Category: BizJet

BriskHeat Launches the ACR 4 Hot Bonder, Redefining Composite Curing and Repair

Industrial heating and temperature control solutions provider, BriskHeat, announced the launch of its most advanced hot bonder to date, the ACR 4 Hot Bonder. Engineered for precision, durability, and ease of use, the ACR 4 sets a new standard in out-of-autoclave composite curing and debulking, as well as adhesive bonding.

Building on the legacy of the ACR 3, the ACR 4 introduces intuitive operation, enhanced control, and greater versatility for processing resins, prepregs, adhesives, and other composite materials. Designed for field, hangar, and lab environments, it meets the evolving needs of modern composite repair.

Key Innovations:

·       Removable thermocouple boxes with 10 sensors per zone for streamlined setup

·       Built-in blanket resistance testing

·       10.1” HD touchscreen interface for better visibility and graphics

·       Advanced software platform with unlimited recipe customization and synchronized multi-zone curing

·       Power larger heaters with up to 30 amps per zone

·       Integrated high-speed printer

·       Dual-zone operation with built-in electric vacuum pumps and venturis

“The mobility of the TC blocks on the ACR 4 is a game-changer,” said Michael Landon, technical sales at AeroWindTech. “This is one of the most impactful improvements we’ve seen, and we’re excited to see how our customers leverage its capabilities.”

“The ACR 4 builds on the proven reliability of the ACR 3 with enhanced durability, intuitive controls, and advanced vacuum technology,” said Nick McNamara, senior vice president of engineering and semiconductor OEM at BriskHeat. “It’s designed to perform in the most demanding environments and deliver faster, more secure, and more efficient bonding.”

Third Quarter with Headwinds: Lufthansa Technik’s Earnings Below Previous Year

The third quarter of 2025 was marked by major negative impacts on earnings, but Lufthansa Technik remains on track for planned growth. Revenue rose by a good 600 million to 5.9 billion euros in the first
nine months of the year (+11.9 percent compared to the previous year). But the global market leader in aircraft technical services was negatively impacted by tariffs and the US dollar exchange rate in particular. With an adjusted EBIT of 440 million euros, the company was significantly below the previous year’s level (-26 million euros respectively -5.6 percent) at the end of September. The margin declined accordingly to 7.4 percent (previous year: 8.8 percent).

“After racing from one record to the next, the tougher environment has forced us to make painful cuts in earnings and margins,” said Dr. Christian Leifeld, Chief Financial Officer of Lufthansa Technik. “Despite all our efforts, the summer remained well below our expectations. In view of the stable market development, we are maintaining our course and sticking to our planned investments. In order to achieve the necessary results, even greater cost awareness will be required in all areas.”

To achieve profitable growth as planned, Lufthansa Technik plans to invest billions of euros in the coming years. In Portugal, the company is investing 300 million euros in a new plant for the repair of aircraft components and engine parts. Most recently, a second training building was put into operation in Santa Maria da Feira near Porto. In Calgary, Canada, a site is being built for the maintenance of state-of-the-art CFM LEAP-1B aircraft engines. The training program for new employees has already started here as well. In the USA, the expansion of the Tulsa (Oklahoma) site is underway with investments made in new buildings and additional capacity. At the same time, the company’s headquarter in Hamburg is being extensively modernized with a three-digit-million-euro investment in infrastructure measures.

Major contracts with Cathay Group and easyJet
The driving factor behind this is steady demand. Lufthansa Technik has already signed more than 600 new contracts this year, including most recently an agreement with the Cathay Group (Hong Kong) for the maintenance of components for its fleet of more than 70 Boeing 747 and 777 aircraft. The long-standing partnership with British airline easyJet for aircraft overhauls was also extended. Each winter season, Lufthansa Technik Sofia provides four parallel bays exclusively for aircraft of the airline’s Airbus A320 family fleet. Lufthansa Technik’s engine division recently celebrated the induction of its 100th CFM LEAP engine at the Hamburg site.

