Category: BizJet

RTX’s Collins Aerospace Providing Upgraded Avionics for In-Service Cessna Citation Aircraft

Collins Aerospace has announced upcoming functionality upgrades to Collins’ Pro Line 21 integrated avionics systems installed on in-service Cessna Citation business jets.

Available beginning in the second half of 2025, the Pro Line 21 avionics enhancements are applicable for in-service Cessna Citation CJ1+, CJ2+, CJ3, CJ4 and XLS+ fleets, with upgrades spanning advanced communications abilities, improved weather data, enhanced flight deck connectivity and more.

“These enhancements are based on direct feedback received from customers, letting us know they desired cockpit upgrades that made flight more intuitive, communicative and efficient,” said Nathan Voight, vice president and general manager, Business and Regional Avionics at Collins Aerospace. “Our Pro Line 21 Citation upgrades do just that, providing pilots with a modern flight deck that keeps them connected and informed.”

The upgraded Pro Line 21 avionics suite provides Controller Pilot Data Link Communications (CPDLC), ADS-B In weather information and enhanced connectivity, improving productivity, data transfers and the stream of critical information available to pilots. Customers can purchase the upgrades as well as schedule the upgrade for installation through Textron Aviation or other Collins Aerospace authorized dealers.

Other enhancements include the addition of Privacy ICAO Address, mitigating personal identity and security concerns; direct integration between the avionics and electronic flight bags to streamline operations; and wireless database uploads, seamlessly keeping avionics systems compliant and up to date.

Honeywell Announces Intent to Separate Automation and Aerospace, Enabling the Creation of Three Industry-leading Companies

Honeywell announced that its Board of Directors completed the comprehensive business portfolio evaluation launched a year ago by Chairman and CEO Vimal Kapur and intends to pursue a full separation of Automation and Aerospace Technologies. The planned separation, coupled with the previously announced plan to spin Advanced Materials, will result in three publicly listed industry leaders with distinct strategies and growth drivers. The separation is intended to be completed in the second half of 2026 and in a manner that is tax-free to Honeywell shareholders.

“The formation of three independent, industry-leading companies builds on the powerful foundation we have created, positioning each to pursue tailored growth strategies, and unlock significant value for shareholders and customers,” said Vimal Kapur, chairman and CEO of Honeywell. “Our simplification of Honeywell has rapidly advanced over the past year, and we will continue to shape our portfolio to create further shareholder value. We have a rich pipeline of strategic bolt-on acquisition targets, and we plan to continue deploying capital to further enhance each business as we prepare them to become leading, independent public companies.”

“Building on decades of innovation as its heritage, Honeywell Automation will create the buildings and industrial infrastructure of the future, leveraging process technology, software, and AI-enabled, autonomous solutions to drive the next generation of productivity, sustainability and safety for our customers,” Kapur added. “As a standalone company with a simplified operating structure and enhanced focus, Honeywell Automation will be better able to capitalize on the global megatrends underpinning its business, from energy security and sustainability to digitalization and artificial intelligence.”

“As Aerospace prepares for unprecedented demand in the years ahead across both commercial and defense markets, now is the right time for the business to begin its own journey as a standalone, public company,” Kapur continued. “Today’s announcement is the culmination of more than a century of innovation and investment in leading technologies from Honeywell Aerospace that have revolutionized the aviation industry several times over. This next step will further enable the business to continue to lead the future of aviation.”

“With today’s action, Honeywell will be separating its Automation and Aerospace businesses into two market-leading enterprises poised for sustained growth and value creation,” said Marc Steinberg, Elliott partner and Jesse Cohn, managing partner . “The enhanced focus, alignment, and strategic agility enabled by this separation will allow Honeywell to realize the opportunity for operational improvement and valuation upside. We look forward to continuing to support Vimal and the management team as they execute on the separation and deliver significant long-term value to Honeywell’s shareholders.”

