CAMO
MANAGEMENT &MORE
APRIL2024|ISSUE41
BUYINGAJETVS.
FRACTIONALIZEDOWNERSHIP
PRIMUSAERO
AIRCRAFTMAINTENANCE
CONSULTING&AIRCRAFTSALES
BENTLEYAEROSPACE
BUSINESSAVIATIONSEEKSEFFICIENCY:
STREAMLININGQUOTESANDEMBRACING
OPENECOSYSTEMS
VOO
STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS AVIATION MAINTENANCE PROCESSES AND IMPROVE
STREAMLINE YOUR BUSINESS AVIATION MAINTENANCE PROCESSES AND IMPROVE OPERATIONAL RELIABILITY WITH OUR AVIATION MAINTENANCE SERVICES PLATFORM. OPERATIONAL RELIABILITY WITH OUR AVIATION MAINTENANCE SERVICES PLATFORM
EASILY SECURE EASILY SECURE AOG SUPPORT AOG SUPPORT
Our AOG support response time has an impressive response time of 3 - 11 minutes with a 50% win rate
PROCURE GROUND PROCURE GROUND SERVICE EQUIPMENT SERVICE EQUIPMENT
Minimize your downtime and secure approved GSE with ease when you need it most
SCHEDULE SCHEDULE MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE
Streamline your scheduled maintenance all in-app without all of the hassles.
DETAILING AT DETAILING AT YOUR FINGERTIPS YOUR FINGERTIPS
Whether you need a quick wash and wax or full interior and exterior detailing connect confidently to a network of professional and trusted aircraft detailing providers
Access to our growing Access to our growing Flight Department network Flight Department network of over of over 3,000 aircraft 3,000 aircraft
Easilymanageyourquotes andrequestsin-apptokeep everythinginoneplace
ACQUIRE PARTS ACQUIRE PARTS WITH EASE WITH EASE
Procure the Parts you need from our vast network of 483 maintenance providers across the globe
FULLY VETTED FULLY VETTED PROVIDER NETWORK PROVIDER NETWORK Everymaintenanceprovider isfullyvettedandprovides downloadableFAArequired paperworkforefficiency& peaceofmind
HANGAR NEEDS
Whether it's for weather protection, peak season travel, or any other urgent need, protect your aircraft and secure an FBO or hangar
Immediatelyaccess maintenancerequests&send outquotesfromanydevice
Coordinatewithother providersformore complicatedrequeststoget theequipmentyouneed
Lowercustomeracquisition costsandadvertiseyour businessin-app
Bentley Aerospace is an engineering and consulting company that provides technical services for business aviation operators. The company specialises in the support of Part 91 and NCC/NCO operators primarily in the Gulfstream and Bombardier sector. It’s homebase is conveniently located next to Leeds/Bradford airport in the United Kingdom.
Bentley Aerospace offers the following services:
Worldwide AOG support
Line Maintenance, A&P certification available
Dedicated engineer to oversee all technical aspects of the aircraft
Provide remote troubleshooting, issue recommendations and defect follow up
Remote technical assistance for flight crew
Provide riding engineer for high risk routes
Maintenance input oversight
Review of maintenance invoices
Pre purchase inspection (PPI) oversight, representing seller or buyer
Bentley Aerospace has a proven record with several operators across Europe and the Middle East who rely on their experience and expertise. The company has managed to establish a reputation not only as a great engineering provider but also as an excellent consultant. Due diligence and eye for detail are some of the core values. The team at Bentley Aerospace treats every asset as if it were its own and therefore representing the clients’ interests on every occasion at every level.
Client Case - Cost saving:
Bentley Aerospace was contracted by the owners to oversee the heavy maintenance input of their G5000VFD in a Middle Eastern MRO. Defects were discovered on two brake units. The client was quoted $600k for the replacement of both brake units by the MRO. The team from Bentley Aerospace reached out to a leading Part 145 brake and wheel shop and arranged for the repair of the existing two brake assemblies for less than $20k.
