Business Aviation

FARNBOROUGH, United Kingdom — 21 July 2026 The Helicopter Company (THC), Saudi Arabia’s leading commercial helicopter operator, today announced its strategic move into fixed wing business aviation for the charter and management of jets. THC and Bombardier signed a LOI towards finalizing a firm order for 12 aircraft, including 5 Challenger 3500, 5 Global 5500 and 2 Global 8000 aircraft, with purchase options for 48 more aircraft across these platforms. (1) The signing ceremony took place at the Farnborough International Airshow, currently taking place in the United Kingdom until 24 July. The ceremony was attended by CEO of THC, Captain Arnaud Martinez, and Head of Aviation & Security at the Public Investment Fund, Muhammad Ovais Yousuf, and leadership from Bombardier, including CEO Éric Martel and company Chairman Pierre Beaudoin. With the launch of this new segment of operations, THC, a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, enters the business aviation sector as a natural extension of the journey it has been on since its founding in 2018. The new business stream is designed to meet growing demand for private and general aviation, driven by Saudi Arabia’s expanding tourism sector, business activity, and emerging destinations. “As a portfolio of companies, THC was always poised to expand beyond rotary-wing aviation into fixed-wing operations,” said Captain Arnaud Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of THC.” Our vision has always been to become the General Aviation Champion from Saudi Arabia to the world.” “Bombardier’s aircraft are uniquely positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers around the world, offering exceptional versatility, dispatch reliability and a world-class customer experience,” said Éric Martel, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bombardier. “We are honored that The Helicopter Company has selected Bombardier to support its future fleet ambitions. This is a powerful symbol of our companies’ shared customer-centric DNA and vision for economic growth in the region. This signing also represents a significant endorsement of our aircraft, our people and our long-term commitment to supporting growth in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” The new business aviation segment addresses a growing demand in Saudi Arabia’s business aviation market. By combining a unique identity with a highly personalized, customer-centric experience, THC aims to become the region’s leading business aviation operator and the national carrier of choice in private charters and business aviation. To launch, the companyintends to operate up to 60 aircraft spanning Bombardier’s industry-leading Challenger and Global aircraft families, including the Challenger 3500, Global 5500 and Global 8000. As such, the fleet will combine efficiency, long-range capability and premium passenger comfort across the super-midsize, long-range and ultra-long-range segments,to establish a modern and highly capable aircraft fleet, built to match Saudi and regional demand. “Every investment we make is guided by the same philosophy – to build an integrated aviation ecosystem that supports Saudi Vision 2030 through innovation, operational excellence and long-term value creation.” Captain Arnaud further commented. “Fleet commonality, advanced aircraft technology and a commitment to more efficient and sustainable operations are fundamental to that approach, enabling us to deliver the highest standards of safety and service while positioning Saudi Arabia at the forefront of modern aviation.” “As demand continues to grow across the region for the super-midsize category, the Challenger 3500 is ideally positioned to meet customer expectations for performance, comfort and reliability. The Global 5500 continues to set the benchmark in its class with industry-leading range and outstanding versatility, while the flagship Global 8000 – the pinnacle of business aviation - ushers in a new era of business aviation performance and capability,” added Éric Martel. “Our team looks forward to working hand-in-hand with THC to support their ambitions and success throughout the lifecycle of their soon-to-be extensive, bespoke fleet. Through planned local investments dedicated to supporting THC’s operations and the strength of our global support network, we are committed to delivering the resources, expertise, and service wherever their operations take them.” This foundation now underpins THC’s expansion into fixed-wing business aviation, supporting the growth of Saudi Arabia’s general aviation sector while attracting investment and advancing localization to build a robust aviation ecosystem in the Kingdom.