The planned separations of Automation, Aerospace and Advanced Materials will create value for all stakeholders as each will benefit from:

  • Simplified strategic focus;
  • Greater financial flexibility to pursue distinct organic growth opportunities throughout investment cycles;
  • Improved ability to tailor capital allocation priorities in alignment with strategic focus;
  • Focused boards of directors and management teams with deep domain expertise; and
  • Distinct investment profiles that position each company to unlock greater long-term value for shareholders.

Creating Three Industry-Leading Focused Companies

Honeywell Automation: Following the completion of the announced transactions, Honeywell will be the global leader of the industrial world’s transition from automation to autonomy, with a comprehensive portfolio of technologies, solutions, and software to drive customers’ productivity. Honeywell Automation will maintain global scale, with 2024 revenue of $18 billion. Honeywell Automation will connect assets, people and processes to power digital transformation, building on decades-long technology leadership positions, deep domain experience, and a vast installed base to serve a variety of high-growth verticals.

Honeywell Aerospace: Honeywell Aerospace technology and solutions are used on virtually every commercial and defense aircraft platform worldwide and include aircraft propulsion, cockpit and navigation systems, and auxiliary power systems. With $15 billion in annual revenue in 2024 and a large, global installed base, Honeywell Aerospace will be one of the largest publicly traded, pure play aerospace suppliers, with leading positions in technology and systems that will continue to deliver the future of aviation through increasing electrification and autonomy of flight.

Advanced Materials: The Advanced Materials business will be a sustainability-focused specialty chemicals and materials pure play with leading positions across fluorine products, electronic materials, industrial grade fibers, and healthcare packaging solutions. With nearly $4 billion in revenue last year, Advanced Materials offers leading technologies with premier brands, including the breakthrough low global warming Solstice hydrofluoro-olefin (HFO) technology. As a standalone company with a large-scale domestic manufacturing base, it will be positioned to benefit from a compelling investment profile and a more flexible and optimized capital allocation strategy.

Honeywell’s Continued Simplification and Portfolio Optimization

Honeywell remains on pace to exceed its commitment to deploy at least $25 billion toward high-return capital expenditures, dividends, opportunistic share purchases and accretive acquisitions through 2025. The company intends to continue its portfolio transformation efforts during the separation planning process to enhance the value proposition of each business.

Since December 2023, Honeywell has announced a number of strategic actions to drive organic growth and simplify its portfolio. This includes approximately $9 billion of accretive acquisitions: the Access Solutions business from Carrier Global, Civitanavi Systems, CAES Systems, and the liquefied natural gas (LNG) business from Air Products. In addition, the company entered into an agreement to divest its Personal Protective Equipment business which is expected to close in the first half of 2025.

Gogo|Satcom Direct and Airbus to develop end-to-end cabin connectivity experiences for operators of Airbus Corporate Jets


Gogo Business Aviation | Satcom Direct announced the finalizing of a multifaceted Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus. The MoU confirms the two organizations’ aim to leverage the full potential of the Gogo Air-to-Ground (ATG), FlightDeck Freedom, and Gogo Galileo satellite connectivity solutions to deliver low-latency, high-speed broadband internet to Airbus ACJ operators. 

The joint commitment, once firmed up, will allow Airbus’ ACJ Connect Link customers to benefit from ATG and Gogo Galileo Half Duplex (HDX) and Full Duplex (FDX) terminals provided as retrofit options on all Airbus ACJ types. In addition, it will include the full suite of Gogo|SD added value services, including cybersecurity services, crew training and 24/7/365 customer support.

Powered by the Eutelsat OneWeb Low Earth Orbit, LEO constellation, which is the only LEO network delivering enterprise-grade aviation solutions, Gogo will supply Airbus ACJ operators with its next-gen phased array antennas to integrate into Airbus’ ACJ Connect Link solution. With a small form factor and fewer components, minimal downtime is required to equip the airframe, enabling rapid access to high-speed cabin connectivity, flight deck services and inflight entertainment. 

“We are very pleased to enter into this MoU agreement with Gogo, especially as we aim to offer our Airbus ACJ operators and business leaders the highest standard connectivity solutions and customer support,” said Chadi Saade, president of Airbus Corporate Jets. “This will allow them to be in the right place at the right time, connected and ready to act. Moreover, we are confident that Gogo presents a compelling solution with its cutting-edge technology, backed by a global customer support team of industry experts.”

