Category: BizJet

Gulfstream Produces 1,000th Aircraft Wing in Savannah

In early December, Gulfstream Aerospace manufactured its 1,000th aircraft wing since bringing production to its Savannah-based manufacturing facility in 2012. All wings for the Gulfstream G800, Gulfstream G700, Gulfstream G650ER, Gulfstream G600, Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G400 are produced at Gulfstream’s headquarters in Savannah. The 1,000th wing shipset will be installed on a G600.

“The production of the 1,000th wing at our headquarters in Savannah is a testament to how advanced our technology, production and design processes have become with the help of the industry’s most talented workforce,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Thanks to the investments made across the business, the enhanced operational efficiency and flexibility of our in-house manufacturing facilities ensure we continue to deliver the utmost in quality and innovation when creating and delivering the world’s finest aviation experience.”

Building on the innovations introduced with the G650, Gulfstream developed its next-generation fleet with manufacturing and design commonalities, along with purpose-built production facilities, resulting in new standards of precision manufacturing. In 2022, Gulfstream announced the expansion of its wing production facility as well as an expansion of G600, G500 and G400 manufacturing to meet growing customer demand.

Cessna SkyCourier Achieves Canada Type Certification

Textron Aviation announced that its twin-engine, large-utility turboprop, the Cessna SkyCourier, has been awarded type certification by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), expanding the aircraft’s ability to support operational activities in some of the most remote areas of North America.

The first SkyCourier in the region – a freighter variant – is expected to be delivered this year to Air Bravo Corporation, a passenger, cargo and air ambulance flight service company based out of Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Barrie and Meaford, Ontario since 2001.

“The SkyCourier’s outstanding performance will be a game-changer for our customers across Canada,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, global sales and flight operations. “The maximum flexibility and low operating costs of this aircraft make it an excellent choice for a wide range of missions throughout the region.”

Textron says the SkyCourier is “an ideal solution for air freight, passenger and special missions. With the ability to be operated by a single pilot, the aircraft is highly adaptable and can easily adjust configurations to effectively complete virtually any mission, supporting a significant return on investment. The aircraft also has capabilities to support a wide range of operational activities in remote areas.”

Joby Completes First FAA Testing on Major Aircraft Aerostructure

Joby Aviation announced it has completed a landmark series of major aerostructure tests for certification credit with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Joby has successfully completed static load testing of the tail structure, marking the first time the Company has tested a major aerostructure of its aircraft for-credit with FAA representatives present. The tests took place in Santa Cruz, CA, as part of a rigorous testing campaign covering all of the structures, components, and systems on the aircraft, producing data that is required for FAA type certification of the aircraft.

“Completing for-credit static load testing on a major aircraft structure marks an important step towards certification of the Joby aircraft and we’re very pleased with the results. Reaching this milestone is the culmination of years of hard work across the engineering, testing, certification, and manufacturing teams at Joby,” said Didier Papadopoulos, President of Aircraft OEM at Joby.

“Our vertically-integrated approach to aircraft development gives us the capability to design, build, and test entire aerostructures in-house, providing Joby with a strong foundation to rapidly and efficiently continue to bring innovative technologies to market.”

During the tests, Joby engineers applied loads to the aircraft’s tail structure that far exceed the maximum forces the structure is expected to experience during flight. The FAA-conforming tail structure used in the test, along with the test procedure, instrumentation, and applied loads, are outlined in Joby’s certification documents, which have been approved by the FAA as part of the certification process.

Joby’s electric air taxi is designed to carry a pilot and up to four passengers at speeds of up to 200 mph, offering high-speed mobility with a fraction of the noise produced by helicopters and zero operating emissions.

Southwest Aerospace Technologies Expanding Capabilities

Southwest Aerospace Technologies (S.W.A.T.) announced that it has signed a lease agreement with the City of Georgetown, Texas, for the long term lease of a 12,000 square foot hangar and the adjacent area at the Georgetown Executive Airport (KGTU). The additional space will enable S.W.A.T. to expand its service offerings as well as its aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities.