The crew of a Central European G650ER operator reported a fuel leak during their post-flight inspection. The root cause was quickly identified as the main fuel feed line in the RH pylon. Unfortunately, the required seals were not on site. With the local MRO only providing a solution that would impact the next scheduled flight, the team from Bentley Aerospace sourced the parts in the UK within one hour. A hand-carry was swiftly arranged and delivered the same evening. The aircraft was returned to service within 36 hours of discovering the defect, and the client was able to make the next flight as scheduled.
About us:
Bentley Aerospace is a young and dynamic company. It was founded in November 2020 by Benjamin Rueger who has been in the aviation industry for almost 25 years of which the last 10 have been spent in the business aviation. Mr Rueger is a licensed aircraft engineer holding EASA and FAA licenses as well as several validations. His career took him through various stages such as air force, vendor, airline and MRO.
One of the highlights of his career was the participation in the One More Orbit Mission He was the engineer on board of the G650ER that set the new world record for circumnavigating the globe via the North and South pole. The event that marked the 50th anniversary of the lunar mission was captured in the movie “One More Orbit”.
In March 2020, Mr Rueger returned after eight years from the Middle East where he had worked for the largest G650 operator in the world, in order to set up Bentley Aerospace in the UK. Since its founding, he has managed to build a reputable business that is known for its customer-oriented approach. His aim is to continuously grow the company into one of the leading business aviation consultants and engineering service providers in the industry.
BENJAMIN RUEGER
Managing Director
BENTLEY AEROSPACE
+44 7784 309 580
info@bentleyaerospace.com
www.bentleyaerospace.com
In the realm of private air travel, the sky is truly the limit when it comes to options. Among countless choices, two ways of flying private stand out in particular: fractional ownership and having your own jet. As travelers seek to explore the world of luxury aviation, they are faced with the decision of which path to take. Each path offers its own set of perks and considerations, catering to different needs and preferences of prospective flyers.
Let's embark on a journey to unravel the nuances of fractional ownership and private jet ownership, guiding you through the clouds as you navigate the skies with confidence.
For those who crave ultimate freedom and control over their travel experience, owning a jet is the epitome of luxury. Imagine having the power to customize every aspect of your aircraft, from the plush interior design to the flight schedule tailored to your whims. It's an unparalleled level of personalization that turns every journey into an extraordinary adventure. You can do whatever you want with your aircraft - within legal boundaries, of course. In the case of fractional ownership, however, any modifications to the aeroplane must be approved by all other co-owners which can become a tense and
long process.
But freedom, as they say, comes with a price. The initial investment and ongoing expenses for maintenance, crew salaries, and operational costs can be substantial. Another significant aspect to bear in mind is the tangible expense associated with aircraft downtime. It's an inevitable reality that all aircraft will require maintenance, often occurring unexpectedly. This circumstance not only escalates overall expenditures but also mandates the search for alternative solutions when immediate travel is necessary. These costs have to be paid out of only one wallet - your wallet.
On the other hand, fractionalized ownership offers a more accessible entry point into private aviation by splitting the financial burden with other co-owners. Purchasing a share in a jet through a fractional ownership programme allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of private jet travel without making a full financial commitment, making it a more accessible option for those on a tighter budget. While you may not have the same level of control as owning your own jet, fractional ownership offers cost savings and flexibility, making it an attractive option for frequent flyers and businesses with variable travel needs.
One feature offered by many fractional jet ownership models can be a real game-changer: the ability to upgrade or downgrade the aircraft through other available cabin classes of the fleet. This feature is invaluable for travelers with missions of varying length and occupancy. It eliminates the need for additional charter flights, which can be unpredictable. In contrast, owning an entire aircraft only gives you access to your aircraft, which can cause problems during scheduled maintenance or other unforeseen downtime.
As you weigh the pros and cons of each option, you might find yourself pondering, "Which option is better suited for me?" Well, the answer isn't one-size-fits-allit really depends on your personal circumstances and preferences.
