproportionately noisy,” he said. “The problem is for the climate, but actually it’s inequality, too, because those are two sides of a cent coin.”

Todd Smith, a former airline pilot and founder of Safe Landing, stressed his love of flying but said it is no longer able to work in aviation. “I believe corporate jets have played a pivotal role in connecting our world in a way which was previously unimaginable. That said, I had a realisation that the climate is breaking down rapidly, and ultimately, my conscience will no longer allow me to be a part of the aviation sector.”

Kurt Edwards, director general, International Business Aviation Council, said that there is still much misunderstanding about business aviation. “When I’m traveling visiting my associations around the world, I can see they are keen to grow the industry because they don’t have the connectivity that a lot of places do, and they need it for their own businesses,” he said. “They need it for their livelihood. Think of the medevac, think of humanitarian lift that comes with these aircraft as well. It’s an exciting time for the business and we see a lot of young folks coming in because of the commitment we have made in terms of the environmental sustainability going forward. The business aviation community along with the rest of the global aviation community has committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”

Safe Landing’s Smith could not believe he was invited to speak after protesting at London Farnborough Airport with Swedish activist Greta Thunberg the week before.

The post Watch: “We need to ban business jets” appeared first on Corporate Jet Investor.

This is an industry-wide campaign launched at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas to promote business aviation’s mission to achieve net zero carbon emissions, its leadership on sustainability targets and wider contributions to society.

Think of it as a re-imagined No Plane No Gain initiative – but with many more founding members and a broader remit. The old campaign by NBAA and General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) sought to explain business aviation’s contribution to the economy and society. Now Climbing. Fast. delivers a new-century perspective on the old, old question: how can we help people better understand the sector’s full contribution.

Launching the campaign at the show, Ed Bolen, president and CEO, NBAA put the proposition neatly: “No Plane No Gain, has been around for a very long time. It is the foundation on which Climbing. Fast. will build,” he said. “It’s not just about the industry’s commitment to net zero contributions but it’s about who we are.”

Business aviation has long provided economic and employment opportunities, helped business of all sizes, connected communities, especially during and after Covid, and provided humanitarian aid in addition to setting and delivering measurable sustainability targets, said Bolen. “Our new, branded Climbing. Fast. initiative will take this message to policy-makers, opinion leaders and other key audiences, informing perceptions about the industry’s sustainability record and value.”

Pete Bunce, president and CEO, GAMA linked business aviation’s contribution to the economy with its role as a technology incubator for the wider aviation industry and its achievement in leading safety and sustainability standards.

“Our industry supports over 1.2 million total jobs and over $247bn in total economic output in the United States,” said Bunce. “When you look at our industry, Climbing. Fast. truly describes the work we have been doing to foster aviation’s sustainability and technology, advance safety, strengthen economic growth and provide valuable services to communities.”

For private aviation incubator, think fuel-saving winglets, global positioning systems, advanced composite materials. On sustainability, think the efficiency of modern engines, which deliver 30% improved fuel efficiency compared with previous generations of business aircraft. Think the white heat of new aircraft technology – electric aircraft, hybrid-electric and, eventually, hydrogen-powered aircraft. Then there’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which although growing from a tiny base, can cut carbon emissions by up to 100%.

But does the public care? Ill-formed criticism of business aviation has often travelled halfway around the world before the truth has got its boots on (to quote that master wordsmith Sir Winston Churchill).

The Climbing. Fast. organisers have an answer. It urges the industry and particularly its supporters to, as Bolen said, “engage” with schools, policy-makers, opinion-formers and the public to put those message across. The campaign should have an army of ambassadors including Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Helicopter Association International (HAI), International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA).

 This army of acronyms has numerous weapons of choice to win the battle for hearts and minds: digital advertising, multi-platform social media presence and a targeted media relations programme.

Brian Foley, founder of Brian Foley Associates (BRiFO) understands the pressure for action but has a doubt. “Our industry associations’ charter is to look after the interests of their constituents,” he told Corporate Jet Investor. “Lately the hot button topic has been bizav sustainability, which although only accounting for 0.04% of annual greenhouse emissions, gets outsized attention from activists due to getting them more press coverage than say, spray painting a bus.” Activists know that targeting business aviation won’t result in the same large public backlash such as blocking a motorway or freeway.