São José dos Campos, Brazil, July 17, 2026 Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ / B3: EMBJ3) today announced that the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has certified the Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS) for the E-Jet E2 family of aircraft. The certification follows the recent approval granted by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), representing another important milestone in the deployment of this innovative safety technology. ROAAS is a technology designed to help prevent runway overruns during landing operations. The energy-based system continuously monitors the aircraft’s condition and calculates landing performance in real time, both during approach and after touchdown. When a potential risk of exceeding runway limits is identified, the system provides alerts to the flight crew, enhancing situational awareness and supporting safer decision-making. This innovation utilizes Embraer-developed algorithms to calculate airplane landing performance and evaluate the aircraft’s ability to safely stop within the available runway length. “Safety is Embraer’s highest priority, and the certification of ROAAS by EASA represents an important achievement for our E2 program in compliance with European aviation authority mandate and on time,” said Luís Carlos Affonso, Chief Technology Officer. “This innovative technology reinforces our commitment to continually advancing aviation safety through practical, intelligent solutions that support pilots and help prevent runway excursions.” ROAAS was developed to provide crews with enhanced awareness and actionable information, enabling proactive decision-making whenever landing performance margins become reduced. Key benefits of ROAAS include: Enhanced crew situational awareness of landing performance margins; Reduced risk of runway overruns during landing operations; Real-time predictive alerting capability; Improved operational safety. The EASA certification expands the availability of ROAAS to E2 operators across Europe and other regions that recognize EASA approvals, further strengthening the E-Jet E2 family’s position as one of the most advanced and safest single-aisle aircraft available today.

SAVANNAH, Ga., 2nd July, 2026: Gulfstream Aerospace has announced two major milestones: The company’s next-generation G800 achieved the Gulfstream fleet’s 800th city pair speed record and then completed the farthest fastest flight in business aviation history. The G800 secured the 800th city pair speed record earlier in June with a flight from Reykjavik, Iceland, to Savannah. The aircraft traveled 2,973 nautical miles/5,505 kilometers in 5 hours and 52 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.91. On June 28, the G800 completed a separate record-setting mission from Melbourne, Australia, to Moline,Illinois. The flight covered 8,303 nm/15,377 km in 16 hours and 56 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.85. “With every new aircraft, Gulfstream continues to push the boundaries of performance for our customers,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Reaching our 800th city pair speed record and completing the farthest fastest flight in our industry’s history demonstrates the strength of our next generation fleet and the advanced capabilities of the G800.” Gulfstream aircraft have now achieved 815 speed records across the fleet, including 15 set by the G800 since entering service in August 2025. The G800 is designed for long-range missions, offering a range of 8,200 nm/15,186 km at Mach 0.85 and 7,000 nm/12,964 km at its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90. The aircraft can also fly 8,000 nm/14,816 km at Mach 0.87 and features a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935, allowing operators to maximize mission flexibility while maintaining optimal fuel-efficiency and operational reliability. The G800 features a low cabin altitude of 2,840 feet/866 meters when flying at 41,000 ft/12,497 m, 100% fresh air replenished every two to three minutes, a plasma ionization air purification system and 16  Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows. The interior can be configured with up to four living areas or three living areas and a crew compartment, ideal for the ultralong flights the G800 can make.

Certification confirms the Praetor 500E’s readiness for global operations Praetor family momentum continues following the Praetor 600E’s certification earlier this year Melbourne, Florida, June 30, 2026: Embraer today announced that the Praetor 500E has received triple certification from Brazil’s Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC — Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Introduced in February 2026 alongside the Praetor 600E as the first evolution of the industry-leading Praetor family, the Praetor 500E is now approved for operation in key global markets. This milestone follows the Praetor 600E’s triple certification in April 2026, marking an important step for Embraer’s next generation of midsize and super-midsize business jets, having met rigorous global safety and performance standards. “The Praetor 500E builds on the strengths of the Praetor platform, a category leader in performance and technology, now enhanced with a next-generation cabin experience,” said Michael Amalfitano, President and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “Achieving triple certification ahead of schedule and on spec is a strong testament to our engineering excellence, enterprise efficiency, and disciplined execution.  With this impressive milestone, we are well positioned to produce this aircraft for customers worldwide. We remain focused on delivering the ultimate experience to our customers and look forward to continuing the strong market reception the Praetor 500E has already received alongside the Praetor 600E.” With a transcontinental range of 3,340 nautical miles (6,186 km), carrying four passengers with NBAA IFR reserves, the Praetor 500E enables nonstop flights across North America, including routes such as Miami–Seattle and Los Angeles–New York. Complementing this performance capability, the aircraft has an increased payload capability and features a completely reimagined cabin, with all-new Embraer-designed seating, an advanced Cabin Management System (CMS), and next-generation innovations that enhance comfort, productivity, and connectivity. The fastest and furthest-flying midsize jet also features Embraer’s comprehensive avionics suite—including class‑exclusive full fly‑by‑wire technology with active turbulence reduction, the Embraer Enhanced Vision System (E2VS), and the Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS). Together, these systems reduce pilot workload, enhance situational awareness, and support smoother flights while expanding operational flexibility to a broader range of destinations. For new orders, deliveries for both the Praetor 500E and Praetor 600E will begin in 2029.