If you're someone who values complete control over your travel experience, loves the idea of customizing your aircraft exactly to your liking, and anticipates using your jet frequently, then owning a jet outright might be the perfect fit for you. It's like having your own personal flying oasis, ready to whisk you away whenever and wherever you please.
On the other hand, if you're someone who enjoys the flexibility of shared ownership and wants to avoid the hefty upfront costs and responsibilities that come with sole ownership, fractionalized ownership might be more up your alley. It allows you to enjoy the perks of private jet travel without bearing the full financial burden on your own shoulders.
At PRIMUS AERO, we specialize in making your private aviation dreams a reality. Whether you're considering buying a jet or exploring fractional ownership, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. From aircraft acquisition and management to fractional ownership programs, we offer tailored solutions designed to elevate your flying experience to new heights.
So why wait? Contact PRIMUS AERO today and embark on your journey to the skies with confidence. Whether you're flying solo or sharing the adventure with fellow travelers, we'll ensure that your private aviation experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Safe travels!
In the vast expanse of our skies, ensuring safety is paramount. Aviation authorities worldwide have developed meticulous systems to guarantee the safety and efficiency of air travel. One crucial aspect of this oversight is the Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) program, designed to conduct checks on foreign aircraft entering a country's airspace. Let's delve into the intricacies of SAFA checks and the significance of findings levels in maintaining air safety.
The SAFA program is an initiative established by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) to enhance aviation safety across Europe. However, its principles and practices have been adopted by numerous countries worldwide. SAFA checks are conducted on foreign aircraft, both commercial and noncommercial, upon their arrival in a participating country's airspace.
The primary objective of SAFA checks is to identify any safety deficiencies or irregularities that may pose a risk to flight safety. These inspections encompass various aspects of an aircraft, including its airworthiness, maintenance records, operational procedures, and crew competency. Through systematic inspections, authorities aim to ensure that foreign aircraft comply with international safety standards and regulations.
During a SAFA check, inspectors assess the aircraft based on predefined criteria. Any discrepancies or non-compliance issues discovered are categorized into different findings levels, ranging from minor deficiencies to severe safety breaches. Let's break down these findings levels:
General remark: Any observation from the inspector not classified as safety relevant.
CAT 1 - Minor: any detected non-compliance with the applicable requirements or the terms a certificate that has a minor influence on safety.
CAT 2 - Significant: any detected non-compliance with the applicable requirements or the terms of a certificate that has a significant influence on safety.
CAT 3 - Major: any detected significant noncompliance with the applicable requirements or the terms of a certificate that has a major influence on safety.
Based on the results of the inspection and on how the findings have been categorised, common follow-up actions have been defined:
General remark: Information to the Captain.
CAT 1 - Minor: Information ot the Captain and possible debriefing and notification through the ramp inspection tool without further communication.
CAT 2 - Significant: Normal communication through the ramp inspection tool for follow-up actions. Written communication to the operator and to the NAA (findings of several inspections may be summarised in one communication). This should only be used if the inspection NAA have a national requirement for this.
CAT 3 - Major: All communication are normally to be uploaded in the inspection tool for follow-up transparency.
In case of aircraft damage affecting airworthiness and not possible to be rectified before flight, the operator should establish a direct communication with the responsible NAA regarding return to flight status (e.g. “permit to fly”).
Note: the specific actions consisting of operational restrictions, corrective actions before flight or at maintenancebase, grounding and/or entry permit repercussions have to be reported.
If you're seeking top-notch training and expertise in Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization (CAMO), look no further! Join us for over 30 hours of immersive CAMO training, covering all the essential regulations and insights you need. For more info:
or call Andreas at +49 176 4786 3089
If you’re thinking about buying a pre-owned aircraft, you’re embarking on an exciting journey. But just like any significant investment, it's crucial to step into it with both eyes open. This isn't just about finding a beautiful aircraft; it's about ensuring it's as reliable and sound as it appears. Let's dive into the essentials of a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) and discover why it’s not just helpful, but necessary for making a wise choice.