Faced with growing criticism, Climbing. Fast. provides a modern answer. “Our industry lobbyists have developed a campaign to provide an alibi to future criticism,” says Foley. 

And now for the doubt. “While I’m not sure who’ll still be around to check on the progress in 2050, we’ll at least have these talking points to hold us over until then,” he adds. 

Meanwhile, let’s hope that powerful advocates within the acronym army can accomplish what business aviation has often struggled to get: recognition from government and civil society for its many achievements. Engagement is the word. Here’s to being around in 2050 to judge the progress made.

Pictured are private jets on parade at the NBAA-BACE 2023 static display at Henderson Executive Airport.

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Kurt Edwards, director general, IBAC said: “We are excited to have these two distinguished business aviation leaders join IBAC as partners and thank them for their support. IBAC’s work serves the diverse needs of the global business aviation community and we welcome industry participation to further build our resources, capabilities, and ultimately strengthening the voice of business aviation.”

With about 4,000 employees and 50 locations worldwide, Jet Aviation’s offerings include: aircraft management, charter, completions, defence, FBO, maintenance and staffing. “We are delighted to partner with IBAC to continue to work together to strengthen the industry in service of our customers and our employees,” said David Best, senior vice president regional operations & GM Americas, Jet Aviation.

“We are committed to enabling global flight, with passion and we look forward to the opportunity to contribute the knowledge we have gained over 55 years as a global business aviation service provider to further the important work that IBAC does to keep business aviation flying around the world.”

Corporate Jet Investor strengthens business aviation by informing and connecting the aircraft transactional sector, since 2010, with its global events, and conferences and timely industry editorial commentary and guidance, said Edwards.

Alasdair and Louisa Whyte are co-founders of Corporate Jet Investor. “It is an honour to join IBAC as an Industry Partner and we look forward to working with them to further advance business aviation, especially as the industry evolves with advanced air mobility and a heightened focus on sustainability,” said Louisa.

The IBAC Industry Partner programme is open to business aviation manufacturers and service providers including MRO, aircraft management, transactional and other sectors. As an Industry Partner, members have the unique opportunity to assist IBAC in shaping standards before they are adopted and applied as regulations by CAAs in their sovereign countries.

 In addition, there are opportunities for Industry Partners to work closely with the 15 IBAC member associations, participate in an IBAC advisory committee, and be recognised for leadership and commitment to the global business aviation community.

Pictured above, Alasdair Whyte (L) and Louisa Whyte, co-founders of Corporate Jet Investor, receive their certificate marking their admission to IBAC’s Industry Partners programme from the council’s Kurt Edwards and Leo Knappen. They received the certificate at CJI’s Dealmakers Dinner at EBACE 2023.

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CoSAFA’s Methodology for SAF Environmental Attribute Transactions offers information on SAF accounting and auditing procedures to support global book-and-claim systems. According to CoSAFA, the methodology helps ensure audibility, prevent double counting and provide transparency on aviation sustainability and decarbonisation claims.

The book-and-claim system allows (corporate) buyers to source SAF based on their total aviation footprint in one transaction, rather than sourcing through each airline or operator individually. Double counting then refers to when a company claims the environmental benefits of SAF through book-and-claim, when in fact it has already been used in a previous transaction.

“The transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuels will be the greatest contributor to business aviation achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Claude Hurley, director, Environment & Flight Operations, the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC).

“Book-and-claim systems are required for wider SAF uptake, especially in areas where it’s not yet readily available.”

Daniel Chereau, assistant director, Climate Policy, International Air Transport Association (IATA) agreed: “To scale up SAF use, we need robust book-and-claim systems that are agnostic, credible, and provide the necessary level of transparency.”

CoSAFA said the aim of the service is to provide access to decarbonisation solutions for all in the global aviation sector, as well as create an “attractive and stable investment environment” for commercially viable decarbonisation solutions. It also aims to ensure regulatory bodies and aviation firms can rely upon the integrity of book-and-claim transaction systems, and that they are gaining the benefit they pay for and not double counting.