“The unwavering support of our customers makes us very happy and motivates us,” said Christian Leifeld. “At the same time, these positive developments do not change the fact that we still have a lot of work to do. The increased costs for materials, supplies, and personnel are a lasting burden for us. Added to this are the current weakness of the US dollar and the US tariffs, which, despite the exemptions for aircraft parts, continue to put pressure on us and the industry. These two issues alone will cost us a high double-digit-million-euro amount in earnings this year.”

Lufthansa Technik had set out to achieve positive revenue and earnings growth for 2025 compared with the previous year. The company has responded to the tariff burdens with extensive measures. Material flows are being redirected, and repairs are being carried out in other locations than before. “For now, we are just glad that the dispute between the US and the EU has not escalated further,” said Christian Leifeld. “But one thing is also clear: the current tariffs regime is making everything more expensive for us and for our customers. While I am optimistic about the revenue target, it will be a major challenge to match last year’s EBIT level under these difficult conditions.”

Due to internal reorganization within the Group, Lufthansa Industry Solutions is no longer part of the Technik business segment of the Lufthansa Group. The comparative figures have been adjusted accordingly.

Perfect Point EDM Unveils Vac-Exact

Perfect Point EDM announced the release of Vac-Exact, a new vacuum-assisted precision drilling fixture designed to deliver accurate, stable, and repeatable results directly on the work surface. Built for aerospace maintenance and MRO operations, Vac-Exact allows technicians to perform precision drilling, hole repair, and alignment tasks on-wing or in the field—without heavy fixturing or part removal.

The company says its modular design also makes it ideal for automotive, manufacturing, and industrial applications, where portable accuracy and clean operation are critical. Vac-Exact combines Perfect Point’s proven vacuum-locator technology with interchangeable bushings and modular adapters to create a secure, steady platform for high-tolerance drilling on critical structures.

The system’s vacuum base locks the locator firmly in place, while precision-guided bushings ensure
every hole is centered, perpendicular, and consistent, reducing errors and rework across complex
assemblies.

Key Features and Benefits

  • Vacuum-Locking Stability: Firmly secures to flat or curved surfaces using a venturi-based
    vacuum module powered by standard shop air. Once locked, Vac-Exact resists movement and
    vibration for clean, accurate results.
  • Portable, Modular Design: Lightweight and adaptable, with interchangeable locators for both flat
    and offset surfaces, enabling precision drilling in tight or complex geometries.
  • Precision Alignment: Uses interchangeable aperture rings and industry-standard drill bushings
    for repeatable centering and alignment during drilling or reaming operations.
  • Cleaner Operation: An optional vacuum attachment removes debris at the source, reducing
    foreign object debris (FOD) and keeping work areas clean.
  • Mis-Drilled Hole Correction: Allows technicians to precisely reposition and repair misaligned
    holes without complex tooling or disassembly, restoring alignment quickly and accurately.

Vac-Exact was developed from the real-world challenges our customers face,” said Jim Becker, president & CEO of Perfect Point EDM. “Technicians needed a way to achieve consistent accuracy on-wing, in the hangar, or in the field—without relying on large fixtures or makeshift setups. Vac-Exact delivers that capability, bringing precision and repeatability wherever the job demands it.”

Vac-Exact complements Perfect Point’s flagship E-Drill system, which revolutionized fastener removal in aerospace maintenance. Together, the two tools provide a complete workflow for fastener maintenance and hole repair—from efficient removal to precise re-drilling and hole-making. This expansion marks a new chapter for Perfect Point EDM as the company broadens its focus beyond fastener removal to deliver comprehensive precision solutions for multiple industries.

Aviation Institute of Maintenance and Safran Advance Partnership to Build the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is pleased to build on its continued partnership with Safran USA to advance workforce development and create new career pathways for aviation maintenance students nationwide.

The renewed collaboration between AIM and Safran was celebrated at AIM’s Dallas campus on October 22, where AIM and Safran leaders joined students and faculty to unveil a Safran-branded classroom, present scholarships, and introduce Safran’s new employer brand campaign, “Here, we craft excellence together.”

“This partnership exemplifies AIM’s commitment to forging strong industry relationships that prepare our students for the evolving needs of the aviation industry,” said Dr. Ben Clark, vice president of business & civic impact at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance. “Safran’s investment in our students through scholarships, career engagement, and on-campus visibility reinforces the powerful link between education and industry in meeting the growing demand for skilled aviation technicians.”

