Category: About People

PREMIER AIRCRAFT ADDS THREE AVIATION PROFESSIONALS TO ITS TEAM

Premier Aircraft, the oldest Diamond Aircraft dealer in America, announced that it has made three key additions to its new and pre-owned aircraft sales and training teams.

• Weronika Ross as its assistant chief pilot for its recently opened Premier Aircraft Flight Training flight school located at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE)

• Brett Hawse as the new regional sales manager for new Diamond Aircraft in Premier’s Northeastern region

• Steven Vacek as the new regional sales manager for pre-owned aircraft at Premier’s Fort Worth location

“We have built our company on the skills and dedication of truly great pilots and even better people, and we are extremely happy to welcome Weronika, Brett, and Steven to the growing Premier Aircraft family,” stated Travis Peffer, CEO of Premier Aircraft. “Yes, our business is selling great airplanes, but it has been our customers’ trust and relationships with the Premier people behind those sales that have truly set Premier Aircraft apart and been the cornerstones of our success.”

Steven Udvar-Házy to Retire from Air Lease Corporation

Air Lease Corporation announced that Executive Chairman Steven Udvar-Házy will retire on May 2, 2025, following the company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. Udvar-Házy will continue to serve on the company’s board of directors as non-executive chairman until the company’s 2026 annual meeting of stockholders.

Udvar-Házy founded Air Lease Corporation in 2010 and served as chairman and chief executive officer until 2016, at which time he became executive chairman. During Udvar-Házy’s tenure at ALC, he has helped oversee the company’s tremendous growth, foster deep, long-term relationships with customers and built a valuable portfolio with over $32 billion in total assets. These actions have created a track record of delivering results and stockholder value, with over $750 million in capital returned to stockholders since the company became publicly traded in 2011.

With his career in aviation spanning 60 years, Udvar-Házy played a critical role in the inception of the aircraft leasing industry. After starting an airline consulting business early in his career, Udvar-Házy created an aircraft leasing company where he began brokering aircraft. In 1973, Udvar-Házy proceeded to co-found and lead International Lease Finance Corp. (“ILFC”), which was sold to AIG for $1.3 billion. Udvar-Házy led ILFC until his retirement in 2010. ILFC helped transform the aviation landscape with the commercialization of operating leases, enabling airlines significantly greater flexibility in business operations.

“The aviation industry has been my passion since a young age, and it has been incredible to see how far we have come. I am very proud of the success we have achieved since founding ALC over 15 years ago and the role we have played in supporting airline customers around the world,” said Udvar-Házy. “John and the dedicated leadership team will continue to build on our strong foundation and support our airline and OEM partners. I am very confident in the long-term strength of the business, and ALC is well positioned to capture the meaningful opportunities ahead to deliver for our customers and create value for stockholders.”

“I have had the absolute pleasure of working closely with Steve in the airline industry for nearly 40 years, during which time he has served as an amazing mentor, business partner and friend as we operated and scaled two industry-leading aircraft leasing companies,” said John Plueger, chief executive officer and president. “Steve’s invaluable knowledge and customer-centric ethos is deeply embedded within our company – and his devotion to all things aviation, along with his inherent drive to deliver operational excellence permeates our culture. Our team is committed to delivering value for stockholders, including building on our young existing $28 billion fleet, $17 billion order book of new technology and fuel-efficient aircraft positions, as well as our valued customers and partners across the industry.”

“On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Steve for his commitment and service to the Company, our customers and the industry,” said Robert Milton, lead independent director of the board. “As a visionary in the industry, Steve’s unrelenting dedication, deep understanding of customer needs, and entrepreneurial spirit will leave a lasting mark on ALC and aviation at large. We have full faith and confidence in John and the management team propelling ALC into its next chapter.”

Thornton Aviation Names Don Milum its New Chief Revenue Officer

Thornton Aviation has added Don Milum in the newly created role of chief revenue officer (CRO). Milum, an industry-recognized leader in both operations and business development, will focus on helping Thornton Aviation achieve its sales and service targets.

Milum joins Thornton Aviation’s C-suite with responsibility for overseeing all aspects of the company’s revenue generation, including sales, marketing, customer service and pricing strategies to drive business growth.