The idea here is simple: knowing exactly what you’re getting into. A comprehensive PPI doesn’t just skim the surface—it gives you a deep look at the aircraft’s condition, its past, and what you might expect in the future. With this information, you can move forward confidently, secure in the knowledge that your new aircraft will not only meet but exceed your expectations. Let’s explore together how a thorough inspection can safeguard your investment and keep your aviation dreams on course.
Imagine buying an aircraft is like acquiring a vintage car; you’d want to know every detail before you make such a significant investment, right? Imagine buying your dream car – let’s say a Maserati – and after taking it out for a spin: the initial thrill is hard to beat. But, a couple of months down the line, there’s a strange noise and it just doesn’t feel “right”. You take it to the shop and that’s when the dream falls apart. You’re told the transmission is bad – really bad. Not only that, there’s metal shavings in your oil and the engine wear is beyond economical repair – it’ll need replacing. Suddenly, your pride and joy becomes a very expensive paperweight. You might be prepared to spend the money repairing it but you’ve lost months of being able to use it and you’ll never feel quite the same about it again.
That’s where the Pre-Purchase Inspection, or PPI, comes into play. It’s not just a formality—it’s a deep dive into the aircraft and its documents to establish its condition, ensuring there are no surprises after you take possession. We scrutinise everything from maintenance history to the nuts and bolts of the aircraft’s structure and systems, ensuring that everything is up to standard. We’ll also review aviation authority requirements and identify any scheduled maintenance that’s due, which will allow us to create an initial operating budget.
But a PPI isn’t just about identifying potential red flags. It’s also about understanding the aircraft's unique story—its operational history, any repairs or major alterations it has undergone, and what that means for its future performance and maintenance needs. This comprehensive overview allows you to make a purchase not just with your heart but also with your head, fully informed about what the aircraft has been through and where it can take you next.
Choosing the right team for your PPI is more than a procedural step; it’s foundational to your success in acquiring the right aircraft. Camber is a pivotal member of this four-part team – all of whom are seasoned experts and a specialist in their field. Alongside our deep technical knowledge, the team often includes the current owner’s pilot if available, their financial advisor, and an aviation lawyer. This collaborative approach ensures that every detail, from technical specifications to legal implications, is thoroughly examined. This team guides you through the entire PPI process, starting by confirming that the aircraft meets your expectations for price, age, cabin layout, and maintenance status. They conduct a comprehensive 'desktop analysis' of information provided by the seller, ensuring the aircraft qualifies for a detailed inspection. They then assess the aircraft's condition, scrutinise its records, and identify any potential issues, making sure every aspect is carefully examined. From this, we can develop a detailed understanding of any necessary repairs or upgrades, helping you effectively forecast costs and timelines.
But the team’s role extends beyond technical assessments. When large amounts of money are involved, the use of esoteric language and overly technical terms is common, which can hinder communication and alienate the buyer. During the inspection, this team acts as your advisors, translating complex aviation jargon into clear, straightforward language. This approach ensures that you understand exactly what you’re investing in, boosting your confidence, and providing the clarity needed to make an informed decision with assurance.
Diving into the aircraft's documents might sound as dry as reading a legal brief but, for technical experts, it becomes a fascinating detective story. Each logbook entry, each service record holds clues about the aircraft’s life story. We don't just check boxes; we interpret what these documents really say about the aircraft's past and what they predict for its future. This isn't just about making sure maintenance has been done—it's ensuring there are no hidden technical issues and what that means for you as a potential buyer.
Moreover, this phase is critical because it sets the foundation for everything that follows. By meticulously verifying compliance with airworthiness directives and service bulletins, we can gauge the aircraft’s compliance history and reliability. Think of it as a health check that looks deep into the aircraft’s DNA—ensuring everything that works well continues to do so under your ownership, and issues that may pose a risk are brought to light before you commit.
