Bartintl166 by Bart International

SERVICE CENTRE LINE MAINTENANCE

UPFRONT

DEAR MR. PRESIDENT-ELECT WELCOME ABOARD…to the most demanding, accountable and thankless job the United States of America has to offer. I hope the enthusiasm that prompted you to accept this amazing sense of duty is based on altruism and not prestige. Your experience in aviation is unquestionable, and Business Aviation has been instrumental for the success of your election during the campaign. Therefore I don’t believe that I have to enlighten you about the benefits that a business aircraft can bring to the economy. I say that because like you, Business Aviation is regularly criticized by the media. Finally, you don’t have to worry about that, as you will now have the privilege of flying in the most advanced business aircraft on earth – Air Force One and Marine One. I remember that you made some promises during your campaign about funding various transportation projects. I hope this includes making improvements to airports and airtraffic control. “We’re going to rebuild our infrastructure, which will become, by the way, second to none and we will put millions of our people to work as we rebuild it,” you said while declaring victory in the campaign. I know that your task will be enormous. To summarize, you have four years to accomplish the monstrous chore in front of you. I wish you all well. I also hope that you will be able to bring the unions to reason. Remember Mr. President-elect back in 1981,

Fernand M. Francois Editor and Publisher

August 5 was the day that then-president Ronald Reagan fired more than 11,000 striking air traffic controllers. They were fired two days after their union, PATCO, declared a strike. I sincerely hope that you will never have to take the same kind of extreme measure, unremitting strikes being one of the main reasons for the crumbling of the socialist European system. So Mr. President-elect, the ball is in your court and it’s your first service. I am waiting with baited breath. Make like a fox in the henhouse. Get out that flensing knife and cut into the meat of the bunglers who stumble through their aviation organizations without contributing to The Cause. Please do not consider this as a condemnation of those making laws in the agencies. There are the dedicated ones and then there are those who are just making a damn nuisance of themselves. And please Mr. President-elect, I beg you to preserve that courteous relationship with Mr. Vladimir Putin. I do not want to see the declaration of a war between the United States of America and Russia. This would lead us to a Third World War involving all NATO nations, with Europe as a battleground. Perhaps the best thing we can hope you can bring to the job is horse sense. I am sure that you will soon be able to discern the fly sh… in the pepper. It may take you some time to separate it.

"A good leader takes a little more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share of the credit." Arnold H. Glasow

FLIGHTSAFETY

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FIXED-WING PILOT COURSES Advanced Upset Prevention and Recovery Training Focuses on preventing in-flight loss of control, and recovery from upset if prevention is not possible. Advanced Energy Management Teaches the physics of operating aircraft during descent. Advanced Rejected Takeoff Go/No-Go Promotes best practices using 18 scenarios that require a decision to continue the takeoff or abort. Advanced Crew Resource Management/ Human Factors Line Oriented Flight Training Bolsters proficiency in crew coordination and communication.

Aviation professionals from around the world trust us to provide the highest quality training and outstanding service. More than 1,800 highly experienced professional instructors deliver aircraft- and mission-specific courses, using our comprehensive training systems and advanced-technology flight simulators designed to enhance safety. Trust your training to FlightSafety. You’ll see why so many aviation professionals make the same choice. And have since 1951. For more information, please contact Steve Gross, Senior Vice President, Commercial 314.785.7815 • sales@flightsafety.com • flightsafety.com • A Berkshire Hathaway company

CONTENTS 32

Volume XXVIII N°7 EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Fernand M. Francois ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kathy Ann Francois EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Volker K. Thomalla vthomalla@bartintl.com DEPUTY EDITOR Busra Ozturk

MEBAA PREVIEW

SCHEDULERS AND DISPATCHERS

MEBAA in Dubai is the premier Business Aviation show in the Middle East. The organizers expect a record number of exhibitors and visitors.

The NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference is the Business Aviation industry's premier event for schedulers, dispatchers and their suppliers.

REGIONAL FOCUS: MIDDLE EAST

NBAA-BACE REPORT

A surge in demand for business aircraft is expected in the region in the near future.

NBAA-BACE in Orlando, Florida, was a reminder of the industry’s size and significance in the US and all around the world.

ART DIRECTOR Tanguy Francois SENIOR EDITOR Marc Grangier SAFETY EDITOR Michael R. Grüninger

LEGAL EDITOR Aoife O’Sullivan

FROM THE COCKPIT

Inflight connectivity is a necessity. Operators in the Middle East have been fast to adopt the latest systems.

