Business Aviation

Dubai, 9th Dec 2024: Global aviation recruitment specialist, Zenon, returns to the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Show this week (Booth 795) as the region ramps up after a few slow years. Zenon highlights an influx of start-up companies in the UAE, and especially in Saudi Arabia, requiring a raft of qualified personnel – post holder roles and engineers, the latter for short and long-term contract work. Zenon, which facilitates permanent and contract positions, has seen the number of roles available in the region increase 24% since January this year. “We have been actively recruiting in the Middle East since 2006, initially in business aviation, then widening out to support commercial airlines and aerospace companies,” said Zenon Owner/CEO Andrew Middleton, who leads the company at MEBAA. “It has become a very employee-driven market, with demand for personnel outweighing supply. We look forward to helping address that balance. We have modified our own platforms and beefed up our digital marketing to react to a widened, cross sector aviation market, which complements our extensive international database.” Trending sectors in the region include helicopter personnel for offshore projects and HEMS; the emerging Advanced Air Mobility Sector, where the Middle East is a key infrastructure and platform investor and an uptick in demand for aviation training and related maintenance personnel. Providers are ramping up operations and adding more simulators. “We see flight crew transitioning to on-demand aviation, where salaries and perks are typically competitive. Likewise, Middle East airlines are paying even more and improving benefits to keep good pilots and engineers, stopping them from moving to Asia, especially India. which is gearing up for significant pilot demand.” “MEBAA is always a valuable show and we are looking forward to re-engaging with former customers, meeting clients and establishing new ones,” Andrew added. Zenon, headquartered in Surrey, UK, has specialised in providing qualified aviation personnel to companies globally, and significantly in the Middle East and Africa, since 2006. It was one of MEBA’s earliest members, exhibiting at the first MEBAA show in 2008, and has consistently kept prolific in the region. Its first business aviation placement in 2006 was from a client in Jeddah which required a Boeing BBJ captain for Arabasco. Zenon supported NetJets when it was active in the region and today, it works with leading names including Gama Aviation, currently building a new Fixed Base Operations (FBO) terminal at Sharjah Airport, UAE. Being a PIF (Public Investment Fund) vendor for several Saudi Arabian aviation companies, has allowed Zenon to recruit on their behalf in the Kingdom, a region ripe for career opportunities with new airlines, airports and established carriers bolstering their fleets of aircraft.* Zenon handles a broad range of aviation jobs – executive and management, pilots, cabin crew, operations staff; safety managers, including post holders, engineers and HR. Some 30% of its business worldwide is now in senior executive/C-Suite recruitment and this is growing in the EMEA region. Its experienced team also offers several value-add solutions for its clients, including comprehensive salary and benchmarking surveys, international payroll and volume recruitment campaigns. One recipient of the latter is Virgin Atlantic, which has relied on Zenon, exclusively, for flight crew, for over five years. Zenon managed the placement of a new CEO and Sales Director at Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet and is recruiting more within the group. Rob DiCastri, CEO of Serenity Aviation Holding, is a returning client in the region. He commented: “Zenon is our go-to firm for the sourcing of leadership and technical roles with all our aviation vertical portfolio companies. Andrew Middleton’s experience in the industry is exceptional, as is Zenon’s database of candidates. The team’s ability to efficiently source, screen and deliver quality leaders always impresses us. I’m excited to work with Zenon on various new opportunities, as we grow.” Zenon is pleased to roll out a new website and corporate identity coinciding with MEBAA. www.zenon.aero. *Boeing Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) forecast for the Middle East and African aviation industry will need 296,000 new personnel during the forecast period. Over the next 20 years, all regions are predicted to see an increase in the size of their aircraft fleet. And EMEA will require more than 50,000 pilots.