Curt Castagna, president and CEO, National Air Transportation Association highlighted that the service was created alongside stakeholders in aviation to develop the SAF accounting method.

 “[The Methodology for SAF Environmental Attribute Transactions] provides the critical transparency needed in the development of fair rules for book-and-claim,” said Castagna. “Through continued collaboration across the aviation industry, CoSAFA can provide a unified foundation for SAF transactions.”

The post The Council on Sustainable Aviation Fuel introduces SAF support platform appeared first on Corporate Jet Investor.

IBAC has joined ICAO’s Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) programme to train and educate companies on how to develop their full potential in SAF.

“The business aviation sector is known for innovation. We look forward to working with ICAO and other ACT-SAF participants to expand the development and use of SAF in greater quantities for use by all operators around the world,” said Kurt Edwards, director general, IBAC.

ICAO’s ACT-SAF programme involves monthly training sessions focusing on sustainability, environmental policy, economics and financing certification, as well as logistics relating to SAF.

Edwards signed the partnership agreement with Juan Carlos Salazar, secretary general, ICAO yesterday (March 29th) at ICAO headquarters in Montreal, Canada.

The post IBAC and ICAO partner to speed the uptake of SAF appeared first on Corporate Jet Investor.

The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and other industry groups such as the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) have developed four guiding principles for the 41st International Civil Aviation (ICAO) Triennial Assembly taking place this week. ICAO, a United Nations agency, convenes its 193 member states every three years to set worldwide aviation policy, with the current assembly running from today until October 7th.

The four guiding principles are to:

1. Foster investments that scale the production, availability and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), including tax credits
2. Promote the use of industry initiatives such as SAF book-and-claim, especially at small airports where business aviation is prevalent
3. Support innovations such as electric powered aircraft that can greatly cut C02 emissions
4. Encourage cooperative programmes between member states to spread the use of best practices proven to increase business aviation sustainability.

The four guidelines are meant to provide a roadmap to ensure the sector continues to build on its sustainability and help achieve net-zero C02 emissions by 2050, as put forward by the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change.

A working paper presented by the global aviation industry to ICAO in July estimated that 53%-71% of aviation decarbonisation will need to be delivered through a shift to SAF. It said that significant global SAF production is “achievable with the right policy support and market signals” and could “generate or sustain up to 14m million jobs”.

Kurt Edwards, director, IBAC said: “We know what our industry needs to accomplish to reach our goal of net-zero emissions and we have the tools available to do so. Now is the time to put in place the appropriate policies for this vision to become a reality.”

In recent months there has been a big push towards the development and use of SAF in the sector. In July, AEG Fuels launched a digital network that allows aircraft operators to access SAF at more than 20 locations worldwide. A month later, Embraer partnered with Brazilian energy company Raízen to improve the supply of SAF in the country. This month, blockchain technology has been backed by Directional Aviation, Alder Fuels, 4Air and Flexjet to provide transparency about the production of SAF and document its compliance with regulatory programmes and carbon reduction milestones.

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The certification is the highest-level registration issued by IBAC and has been awarded to only a select group of aircraft operators worldwide. It verifies that Safety Management System (SMS) activities are fully integrated into the Montreal-based company’s aircraft management operations and that a positive safety culture is consistently sustained.

“Everyone at ACASS knows how thoroughly committed we are to operational safety, but this recognition by IBAC reaffirms it for our clients and the business aviation community worldwide,” said Derek Holter, vice president of Operations, ACASS. “Even in the midst of the major pandemic-related challenges of the last couple years, our safety standards and practice shave remained impeccable.”

IBAC will complete audits every two to three years to ensure conformance with standards and recommended practices.

“In our business, if your commitment to safety is in question, nothing else you do can compensate for it,” said Andre Khury, CEO, ACASS. “That being the case, the renewal of our IS-BAO Stage 3 registration is one of the most important recognitions we, as a company, can receive and something we all take great pride in.”

In 2020, ACASS expanded its global footprint with the launch of ACASS Ireland, which combined its services with Irish private aviation operator SONAS.