Captain LeRoy Cook explains what pilots should know about a perfect landing.

COMPLETIONS

SAFETY SENSE

VIP cabin completion centers are busy, not only with new aircraft, but also refurbishing in-service jets.

The mid-air collision of an Embraer Legacy 600 and a Boeing 737 taught a lesson: Pilots must be suspicious if the radio is silent for too long.

ROTORCRAFT EDITOR Mark Huber NEW YORK EDITOR Kirby J. Harrison

CONNECTIVITY

INSTRUCTION EDITOR Captain LeRoy Cook TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Steve Nichols

CABIN INNOVATIONS More productivity and more comfort are the customers’ requests from business aircraft cabins reports Kirby Harrison.

TAX Aoife O’Sullivan takes a look the European VAT law, examining the cases where operators are exempt or not.

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Louis Smyth, Derek Bloom, Richard Koe, Brian Foley, Anna Naznarova ADVERTISING Kathy Ann Francois Marketing Director kafrancois@bartintl.com Titi Kusumandari Marketing Manager tkusumandari@bartintl.com BART International. Premier Transatlantic Business Aviation Magazine. ISSN 0776-7596. Printed in Belgium, published by SA F&L 20 rue de l'Industrie at B1400 Nivelles, Phone +326 788 3603. Fax +326 788 3623. BART International is governed by the International copyright laws. Free Professional subscription available International distribution by ASENDIA USPS 016707 Periodical postage paid Call IMS 1 (800) 428 3003 Responsible Publisher Fernand M. Francois

EBACE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

PREMIER TRANSATLANTIC BUSINESS AVIATION MAGAZINE

MEMBER OF

OUR COVER At the forefront of Dubai’s remarkable economic development, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum inaugurates MEBAA accompanied by Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, MEBAA founding Chairman.

OUR ADVERTISERS and their Agencies 55 15 11 59 31 37 21 51 5 57 79 9 63

AERIA Luxury Interiors BendixKing TMP Government CAE Comlux The Aviation Group Duncan Aviation EBACE 2017 ExecuJet Middle East LLC Flight Safety Foundation TMP Government FlightSafety International GRETEMAN GROUP Flying Colours Corp. GCS Safety Solution Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Jet Aviation

23 19 17 75 49 45 35 13 2-3 84 67 83 65

Jet Expo 2017 JetNet LLC Jet Support Services Inc. (JSSI) NBAA-BACE 2017 NBAA-Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference 2017 Rockwell Collins ARINCDirect Rolls-Royce TAG Farnborough Airport Textron Aviation Customer Support Copp Media Services, Inc. Textron Aviation Jet Sales Copp Media Services, Inc. UAS International Trip Support Universal Avionics Systems, Corp. Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

SECTIONS

4EDITORIAL 8POINTER

10 QUICK LANE GLOBAL

Bombardier Business Aircraft announced that its segmentdefining Global 7000 aircraft program completed the successful maiden flight of its first flight test vehicle (FTV1). This first flight marks the start of a flight test program for the newest member of Bombardierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagship Global aircraft family.

25 ON THE MOVE 26 BUSINESS NEWS 28 TRANSATLANTIC UPDATE

POINTER

IN SEQUENCE BRIEFING ROOM

Events

Agenda MEBAA December 06-08, 2016 Dubai, U.A.E.

NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers February 7-10, 2017 Fort Worth, TX, USA