When we move to the physical inspection, it's like meeting the aircraft for the first time. This is where we get up close and personal, checking the plane with a meticulous eye. From the tip of the tail to the edge of each wing, the aircraft is inspected for signs of wear and tear, corrosion, and any repairs that tell a story of past events. This isn't just a visual tour; it involves sophisticated tools and technologies that allow us to see beyond the surface. For example, the engines and auxiliary power unit are examined inside using a boroscope and oil samples are taken for analysis.
This detailed examination helps us understand not just what the aircraft looks like now, but what challenges it might face in the future. Are there any repairs that have been done that might need attention soon? Is there any wear that suggests a part might need replacement earlier than expected? These are the kinds of questions we answer during this phase to ensure that when you take ownership, there are no surprises.
Finally, the customer flight phase is where theory meets reality. It's one thing to see the aircraft on the ground, quite another to experience how it performs in the air. This is not merely about taking it for a quick spin; it’s an exhaustive evaluation of every system under operational conditions. How does the aircraft handle? Are the flight systems responding as expected? This is our chance to answer all these questions thoroughly. It’s about ensuring that the aircraft doesn't just look good parked on the tarmac—it must excel in the skies, where it truly belongs.
During these tests, we monitor everything from engine performance to the responsiveness of the avionics. It's a comprehensive examination that provides the reassurance that your potential investment is ready to soar, fulfilling both your needs and your dreams without compromise.
After we've reviewed documents, inspected, and flown the aircraft, all our findings are meticulously compiled into a detailed report. This isn't just a formality—it's your comprehensive assessment of the aircraft's overall health and readiness. This report acts as a clear, concise summary of everything we've learned about the aircraft. It highlights any concerns or issues that need to be addressed, as well as the many strengths that may have drawn you to this aircraft in the first place. It also provides practical solutions to any of the issues observed. It’s a roadmap that helps you navigate the final decision-making process with confidence and clarity.
What makes this report invaluable is its role in the negotiation process. Armed with detailed insights and documented evidence about the aircraft’s condition, you're in a stronger position to negotiate terms that truly reflect its value. Whether that means adjusting the price, requesting repairs, or confirming that you're making the right investment, this report gives you the power to negotiate from a place of knowledge, not just intuition.
A Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) is far more than just a routine checklist; it's a crucial safeguard to ensure your journey into aircraft ownership is both safe and sound. But remember, not all PPIs are created equal. Let me share a cautionary tale: we once encountered a situation where a client had a PPI conducted, but it wasn't thorough. They didn’t have expert oversight, and no detailed guidance was sought. A year later, during routine maintenance, severe corrosion was found—damage that should have been identified during the PPI. As a result, the aircraft was grounded for over four months. That’s a quarter of its time with the new owner spent unusable, a clear example of the costly implications of insufficient inspections.
But at that point, it’s painful to have to deliver the news that nothing can be done to rectify the situation. The owner now has a difficult decision to make – do they undergo lengthy delays and costly repairs or take the hit by selling the aircraft at a loss and starting again?
If I had one piece of advice for a potential aircraft owner, it would be to consult an independent expert familiar with the pitfalls and risks before any commitments are made. The excitement of purchasing an aircraft often leads to emotionally charged decisions, making objective guidance crucial. This guidance not only prepares you to identify subtle signs of potential issues but also ensures you are fully informed about the aircraft’s condition. Understanding the challenges ahead is essential, not just to assess the price but to prepare for future responsibilities. This enables you to make a clear-headed decision, whether to proceed with the purchase or walk away to avoid future complications and losses.
A solid PPI from an experienced team lets you make this decision - with both eyes open, and armed with the best advice grounded in thorough, unbiased analysis. That's what we aim to provide at Camber—a partnership that extends beyond the purchase, supporting you as you take to the skies in an aircraft that is as reliable as it is thrilling.
As someone deeply passionate about aviation and the exciting possibilities that come with purchasing pre-owned jets, I'm always happy to talk about this subject. Camber doesn’t broker aircraft, so we can be thoroughly objective and unbiased. There’s nothing quite like the journey of finding the perfect aircraft, and I enjoy helping others navigate this thrilling process. If you're considering purchasing a pre-owned aircraft and aren't sure where to start, I'd love to continue the conversation.