“We’re delighted to add Don to the Thornton Aviation team,” said Steve Zimmerman, chief executive officer. “He is a well-known leader throughout business aviation and is a perfect fit for us because of his customer-first focus. Don thrives on developing and executing strategies that meet customer needs while also making sure the job gets done right, resulting in owners who are safe and satisfied.”

Milum began his career in the U.S. Army as an avionics mechanic. He has worked for leading avionics manufacturers, aircraft OEMs and independent MROs. While with Textron, he led the global sales team for the industry’s largest network of factory-owned service centers (23). He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Technology from Hill University. He also has served on the AEA Board of Directors and the NBAA Maintenance Committee.

“I’m excited to be joining Thornton Aviation,” said Milum. “I’m looking forward to helping them continue to grow by applying my skills in sales leadership, business development and operations to deliver value and excellent customer service to Thornton Aviation’s clients.”

FL Technics Appoints New CEO of Wright International


FL Technics, a leading provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, recently appointed Donatas Dockus as the CEO of Wright International. Dockus brings to the role more than a decade of experience in the aviation sector, having previously served as CEO of FL Technics MRO in China and as Commercial Director at one of FL Technics’ European subsidiaries, FL Technics’ VP Sales for aircraft leasing companies. 

FL Technics Canada provides aircraft line maintenance up to ‘A’ level checks and A.O.G. support. It operates at major airports, including Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary, and Vancouver, serving a diverse range of clients, including LACSA Airlines, Egyptair, Delta Airlines, Aero Mexico, Copa Airlines, SATA, Saudia Airlines, and TAP. The company is also providing a comprehensive range of services of engineering & design, as well as technical training. The Canadian subsidiary was acquired by FL Technics in 2020, establishing its initial presence in the North American market.

“Canada is a key market for FL Technics, presenting significant opportunities for growth,” says Zilvinas Lapinskas, CEO at FL Technics. “Dockus, having led operations in China and Europe, has a wealth of understanding about diverse markets and operational strategies. His appointment to the Canadian market reflects the company’s dedication to infusing global expertise into its local operations. Under Dockus’ leadership, we’re confident FL Technics Canada will continue to enhance its service offerings and drive the company’s overall growth.”

Jason Cohen Joins Yingling Aviation as EVP of Sales

Yingling Aviation proudly announces the appointment of Jason Cohen as its new executive vice president of sales. With a career spanning more than three decades in aviation, Yingling says Cohen brings “a wealth of experience, technical expertise, and a customer-centric approach to Yingling Aviation’s leadership team.”

Cohen’s aviation journey began in 1989 as a mechanic with an Aspen-based operation, followed by significant tenures at Midcoast and West Star Aviation, where he played a pivotal role in launching the Bombardier program. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish a successful technical consulting firm, further enhancing his comprehensive understanding of the industry.

Renowned for his hands-on leadership style, Jason is known for his unmatched product knowledge, decisive decision-making and commitment to excellence. His ability to build lasting relationships and deliver tailored solutions has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and leader in the aviation community.

“We are excited to welcome Jason to Yingling Aviation,” said Robert Rasberry, CEO of Yingling Aviation. “His strategic vision, competitive drive, and dedication to customer satisfaction will undoubtedly propel our sales efforts and strengthen our market presence.”

Cohen says his personal philosophy is: “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing,” and this reflects his drive, determination and commitment to delivering excellence.

Outside of work, his passion for high-performance cars and his precision as a member of the U.S. Rifle Team reflect his drive for excellence as well. Yingling Aviation says Cohen’s appointment underscores its commitment to delivering superior service, innovative solutions and fostering strong industry partnerships.

FDH Aero Names Ian Walsh as Chief Executive Officer

FDH Aero, supply chain solutions provider for the aerospace and defense industry, announced that Ian Walsh has been appointed as chief executive officer, effective immediately. Walsh succeeds Scott Tucker, who will continue to support FDH in an advisory capacity as its non-executive chairman, focused on strategy and M&A efforts.

Walsh brings over 35 years of executive leadership across the U.S. Marine Corps, commercial and general aviation, defense, and industrial end markets to FDH. Most recently, Walsh served as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Kaman Aerospace Corporation, a provider of highly engineered components and subsystems to commercial aviation, aerospace, defense and medical end-markets. 