“We are very excited about the expansion opportunities this property gives our business,” said Kurt Encinias, president and CEO of S.W.A.T. “We’re also excited to contribute to the City of Georgetown’s continued growth by providing additional jobs and other tangible economic benefits, including a high-net-worth customer base that will patronize local businesses when their aircraft is at our facility.”

The lease was officially signed on December 11, and the company has already begun using the hangar, which can accommodate multiple aircraft at a time, for aircraft maintenance activities. Work on the side rooms that will serve as office space is underway and due to be completed by the end of the year. S.W.A.T. is also remodeling the additional space behind the hangar, which will be used for customer offices and other functions. That work is expected to be finished in early 2025. The total footprint of the new space is 41,000, which allows for future growth and enhancements.

S.W.A.T. currently has a 25,000 square foot facility in west Georgetown located in Biz Park 29 which houses its FAA Repair Station, aircraft parts and components inventory, warehouse and the sales and administrative functions. The company’s corporate and administrative offices will be relocating to the new facility, while the repair station, inventory and warehouse will remain at the current location. The company also has a service hangar in Montreal, Canada, that performs maintenance on Rolls Royce BR710 engines.

“The additional space at the Georgetown Executive Airport will allow S.W.A.T. to provide more extensive aircraft maintenance services and gives us more flexibility as we continue to serve the needs of our worldwide customer base,” added Encinias. “We have continuously been committed to supporting our industry and this opportunity for expanding our facilities and capabilities is an important step in our strategic growth. We look forward to the future.”

Guill Launches 10-Day Extrusion Tooling Program

Guill Tool, extrusion tooling expert, has announced its 10-day program. This program applies to eligible tips and dies that will be shipped within 10 business days of receiving the purchase order from the customer. 

The company’s precision tips and dies have been manufactured in the U.S. for 62 years. All Guill extrusion tools are produced using certified and documented quality steel material specifically qualified for the polymer to be extruded. Furthermore, Guill designs tips and dies for any application the customer needs. These feature multi-lumen, stripe, multiple stripe, wire and cable, hose, pipe, tube, fiber optic, blown film, corrugated tube and profile. Dies include face seal, shouldered, snap together, floating, die plates, interchangeable die plate and custom dies. Available tips include single and multi-lumen, threaded style, snap together, fixed center shoulder, profile, tapered style and custom. 

To find out which tools are eligible for the program, check with any sales representative. For all other parts, company personnel will review the customer’s drawing to determine if it is eligible for the program.  

Eligible tips and dies for this program cannot be plated and must have a diameter less than 1.5” and a length less than 4.75.” 

Guill proudly manufactures its products in the U.S. under the quality standards of ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100:2016.

Elevate Jet Announces Key Leadership Appointments to Drive Operational Excellence and Growth

Elevate Jet announced the appointment of Lanny Schindelmeiser as vice president of maintenance and the promotion of Perry Breitenstein to the role of vice president of operations. The company says these appointments reflect the its commitment to providing exceptional customer service, enhancing operational efficiency and building the infrastructure necessary to support continued growth.

As VP of maintenance, Schindelmeiser will oversee the maintenance division of Elevate Jet, ensuring that all aircraft are maintained to the highest safety standards and operational performance. His extensive experience in aviation maintenance management, coupled with a proven track record of optimizing operational processes, will be invaluable in further strengthening Elevate Jet’s commitment to safety, reliability and service excellence.

Perry Breitenstein, who has been with Elevate Jet for several years, has been promoted to the role of VP of operations. In this position, he will lead the day-to-day operations of the company, focusing on streamlining operational workflows, driving efficiency, and ensuring that Elevate Jet’s clients receive the highest level of personalized service. Perry’s deep understanding of the company’s operations, combined with his dedication to operational excellence, makes him ideally positioned to support the company’s long-term goals and help Elevate Jet continue to expand its presence in the private aviation market.

“Both Lanny and Perry bring unmatched expertise and passion for operational excellence that will be crucial as we continue to grow and evolve,” said David Allen, chief operating officer of Elevate Aviation Group. “Their leadership will help Elevate Jet continue to provide world-class service to our clients while enhancing the infrastructure that supports our business and ensures we remain at the forefront of the private aviation industry.”