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To learn more about the sessions, find our agenda here. Or you can watch the event live streamed by registering for your complimentary place at this link.

By registering, you gain access to our event platform, other attendees and networking opportunities. Should you encounter any issues with registration, please email rianne@corporatejetinvestor.com

If you have any stories coming out of the show, or would like to speak to our journalists individually, please click the initials at the end of each story. Alternatively, please use any of the links below:

MS – Mike Stones – mike@corporatejetinvestor.com
YK – Yuvan Kumar – yuvan@corporatejetinvestor.com
YLM – Yves Le Marquand – yves@corporatejetinvestor.com

Getting transactions closed

Prices won’t go up in 2022, said David Dixon, president, Jetcraft Asia. “The banks won’t let it and nor will insurnace companies. It is a machine, it will depreciate.”

Alex Tang, sales director, Global Jet Capital said: “In terms of valuations, we don’t think this will continue for too long. In a year or two production will pick up, new aircraft will role out.”

With regards to transactions, Tang said: “We would not finance an aircraft without a PPI. A lot of corrosion and maintenance issues can happen.”

Michel Buffat, Credit Suisse backed this up. “We need to know exactly what is the condition of the aircraft. We need to have somebody on the ground confirming it is in a good condition.”

Dixon said corrosion precedes Covid. “Corrosion starts the day tee thing leaves the factory. You cannot clean it enough. And there are environments here which are totally destroying the aircraft.”

–YK

Fireside chat: Bermuda Aircraft in Asia

Offshore registries have seen strong growth – in the double digits – in the lead up to the pandemic, says Liam Byrne, business development director, Bermuda Aircraft Registry.

Byrne says he is really excited about China. Cost, service and tax advantages are some things the customers look for. “We’re confident in that [Asian] market. The mainland China market has kept us quite busy these past six months. We are well positioned to take advantage of the growth.”

Things are more positive than they were 12 months ago, said Byrne. Predictions for 2022? Byrne said: “It is going to be a tough year, but fingers crossed for the end of the year and 2023. We want to be getting out into the market.”

–YK

The key trends driving the market

Maintenance on aircraft engines have to be done on a regular basis, says Steve McManus, sales director, GE. Or else you’ll have a product which will cost millions to maintain.

The desire to have your jet on a maintenance programme is worldwide, adds McManus. “We cover everything that is not an insurance event.”

“I see GE stronger than ever. We are not just an engine company,” says McManus.

–YK

Legally Yawned: Reflections on $2 billion+ in Pandemic Deals and a Prescription for the Future

 

The lawyers in the industry are almost twice as busy as before, says Pillsbury Hong Kong managing partner Paul Jebely. His company has done deals amounting to $2bn over the past two years. Jebely says the global wealth grew 7% last year and is likely to continue. “More than 1% of adults became millionaires.”

But Jebely says no one in the industry should mistake a bull market for brilliance. Deal volume is drying up. “This is the feast before the famine.”

Jebely concluded: “Depite what some might have you believe, private jets cannot fly on fairy dust and neither can the global economy.”

–YK

Managing the risks of aircraft damage on the ground

“Aircraft are being parked predominantly long-term at the moment,” said Andy Pickford, Regional Director Asia at McLarens Aviation. “As a result many operating systems aren’t being functioned as they normally would be.”

Leaving an aircraft like this is not conducive to keeping those systems operational and there are a number of different failings that can occur, said Pickford.

In Asia there is also the possibility of insects, rodents and wildlife making their way into the aircraft if they are parked. “There’s quite a big problem in Malaysia where a number of aircraft have had snakes find their way into the landing gear bays when they’re parked up at airports.”

–YLM

Pre-owned supply and demand

“The market is back [in India],” Rohit Kapur, President, Jet HQ Asia told CJI Asia. “A lot of people are looking and also a lot are wanting to sell aircraft.”

Kapur said older inventory, which in many cases have been standing on the ramp for years, are being looked at by potential purchasers.

“[We are] Also seeing a lot of new or concept buyers coming in wanting to get private air travel solutions. So I think the Indian market is pretty good. I see the same in the Middle East, Europe is coming out, Indonesia is fantastic. All of these markets are in a good space at the moment,” said Kapur.