At Kaman, Walsh led the evolution of the global company into customer-centric operating segments. Prior to that, Walsh was COO at REV Group, Inc., a provider of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts, and spent more than 15 years in operational and P&L leadership at Textron, Inc. At both companies, Walsh drove new product development and process optimization. Earlier in his career, he served as an officer and naval aviator in the U.S. Marine Corps with combat tours in Somalia, Haiti, and Bosnia. He is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt in operations and continuous improvement.

“On behalf of the Board, we want to thank Scott for his commitment and vision, founding FDH 17 years ago and building it into a global customer-first supply chain solutions partner for aerospace and defense customers,” said David Wong, partner at Audax Private Equity. “Under Scott’s leadership, the company completed 13 acquisitions and expanded globally into Europe and Asia. We welcome Ian and are excited for FDH’s continued momentum under his leadership.”

“FDH has a reputation as a forward-thinking partner, able to solve complex supply chain challenges for global OEMs and MRO providers,” said Walsh. “I am honored to join the exceptional team at FDH that Scott built, and I look forward to advancing our mission as a value-added supply chain solutions partner to our customers and stakeholders.”

“Ian is a proven leader, whose experience and achievements in the aerospace and defense industry are matched only by his aptitude for leadership, innovation, and operational excellence,” noted Tucker. “As we continue investing behind our capabilities in service of our customers, FDH is primed for its next stage of growth under Ian’s stewardship.”

JSSI Announces Key Executive Appointments to Shape the Future of JSSI Aviation Capital

JSSI, a global business aviation maintenance and financial services company, announced executive appointments within its aircraft financing division, signaling the next chapter for JSSI Aviation Capital (JAC). Since launching its financing business in 2023, the company has demonstrated the unique value that financing solutions deliver to aircraft owners when coupled with JSSI’s broader portfolio. JAC’s approach leverages JSSI’s capabilities, data and global reach to provide creative asset-driven finance structures that few in the industry can offer. Under new leadership, JAC will seek to scale its operations and diversify into new products and structures that reflect a strong understanding of operator requirements and asset values, underpinned by JSSI’s 35 years of maintenance intelligence.

Ben Hockenberg – Chief Investment Officer

Aligned with JSSI’s focus on delivering flexible financing solutions and acquiring strategic assets, Ben Hockenberg will assume a new role within the organization as chief investment officer. In this capacity, Hockenberg will shape the aircraft finance strategy and provide leadership, while managing transactions and investments across JSSI’s portfolio, designing the vision and execution model for JSSI Aviation Capital.

Hockenberg has worked across financial services and alternative investments throughout his career, including investment banking, private equity and credit investing. Hockenberg joined JSSI in 2020 and has been instrumental in growing JSSI’s parts and engine leasing business. He most recently served as chief operating officer; and president of JSSI parts and leasing.

Andreas Mauritzson – EVP, JSSI Aviation Capital

JSSI also welcomed Andreas Mauritzson as executive vice president of JSSI Aviation Capital. Mauritzson brings leadership experience across business aviation and demonstrated success driving growth and operational efficiency. Previous roles include president and chief operating officer at XOJET Aviation, and vice president of business strategy at Sun Air Jets.

“Andreas has a remarkable vision of what best-in-class customer experience looks like, and how to marry financing solutions with each operator’s unique requirements,” said Hockenberg. In his new role, Mauritzson will oversee operations and strategy for JSSI Aviation Capital.

Neil Book, JSSI president and CEO, commented, “JSSI is responsible for maintaining thousands of aircraft, and supporting those owners and operators with lease engines, parts, maintenance tracking software, and white glove service. Our product portfolio, combined with a talented and dynamic team, positions JSSI Aviation Capital to deliver tailored solutions to owners, operators, brokers, and beyond. I am confident that Ben and Andreas will lead our financing business into its next phase of growth, collaborating closely with the rest of our business and industry partners to maximize value for clients.”

Tim Elberfeld – Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer

Tim Elberfeld, who joined the company in 2022 as chief financial officer, will now also serve as chief operating officer. Over the past three years, Elberfeld has added value to JSSI, driving organizational excellence and operational efficiency. In his expanded role, he will continue to oversee all aspects of finance and accounting while managing operational and customer support functions, including maintenance technical services, parts procurement, client services, underwriting, and information technology.

All In Aviation Expands Executive Team with New Director of Maintenance Following Acquisition of Lone Mountain Aviation

All In Aviation, a flight school and full-service aviation company in southern Nevada, announced the hiring of Rob Pickering as its new director of maintenance.

