Business Aviation

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.”

Farnborough,24 July 2024: At Farnborough International Airshow, JEKTA Switzerland, the developer of the zero-emissions PHA-ZE 100 amphibious aircraft and Seaplane Asia signed an agreement to add 14 PHA-ZE 100 to the Southeast Asian operators fleet. With its electric and hydrogen propulsion systems the arrangement supports Seaplane Asia’s commitment to delivering environmentally friendly operations, business growth, and an affordable transport option for the region. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Seaplane Asia is currently developing and reviewing several new markets and will likely optimize the JEKTA airframes for fulfilling short-distance flights, island hopping, transport from airports to waterfront locations, sightseeing flights, and yacht transfers. In addition, the airframe’s lower operating costs are anticipated to open up new revenue streams as it enables access to affordable flights for a wider passenger market while still facilitating profit. Its operational versatility on land and water, sustainable credentials and focus on passenger comfort meet the needs required to successfully manage routes across the dynamic markets of the region. Routes between Phuket and surrounding islands in Thailand, connections between Sihanoukville and islands in Cambodia, and networks linking destinations in eastern Indonesia are all being considered by Seaplane Asia. “We have been closely following the early stages of several new platforms and aircraft developments, and are confident that the PHA-ZE 100 is among the more promising airframes that can serve our various needs while addressing sustainability through its electric and hydrogen options. Its ability to perform in rougher swells, reduced operating costs, range and cruising speeds, and ample, contemporary cabin design all supported our decision to sign with JEKTA,” says Dennis Keller, CEO of Seaplane Asia. “We pride ourselves in championing and adopting technology that meets our operational demands and aligns with our sustainability goals. We are excited about the partnership and the opportunities that the PHA-ZE 100 airframe promises for us and our customers. The addition of this type to our fleet is a significant step forward in our mission to provide premium, eco-friendly aviation, connectivity and lifestyle solutions.” George Alafinov, CEO JEKTA Switzerland, add: “We are delighted to be partnering with Seaplane Asia in leading the way in sustainable amphibious aviation in a region that we believe has incredible potential for our type of offering. The PHA-ZE 100’s attributes, including low maintenance and energy costs, minimized noise, no pollution impact, and limited infrastructure requirements, combine to make it an optimal platform for Seaplane Asia. We know that it will add value to their business and that their customers will love the flying experience.” The first airframes are expected to be delivered in 2030, with JEKTA also providing training and maintenance support.

Farnborough,July 24, 2024: Maeve announced that it is collaborating with Pratt & Whitney Canada on the design of its M80 hybrid-electric 80-seater regional aircraft. Pratt & Whitney is an RTX business. “As a clean sheet design, the performance and efficiency of the Maeve M80 will be a game changer for the regional aviation market, combining advanced aerodynamics and a disruptive propulsion technology,” said Martin Nuesseler, Chief Technology Officer, Maeve. “Working together with Pratt & Whitney Canada at this stage of the programme will enable us to validate and optimize the design of the aircraft and hybrid-electric propulsion system, tapping into the full potential of this promising new technology.” The M80 design aims to offer the performance of a jet and the cost efficiency of a turboprop. With a range of up to 1200 NM, the M80 aims to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 40% relative to benchmark regional jets while cruising at comparable speeds and altitudes. Maeve is targeting Entry-In-Service in 2032 following a robust integrated product development plan based on the team’s experience and lessons learned from several aircraft industrial programs. “Reaching the ambitious goals of reducing emissions and making aviation more sustainable will depend on combined efforts to accelerate technology innovation and drive collaboration across our industry,” said Anthony Rossi, vice president, global sales and marketing, Pratt & Whitney Canada. “It’s in this spirit that we will collaborate with Maeve, leveraging our growing expertise in sustainable propulsion technologies, as well as our unrivaled experience powering the regional aviation market for four decades.” The regional aircraft market is forecasted to grow well into the next two decades, in particular driven by the need for larger aircraft passenger capacities in the 70-90 seat range, as well as better environmental performance. Maeve’s strategy is to access this underserved market with a clean sheet aircraft design that sets new standards in sustainability and economics.