Category: BizJet

AXON Aviation has selected Jetcraft to take on its business jet activity as it seeks to streamline its service offering. The company will transfer all business aircraft sales and acquisitions to Jetcraft ensuring a smooth handover period for clients.

Niki Rokni, partner and head of aircraft sales at AXON, said: “Jetcraft is the global leader in business jet transactions and is a natural fit to take on our respected clients. The AXON team will remain the same, now with additional focus on our commercial aircraft sales and leasing services.”

The handover follows many years of successful collaboration between AXON and Jetcraft in navigating complex transactions around the world. AXON, who specialize in exclusive, off-market listings, will continue to work hand in hand with each customer to provide a seamless transition.

“I want to thank Niki and all at AXON for placing their trust in us,” said Jahid Fazal-Karim, Owner and Chairman of the Board at Jetcraft. “Jetcraft is a global force in the industry, offering the best-in-class service for aircraft sales, acquisitions and trades. By taking on AXON’s elite customer base and quality aircraft we continue our growth trajectory, providing the expertise nobody else can match.”

Textron Aviation announced advanced Garmin G5000 avionics enhancements coming to the mid-size business jet, the Cessna Citation Latitude, and to the Citation Longitude. Textron Aviation says their investments in these business jets will offer greater performance and improved user experience to pilots in the new Latitude jets beginning in 2025 and the new Longitude jets in 2026.

“Citation jets offer customers performance, productivity and profitability that opens a new world of possibility in aviation and their business,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of Global Sales & Flight Operations. “These enhancements demonstrate our commitment to continuously invest in our legendary products in order to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers.”

When equipped with the latest Garmin G5000 avionics suite, the Latitude and Longitude will feature an array of new advanced features and technology from Garmin, including Synthetic Vision Guidance System (SVGS) shown on the primary flight displays, that couples with Synthetic Vision Technology (SVT) to support approach minima as low as 150 ft (46 m). SVGS provides a continuous, geo-spatially correct depiction of the external scene topography, including obstacles, augmented by the display of the runway.

SVT enhancements include a 3D exocentric view of the SafeTaxi airport environment to aid situational awareness while taxiing. SVT also displays 3D building footprints including hangars, terminals and towers, taxiways, aprons, signs and other markings to help reduce runway incursions by providing guidance while taxiing at airports contained in the SafeTaxi database. The enhancements also support pilot situational awareness by increasing topographical clarity, sharpening water and terrain boundaries, improving obstacle and powerlines display and enhancing runway and airport sign depictions. SVT introduces multiple viewpoints for the first time and integrates with the new Taxiway Routing feature that provides clarity during ground operations – particularly at large, unfamiliar and complex airports during low visibility conditions.

The Latitude and Longitude can utilize the standard ADS-B In capability for Cockpit Display of Traffic Information (CDTI) Assisted Visual Separation (CAVS). CAVS increases pilots’ traffic awareness and assists pilots in maintaining separation from preceding aircraft equipped with ADS-B out during visual approaches to landing. SURF IA also utilizes ADS-B data to provide alerts when attempting a takeoff or landing on an occupied runway.

For qualifying regions, the GDL 60 Datalink offers high-bandwidth data exchange and connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and LTE networks. The GDL 60 features the ability to complete automatic wireless database downloads over network connections while the aircraft is powered off. Additionally, enhancements to the GDL 69A allow the Garmin G5000 suite to access more SiriusXM Weather products.

For the 23rd consecutive year, NetJets, the global leader in private aviation, proudly announces its partnership with Art Basel. To highlight its commitment to the arts, NetJets will collaborate with French abstract artist Silvère Jarrosson to create a new art collection exclusively for NetJets that will be displayed at the Art Basel shows in Basel, Paris and Miami Beach.

Born and raised in Paris, Jarrosson trained as a ballet dancer at the renowned Opera National de Paris at only 10 years old but transitioned into abstract painting a decade ago. His background in ballet is seen throughout his motion and fluidity while creating his works of art. Represented by contemporary art agency Studio Artera in Paris, Jarrosson is known for using his whole body to make his art – as he moves or dances with the canvas to create his signature acrylic pieces.