WICHITA, Kan.,23 June, 2026: Textron Aviation will showcase Cessna SkyCourier at the static display of the upcoming Farnborough International Airshow, giving global customers and media an up‑close look at the aircraft’s expanding role in special missions, military and government operations. Why It Matters The Farnborough International Airshow provides an opportunity to highlight growing international interest in the Cessna SkyCourier as it enters new global defense markets. “A fleet of five Cessna SkyCourier aircraft, similar to the one on display, was recently selected by Belgium to support its special operations forces,” said Travis Tyler, president and CEO, Textron Aviation Defense. “This first announced military purchase shows strong interest in the SkyCourier and proves it is ready for high‑stakes missions.” More than 1,700 Cessna and Beechcraft turbine aircraft manufactured by Textron Aviation operate across Europe today, including more than 850 Cessna Citation business jets, 450 Beechcraft King Air turboprops and 175 Cessna Caravan turboprops. About the Special Missions Cessna SkyCourier  The twin‑engine, high‑wing Cessna SkyCourier turboprop is designed for flexible missions, low operating costs and operations from rough or remote airfields. The aircraft offers flexible cabin layouts, strong payload and proven performance from rough or remote airfields. Optional special mission capabilities include: Two underwing stations per side (up to 625 pounds inboard and 465 pounds outboard) for mission equipment, external fuel or cargo. Extended‑fuel system adding 79 gallons of overwing fuel to increase endurance by approximately 50 minutes. Powered patient‑loading system to support aeromedical and humanitarian missions. In-flight Operable Door supporting airborne mission flexibility. Equipment for static-line jumps, with anchor points, jump lights and a dedicated control panel.

Basel, 22 June, 2026 : Nomad Technics has recently redelivered a Boeing BBJ after extensive  maintenance and various upgrades. The aircraft, owned and operated by Action Aviation, came to Basel for a 12 year inspection and landing gear overhaul. To make optimal use of the ground time, Action Aviation selected a  number of upgrades for the aircraft and its interior. Nomad Technics installed the Gogo Galileo FDX satcom system, one of the first such installations on a BBJ world-wide. Aero Visto re-upholstered all seats and divans in a bespoke design by Aero Visto and Simrick supplier a new carpe, to give the cabin a completely fresh appearance. The monitors of  the in-flight entertainment system were replaced with larger, higher resolution monitors and the system was upgraded with the addition of an app-based video on demand streaming system, designed specifically for the client. The cabin lighting system in the aircraft was changed to multicolor LED mood lights which be controlled with an app. Nomad Technics also installed a completely new app based moving map system to be displayed on the cabin monitors as well as personal devices. “The project was interesting and challenging to put together, but I think that’s something that made us win because the client saw how quickly and efficiently we can do things. Our responsiveness, honesty and transparency built trust with the customer and we carried that on throughout the  project. They were involved in all the parts even in the quotation phrase. It was a collaborative effort.”, says Brigita Vildžiūnienė, Director of Sales of Nomad Technics. ” We are grateful to Action Aviation and our partners that have entrusted us with such a large scale project. To allow us to work on this airplane. It has been a wonderful experience.”, adds Thomas Gierlich, CEO of Nomad Technics.