With Schindelmeiser and Breitenstein leading maintenance and operations, Elevate Jet is poised to further enhance its reputation for delivering exceptional service, superior client experiences, and a seamless travel experience. Their combined focus on the day-to-day operations will be instrumental in scaling the company’s operations and fostering growth while maintaining the high standards that Elevate Jet’s clients have come to expect.

France-Based Global Aircraft Finishing Company Chooses Delaware Location for Second U.S. Site

Global aircraft, aerospace and railway painting, sealing and interior manufacturing company Satys has chosen New Castle, Delaware, as the site for its second United States location.

Satys will invest nearly $1.3 million in facility improvements and equipment to establish an aircraft paint facility and training hub in a currently shuttered hangar at Wilmington Airport — ILG that had previously been occupied by Dassault and used in a similar capacity. The facility will serve the business jet market in the eastern United States and Canada.

“Delaware will see many benefits with the news that Satys will grow its aircraft finishing operations right here in our state,” said Governor John Carney. “This will create good-paying, skilled jobs for Delawareans and continued economic activity in the First State.”

Founded in 1986 under the name STTS, Satys is a French and international industrial group active in aircraft painting and sealing and in manufacturing interiors for the air, aerospace and rail sectors. The company employs 2,600 people at 52 sites in 13 countries in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and North America, including a central U.S. site in Oregon, employing a team of managers and “traveling” painters currently assigned to a project in Arkansas and supporting the North America expansion.

Satys plans to create 40 new, full-time jobs in New Castle over the next three years and has expressed interest in potentially hiring former Dassault workers. The jobs will include junior and senior painter positions, managers and quality control personnel, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to more than $90,000.

“With all of the resources and talent needed to grow a global business in the United States, Delaware is a great place for Satys to establish its East Coast facility,” said New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer. “New Castle County welcomes Satys, and we look forward to seeing the company and its local employees flourish here.”

Satys’s operations at ILG will bring more than $500,000 annually in lease revenue to the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA), which operates the airport. This revenue will support ILG operations and capital improvements as is required by Federal Aviation Administration regulations. In addition, Satys’s location at ILG will expand the fuel service and maintenance work markets for local fixed-base operators in those fields.

“Satys is a global leader in aeronautics painting and surface treatment, and the DRBA is pleased to welcome them to Wilmington Airport,” said Thomas J. Cook, DRBA executive director. “As the airport sponsor and manager for nearly 30 years, the Authority has worked hard to create an environment for businesses to take flight here. The sky’s the limit at Wilmington Airport, and we look forward to a successful, long-term relationship with Satys.”

Delaware Prosperity Partnership began working with Satys – which was considering locations all along the East Coast, from Florida to Canada – in late 2023 to review sites in Delaware. On Monday, DPP supported the company’s request to the state Council on Development Finance for a Jobs Performance Grant of up to $296,262 and a Capital Expenditure Grant of up to $38,316 from the Delaware Strategic Fund. Distribution of these grant monies is dependent on the company meeting commitments as outlined to the CDF, which reviewed and approved Satys’s request for up to $334,578 in total funding.

“Satys is exited to expand our North American footprint in Delaware,” said Francisco Sanchez, Satys North America director. “We deeply appreciate the support from the State of Delaware and the DRBA as we approach the opening of our aircraft painting facility at ILG. We look forward to welcoming Delawareans to the Satys family, as we are actively recruiting for new positions and providing training to join the Satys Team.”

Garmin Continues to Grow Portfolio of Aircraft Approvals for GFC 500 and GFC 600 Digital Autopilots

Garmin announced it has received additional autopilot approvals in several aircraft models for the GFC 500 and GFC 600 digital autopilots. The Beechcraft Baron A55 is approved for the GFC 600 while the GFC 500 has received certification for Robertson STOL (short takeoff or landing) equipped Cessna 180 and Cessna 185 aircraft, adding on to the already certified Cessna 180 and 185. The GFC 500 and GFC 600 deliver superior in-flight characteristics, self-monitoring capabilities and minimal maintenance needs when compared to older generation autopilot systems. The GFC 500 is intended for single-engine piston aircraft, while the GFC 600 is intended for high performance piston single/twin-engine and turbine aircraft that have a wide range of speed and performance characteristics.