At only 31 years of age, Jarrosson has received widespread praise and has had his work showcased globally. His art is featured in prestigious institutions such as the Villa Medici in Rome, the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar, the Lambert Collection in Avignon, the Crédit du Nord Collection, the Mobilier National and the Opera National de Paris, among others.

Jarrosson’s project created for NetJets, entitled “Inner Horizons”, offers owners – the individuals and businesses who are clients of NetJets’ private jet ownership model – captivating insight into his world of poetic immersion, where his spectators become part of the creative inspiration for his shows and projects. His work will be featured in NetJets’ exclusive area within the Collectors Lounge. Accessible only by owners, it will offer a secluded space for guests to enjoy hospitality throughout the show week of Art Basel in Basel. The show aims to merge external travel experiences made possible by NetJets with inner travel experiences created by Jarrosson’s art.

“We are delighted with this partnership. We admire the synergy from the movement Silvère uses to create his art pieces. His beautiful artwork truly moves observers who watch him paint,” Patrick Gallagher, president of sales, marketing & service, said. “Despite coming from different industries, we align in our passion to both create and capture exceptional experiences for others. As many of our Owners are deeply interested in fine art, we believe this partnership will be both inspiring and exciting as Silvère’s career continues to flourish.”

Elevate MRO a division of Elevate Aviation Group (EAG) has become an Authorized Starlink Dealer and Installer of their global in-flight high-speed internet solution. Elevate Jet intends to offer Starlink as its sole connectivity product.

Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users all over the world. As the world’s first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit, Starlink delivers broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more. Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX. As the world’s leading provider of launch services, SpaceX is leveraging its deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations to deploy the world’s most advanced broadband internet system.

“We are honored to have Elevate MRO selected as an Authorized Dealer and Installer of Starlink,” said Randy McKinney, president of EAG. “I was fortunate to participate in the initial STC and launch of the product in 2022, and learned firsthand how fast and reliable this product is.”

Elevate MRO and Elevate Jet became wholly-owned subsidiaries of Elevate Aviation Group in 2022. With nearly 30 years of experience in aircraft service and maintenance support, as well as 24/7 availability, Elevate MRO is the essence of dependability. With its primary location in Salt Lake City, UT, the company is staffed by highly trained and qualified technicians capable of repairing and maintaining a wide array of turbine-powered fixed-wing aircraft.

“Our MRO team is elated to begin offering the Starlink product,” said Jim Slack, president of the MRO division. “Its simplified design means minimal downtime for installation and allows us to integrate it with routine maintenance intervals.”

Elevate Jet also maintains a diverse fleet of private jet aircraft for charter to fit any trip or budget and provides tailored travel solutions to meet business and personal travel needs. Elevate Jet is regularly audited by third-party industry examiners, including Argus and Wyvern, and it has been accepted into the Federal Aviation Administration’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program (FAA SMSVP), a distinction that only the top 2% of U.S. Part 135 Carriers have managed to achieve.

Textron Aviation announced the continued advancement of the Cessna Citation Ascend program following the successful completion by the prototype aircraft of numerous certification tests and more than 350 flight test hours. The Citation Ascend business jet was unveiled during the 2023 European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) and the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2025.

The newest Citation is designed to bring a new cockpit, improved performance and a more luxurious cabin to the midsize business jet market. The aircraft’s state-of-the-art avionics including autothrottle, high payload capacity and impressive range offer customers reduced pilot workload and the ability to do more and go farther.

“With the prototype aircraft’s successful completion of rigorous certification tests and over 350 flight test hours, we are confident in the development progress of the Citation Ascend,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering & Programs. “The success of the program to date highlights the skill and commitment of our teams in designing and delivering the best aviation experience for customers.”

The Citation Ascend prototype aircraft has successfully completed testing that includes:

• Extreme hot and cold weather testing, ensuring aircraft systems are functional and operational at extreme temperatures
• Bird strike
• Braking performance
• Tire burst
• Cockpit and cabin window static and residual strength

The aircraft’s systems simulator test rig, known as an “Iron Bird,” continues to make strides in its development and support of the program advancement. Leveraging unique Textron Aviation engineering and manufacturing techniques, the test system incorporates the design of the aircraft’s avionics, electrical and engine control systems to support pilot familiarization and flight scenarios.