The advanced partnership aligns with AIM’s mission to provide hands-on training and direct employer connections that prepare students for high-demand careers. Key initiatives include:

  • On-Campus Employer Engagement: Safran representatives will host Employer Spotlight events at AIM campuses, introducing students to career opportunities across Safran’s U.S. operations.
  • Career Pathways: AIM’s Career Services team will collaborate with Safran recruiters to identify top-performing students for entry-level positions, creating a pathway from classroom to career.
  • Scholarship Support: Five $1,000 scholarships were awarded to outstanding AIM students recognized for their academic achievement, attendance, and leadership.
  • Branded Classroom Experience: A Safran-branded classroom at AIM Dallas showcases aviation career paths and inspires students to pursue excellence in their training.
  • National Expansion: Building on success in Texas, the partnership will expand across AIM campuses nationwide to connect more students with industry opportunities.

“This expanded partnership reflects AIM’s vision to redefine how education and industry work together to shape the future of aviation,” said Jason Pfaff, chief executive officer at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance. “Safran’s continued collaboration underscores the power of strategic partnerships to bridge the gap classroom learning with real-world opportunity, building a confident, capable workforce ready to lead the next era of aerospace innovation.”

5X5 Partners with Citation Jet Pilots Association to Give Members Better Insurance Options, Discounts 

5X5 Aviation Insurance, the only direct-to-consumer insurance provider in the high-end, owner-flown market, announces a new strategic partnership with the Citation Jet Pilots Association (CJP). This collaboration gives CJP members access to flexible coverage options, exclusive discounts, and insurance that directly recognizes participation in the association’s industry-leading CJP Gold Standard Safety Award.

By working with 5X5, safety-driven CJP members will not only save on premiums but also benefit from an insurance model that aligns underwriting requirements with the way they actually operate their aircraft.

Exclusive benefits for CJP members include:

  • 5% savings for all CJP members, with opportunities to increase that to 10% with additional training or data sharing.
  • Recognizing and rewarding CJP’s most safety-committed pilots, Gold Standard Safety Award recipients can receive additional savings for a total discount of up to 20%.
  • Flexible coverage options, giving members the ability to choose policies that best match their aircraft use, training commitment and risk profile.
  • Streamlined, pilot-friendly access, eliminating the traditional broker layer and making policies faster, simpler and more transparent.

“At 5X5, we built an insurance company around the idea that safer pilots deserve better coverage and preferred underwriting” said Troy Kopischke, CEO and founder of 5X5 Aviation Insurance. “Partnering with CJP is a natural fit — their members are among the most safety-focused pilots in the world, and this collaboration allows us to reward that commitment directly.”

Rob Balzano, CEO of CJP, added: “Our partnership with 5X5 is about more than lower premiums — it’s about aligning with an insurance provider that shares our vision. CJP members train harder, fly smarter and commit to programs that raise the safety bar for all owner-flown jets. Working with 5X5 ensures that commitment translates into real value at every renewal.”

Currently authorized to write policies in more than 29 states and expanding quickly to all 48 contiguous states, 5X5 Aviation Insurance is redefining what modern aircraft insurance looks like. Together, 5X5 and CJP are raising the bar for how pilot safety is recognized, rewarded and supported.

Duncan Aviation Expands Mobile NDT Team

Duncan Aviation has expanded its Mobile Nondestructive Testing (NDT) services, providing aircraft operators across the country with convenient, on-site access to its industry-leading inspection expertise.

The company’s Mobile NDT program supports customers who prefer to complete smaller, in-house inspections without relocating their aircraft. With teams operating from Lincoln, Nebraska; Battle Creek, Michigan; and Provo, Utah, Duncan Aviation offers nationwide coverage and flexible scheduling with three shifts and seven-day availability.

Each mobile team is fully equipped to perform a wide range of inspections. All technicians are full-time NDT Level 2 or 3 in accordance with NAS410, ensuring every inspection meets the highest safety and quality standards.