Feel free to get in touch. With a touch of guidance, we can help ensure that your dream of flying can take off with no unwelcome surprises. After all, in aviation, peace of mind isn't just a luxury; it's essential.
Author: Tom Chatfield Camber Aviation Management, www.camberaviation.com / solutions@camberaviation.com
The business aviation market, known for its speed and convenience, can be surprisingly bogged down by inefficiencies of various kinds, such as in flight organization and handling, operational interaction, and communication between all parties involved in the each stage of the flight lifecycle. Customers expect swift responses to inquiries, seamless booking experiences, and competitive pricing. However, the industry struggles with outdated processes, particularly in the realm of charter quotations and pricing. Price inquiries and calculations often remain a tedious dance of manual work burdened by time-consuming back-and-forth communication and limited access to real-time data. This inefficiency plagues even those operators with sophisticated enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, hindering the industry’s potential for growth.
A key challenge lies in the outdated process of price inquiries and manual calculations. Imagine a system that could automate this entirely, factoring in strategic, tactical, pricing, seasonal, and other decision-making criteria pre-defined by the operator. While some solutions exist, some merely mask manual processes behind a sleek facade. A platform that stands out from these translates to a dramatic reduction in tedious manual work for both brokers and operators, freeing up valuable time and resources. There, empty legs – a potential source of cost savings and, moreover, an opportunity for a quadrilateral win situation where not only operator, broker and end customer are on the advantage, but this directly supports environment – are automatically factored into the calculation, further enhancing value for brokers and their clients.
Essential benefits of such a marketplace extend far beyond streamlining the charter booking lifecycle. Brokers can focus on building client relationships and securing deals, confident in the accuracy and competitiveness of their offerings. Meanwhile, operators experience a reduction in administrative burden, allowing them to dedicate resources to core business functions.
The B2B landscape in business aviation is evolving. Traditional platforms operating as charter exchanges, where operators bid on flights, can lead to counterproductive bidding wars. Fortunately, new platforms are emerging that foster collaboration. By eliminating the need for this counterproductive competition, a modern platform can foster a collaborative environment where both brokers and operators can thrive. These platforms, such as VOO, prioritize open ecosystems where real-time data exchange facilitates seamless integration with existing broker CRMs or operator ERPs. Furthermore, by allowing brokers to offer direct booking capabilities to clients through B2C solutions, these platforms empower all stakeholders.
The future of business aviation lies in a seamlessly connected ecosystem. Open platforms enable data integration with existing systems, fostering real-time information exchange. This will not only improve efficiency for brokers and operators, but also empower them to focus on core competencies – building client relationships and exceeding expectations. Realtime data exchange and seamless integration with existing broker CRMs or operator ERPs ensure a smooth and efficient workflow. Furthermore, the possibility for brokers to offer direct booking capabilities to their clients can be a real game changer. This level of transparency and data accessibility empowers all stakeholders in the business aviation market.
While the industry is still adapting to the potential of direct booking platforms, the future holds promise. Platforms like VOO, with their vision for streamlined workflows and open data ecosystems, are paving the way for a more efficient and collaborative business aviation landscape. The potential to book cargo plane / freighter, medevac and air ambulance, helicopters, and even commercial aircraft through these platforms further underscores the transformative potential of this technology.
Despite the fact that business aviation may still find itself in an unsettled position without a clear understanding that a direct booking platform for business charters already exists on the market, meanwhile VOO continues to attract both operators and brokers, the critical mass necessary to unlock its full potential as a true direct booking marketplace draws closer.
In a world obsessed with efficiency, the industry craves a paradigm shift in business aviation operations. Automating the tedious tasks of processing quotes and calculating prices, fostering collaboration, and moving towards an open data ecosystem will empower brokers and operators to focus on what they do best – exceeding client expectations and propelling the industry towards a brighter, more efficient future.
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