SAVANNAH, Ga., June 11, 2026 : Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced its 100th customer delivery and the 100th city-pair speed record for the Gulfstream G700, underscoring the exceptional performance and speed of the aircraft, backed by Gulfstream’s advanced manufacturing excellence and widespread customer demand. “The G700 has once again set a new benchmark, firmly establishing itself as the business aviation industry flagship,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “As deliveries have increased, so has customer demand. Thanks to the investments Gulfstream and our parent company, General Dynamics, have made in next‑generation manufacturing technology and facilities, the G700 quality and maturity are second to none. I am incredibly proud of the Gulfstream team, whose dedication and expertise continues to create and deliver the world’s finest aviation experience.” The 100th G700 city-pair speed record connected Savannah with San Jose, California, in 4 hours and 36 minutes at an average cruise speed of Mach 0.91. The aircraft then flew from San Jose to Teterboro, New Jersey, making that record-setting flight in 4 hours and 14 minutes, also at Mach 0.91. The G700 is produced at Gulfstream’s advanced manufacturing campus in Savannah, which enhances operational efficiency through high‑technology tooling, advanced robotics and precision assembly methods. As a result, customers benefit from aircraft that roll off the production line demonstrating exceptional performance from day one. With Gulfstream’s next‑generation Symmetry Flight Deck, the G700 features active control sidesticks and the industry’s most extensive use of touch-screen technology paired with Phase‑of‑Flight intelligence, which reduces pilot workload to help enhance safety. Additional safety features include Gulfstream’s Combined Vision System on dual head‑up display, merging Enhanced Flight Vision System and Synthetic Vision System into a single image to increase pilot situational awareness and open access to more airports. More than 700 pilots have been trained and type rated by FlightSafety International, a further testament to the widespread appeal of the Symmetry Flight Deck’s innovative technology and pilot-centric design. The G700 has earned certification in more than 20 countries and is in service with customers around the world. Featuring the most spacious cabin in the industry, the G700 can fly 7,750 nautical miles/14,353 kilometers at Mach 0.85 or 6,650 nm/12,316 km at Mach 0.90 and has a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935. The Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh air, abundant natural light from 20 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows, and the industry’s lowest cabin altitudes at the highest elevations practically eliminates jet lag over the ultralong-range routes the G700 was designed to fly. ( News published unedited on the basis of PR)

UAE,8th June 2026:  RoyalJet, the Abu Dhabi-based global private jet operator, has announced the appointment of Ashok Kumar as Vice-President for Resources and Transformation. He is a seasoned C-suite executive and aviation industry specialist with over 30 years of experience spanning financial leadership, corporate services, and operational excellence. A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and a Chartered Financial Analyst, he brings a rare combination of deep financial expertise and sector-specific knowledge that has made him a trusted leader across some of the region’s most prominent aviation organizations. Having previously served as Vice President of Finance and Corporate Services at RoyalJet, Ashok has spent nearly two decades with RoyalJet. During his tenure, he oversaw a portfolio generating approximately AED 1 billion in annual revenue and led a team of over 400 employees, driving robust financial management, cost optimization, and enterprise-wide risk strategy. Prior to RoyalJet, Ashok served as Financial Business Support Manager at Gulf Air, one of the Middle East’s legacy carriers. Before that, he spent nine years as Management Accountant at Presidential Flight — the UAE’s elite government aviation directorate, originally established under the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. There, he developed a deep expertise in high-security, mission-critical financial operations. He launched his career at Ernst & Young, where he built a strong foundation in accounting, risk management and financial controls.He is recognised for his ability to maximise profitability through rigorous financial discipline, drive enterprise-wide risk strategies, and lead diverse teams across all organisational levels “I am honoured to take on this expanded mandate at RoyalJet, an organisation I have had the privilege of serving for nearly two decades. As we enter this next chapter, my focus will be on digital transformation and fleet replacement, two strategic priorities that will position RoyalJetfor sustainable growth” said Ashok Kumar, Vice-President, Resources and Transformation, RoyalJet.  