Aircraft interiors Expo April 4-6, 2017 Hamburg, Germany

HAI HELI-EXPO Mar 7 - 9, 2017 Dallas Texas, USA

EBACE May 22-24, 2017 Geneva, Switzerland

US CABOTAGE BASICS Cabotage is carriage of revenue traffic by foreign-registered carriers between two US points, other than as part of a through trip (with the same carrier) involving travel to/from a foreign point. Cabotage has long been banned by US law – 49 U.S.C. and 41703 and 294.81 of DOT’s Economic Regulations – except in certain emergency situations. Cabotage prohibitions are strictly enforced by the DOT. Note that these rules apply to charter (non-scheduled commercial) operations but not to private nonrevenue flights. In the case of charter flights, it is permissible for non- US registered aircraft to move passengers between two points in the US, so long as these passengers either arrive in the US aboard the aircraft or depart the US with the same aircraft. PERMITS TO PROCEED PROCESS AND PENALTIES It’s important that operators of non- US registered charters be aware of “permit to proceed” requirements and the process of obtaining this permit. After obtaining your “permit to proceed” a log number will be issued and CBP monitors this to determine if the operator has the appropriate permits for traveling internally. If you do not have the required “permit to proceed” – especially if you’re a repeat offender – fines may be levied, and/or you may be grounded or banned from future operation to the US. Note that fines for operating in the US without a permit to proceed, in some cases, may not be imposed until months after the operation. CABOTAGE INFRACTIONS ON THE DAY OF OPERATION If CBP at a particular port determines that cabotage may take place they’ll not permit the passenger(s) in question to board the aircraft. The aircraft must then depart without the passenger(s) in question. As a general rule charter operators may not pick up passengers in the US and drop them at another location within the US, unless the passenger(s) are continuing on with the same aircraft to a point outside the US (Single Continuous International Journey). EXEMPTIONS FOR CABOTAGE There are a few exemptions available, to allow operations that would otherwise be considered cabotage. It’s always recommended,

US CABOTAGE RESTRICTIONS however, that operators speak with an aviation lawyer to gain better understanding of available options. In most cases these exemptions aren’t given to operators. Note that DOT is the only entity able to provide these exemptions. DETERMINING IF YOUR FLIGHT INVOLVES CABOTAGE Cabotage within the US is only a consideration for non- US registered charter operators, as these regulations do not apply to non- US registered private non-revenue flights. It’s always best to speak to your 3rd-party provider to gain clarity on what does and does not constitute cabotage within the US. AN EXAMPLE OF CABOTAGE Cabotage regulations in the US focus on the movement of each passenger separately. If five passengers arrive in the US on a foreign-registered non-scheduled commercial aircraft, from a foreign point (outside the US), and two passengers join the flight at a US point and depart at another US point to be dropped off, then two cabotage violations have occurred. Note that it’s not relevant to cabotage findings on the reasons for the passenger’s trip, citizenship of the passengers, source of payment for the flight and/or whether the flight was arranged and paid for outside the US. CONCLUSION Charter operators of non- US registered aircraft are responsible for understanding and complying with all regulations and restrictions pertaining to US cabotage. If you’re unsure of these regulations/restrictions it’s best to discuss this with your 3rd-party provider. Once the implications of cabotage as they pertain to your particular trip are clear, it’s a good idea to communicate with your passengers to let them know how this may limit their ability to pick up, drop off and carry personnel locally between US points. ASK THE EXPERTS If you have any questions about this article or would like assistance regarding aviation regulatory issues, contact us at lauraeverington@univ-wea.com or juanmuniz@univ-wea.com.

@bart_intl and Twitter

@BARTIntl

CABIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM • PASSENGERS: UP TO 10 • LARGE OVAL WINDOWS: 19

UNEQUALED ELEGANCE With one of the most spacious cabins in the super-midsize class, the Gulfstream G280™ is unequaled for its comforts, conveniences and capabilities. Complementing its beautifully appointed cabin is a long list of technological innovations and amenities—many originally created for the Gulfstream G650™. The G280: super-midsize flexibility with a large-cabin feel.

To contact a Gulfstream sales representative in your area, visit gulfstream.com/contacts.

GULFSTREAMG280.COM

QUICK LANE LUXAVIATION GROUP CELEBRATES 500TH NORTH AMERICAN FLIGHT OF 2016

DUNCAN RECEIVES HONEYWELL HEAVY MAINTENANCE AUTHORIZATION

Luxaviation Group is celebrating a milestone in the development of its business in the Americas, having operated its 500th flight of 2016 in the North American market. The international Business Aviation group is seeing sharply growing demand for its aircraft charter and flight operations services within the United States and between the USA and destinations in Europe, the Caribbean, Canada, Central and South America, and Asia. Luxaviation Group acquired its first FBO in the Caribbean and opened its first FBO in Mexico in 2016.

Duncan Aviation has signed an agreement with Honeywell to extend its engine service authorizations designating the Lincoln, Nebraska, Duncan Aviation location as a Honeywell TFE731 Heavy Maintenance facility. With the heavy authorization, Duncan Aviation will be permitted to inspect and repair the compressor zone on the Honeywell TFE731 engine during scheduled CZI (Compressor Zone Inspection) events, unscheduled compressor zone repairs, and expanded Service Bulletin capabilities.