DUBAI,9th Dec 2024: ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East, a fully owned subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Satys Aerospace, a leading provider of aircraft painting services, which is set to open a dedicated aircraft paint facility at Dubai South’s Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Under the terms of the MoU, ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East has expressed its intention to utilize the new Satys paint facility for aircraft livery services as soon as it becomes operational during Q1 2025.Both companies have also agreed to explore potential joint marketing initiatives. ExecuJet MRO Services Middle East provides line and heavy maintenance for a wide range of aircraft types, including those from: Dassault Aviation, Bombardier, Embraer and Hawker. The company also specializes in cabin refurbishments and frequently manages and oversees aircraft livery projects for its clients. “Until now, aircraft livery work has typically been sent to Europe, but with the opening of Satys’ dedicated facility in Dubai, we have identified a trusted local partner to keep this work in the region, with associated positive environmental impact,” says Nick Weber, Regional Vice President Middle East at ExecuJet MRO Services. “This will further enhance Dubai’s position as a growing hub for aircraft MRO services.” Weber and Paul Woods, Commercial Director at Satys ASP International, formally signed the MoU ahead of the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) Conference and Exhibition, which will take place from December 10-12 in Dubai South. “The Middle East is one of the fastest-growing regions for business aviation, and it’s crucial that we have a dedicated paint hangar for business jets. This strategic partnership with Satys significantly enhances our service offerings for clients in the Middle East, Africa and beyond,” Weber adds. “It will enable us to offer a comprehensive suite of MRO and aircraft refurbishment services at competitive prices, reducing aircraft downtime and improving customer satisfaction.” “After commencing our relationship with Dassault Falcon Service back in 2001 at Le Bourget France, we are honoredto have Execujet as our partner and customer at our new facility at Dubai South Al Maktoum International Airport,” says Satys Aerospace. “ExecuJet is globally recognised as being a provider of quality services to the business jet market sector and together we will be able to provide a high quality,one stop shop solution to clients seeking both aircraft maintenance and paint services,” says Satys Satys’ New Paint Facility in Dubai Satys’ state-of-the-art aircraft paint facility is expected to open in the first quarter of 2025 at Al Maktoum International Airport. The climate-controlled facility, covering an area of 2,831 square meters, will be capable of accommodating business jets, Boeing BBJ, Airbus ACJ as well as commercial airliners up to Boeing 737-10 Max and Airbus A321XL. With an annual capacity to paint up to35 aircraft, the facility will cater to business, commercial and VVIP aviation sectors. Satys, headquartered in France, brings over 30 years of experience in aircraft painting and sealing. The company is approved by leading aircraft manufacturers and, in certain instances, operates co-located facilities at aircraft manufacturers’ final assembly lines. Satys’ paint hangars are designed with high-tech, temperature- and humidity-controlled environments that adhere to the highest standards of quality, safety, and environmental compliance.

DUBAI,9 December 2024: The MEBAA Show, the foremost business aviation platform in the Middle East and North Africa kicks off today (Tuesday 10th December) at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), Dubai Airshow Site. Over three days, the 2024 edition will unite visitors from over 95 countries, solidifying Dubai’s role as a global business aviation hub at a time when the sector is experiencing rapid growth. With a refreshed agenda and expanded features, it aims to drive innovation and tackle key challenges facing the industry. Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of MEBAA – the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association, commented: “The milestone tenth edition of the MEBAA Show reflects the remarkable growth and evolution of the business aviation sector across the Middle East and North Africa. This year, we are bringing together a record number of participants and unveiling new platforms that will spark innovation, foster collaboration, and drive the industry forward. As we continue to address key challenges and explore transformative solutions, the MEBAA Show remains a vital hub for global industry leaders to shape the future of business aviation and strengthen the region’s position as a global aviation hub.” This year’s tenth edition will welcome a diverse range of more than 145 local, regional and global exhibitors, with over 65 first-time exhibitors, setting a record for the event and promising unparalleled opportunities for networking and discovery. Leading business aviation companies exhibiting at the show include Chapman Freeborn, Citadel Completions, DC Aviation Al-Futtaim VIP Terminal, Duncan Aviation, Empire Aviation Group, Gogo Business Aviation, Greenpoint Technologies, Honeywell International, Jet Aviation, Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI), LunaJets, UAS International Trip Support, Victor, and more. Paras P. Dhamecha, Founder and Managing Director of Empire Aviation Group, comments: “At Empire Aviation, we believe private aviation is built on professional-personal relationships and trust, and so the opportunity to meet face to face at MEBAA 2024 with our aircraft owners, charter clients and aviation partners is very important. Of course, the MEBAA show also provides the perfect opportunity to connect with new people and companies, and industry innovations. The MEBAA show also serves as a fantastic stage to introduce Empire Aviation and our team both to regional and international industry players, while also sharing our unique story and supporting the vision to make Dubai the aviation capital of the world.” Attendees will see the launch of new initiatives and deals, as well as hear from more than 55 top executives and innovators – more than 70% c-suite speakers – at the BizAv Talks conference. As a key highlight at the show, content will focus on daily themes: The Next Frontier of Business Aviation; Driving a Sustainable Future for BizAv; and The Business of Business Aviation and NextGen Leaders. Top industry names on the agenda include: David Van Den Langenbergh, Chief Industry Affairs Officer of Luxaviation Group; Walid Alrahmani, Assistant Director General Strategy & International Affairs of General Civil Aviation Authority, UAE; Youssef Mouallem, Executive Vice President-International of Vista; Joanne Goodall, Chief Executive Officer – Europe of TAG Aviation Europe; and Kurt Edwards, Director General of IBAC; among others. The static display will be a major highlight of the MEBAA Show, featuring 30 aircraft from leading names such as Airbus Corporate Jets, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Gulfstream, Textron, RoyalJet, Qatar Executive, VISTA, Falcon, Comlux, Aloula Aviation and more. Notably, 12 exhibitors will display their aircraft at the event for the first time. Youssef Mouallem, Executive Vice President – International at Vista, also commented: “In a region where rapid access to global markets is vital, our commitment to supporting growth and success resonates deeply with businesses. MEBAA is a pivotal event for Vista, providing a platform to showcase our unique approach to meeting the ever-evolving needs of our corporate and individual members, and foster valuable industry connections. As a crucial market in our growth strategy, the Middle East values private aviation not just as a symbol of status but as a critical business tool. Meeting clients in person at MEBAA enables us to listen to their needs and demonstrate how our advanced fleet and flexible services can deliver the efficiency, sustainability, and connectivity that is essential for them.” Other key highlights include the Startup Hub, a brand-new platform for global startups to showcase innovations and connect with the business aviation sector, as well as the newly launched Advanced Air Mobility pavilion showcasing eVTOL technologies, and the returning Next Gen Leaders platform, offering an interactive half-day programme for students exploring a future in business aviation. Meanwhile, the new Luxury Boulevard, sponsored by Falcon, will bring a dedicated showcase of the world’s most esteemed luxury brands alongside the iconic business jets at the static display. Collaboration is at the heart of the MEBAA Show, supported by platforms such as the Operators Programme, sponsored by Saudia Private Aviation, and the Platinum Guest Programme, sponsored by Falcon, set to forge potential partnerships and lasting relationships. The AI-powered MEBAA Connect matchmaking app will also serve as a vital tool to increase lead generation, pre-schedule meetings, view agendas and much more. The MEBAA Show 2024 will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. Partners for this year’s event include 4Air, Air BP, AIX Investment Group, DarGlobal, DC Aviation, JETEX, Lufthansa Technik, MD Onboard, Saudia Private Aviation.