Duncan Aviation holds NDT specific authorizations from Dassault, Textron, Honeywell, Rolls-Royce, and Pratt & Whitney. These authorizations demonstrate Duncan Aviation’s ability to meet manufacturer-specific requirements and maintain consistency across all testing environments.

The Mobile NDT program allows Duncan Aviation to deliver the same high-quality testing performed in its main facilities directly at customers’ locations. Services include eddy current, fluorescent penetrant, ultrasonic, magnetic particle, and optical prism inspections for a wide variety of aircraft, engines and components.

Kilroy Aviation Offers ODA Solution During the Government Shutdown

With the government shutdown continuing, Kilroy Aviation, an approved Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) company with Organization Designation Authorization(ODA), announced this week that it is assisting clients in obtaining STC certifications during the shutdown. 

An FAA ODA grants Kilroy Aviation organizational FAA Approval authority, enabling the issuance of fixed-wing and rotorcraft Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) on behalf of the FAA. In addition to new STCs, Kilroy Aviation provides PMAs, TSOs, FAA Inspections, major repair and alteration services, and other aviation-related consulting to ensure compliance with regulations.

“We understand that companies are working on aircraft modifications that require significant time and money,” said Kilroy Aviation CEO Mike Borfitz. “The government shutdown can cause critical delays for companies that cannot afford to be on hold for a prolonged period of time. Delays result in increased expenditures. Our team’s 80 years of combined experience and commitment to performance and integrity will assure operators the ability to proceed with their certifications without experiencing unnecessary delays.”

Regardless of how long the shutdown will last, it takes time for the FAA to restart lower-priority efforts. Further, certification of products and parts is among their lowest priorities, behind COS, rulemaking, and policy development. Aside from the shutdown, the modification industry is already struggling with schedule slides because, again, certification is not in the FAA’s high-priority group. There is an option, however. That option is delegation.

“Our team is fully prepared to assist companies with their STC needs right now,” said Borfitz. Although no one wants a shutdown, it is times like these that ODAs become a critical part of advancing the aviation industry. Whether there is a government shutdown or not, we will deliver. Kilroy, as the Applicant, initiates an STC project with a developed plan, ensuring the process is 85% complete before the FAA needs to be engaged after furlough. If any organization needs assistance during this difficult time in our nation’s history with their projects, we hope they will call our team so we can help,” said Borfitz. 

Sky Harbour Announces New Long Beach, California (LGB) Hangar Campus Development

Sky Harbour Group, an airport infrastructure company building the first nationwide network of Home Base Operator (HBO) campuses for business aircraft, announced the execution of a ground lease agreement with the City of Long Beach, California, for the development of a Sky Harbour HBO campus at Long Beach Airport (LGB), serving the Long Beach, Orange County and Greater Los Angeles, regions.

The proposed Sky Harbour campus will offer “the best home base in business aviation” to house Southern California’s top corporate and private business jets in state-of-the art hangars, with line services dedicated exclusively to based tenants, offering “the shortest time to wheels-up in business aviation.” The two-phase development on approximately 17 acres, is expected to create or sustain hundreds of local jobs and generate meaningful economic benefits for Southern California.

Long Beach Airport, Sky Harbour’s 19th home-base airport, joins Sky Harbour campus locations now operating at Houston’s Sugar Land Regional Airport (SGR), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Miami Opa-Locka Executive Airport (OPF), San Jose Mineta Airport (SJC), Southern California’s Camarillo Airport (CMA), Seattle’s King County International Airport – Boeing Field (BFI), Phoenix Deer Valley Airport (DVT), Dallas Addison Airport (ADS), and Denver Centennial Airport (APA); and campuses in development at Chicago Executive Airport (PWK), Connecticut Bradley International Airport (BDL), New York Hudson Valley Regional Airport (POU), Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), New York Stewart International Airport (SWF), Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), New Jersey Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN), and Portland Hillsboro Airport (HIO), with additional campuses to be announced soon.