The fully featured GFC 500 and GFC 600 autopilots provide thousands of existing general aviation aircraft with a simple, lightweight, cost-effective autopilot upgrade path. The GFC 500 and GFC 600 incorporate a solid-state attitude source with robust self-monitoring capabilities to provide superior autopilot performance, greater reliability and safety tools that are similar to Garmin’s popular GFC 700 autopilot used in our integrated flight decks. In addition to traditional autopilot capabilities such as altitude hold, vertical speed and heading modes, the GFC 500 and GFC 600 also include altitude preselect, VNAV, Level Mode, underspeed and overspeed protection and more. Pilots can also select, couple to and fly various instrument approaches, including GPS, ILS, VOR, LOC and back course approaches when paired with a compatible GPS navigator.

The GFC 500 autopilot uniquely integrates with Garmin’s GI 275 or G5 electronic flight instruments, as well as a combination of either a standby GI 275 or G5 electronic flight instrument interfaced to a
G500 TXi flight display, or a G3X Touch flight display to provide pilots with an economical and modern autopilot solution. The autopilot mode controller features large, dedicated keys and knobs, as well as a control wheel that allows for easy adjustment to aircraft pitch, airspeed and vertical speed, as well as a Level Mode (LVL) that returns the aircraft to straight-and-level flight with the push of a dedicated button.

As a standard feature on both the GFC 500 and GFC 600 autopilots, pilots receive Garmin Electronic Stability and Protection (ESP), which works to assist the pilot in maintaining the aircraft in a stable flight condition. ESP functions independently of the autopilot and works in the background while the pilot is hand-flying the aircraft to help avoid inadvertent flight attitudes or bank angles by nudging the pilot to return the aircraft to a safe flight attitude. Additionally, pilots can take advantage of Garmin Smart Glide, a safety-enhancing tool that can help pilots in an engine power loss event by automating certain tasks and helping to reduce pilot workload.

The GFC 600 now includes a new mode controller which features a larger, color Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen that enhances the display of mode annunciations. Available with the GFC 600, Smart Rudder Bias provides pilots assistance against the hazardous effects of one-engine inoperative (OEI) events when the aircraft is appropriately equipped. The system continuously monitors engine parameters using Engine Indication System (EIS) data displayed on a G500 TXi or G600 TXi flight display and activates when the system detects a predetermined power differential between each engine. Once activated, rudder force is dynamically adjusted to aid a pilot in providing enough force to the rudder to help control a sideslip.

Enhanced Garmin ESP settings for OEI conditions can help Smart Rudder Bias-equipped aircraft avoid potentially hazardous flight attitudes and airspeeds by tailoring these settings to help address the aerodynamic characteristics associated with OEI operations. Smart Rudder Bias requires a G500 TXi or G600 TXi configured as a primary flight display (PFD) with engine indication system (EIS) data, which can be shown as a strip on the G500 TXi or G600 TXi, or on a separate dedicated TXi EIS display. Additionally, Smart Rudder Bias requires the yaw axis option be installed on the GFC 600.

The GFC 600 digital autopilot for the Beechcraft Baron A55 and the GFC 500 for RSTOL-equipped Cessna 180 and Cessna 185 aircraft are available immediately through select Garmin authorized dealers. Garmin continues to add additional aircraft models to the growing STC list for the GFC 500 and GFC 600 autopilots.

Qatar Executive Embraces Comprehensive Safety with MedAire360 Integration Across Expanded Fleet

MedAire announced the integration of its cutting-edge MedAire360 solution across Qatar Executive’s fleet, including their newly acquired Gulfstream G700. This collaboration significantly elevates aviation safety and enhances the passenger experience through innovative solutions.

As Qatar Executive expands its fleet with state-of-the-art Gulfstream G700s, it continues its tradition of prioritizing passenger safety and operational excellence. The full integration of MedAire360 throughout the fleet enhances its capability to deliver advanced medical and security support, which is essential for responding to modern aviation challenges.

For 40 years, MedAire has been pioneering solutions in remote medical and security assistance. With the introduction of MedAire360, Qatar Executive benefit from immediate access to medical expertise and security intelligence, reinforcing their commitment to providing a safe and luxurious travel experience.