Dubai,December 4th, 2024: Empire Aviation Group, the Dubai-based global provider of integrated private aviation solutions (aircraft management, sales, charter and CAMO services) is supporting MEBAA 2024 with a dedicated pavilion at the show. The company will meet its aircraft owners, charter customers, partners and aviation officials during the course of the event, as regional business aviation continues to develop strongly, driven by increasing business activity and investment opportunities in the UAE and wider region. Empire Aviation operates one of the Middle East’s most extensive managed fleets of business jets with aircraft based in global locations. The fleet currently comprises 25 aircraft with around one third of these available for charter. Empire Aviation holds AOCs (Air Operator Certificates) in the UAE and San Marino, and operates in the key regions for private aviation, covering the USA, Europe, India, Africa and Indonesia, in addition to the Middle East. Empire Aviation Group is also the authorised Independent Sales Representative (ISR) for Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation in India. As a global private aviation company, the Empire Aviation team of 130 specialists provides a wide range of integrated aviation services for aircraft owners and charter clients, and personalised customer services. Empire Aviation’s ability to integrate all facets of private aviation sets the company apart and enables the team to deliver a rewarding and award-winning experience to aircraft owners and charter clients. Empire Aviation works to source and select the right aircraft for owners, who then entrust the management of the aircraft to the experienced team who safeguard its value through the appropriate ownership model. Each of the company’s aircraft tailored business models offers unique advantages – comprehensive management, revenue generation, expert maintenance supervision, or access to private jet travel. According to Paras P. Dhamecha, Founder and Managing Director of Empire Aviation, the business aviation sector is developing rapidly with investment in world class infrastructure in response to the growing demand for services, as the strengthening UAE and regional economies continue to attract business and wealth. “2024 has been an exceptional year for Empire Aviation and we see exciting times ahead both for the Middle East and other markets, where we have several new projects in the pipeline. We see sustained international interest in all our services from various sectors, including individuals and families, corporates, and government entities. Empire Aviation works globally but our roots are in Dubai and the UAE, where we are currently developing a new corporate facility at the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) at Dubai South. It’s not just about physical infrastructure – Dubai and the UAE are also investing in the essential regulatory framework and ecosystem of partners and talent vital to supporting the vision to make Dubai the aviation capital of the world.” On MEBAA 2024: “Private aviation is built on professional-personal relationships and trust, and so the opportunity to meet face to face with our aircraft owners, charter clients and aviation partners is very important. Of course, the MEBAA show also provides the perfect opportunity to connect with new people and companies, and industry innovations. The MEBAA show also serves as a fantastic stage to introduce Empire Aviation and our team both to regional and international industry players, while also sharing our unique story.”