FLIGHTSAFETY INT’L ANNOUNCES THE START OF FALCON 8X TRAINING

ROCKWELL COLLINS TO ACQUIRE B/E AEROSPACE FOR $8.3 BILLION Rockwell Collins and B/E Aerospace announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rockwell Collins will acquire B/E Aerospace for approximately $6.4 billion in cash and stock, plus the assumption of $1.9 billion in net debt. Under the terms of the agreement, each B/E Aerospace shareowner will receive total consideration of $62.00 per share, comprised of $34.10 per share in cash and $27.90 in shares of Rockwell Collins common stock, subject to a 7.5% collar.

EPIC CONGRATULATES MERIDIAN HAYWARD ON WEST COAST OPENING

FlightSafety International announces that training for the Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft has begun at its Paris-Le Bourget Learning Center. David Davenport, executive vice president, said: “Our customers will appreciate the addition of the Falcon 8X to the complete range of training we provide for Dassault aircraft.” FlightSafety’s Paris-Le Bourget Training Center will offer transition, initial and recurrent training for pilots who fly the Falcon 8X, as well as a wide variety of courses for maintenance technicians and flight attendants using a new FlightSafety FS1000 simulator and other advanced training devices.

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EPIC Fuels, a leading supplier of ground and aviation fuels, has announced that Meridian’s new FBO at Hayward Executive Airport (HWD) in Hayward, California is open for business and fuel is flowing effective October 17. Meridian Hayward is featuring EPIC Fuels as the branded fuel supplier at the new location and is accepting the EPIC Card for fuel and ancillary purchases. A great location for business and charter aircraft, Meridian Hayward is located at an airport with no curfew and, like Teterboro, is a General Aviation-specific airport, with no commercial airline traffic.

Feel like your flight training program has become stale? Then it’s time to make the move to CAE, where safe operations and outstanding flight training tailored to your needs and schedule are our specialty. Add to this convenient and enjoyable locations and soon you’ll be working with the people who work with you. CAE. Elevate your training.

QUICK LANE FLIGHTSAFETY ACADEMY IN VERO BEACH CELEBRATES ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY The FlightSafety Academy in Vero Beach, Florida celebrated the 50th anniversary of its founding on October 17, 2016. “The FlightSafety Academy has made significant contributions to the aviation industry since its founding in 1966,” said Chairman, President & CEO Bruce Whitman. “We sincerely appreciate the many contributions of our Teammates in Vero Beach, and thank the 21,000 Academy graduates who fly for 62 airlines and over 100 corporate flight departments around the world for their confidence and support.” FlightSafety Academy offers a wide variety of programs tailored to the specific needs of domestic and international airlines, government and military agencies, other flight training organizations and individuals with no prior flight experience.

GULFSTREAM G280 ACHIEVES 57TH WORLD SPEED RECORD Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. announced that its Gulfstream G280 aircraft recently established a speed record between Guernsey, one of the Channel Islands in Europe, and Teterboro, New Jersey, making the transAtlantic journey in just seven hours and 26 minutes. The super mid-size business jet departed Guernsey Airport at 7:54 a.m. local time and arrived at Teterboro Airport at 10:20 a.m. local time, completing the 3,216-nauticalmile/5,956-kilometer flight at an average speed of Mach 0.80.

DAHER FACT TO PROMOTE CHARTER OPPORTUNITIES FOR TBM AIRCRAFT

BELL HELICOPTER STRENGTHENS CUSTOMER SUPPORT CAPABILITIES IN EUROPE

Daher unveiled a new program that brings private and corporate TBM owners together with commercial operators ready to use these very fast aircraft for charter flights. Named FACT – for Fly And Charter your TBM – this program was announced at the National Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Orlando, Florida by Daher. “For private and corporate TBM owners who fly less than 200 hours annually, revenues generated by charter operators can help offset their ownership costs,” explained Nicolas Chabbert, senior vice president of the Daher Airplane Business Unit.

Bell Helicopter and its Authorized Customer Service Facility (CSF), Agrarflug Helilift, announce that Agrarflug Helilift is in the process of obtaining an expanded capability to support medium tailbooms for the Bell 212 and 412 aircraft– continuing to strengthen aircraft support for European customers. As a Bell Helicopter Authorized CSF, Agrarflug Helilift provides field maintenance services for the Bell Helicopter 204, 205, 206A/B, 206L, 212 and 412 model aircrafts. The company additionally offers services including state-of-the art customization and aircraft refurbishment and accessory options, combined with personalized service offerings.