–YLM

Maintenance 2022

Whilst we are seeing “ease of travel” come back in Europe and the US, which in turn is making AOG support easier, the same cannot be said for Asia, according to Mark Winzar, Senior Vice President Business Development at JSSI.

“But you need to balance that off,” said Winzar. “Flight hours aren’t as high [for example]. So it’s not too much of a problem, but it is tougher in the APAC region.”

One factor which has made servicing aircraft easier for JSSI during the pandemic is the existence of its 70 tech support teams. “It really was advantageous to try and get local people to sort local solutions,” said Winzar.

–YLM

Operating & managing aircraft 2022

The post CJI Asia 2021 Live Blog appeared first on Corporate Jet Investor.

Sustainability is a key theme this year, as NBAA has carbon offset the event with 4AIR and arranged book-and-claim sustainable aviation fuel for anyone flying in. Below are some of the announcements made in and around the show.

If you have any stories coming out of the show, please email: Louisa@corporatejetinvestor.com  – Louisa Whyte, live blog editor

Jet Edge signs as Gogo 5G launch customer 

Jet Edge International will be the launch customer for Gogo’s 5G network.

A majority of super-midsize and large cabin jets in Jet Edge’s fleet have already installed AVANCE L5. 50 will be upgraded to include Gogo’s 5G over the next two years.

Bill Papariella, CEO of Jet Edge, said: “After a thorough evaluation of other inflight connectivity services, we chose Gogo 5G – it was the obvious choice and we’re thrilled to offer it to our discerning clients.”

Increased demand for data-heavy services means that Gogo 5G will deliver high throughput with very low latency. Deployment of the 5G network has begun and the onboard hardware is in certification approval. The nationwide network is expected to launch in the second half of 2022.

Andy Geist, senior vice president of business development for Gogo. “With AVANCE L5 installed across most of its fleet, upgrading to 5G becomes a relatively quick and easy process.”

– YK

flyExclusive unveils two new MRO facilities

flyExclusive has unveiled two new MRO facilities providing premium maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) services in Eastern North Carolina.

A 24,000sqft electrostatic painting and coating shop and an aircraft interior renovation and refurbishment facility are now open. The firm’s fleet of more than 75 Cessna Citation and Gulfstream aircraft can now be maintained in-house, a first for a part 135 operator, said flyExclusive.

“We continue to invest in new capabilities that allow us to exceed our clients’ expectations for reliably excellent private jet experiences,” said Jim Segrave, founder, LGM Enterprises, parent company of flyExclusive. “flyExclusive is now the only Part 135 charter operator with the ability to paint our own aircraft, while our interior refurbishment capabilities enable us to tailor aircraft cabins to the highest standards of quality and luxury. No other operator in the world is able to exert this level of control over the look and feel of its fleet.”

The painting facility is the first of its kind in the Southeastern US and delivers aircraft exterior design services for both flyExclusive and other operators. The facility includes is made up of two 2,000sqft hangars with a full downdraft booth and filtration systems, climate-controlled conditions and enough hangar space to accommodate a Gulfstream G-IVSP aircraft.

Recently, the US operator broke ground on an additional 45,000sqft facility to expand its MRO capabilities for both electrostatic painting and coating and interior refurbishment. With construction expected to be completed in 2022, the new facility is expected to create more than 200 jobs for the eastern North Carolina region.

– YLM

Constant Aviation adds three US AOG locations 

Constant Aviation has added three new locations to its nationwide AOG (Aircraft on Ground) mobile response network. The new teams will deploy from Van Nuys, California; Bedford, Massachusetts and Sugarland, Texas, and bring Constant’s US AOG team bases to 27, a 28% growth in locations since 2020.

Constant Aviation’s AOG service has been expanding rapidly this year, said the firm, because of growing demand stemming from increased private aviation activity. During 2021, technicians have been called to more than 300 airports.

Paul Witt, Constant Aviation, vice president, AOG Operations, said: “One of the most attractive features of private jets is that they can fly out of 5,000 airports versus the 500 that serve commercial aircraft, enabling travellers to fly closer to their final destinations. However, many of these smaller airports lack much in the way of maintenance capabilities.”