Delhi, November 27, 2024: Les Roches has partnered with Jetex to launch a one-of-a-kind Postgraduate Program in Private Aviation. This innovative program is crafted to meet the growing demand for highly skilled professionals in the private aviation sector, providing students with a unique opportunity to acquire the expertise required to thrive in this dynamic industry and preparing them for pivotal career roles. • This collaboration underscores Les Roches’ commitment to preparing students for dynamic careers in the luxury travel industry while integrating Jetex’s brand philosophy and operational excellence, highlighting Jetex’s role in shaping the future of executive aviation and paving a new academic pathway for the next generation of private aviation professionals. • The new Postgraduate Program in Private Aviation will be offered at Les Roches campuses in Marbella (Spain), Crans-Montana (Switzerland) and Abu Dhabi (UAE). • The program will allow students to benefit from a six-month internship and job placements with Jetex “Les Roches has always been at the forefront of shaping leaders for the luxury service sector. This partnership with Jetex represents a remarkable opportunity for our students to immerse themselves in the world of private aviation and emerge as future leaders in airline management,” said Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches. “Jetex is redefining the standards of private aviation, and this partnership reflects our commitment to developing a new generation of professionals who embody our values of innovation, excellence, and luxury. Together with Les Roches, we are paving the way for a brighter future in aviation,” said Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex. A Tailored Educational Experience The Postgraduate Diploma in Private Aviation is a two-semester, full-time program offered at Les Roches campuses in Marbella (Spain), Crans-Montana (Switzerland), and Abu Dhabi (UAE) and will include a six-month internship with Jetex during the second semester. The full program will be announced shortly. Scholarships and Career Opportunities To support aspiring professionals, Les Roches and Jetex will jointly offer partial scholarships to selected program participants, further enhancing accessibility to this world-class educational opportunity. Furthermore, outstanding participants will be considered for initial employment with Jetex, based on their performance and the company’s hiring requirements at the time of program completion.

Savannah, Ga., 8th Nov 2024: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. recently announced that it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) supplemental type certification to install Starlink high-speed internet on the award-winning G650 and G650ER. This FAA approval gives G650 and G650ER customers the added convenience of working directly with Gulfstream to upgrade connectivity for their aircraft. “Starlink is an offering that we know is important to operators,” said Derek Zimmerman, president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “Our team has invested extensive time and resources preparing for this certification, and we are well-positioned across our service network to provide a seamless installation. Having the capability to install this connectivity upgrade at our own facilities, in the hands of our trusted team of experts, is part of our ongoing commitment to our customers.” Starlink gives passengers simultaneous access to a variety of in-flight services, including video calls, cloud-based offerings and data transfers, through its high-speed in-flight connectivity, which delivers latency less than 99 milliseconds and download speeds of 40 – 220 Mbps. Gulfstream is currently pursuing similar supplemental type certificates from the FAA for the G800, G700, G600, G500, G400, G280, GIV, GIV-X, GV and GV-SP.

KlasJet,exclusive private and corporate jet charter company and part of the Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) providers, has received an extension of EASA Part 145 activity certification including Boeing 737NG (Next Generation) line maintenance. “Earning our own Part 145 certification was an investment in our personnel to ensure we have a highly skilled team and strict compliance with regulations behind every operation,” Svirplys said. “The extension of the approval allows us to reduce cost as we will no longer need to depend on outside organizations to improve turnaround time for optimal fleet utilization.” Oliver Wynam forecasts a 48,000 deficit of aircraft maintenance workers by 2027. The shortages are expected to lead to restrictions on capacity and more downtime for aircraft that cannot be maintained. Svirplys adds that by reducing dependency, the approval allowed KlasJet to handle maintenance problems quickly. “The approval will enhance the operational flexibility as we will be able to keep our fleet airworthy and address maintenance problems ourselves,” said Aivaras Svirplys, Technical Director of KlasJet. “Given the shortage of workers in the industry, the in-house capability eliminates our dependence on a limited timeline of short-staffed maintenance facilities.” KlasJet’s fleet includes aircraft modified to deliver its premium quality flight service. The fleet currently consists of eight 737-800 aircraft equipped with CFM56 engines that operate both VIP charter and ACMI operations. In addition to these next-generation aircraft, the exclusive flight experience provider also operates five 737 classics.