12 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

ABSOLUTELY ICONIC

Come and visit us on stand 482 at MEBAA to hear about our latest developments

The Business Aviation Gateway to London Experience TAG Farnborough Airport. The ultimate business aviation airport. Be inspired by the iconic architecture. The most discreet and efficient airport experience anywhere.

www.tagfarnborough.com

QUICK LANE GARMIN ANNOUNCES G5000 FLIGHT DECK MODERNIZATION PROGRAM FOR CITATION

Garmin International Inc. announced it will expand its portfolio of integrated flight deck upgrades to now include a G5000 modernization program for the popular Citation Excel and Citation XLS. The Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) is targeted for approval in late 2018 and will be available from select Garmin dealers as well as Textron Aviation Service Centers. “For over five years and across multiple airframes, the G5000 has received the enthusiastic praise from aircraft operators as it offers an unprecedented level of situational awareness and yields a significantly lower cost of operation,” said Carl Wolf, Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing.

SATCOM DIRECT AGREES TO ACQUIRE TRUENORTH AVIONICS

FLIGHTSAFETY AND GULFSTREAM ENHANCE PILOT, MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN TRAINING

FlightSafety International and Gulfstream Aerospace announce enhancements to the training programs and services available to pilots and maintenance technicians of Gulfstream aircraft. Controller Pilot Data Link Communication training is now available for Gulfstream GIV, GV, G280, G450, G550 and G650 aircraft. It is offered as a FlightSafety eLearning course specific to each aircraft, and through a CPDLC iFlightDECK subscription within FlightSafety’s new FlightBag application. FlightSafety is incorporating the Honeywell Cert Hotel (ASC 911) upgrade into its Gulfstream G450 and G550 simulators located in Dallas, Farnborough, Hong Kong, Long Beach and Wilmington.

ROCKWELL COLLINS PARTNERS WITH SKYGUIDE TO INTEGRATE SMARTNOTAM INTO ARINCDIRECT In a move designed to enhance flight safety and operational efficiency for Business Aviation pilots everywhere, Rockwell Collins is teaming with Skyguide, the air navigation services provider for Switzerland, to integrate SmartNOTAM into the company’s ARINCDirect flight planning services. A NOTAM, or Notice to Airmen, contains essential briefing information for pilots. Alex Bristol, chief operating officer at Skyguide, said: “With SmartNOTAM, Skyguide has created a capability that can sort, filter and categorize NOTAMS, allowing a pilot to see only those that impact his or her flight.”

Global aeronautical communications provider, Satcom Direct (SD), announced it has agreed to acquire TrueNorth Avionics, a company based in Ottawa, Canada that offers the latest technology in cabin communications solutions. With the purchase of TrueNorth, SD significantly expands its ability to provide advanced communications systems for Business Aviation aircraft. “The acquisition of TrueNorth will broaden our avionics product portfolio and enable us to accelerate our efforts to bring fully integrated communications solutions to our customers,” said Jim Jensen, founder and CEO of SD.

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DUNCAN AVIATION A LEADER IN CMS INSTALLATIONS As a major Business Aviation MRO facility, Duncan Aviation has significant experience installing the latest generation Cabin Management Systems (CMS). These systems use digital technology to meet operator demands for High Definition (HD) devices, personal electronic device integration, as well as new technologies like touchscreen and Wi-Fi cabin controls. “These networked systems are Ethernet-based, which allows passengers to experience an even greater level of control and entertainment that they have come to expect in their homes,” says Steve Elofson, a Duncan Aviation Avionics Installations Sales Rep.

Global In-Flight Connectivity for All Ages Pilots and passengers will appreciate the affordable, global in-flight connectivity provided by AeroWave™ from BendixKing. Crews will now have in-flight access to global weather services, voice, text, email and their favorite connected aviation apps. Plus passengers will enjoy the ability to send and receive emails, text messages, browse simple web pages, make and receive phone calls and more. AeroWave’s low-cost connectivity service plan is based on prepaid hours of use – not the amount of data used - so there are no billing surprises. Airtime is only $40 USD per hour and unlike other services it works at any altitude all over the world. It’s that simple. Don’t leave your favorite apps on the ground anymore. Find out how to get globally connected today.