Airbus will collaborate with its qualified partners to certify the terminal integration and generate the required Supplemental Type Certificates for the HDX, FDX, and ATG equipment installations. Once the solution is approved and following the firm contract signature, Airbus will lead the marketing and sales activities to ensure that ACJ operators can optimize the suite of connectivity solutions. 

The Gogo Galileo solution will enrich Airbus’ ACJ Connect Link offering so that operators, passengers, and crew will be able to enjoy a plethora of uninterrupted applications, including voice, internet, email services, video conferencing, gaming, and live movie and TV streaming from boarding to deplaning globally. 

“With the Gogo Galileo solution, Airbus ACJ operators have immediate access to global, low latency broadband service to support full connectivity capability and redundancy. Passengers will be able to emulate their digital life on the ground in the air,” said Chris Moore, CEO of Gogo. “As these aircraft frequently travel the globe, the operators need to know they can deliver reliable, consistent connectivity at all times, and we are committed to ensuring that we deliver best-in-class connectivity to Airbus ACJ customers. This is a major milestone in the Gogo connectivity journey, and we’re proud to work with Airbus to elevate and enrich its connectivity offering,” Moore concluded.

Mankiewicz Presents Sustainable Lightweight Layers

At AIX, Mankiewicz will present a 3-in-1 lightweight solution: ALEXIT FST PrimeFill. It is a pore filler, primer, and filler in one, saving time during application and weight during operation. Another notable sustainability feature is, that it is a water-based product that eliminates the intermediate drying time between filler and primer.

These technical advances do not affect the decorative effect of the final layer. Without compromising the visual appearance, ALEXIT FST PrimeFill is a lightweight solution that even helps to prevent the so-called telegraphing effect. Regardless of whether the airline is looking for a high quality design effect finish or a long lasting, highly economical textured surface, PrimeFill is the enabler for a high performance finish.

PrimeFill

When it comes to making aviation more sustainable, every kilogram counts. Multiply the weight savings of each aircraft by the size of the fleet, and you will have a significant sustainability impact.

Finishing touch in one layer

Focusing on the final layer in combination with process advantages, ALEXIT FST SelfTex is a efficient and high-quality one layer system to create uniform textures. You can achieve outstanding visual effects in a wide color and effect range. The self-texturing topcoat is available in metallic, translucent, frosted glass effect as well as in solid colors.

The textures directly from the spray gun are applicable as water and solvent based system and they come along with FST properties and durability in regard to abrasion and scratch resistance.

The lightweight duo helps to optimize process times and minimize the layer structure. And it is only one of many developments that Mankiewicz has driven forward in the last decade to contribute to environmental protection and sustainability. Mankiewicz will be exhibiting its latest highlights at AIX, stand 7E40.





































Flightstar Completes Hangar 11 Construction Project, Expands Aviation Maintenance Division

Flightstar Corporation, a full-service Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul operation (MRO) based in Central Illinois, announced a significant expansion with the completion of a new aircraft storage hangar designated as Hangar 11.

This newly completed hangar adds 27,000 square feet of storage capacity to the Flightstar campus, bringing the company’s total managed hangar area to over 137,000 square feet. The expansion doubles the dedicated space for maintenance and avionics operations and allows continued service and support growth in the Bombardier Learjet and Challenger space.

“The addition of Hangar 11 is a strategic investment in our future,” said William Giannetti, president of Flightstar. “This expansion not only strengthens our infrastructure but also reaffirms our commitment to delivering superior maintenance service and support to our clients.”

Two Industry Professionals Among Those Lost in AA Flight 5342 Crash

Vikesh Patel, who worked for GE Aerospace, was among those who died on Jan. 29 when a Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines jet collided over the Potomac River as the jet was descending for landing at Reagan Reagan Washington National Airport. Patel was a newlywed having married in April.