Constant’s AOG mobile teams now support 86 aircraft models, and each AOG vehicle is fully equipped so aircraft can be serviced on location.

– YLM

SmartSky adds AvMet to Skytelligence platform

SmartSky Networks has added AvMet Applications, a leading collaborator with the FAA’s NextGen Aviation Weather Division, to its Skytelligence platform.

The move will see AvMet offer its weather data and analysis to the aviation community. Developers and operators, both business and commercial, can now have selective, data driven access to hi-resolution historical weather event forecasts.

“Data-driven decision making is the future of aviation operations,” says AvMet Applications president, Mark Klopfenstein, “SmartSky’s Skytelligence provides an ideal platform for AvMet to bring our weather impact data solutions to the aviation community.”

– YLM

Inmarsat announces 1,000th activation of Jet ConneX

Inmarsat announced its 1,000th installation and activation of inflight connectivity solution Jet Connex. The system has also completed five years in operation.

Jet Connex is powered by Inmarsat’s global Ka-band satellite network Global Xpress.

A recent survey commissioned by Inmarsat and Corporate Jet Investor found that 90% of those surveyed felt online activities will dominate principals’ time in the air, almost evenly split between business and leisure.

Kai Tang, Inmarsat’s head of business aviation, said business leaders cannot afford to be disconnected during times of turbulence and instability.

“The outlook is bright” he said. “We are investing in several upcoming next-generation satellites, plus significant enhancements to our ground stations, hardware and software, all backed by world-class cybersecurity.”

Early in 2021, SD installed its 500th terminal on an aircraft via the Jet ConneX network.

– YK

Honda reveals new concept aircraft HondaJet 2600

Honda Aircraft Company revealed a new concept called the HondaJet 2600. The HondaJet 2600 concept is in a different category from the HondaJet Elite S, the company said.

It claims the HondaJet 2600 will be the world’s first light jet capable of non-stop transcontinental flight across the US. The cabin can seat up to 11 occupants. This number is up from the Elite S’s six occupant capacity (including pilots). 

The concept aircraft comes with a range of 2,625 nautical miles, a high speed cruise of 450 knots, a maximum altitude of 47,000 feet and some changes to fuel efficiency.

CEO Michimasa Fujino said: “With the HondaJet 2600 Concept, which enables efficient transcontinental flight, offers new level of cabin comfort and capacity, and dramatically reduces CO2 emssions, we are introducing a new generation of business jets.”

– YK

Airbus ACJ TwoTwenty announces new order from undisclosed customer in the US 

Airbus Corporate Jets announced a new order – its first from the US – for the recently released ACJ TwoTwenty. This takes the total orders up to seven aircraft.

Aircraft management and cabin completions company Comlux will complete the cabin interior. Comlux has been appointed exclusive partner for the outfitting of the first 15 aircraft and has ordered two.

The cabin of the ACJ TwoTwenty can be customised to have over 100 different configurations, 3 inspiring ambiances and a bespoke design from renowned artist Cyril Kongo.

The first deliveries are expected to take place in early 2023. See how the ACJ TwoTwenty compares with its competitors.

– YK

Heads of bizav associations renew net-zero carbon commitments 

At the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA’s) 2021 Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), the heads of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and NBAA also said the industry would continue its goal of increasing fuel efficiency 2% per year between 2020 and 2030, on the road to net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

These new ambitions build on the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change (BACCC) made in 2009, when the industry pledged to reduce carbon emissions 50% by 2050, increase fuel efficiency 2% per year from 2010 to 2020, and achieve carbon-neutral growth by 2020.

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said the industry was on track to “meet or exceed” these goals.

GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said technology advancements – such as lighter materials, additive manufacturing, propulsion innovation, skin coatings and winglets – would be a key component to reaching the milestone. He added that efficient air traffic control infrastructure and improvements in avionics and data communications would also help.

IBAC director general Kurt Edwards pointed to the other main focus of the updated BACCC: increased production, availability and use of SAF, and adoption of new market-based initiatives.