“Long Beach has successfully established itself as a hive of innovation, most notably in the aerospace technology sector,” said Tal Keinan, Sky Harbour CEO. “Business aviation will increasingly power business innovation and economic growth in this community. The City of Long Beach, with the strong leadership of Mayor Richardson, Councilwoman Kerr, and Aviation Director Cynthia Guidry, has been an outstanding partner to Sky Harbour, welcoming Sky Harbour to what is already one of the nation’s largest and most dynamic business aviation markets. We are committed to delivering another best-in-class facility, upholding the new gold-standard for safety, security, and efficiency in business aviation, to the benefit of the citizens of Long Beach, Orange County, and Southern California.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Sky Harbour to Long Beach Airport,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “This agreement underscores Long Beach as an important hub for business aviation, which brings investment, jobs, and revenue directly into the City and communities throughout our region.”

Sky Harbour’s facility will include hangar space to house business aircraft of all sizes, with adjacent office space, operational infrastructure, and generous ramp and automobile parking.

Skymark Refuelers, World Fuel Services, and Clay Lacy Aviation Unveil The Largest All-Electric Aircraft Refueler in the United States

Skymark Refuelers is proud to announce, in partnership with World Fuel Services and Clay Lacy Aviation, the launch of the country’s largest all-electric aircraft refueler – a 7,000-gallon EV Refueler designed to advance sustainable fueling operations at airports nationwide.

This well engineered vehicle represents a major step forward in electrifying ground support equipment, combining performance, efficiency, and safety in one of the most innovative refuelers on the market today.

Next-Generation Features Include:

  • All-Electric Drivetrain – delivering zero-emission fueling operations.
  • Largest EV Refueler to Date – with a 7,000-gallon capacity to support a full range of aircraft fueling needs.
  • PTO Shaft-Driven Pump – ensuring reliable and efficient fuel transfer.
  • Fully Compliant With National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) Standards – meeting the highest safety standards in the industry.
  • Thermal Management System – protecting performance and extending component life.
  • Smart Monitoring and Built-in Safety Systems – enhancing visibility, control, and operator confidence.

“Working alongside World Fuel Services and Clay Lacy Aviation, we are excited to introduce this next-generation EV Refueler to the market,” said Steven Paul, CEO Skymark Refuelers. “This partnership represents a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and delivering safe, efficient fueling solutions for the aviation industry.”

“This achievement showcases World Fuel’s dedication to developing solutions that help decarbonize aviation and assist our customers in reaching their environmental objectives,” said Stephanie Bryant Jordan, vice president of sales at World Fuel Services. “By investing in cutting-edge technologies like this electric refueler, we are accelerating the transition to lower-carbon airport fueling operations.“

The 7,000-gallon EV Refueler will be deployed in active operations with Clay Lacy Aviation, supported by World Fuel Services, underscoring the collaborative effort to lead the transition toward cleaner and smarter airport ground fueling infrastructure.

“Since establishing our sustainability program in 2019, we have continually sought new ways to drive the industry forward and support our company’s environmental goals,” said Doug Wilson, chief business officer for Clay Lacy Aviation FBOs. “This impressively engineered refueler sets a new standard in all-electric ground service equipment and allows us to best serve our clients while being a good neighbor to the communities surrounding our airports.”

Textron Aviation Enhances Parts Shipment Visibility with Sensos Smart Labels Technology

Textron Aviation Inc. has announced the integration of Sensos Smart Labels into its parts distribution process, offering customers the option of enhanced visibility and real-time tracking of their parts shipments. The new capability is part of Textron Aviation’s ongoing investment in digital tools and customer support innovation. By leveraging Sensos’ advanced technology, customers may purchase access to real-time location data and shipment status updates for select parts orders, improving transparency and streamlining maintenance planning. 

“Our customers rely on timely and accurate parts deliveries to keep their aircraft flying,” said Brad White, senior vice president, global parts distribution. “By incorporating Sensos Smart Labels into our logistics network, we are providing customers the option to have an even greater confidence and control over their parts shipments—furthering our commitment to delivering the best aviation experience.”   

Sensos is a leading provider of advanced package tracking solutions. Sensos Smart Labels are lightweight, wireless trackers that provide continuous location updates throughout the shipping journey. Participating customers will receive live tracking information, enhancing proactive planning and reducing downtime. Whether a customer is shipping domestically or internationally, Sensos smart Labels offer transparency and reliability to keep customers’ operations running smoothly. The Sensos labels are available for purchase for part orders through Textron Aviation Parts website.