Also on board the fligth was Casey Crafton, technical services coordinator/specialist at Guardian Jet. He was known for “his hard work, amazing attitude, and great sense of humor were among the many reasons he was so loved within the aviation community,” a GoFundMe page says. He leaves behind his wife and their three children.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/Casey-Crafton

RealClean Aircraft Detailing Announces Strategic Partnership with Franchise Altitude to Drive Nationwide Growth

RealClean Aircraft Detailing, the first franchise system of its kind in the aircraft detailing industry, is proud to announce its new strategic partnership with Franchise Altitude, owned by industry veteran Scott Marr. This alliance is set to accelerate RealClean’s growth and provide invaluable support to its franchisees as the company expands its nationwide footprint.

RealClean Partners with Franchise Altitude to Launch a New Era in Aircraft Detailing

RealClean Aircraft Detailing believes it has revolutionized the aviation industry with a unique franchise model, delivering professional-grade aircraft detailing services like never before. Focusing on a five-star customer experience, cost-efficiency, and premium proprietary cleaning products, RealClean has built a reputation for excellence in paint revitalization, window restoration, leather repair & re-dye, as well as specializing in a full range of standard aircraft detailing services, setting new benchmarks for quality in fleet maintenance.

Through this strategic partnership with Franchise Altitude, RealClean gains access to a comprehensive suite of tools, resources, and expertise needed to expand efficiently and consistently to provide high-quality services across all locations.

Franchise Altitude: Expertise in Expanding High-Growth Brands

Franchise Altitude, under Scott Marr, brings decades of experience in building and scaling high-growth franchise brands. With a proven track record in leading franchisees to lasting success, Franchise Altitude will support RealClean in navigating the complexities of franchising, positioning them for exponential growth.

“RealClean Aircraft Detailing is a disruptive force in the aviation services industry. We’re excited to help take the brand to the next level, providing them with the strategic direction and support necessary to build a successful network of franchisees,” said Scott Marr, founder of Franchise Altitude.

A Commitment to Franchisees

Together, these powerhouse organizations are poised to offer franchisees unparalleled support in training, marketing, operations, and ongoing business development. RealClean’s commitment to equipping franchisees with these resources ensures a seamless transition to ownership and sustained long-term growth.

“Our partnership with Franchise Altitude reflects our commitment to setting our franchisees up for success from day one. With their expertise and guidance, we are confident that RealClean will continue to grow and provide incredible opportunities for those who join our network,” said Dustin Zeitler, co-owner of RealClean. 

VVIP Flight Becomes First Indian Company to Achieve WYVERN Wingman FBO Certification

VVIP Flight announced its achievement of the WYVERN Wingman FBO Certification, a globally recognized mark of excellence in Fixed Base Operator (FBO)/ Ground Handling services. This certification solidifies VVIP Flight Pvt Ltd.’s commitment to delivering the highest standards of safety, service quality, and operational efficiency in the aviation industry.

The WYVERN Wingman FBO Certification is awarded only to Ground Handler/FBOs that meet rigorous benchmarks set by WYVERN, an aviation risk management and auditing company. This recognition highlights VVIP Flight’s dedication to implementing industry-best practices, ensuring unparalleled customer satisfaction, and maintaining a robust safety culture.

Key Benefits of the Certification:

* Safety Assurance: Compliance with the most stringent global safety standards.

* Operational Excellence: Streamlined processes for seamless service delivery.

* Customer Confidence: Enhanced trust from operators, crew, and passengers worldwide.

“Receiving the WYVERN Wingman FBO Certification is a testament to our unwavering focus on safety, service quality, and operational integrity,” said Nisha Verma, CEO of VVIP Flight. “This achievement reinforces our position as a trusted partner for VVIP and corporate aviation needs. We remain committed to exceeding industry expectations and redefining excellence in aviation services.”