“We are honored to support Qatar Executive as they continue to set high standards in aviation safety and service,” said Peter Tuggey, managing director for Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific at MedAire. “MedAire360 represents the next generation of medical and security support for the aviation industry, seamlessly integrating our latest technology with our top-tier medical and security experts to enhance the passenger experience across Qatar Executive’s fleet.”

MedAire360 equips Qatar Executive with immediate access to advanced diagnostics and comprehensive security insights through the MedAire Aviation Security Portal. This initiative aligns perfectly with Qatar Executive’s strategy to maintain passengers’ safety and security standards across its expanding fleet.

“Our state-of-the-art security platform provides Qatar Executive with the actionable intelligence necessary for optimal passenger safety,” said Hany Bakr, director of aviation security at MedAire. “The tools within our Aviation Security Portal exemplify our commitment to providing invaluable resources for protecting passengers and crew throughout their journey.”

This partnership highlights Qatar Executive’s commitment to expanding its fleet while investing in cutting-edge solutions that maintain its high standards of safety and service excellence.

Together, MedAire and Qatar Executive continue to set new benchmarks for security and medical care in the aviation sector.

Seno Will Succeed Starling at IADA

The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) is pleased to announce that Louis C. Seno, Jr. will assume the role of Executive Director on Jan. 1, 2025, succeeding Wayne Starling, who has served in the position since Oct. 2018. The transition marks a key moment for IADA, as Seno brings a wealth of aviation industry knowledge and executive experience to build on the organization’s strong reputation.

This leadership change follows a thorough and well-planned industry-wide search procesconducted by a special IADA search committee led by IADA Chair Phil Winters. The Mettis Group, a behavioral search firm, assisted in evaluating candidates with guidance from Starling and the IADA Board. The search committee worked diligently over the past year to select a successor who would continue IADA’s mission of promoting best practices and enhancing the standards within the business aircraft resale industry. Starling announced his intent to retire from IADA earlier this year, allowing ample time for a smooth transition.

“Wayne Starling was a superb IADA leader for over six years, growing and shaping the organization and enhancing its relevance within the global aviation industry,” said IADA’s Winters, who also serves as vice president of aircraft sales & charter management for Greenwich AeroGroup and Western Aircraft, Inc. “He was awarded the IADA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024, a fitting honor for his impact on the industry. We are confident that Lou Seno will carry on that tradition and make the association even greater in the years to come. His background and executive accomplishments are a perfect fit for the organization going forward.”

Under Starling’s leadership, IADA significantly expanded its influence, set new standards, and strengthened its position as a leading association in the aviation sector. He will continue to support the organization in a special advisory capacity to Seno through April 2025, providing guidance to ensure a seamless transition. The continuity offered by Starling’s advisory role will support Seno in building upon IADA’s accomplishments to date. Seno expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, saying, “I am honored to be taking the helm of such a dynamic and effective organization and am looking forward to working with Wayne on the transition. Together with the board and IADA members, I am committed to building on the strong foundation and leading IADA into its next chapter.”

Starling also shared his support for Seno’s appointment. “I, along with the search committee and the IADA board of directors, are confident that Lou Seno will be an active visionary leader capable of taking IADA to even greater heights. I wish the Board and all of IADA’s members the very best into the future.”  

Seno’s extensive industry experience positions him exceptionally well for his new position. In his capacity as Executive Director of IADA, he will serve on the organization’s Board of Directors. Seno is also chairman emeritus and a special advisor to the board of directors of Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI). His career includes executive roles at Boeing Capital Corporation’s business aircraft units and GE Capital Solutions, reflecting a longstanding commitment to the aviation industry.   Seno currently serves on the board of dDirectors of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). He also holds the position of chairman of the West Michigan Aviation Academy Foundation Board, serves on the Foundation Board of Daytona State College, and is a board member of the National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA). In addition, he has maintained a longstanding association with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where he serves on the Industry Advisory Board for the College of Engineering.

Seno is an experienced general aviation pilot and aircraft owner with over 7,000 hours of flight time. He was given the FAA’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, which honors individuals who have exhibited professionalism, skill, and aviation expertise throughout at least 50 years of piloting.