Edwards said: “SAF and initiatives like carbon-offsets will continue to be a key piece of the puzzle in carbon-emissions reduction,”

Bunce added: “As higher blends of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) become approved for production, we will be able to further optimise fuel efficiency through technological advancements to achieve our environmental goals.”

– YK

JSSI to offer all Hourly Cost Maintenance clients Conklin & de Decker access 

JSSI will offer complimentary access to the Conklin & de Decker Aircraft Operating Cost and Performance Guide for all its Hourly Cost Maintenance (HCM) programme clients. More than 10% of business jets are on the HCM programme.

The Guide, which is a digital, interactive aircraft comparison and evaluation tool, is now included in the updated MyJSSI flight-hour reporting portal. It provides clients helps clients understand real annual and hourly aircraft operating costs and performance for more than 500 aircraft.

Francisco Zozaya, senior vice president, global business development at JSSI said: “Whether considering an aircraft acquisition, disposal or benchmarking their existing aircraft’s cost and performance against alternatives in the market, this guide will allow our HCM clients to make informed decisions and thoroughly assess ownership implications at no additional cost.” 

The MyJSSI portal now also allows clients to submit parts requests for non-covered aircraft, access additional products from Conklin & de Decker, or request an aircraft appraisal from JSSI Advisory Services.

You can try the Aircraft Operating Cost and Performance Guide here.

– YK

Viasat announces new Viasat Select 

Viasat announced a new direct service model for business aviation Ka-band connectivity, called Viasat Select, on October 11th.

James Person, head of Sales and Development at Viasat told Corporate Jet Investor: “This adds two more dimensions: there is unlimited data allocation now and it gives the option for operators to get this directly from Viasat. It’s a wonderful combination of performance, flexibility and value.” 

Customers can now look at buying an entry-level data plan at $2,795 per month, with unlimited speed and data. The most expensive option is just under $14,000.

Viasat Select offers regional plans for Europe and North America. “The entry-level starts at $2,795 and that gives them 15 gigabytes of data, which is fine for many operators who travel 30 hours a month. With the regional unlimited plan – both data and speed – that’s $9,995,” said Person.

The company has gathered some feedback from its existing customers, including Flexjet, which is using this on its Praetor aircraft in Europe. 

– YK

Dassault displaying 10X cabin mockup 

Dassault Aviation is displaying a full-scale cabin mockup of the new Falcon 10X at NBAA-BACE this week in Las Vegas. After the show, the mockup will remain in the US for individual customer tours.

Dassault Aviation chairman and CEO, Éric Trappier, said: “Because of its sheer size and imaginative layout, you’ll move about this cabin differently, much more easily, than in any competing business jet. The 10X will provide the ultimate in privacy and in collaborative workspace – indeed, it will be able to provide both at the same time.”

The 10X cabin is 6 ft , 8 in (2.03 m) tall and 9 ftt, 1 inc (2.77 m) wide, a larger cross section than some regional jets.

“The 10X will be the new benchmark in business aviation,” added Trappier. “We’re eager to see industry reaction at NBAA-BACE, we anticipate a very positive response.”

– YLM

Sheltair Aviation and Avfuel supplying SAF to Embraer for BACE

Sheltair Aviation is providing Embraer with safe storage and handling services for Avfuel sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) ahead of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition.

Sheltair’s Melbourne, Florida (MLB) base has taken delivery of a truckload of Avfuel’s Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel on behalf of Embraer as part of the Brazilian firm’s recently-announced commitments to sustainability.

The load ensures that Embraer aircraft could fuel up with SAF before flying to its static display at BACE.

“Sheltair is honoured to support Embraer’s commitment to climate action with safe, dependable fuel handling and storage services for its SAF,” said James Toler, general manager at Sheltair MLB.

The SAF from Avfuel, which is produced by Neste, provides just over a 19t reduction in carbon emissions over its lifecycle per 8,000-gallon truckload compared with petroleum-based jet fuel.

– YLM

Tamarack reveals its Tamarack Performance Smartwing

Aircraft modification company Tamarack Aerospace has released a new aftermarket winglet for civil and military aircraft – called Tamarack Performance Smartwing at NBAA-BACE 2021.