Dubai, 10th September 2024: KlasJet, a well-known exclusive private and corporate jet charter company and part of the world’s largest ACMI providers, the Avia Solutions Group family, will increase its capacity in the Middle East with the placement of an additional Boeing 737 in Saudi Arabia.The aircraft offers luxury and extravagant accommodations and will join another 737 that KlasJet moved to Dubai last year, continuing the company’s expansion in the region which is fastest-growing business aviation market in the world. “We are increasing the options to cater to customers in the Middle East market because there is a growing need to transport larger groups and delegations,” Lukas Petrauskas, Chief Commercial Officer at KlasJet, said. “We are confident that our luxury Boeing 737 will be an ideal choice for extended families,members of royal families, sports teams, business travelers, and political delegations who have yet to be served by aircraft currently in the regional charter fleet.” The Boeing 737features 56 spacious and comfortable business-class seats, with a cabin experience curated and tailored by KlasJet to ensure a luxurious and high-quality flight for all passengers onboard. The aircraft is meticulously crafted with attention to detail, offering subtle and distinguished taste throughout the cabin to enhance the travel experience. “While our service has earned a reputation for quality across the world, the additional aircraft and crew will build upon the experience we have earned operating in Dubai,” Petrauskas said. “Our relationships with our clientele in the region have given an enhanced understanding of the taste and nuances of customers, so the experience and potential of every flight is maximized.” KlasJet currently operates six 737sfor VIP charter services as well as seven 737 next-generation aircraft for ACMI. The ACMI fleet aircraft bolster the capability to cater to larger groups, while the 737 provides a luxurious option for smaller groups and high-ranking individuals. Fleet availability is subject to customer needs, and the company is working to maximize its flexibility for this coming event season.

31st July 2024: Baltic Ground Services, an international ground handling, aircraft fuel supply, and logistics service provider, has come to an agreement with Heston Airlines to provide them with into-plane fuelling services at their base of operations in Tallinn International Airport. The new contract, which entered into force on 1st May 2024, will last until the end of May 2025. Heston Airlines currently operates Airbus A320 aircraft and provides both short and long-term services worldwide. According to Gintarė Jarulytė, Head of Ground Operations at Heston Airlines, the company has ambitious plans for its future, making it essential to have a reliable partner that provides quality ground services. “At Heston Airlines, we set ourselves to the highest quality standard. Naturally, we expect the same from our partners. We’re glad that BGS shares these values. Their track record in providing services smoothly and efficiently is impeccable. We believe that this partnership will help us achieve our business growth goals faster and more efficiently,” she says. Vitalis Dudys, the BGS Group’s Head of Commerce, says that the partnership with Heston Airlines gives the company a great opportunity to strengthen its position at one of the key airports in the region, which was recently named the best in all of Europe, among those serving 2-5 million passengers per year. “Statistics show that a record number of passengers passed through Tallinn Airport in June. In fact it was the most successful in its history. One of our strategic goals is to further strengthen our presence here and be a part of this growth, as well as to establish additional partnerships with companies based in Tallinn,” he says. Heston Airlines is a newly established European carrier, headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is a member of the Heston Aviation Group, a consolidated group of companies focused on aviation assets leasing, trading, maintenance, repair, and overhaul. BGS is part of the Avia Solutions Group – the world’s largest ACMI service company group, which operates a fleet of 213 aircraft. Companies belonging to the group also provide a variety of other aviation services, such as aircraft repair, pilot and crew training, and ground handling.

Farnborough, July 24, 2024: Triumph Group announced that its Thermal Systems Division, located in Forest, Ohio, has been awarded a long-term-program contract to design, manufacture and support the precooler system for the 40-seater D328eco regional turboprop aircraft from German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Deutsche Aircraft. The D328eco will take performance and operational efficiency to the next level, as it is equipped with Pratt and Whitney PS127XT-S engines capable of operating on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) including Power-to-Liquids (PtL) fuel with zero aromatics. The aircraft will also have advanced avionics enabling single-pilot operations, while consuming 40% less fuel and emitting 40% less carbon. “TRIUMPH is very pleased to be a part of this work with Deutsche Aircraft,” said Justin Wolfanger, President of TRIUMPH Systems, Electronics and Controls. “The D328eco represents a step forward with sustainable fuel and a greener future in aerospace. We are increasingly engaged with the development of new thermal systems and solutions to support the sustainable future of flight. Alongside Deutsche Aircraft and many of our other partners, the future is looking greener.” “We are delighted to announce this agreement with Triumph for the installation of the advanced precooler system on the D328eco,” said Nico Neumann, Chief Operations Officer, Deutsche Aircraft. “This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of our aircraft.”