Following the recent acquisition of its maintenance partner, Lone Mountain Aviation, All In Aviation has become one of the largest full-service aviation centers in the Southwest. The addition of Pickering strengthens the company’s new service division, as he takes on the vital role of managing complex maintenance operations and ensuring full compliance with FAA regulations.

Pickering brings more than 30 years of experience in aircraft maintenance management and quality assurance. Before joining All In Aviation in December 2024, he held leadership positions at Cirrus Aircraft, Embraer Executive Jet Services, ACI Jet, Rolls Royce Corporation, and L-3 Vertex Flight International. Pickering is an FAA-certified Flight Instructor, Commercial Pilot, and Mechanic with Inspection Authorization. He also holds a B.S. in Aeronautical Engineering Technology from Purdue University.

For more information about All In Aviation, call 702-ALL-IN22 (702-255-4622) or visit http://www.allinaviation.com.

Veryon Appoints Bethany Little as CEO

Information services and software solutions provider, Veryon announced the appointment of Bethany Little as chief executive officer. Little’s arrival signals a bold step forward for Veryon as it continues to lead the charge in aviation maintenance technology. Little succeeds Norman Happ, who has been appointed to Veryon’s board of directors. “I’m excited to welcome Bethany to the team as she is the right person to lead Veryon’s next stage of growth,” said Happ.

In his new role on the Veryon board of directors, Happ will continue supporting the company’s mission and strategic vision while also serving on the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) Board.

Little brings over 20 years of leadership experience in Software as a Service (SaaS)technology business. Most recently, she served as the CEO of PatientNow, a leading provider of medical EMR and practice management solutions, where she optimized growth during a time of incredible market expansion of health and wellness providers in the elective medical market. Recognized for her expertise in customer success, product innovation, and team development, Little is well-positioned to lead Veryon into its next phase of evolution as the company continues to revolutionize the aviation industry with cutting-edge maintenance solutions.

“I am honored to join Veryon at such a transformative time in the aviation industry,” said Bethany Little. “Veryon’s dedication to optimizing aircraft uptime for maintenance teams, coupled with its customer-centric approach, has firmly established it as a leader in aviation maintenance technology. I also have a personal connection to aviation through the Air Force and being part of a military family, so it’s exciting to come back full circle later in my career. I look forward to collaborating with this talented team to drive forward-thinking solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance across the industry.”

Little’s appointment comes during a period of significant growth for Veryon. Over the years, the company has strategically expanded its capabilities through key acquisitions, including RCMBT in 2024, Rusada in 2023, and earlier acquisitions of CaseBank and Flightdocs. Since its founding in 1973, Veryon has continually evolved to offer aviation operators technology to better access publications, fix maintenance issues faster, and operate more efficiently without compromising compliance. The Veryon brand is trusted by over 7,600 customers in 175 countries, including 25% of the world’s largest operators.

FL Technics Expands Operations in the UAE with New Line Maintenance Station at DWC

MRO Provider FL Technics is set to further expand its operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with a new line maintenance station at Dubai World Central (DWC)/Al Maktoum International Airport. This move solidifies the position of FL Technics LLC (UAE) as a trustworthy leader in aviation maintenance solutions in the Middle East.

A growing number of airlines and freighter operations are transitioning from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to DWC. FL Technics has therefore strategically decided to open a new line maintenance station in DWC to support the growing demand for MRO services.

According to the Dubai Government, the airport plans to ultimately increase its cargo capacity to 12 million tons per year within the next decade. “All freighters have been relocated from  DXB to DWC due to the predominance of cargo traffic. In response, FL Technics is strategically positioning itself in the area to provide the necessary technical support to airlines. This expansion of operations represents a significant opportunity for us to serve a more extensive clientele within the UAE. FL Technics is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities presented by the UAE’s evolving aviation industry,” notes Arif Alameri, FL Technics managing director.

In addition to maintaining the fleet for Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, FL Technics LLC has signed a contract with another UAE-based airline for services at AUH and DWC, supporting its fleet and providing a range of maintenance services. FL Technics LLC’s current capabilities across UAE include maintenance for Boeing B737 and Airbus A320 family aircraft. 

The new line maintenance station at DWC is a part of FL Technics’ already existing operations in DXB and AUH. The company is working closely with airlines operating in DWC to increase partnerships in the region.