It is currently running demonstration and validation tests for the Smartwing – a new version of its existing Active Winglet load alleviation technology – on the King Air 200 series. The Smartwing adds about 8 ft of wingspan and helps to improve endurance and High/Hot takeoff performance. The King Airs could also expect increased climb capabilities.

Tamarack said the Smartwing modification is expected to replace the current King Air 200’s passive winglets, providing more significant fuel cost savings. Its Active Winglets have helped save up to 33% fuel burn on a fleet of about 150 Cessna Citation aircraft.

President Jacob Klinginsmith said: “Implementing new Tamarack sustainable technologies, like the Performance Smartwing into different aviation sectors, is a positive step toward sustainability efforts.”

Tamarack aims to modify the King Air 350 series for assessment soon. Read more about Tamarack’s approach to aviation sustainability in its 2021 white paper.

– YK

Jet East now using CORRIDOR ServiceEdge communiations platform

Cloud-based software solution CORRIDOR announced a new service called CORRIDOR ServiceEdge at Jet East, a Gama Aviation Company.

ServiceEdge provides a different experience to aircraft operator’s service centre experience. They can view content in real-time anywhere and on any device, as well as review quotes and monitor the status of ongoing jobs.

Jet East’s service centres have experienced a considerable increase in scheduled maintenance events, said Stephen Maiden, president and CEO of the company. “CORRIDOR ServiceEdge provides our customers the information they need, from aircraft arrival to return-to-service at any one of our nationwide service centres,” he added.  

Mike Greig, general manager of CORRIDOR Aviation Software said: “By providing their valued customers with intuitive, real-time and transparent communications, images and documentation, they are well-positioned to ‘win the recovery’.”

ServiceEdge is integrated with CAMP Connect.

ServiceEdge at a glance:

– Real time communications – integrated ability to chat between service centre and customers

– Omni-channel at any time – communication can occur in and out of office, from any device

– Up-to-date progress status – operators can instantly and remotely track progress, view images from the service centre.

– YK

Jet Aviation expands managed fleet by 26 aircraft

Jet Aviation has expanded its managed fleet by 26 aircraft in the US between since the beginning of this year.

Of these, 11 aircraft – a mix of large and mid-sized aircraft – are available for charter. Jet Aviation has signed three aircraft to its newly authorized part 125 certificate.

David Best, Jet Aviation’s SVP of regional operations and general manager of the Americas said the company’s “goal is to make aircraft ownership simple”.

Jet Aviation currently manages some 300 aircraft globally with 180 of those in the Americas. The charter fleet totals about 70 aircraft, with access to thousands more, from business liner to mid-size cabin.

Leslie Cheshier, vice president of owner and charter services in the USA said: “We strive to provide a variety of air charter solutions including ad hoc charter, block access, card access, and our new freedom access program.”

Jet Aviation’s “Freedom Access Program” allows customers to interchange between block and card access according to their needs ensuring for guaranteed availability globally.

– YK

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IBAC, director general, Kurt Edwards, said: “Much has been accomplished in 40 years for the business aviation community, including establishing IBAC’s presence at ICAO in Montreal as an official observer; developing two recognised global codes of best safety practice: IS-BAO, and IS-BAH; revising Annex 6 Part II of the Chicago Convention; offering aircrew IDs; and leading industry sustainability efforts, including the new carbon credit exchange voluntary offset platform, among others.”

IBAC remains involved as the ICAO Council and Air Navigation Commission resumes their sessions in preparations for the upcoming high-level conference on covid-19 in November and the full 41st ICAO Assembly next year.

Meanwhile, the organisation continues to support the work of the EASA Ground Handling Rulemaking Task Force and grow its own IS-BAH program, which recognised 260 locations as Stage 1 since the program launched in 2014.

As for the IS-BAO programme, the organisation is working with support affiliates to promote a number of SafetyNet webinars, including those presented by MedAire and Polaris.

Looking towards sustainability, IBAC has most recently announcing its alliance with Carbon Trade eXchange (CTX) to offer a carbon offset programme.

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