Wichita,5th June, 2026: Designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, the Cessna SkyCourier has entered service in the Philippines with the first delivery to Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (LEASCOR), expanding passenger and cargo connectivity across the country’s island communities through a versatile, mission-ready turboprop. The aircraft delivered to LEASCOR, a wholly owned subsidiary of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, is a 19‑passenger variant equipped with the optional passenger‑to‑freighter conversion kit. The configuration allows operators to quickly transition between full passenger and full cargo missions, supporting a wide range of domestic transport, tourism and logistics operations.   “Being able to shift seamlessly between passenger and cargo missions is critical for operators serving remote and regional markets,” said Juan Escalante, vice president, SkyCourier Sales. “The Cessna SkyCourier provides a dependable, versatile platform that enables operators to respond quickly to changing transportation needs while maintaining efficiency.” Engineered for dependable performance in rugged environments, the twin‑engine, high‑wing turboprop combines generous payload capacity with excellent short takeoff and landing performance. Its large cargo door supports efficient loading while fixed landing gear and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑65SC engines contribute to durability and operational confidence across a variety of mission profiles. LEASCOR was established in 2016 as the air chartering arm of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, which serves members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other uniformed personnel, including active service members, retirees, reservists and civilian employees. “The arrival of our first Cessna SkyCourier marks a defining milestone for Leading Edge Air Services Corporation,” said Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret). “It strengthens our ability to provide reliable air connectivity to communities that depend on consistent passenger and cargo service, particularly in remote areas.” “With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines.” – Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret).   “What makes the SkyCourier invaluable is its purpose-built versatility, supported by twin-engine reliability, high payload capacity and the ability to operate on short and unpaved runways. These capabilities enable seamless passenger and cargo operations, even in remote areas.With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines,” said Maj. Gen. Llanto.

Lithuania, 26th May 2026: Avion Express, global ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) operator has appointed Vytenis Suklys as Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1st of June.Vytenis Suklys brings a strong background in both airline business and financial management. He previously served as Chief Financial Officer of Avion Express, giving him deep familiarity with the company’s operations and strategy. Beyond aviation, he has accumulated broad experience within large logistics business group. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operational performance and driving the company’s continued growth across global markets. Suklys succeeds Darius Kajokas who led the company for more than eight years, overseeing a period of exceptional growth, international expansion, and operational excellence.“I am proud to take on the CEO role and fully embrace the challenge ahead. Avion Express has an exceptional team and a strong business model that I know well. The company is in great shape following its recent transformation, and I am excited to build on this foundation. My focus will be on continuing to grow the business, deepening our customer relationships, and expanding our international footprint. I look forward to working with our talented people to take Avion Express to its next level,” said Vytenis Suklys, Chief Executive Officer of Avion Express. Jonas Janukenas, CEO of Avia Solutions Group, added: “I am delighted to welcome Vytenis and trust his leadership. I would also like to thank Darius for his dedication and the strong foundation he leaves behind. As we look to the future, Avion Express remains a pivotal cornerstone of Avia Solutions Group’s global growth strategy. Under Vytenis’s leadership, we are confident the company will continue to expand its international footprint, capitalise on new market opportunities, and deliver leading services to our customers globally.” The appointment marks a significant milestone for Avion Express as the company concludes an optimisation process and scales its international presence. Its ACMI operations in Brazil, launched last year, are progressing on track, with further fleet expansion planned for Avion Express Brasil in 2026. The company’s leadership transition is a planned and carefully considered step, designed to align with this new strategic chapter. “Over the past eight years, I am proud to have contributed to the successful development and growth of Avion Express. I would like to thank the team for their professionalism and dedication to the company. I believe these qualities will serve as the foundation for the company’s continued growth and strengthening of its market position in the years ahead,” says Darius Kajokas. Avion Express currently provides ACMI services to major carriers including Eurowings, Transavia, and Air Algérie, and operates charter flights for tour operator Novaturas. The company continues to grow its international customer base as demand for flexible ACMI capacity expands across multiple regions. As part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, Avion Express plays a central role in delivering agile capacity solutions to airlines worldwide.