The Citation Ascend features Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, nearing certification by Transport Canada Civil Aviation, are designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency, increased thrust and longer time-on-wing for eligible customers. The engine uses new materials and technology – including a more efficient high-pressure compressor and an enhanced single stage high-pressure turbine module. The PW545D engines are also equipped with a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), enabling the new autothrottle technology and ensuring they operate at their maximum efficiency and with reduced pilot workload.

Textron Aviation recently opened the company’s largest parts distribution facility at its headquarters in Wichita, Kansas. With the addition of 180,000 square feet of space, this state-of-the-art facility is now better equipped to serve the company’s global customer base with increased parts storage and faster shipping.

With thousands of Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker aircraft operating worldwide, Textron Aviation recognizes the importance of having readily available parts to keep customers flying. The facility’s larger footprint allows for increased parts inventory investment, supporting parts availability for both new and existing models. The expansion also aims to improve the overall customer experience with a new, dedicated lane for customers to conveniently drop off or pick up parts in person.

“Adding 180,000 square feet to our headquarter facility provides expedited support to our customers around the globe and continues our investment in parts inventory,” said Brad White, senior vice president, Global Parts and Distribution. “The expansion of our parts distribution operations is a testament to Textron Aviation’s commitment to designing and delivering the best aviation experience for customers.”

the project features energy-saving LED lighting and high-efficiency systems and process improvements that consolidate shipments and reduce vehicle travel by an estimated 30,000 miles annually. Work on the facility began in October 2022. PEC Engineering and GLMV Architecture designed the facility and CONCO Construction completed the project. All companies are local to Textron Aviation’s headquarters and the expanded facility in Wichita.

The expanded parts facility in Wichita is part of a global network of seven parts distribution centers and 17 stockrooms.

Textron Aviation’s commitment to sustainability was recognized as its global service network received recertification as a Green Aviation Business from the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). This recognition is part of NATA’s Sustainability Standard for Aviation Businesses program, which encourages environmental sustainability within the industry.

Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker customers receive factory-direct support, maintenance and modifications by Textron Aviation Inc. through its global network of service and part centers, mobile service units and 24/7 1CALL AOG support.

Four of Textron Aviation’s 20 company-owned service centers — Singapore, Paris, Zurich and Indianapolis — recertified their Tier 1 status, going above and beyond NATA’s certification requirements and implementing additional sustainable practices.

This includes phasing out single-use plastic items, installing motion-sensor lighting and ensuring energy-efficient kitchen appliances and plumbing fixtures. These locations have also developed policies to reduce idling in ground support equipment. For the first time this year, the company’s Valencia Service Center achieved Tier 2 status.

“We continue to invest in our processes and facilities to encourage sustainable solutions across the globe, because we understand the importance of driving economic growth while preserving our natural resources,” said Brian Rohloff, senior vice president, Customer Support.

To achieve base-level certification, all facilities must establish a baseline carbon footprint and work toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. They must also offer recycling programs, implement paperless systems, install LED lighting and reduce the use of plastic water bottles. The company is actively supporting the development of sustainable propulsion solutions, such as hydrogen electric and hybrid electric, and remains actively engaged in sustainability initiatives within the aviation industry.

Sustainability at Textron Aviation

Textron Aviation is committed to environmental sustainability and natural resource conservation and supports the Business Aviation Commitment on Climate Change. Aligned with the overarching vision of Textron Inc., Textron Aviation has set forth enterprise-wide goals, spanning a five-year horizon, to forge a path towards a greener future. By the close of 2025, the company aims to curtail greenhouse gas emissions by 20%, while concurrently striving to achieve a 10% reduction in energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation.

Additionally, Textron Aviation has harnessed the power of renewable wind energy to meet nearly all its electricity needs in Kansas. This blend of sustainability and innovation serves as a testament to the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Robust investments in Textron Aviation’s products and facilities encourage sustainability in its designs and operations. The Beechcraft Denali and Cessna Citation Ascend embody the company’s dedication to reducing emissions and enhancing efficiency through its aircraft projects. Customers are offered the opportunity to take delivery of their aircraft utilizing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and they can refuel their aircraft with this environmentally friendly alternative at the company’s service center in Wichita, Kansas.