VVIP Flight’s comprehensive range of services includes ground handling, FBO services fueling, concierge services, hangar facilities, and bespoke arrangements for VVIP Flights, Corporate flights, Cargo Flights, Military Flights and medical flights. With this certification, the company is poised to further enhance its service offerings and expand its global footprint.

flyExclusive Named 2025 Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings Calendar Winner

Private jet charter company, flyExclusive, has been announced as a winner in the 2025 Sherwin-Williams Aerospace Coatings calendar contest for exceptional aircraft paint schemes. This is the third year in a row that flyExclusive was recognized by Sherwin-Williams for aircraft painting achievement and the first time in the contest’s history that one company received recognition for two projects within the same calendar year. The winning aircraft—a Hawker 800XP and a Beechcraft 350—were painted at flyExclusive’s state-of-the-art, 12,000 square foot electrostatic painting and coating facility in Kinston, NC.

“This recognition, combined with our strong order book for 2025, is a testament to the quality and precision that our MRO teams delivers every day,” said Mike Guina, chief commercial officer of flyExclusive. “When we were awarded Part 145 Certification in 2023, we knew that our mandate was to build one of the finest MRO divisions in the United States. I’m pleased to report that our industry peers, partners—and most importantly, our customers—are taking note of the superior quality of our work, our attention to detail and our obsession with customer satisfaction.”

flyExclusive’s electrostatic painting and coating facility is the first of its kind in the Southeastern United States and can accommodate aircraft as large as the Gulfstream IV and Falcon 900. Delivering premium aircraft exterior design services for both flyExclusive and other operators, senior paint team members each bring more than 20 years of experience to the operation.

“We were again amazed with the quality and variety of the calendar submissions we received, from kit planes to military aircraft to large business jets,” said Julie Voisin, Sherwin-Williams market segment manager,aerospace, original equipment interior and commercial refinish. “It is truly amazing the design quality and what the painters are able to accomplish.”

To date, flyExclusive’s paint team has completed work on Citation, Gulfstream, Hawker, King Air, Falcon, and Bombardier aircraft. The facility features:

– Three 12,000-square-foot hangars with a full downdraft booth and full filtration systems to minimize emissions

– Climate-controlled conditions with enough hangar space to accommodate a Gulfstream G-IVSP aircraft

– An electrostatic paint process that creates tremendous efficiency in materials, reducing cost and mitigating downtime for faster return to service

flyExclusive’s MRO division operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with the objective to perform repairs overnight to optimize aircraft uptime. The Company’s MRO facilities span more than 100,000 square feet, including its nearly 80,000 square feet of shop, interiors, avionics, and maintenance facilities.

Jets MRO Receives FAA Part 145 Certificate for Dallas, Texas Facilities in Record Time

Jets MRO, a jet maintenance business founded in 2024 at Dallas Executive airport has officially received their FAA part-145 repair station certificate as Certified Repair Station JROR542E.

Jets MRO accomplishes this new certification process with the FAA in record timing of just 12 months.
Although Jets MRO has been supporting scheduled maintenance already, this certification will continue
to elevate their quality and capability standards.

Jets MRO has received full authorization to work on Citation Jets, Hawker Jets, Learjets, Challenger 300
and 600 series jets, and BeechJets. Although Jets MRO does have authority to work on other aircraft
models, they have a special focus on certain jet platforms due to their team’s experience and expertise.

This comprehensive approval is exceptionally rare for a newly certified repair station, reflecting Jets
MRO’s high standards of quality, process focus, professionalism, and the expertise of their team.
Special thank you goes to Textron Aviation and Bombardier for their continued support as we support
their platforms of aircraft.

Jets MRO also received specific authority to work off-site to support urgent aircraft needs and line
maintenance in the Dallas-Fort-worth area on all business jet platforms with their mobile maintenance
vehicles and team.

This milestone proves if you have the positive reputation, experience, regulatory and certification
expertise, and best team around you that FAA certification can be accomplished in a timely manner.
This certification comes months after they have moved into their brand-new state of the art 40,000
square feet maintenance facilities built specifically for heavy aircraft maintenance at KRBD. Other recent
milestones including passing 100 aircraft worked, operating 7-days a week, acquiring other maintenance businesses, and always focusing on people first.This comprehensive approval positions Jets MRO as a key player in the Dallas-Fort Worth aviation maintenance landscape.