Global Weather

Flight Tracking

Voice

Text

Web

QUICK LANE JET AVIATION ANNOUNCES ARRIVAL OF BBJ 777-300ER FOR COMPLETION IN BASEL Jet Aviation’s Completions Center in Basel has taken delivery of the first of two BBJ 777-300ERs ready for interior completion, commissioned by Boeing on behalf of a government client based in Asia. The aircraft arrived midOctober and was accepted by the Completions Center following an incoming inspection. This is the first BBJ 777 VVIP completion for Jet Aviation and the first of two aircraft for this Boeing Business Jets customer. The BBJ 777-300ER has a cabin size of 3,641 square feet (338 square meters) and a range capability of 9,220 nautical miles (17,075 kilometers).

UAS FORMALLY LAUNCHES UAS FLIGHTEVOLUTION AT NBAA-BACE

TAG FARNBOROUGH MAKES HUGE INVESTMENTS TO IMPROVE CAPACITY

The industry’s newest all-in-one trip planning and weather solution, UAS flightevolution from UAS international Trip Support, formally launched at NBAA-BACE 2016. Created exclusively for pilots and dispatchers, it is set to revolutionize the process of advanced global flight planning, weather checking, aircraft performance calculation and in-flight situational awareness owing to its high speed, simplicity, and convenient mobile capabilities. UAS flightevolution‘s intuitive design, built on a web and mobile-based platform, provides the tools to navigate the most complex logistics with ease.

TAG Farnborough Airport has invested an additional £1 million to create more space for passengers and crew at its terminal building. Development of its award-winning infrastructure includes a new lounge, accommodating up to 80 passengers, designed to create a homely atmosphere. Customers can also enjoy unique views of the airfield from a gallery seating area. Other distinctive features include a “TopBrewer” coffee machine which can be operated via an iPad provided, as well as a fuselage clock, coffee table and exhaust lamp custom made from vintage aircraft parts.

RUAG COMPLETES 10-YEAR INSPECTION OF NIGERIA-BASED DORNIER 328

UNIVERSAL WEATHER INTRODUCES UNIVERSAL PRIVATE TRANSPORT

RUAG Aviation has successfully completed a 10-year inspection on an African based Dornier 328-300 business jet, finishing the project on schedule, within budget and to full customer satisfaction. The major check was carried out at RUAG Aviation’s Dornier 328 Service Centre in Berne. Full transparency and a quick and reliable turnaround time remain essential criteria for the Nigerian customer, Air Peace. 24/7 availability for communication throughout the project provided additional support for customer interests.

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Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. has formed a new global ground transportation service joint venture, Universal Private Transport, with its long-time security partner FAM International. An independent company, Universal Private Transport, combines the worldwide Business Aviation trip management and logistical knowledge of Universal with the international ground transportation network of FAM. “Schedule changes not communicated, late arrivals, the wrong size vehicle, uninformed drivers and bad information are all common ground transport risks that can adversely impact mission success,” explained Greg Evans, chairman, Universal.

All of these names have one name in common. AgustaWestland • Airbus • Airbus Helicopters • Bell • Boeing • Bombardier • Cessna Dassault • Embraer • GE • Gulfstream • Hawker Beechcraft • Honeywell MD Helicopters • Pratt & Whitney • Robinson Rolls Royce • Sikorsky • Williams

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QUICK LANE PILATUS REPORTS OUTSTANDING RESULTS FOR PC-12 SALES, SERVICE

UNIVERSAL AVIONICS IN FINAL STAGES OF FLIGHT TESTING UNILINK® SCN 31.X

Global sales of Pilatus PC-12 NG grow over 20% in 2016, outpacing all other turbine-powered business aircraft. New features in the 2016 PC-12 NG increased cruise speed to 285 KTAS, reduced cabin noise levels, offered updated interior design options and featured more than a dozen drag reduction changes to the airframe, increasing both range and speed. The market responded positively, with the company on track to deliver 90 new PC-12 NG aircraft in 2016. This sales level will earn the PC12 NG the honor of being the top-selling model of turbine-powered business aircraft in the world for the year.

Universal Avionics announces that the company’s new Software Control Number (SCN) 31.X for the UniLink UL-800/801 Communications Management Unit (CMU) is now in the final stages of flight testing. Following the completion of flight testing, TSO approval is imminent. The new software upgrade provides operators with the necessary CPDLC message sets to meet the European Link 2000+ Programme mandate requirements. “We are very pleased to be able to offer our customers the next step toward NextGen/SESAR compliance,” said Dan Reida, Universal Avionics vice president of Sales and Marketing.

JSSI EXPANDS INTO AIRLINE MARKET

HONDA AIRCRAFT EXPANDS HONDAJET SALES TO MIDDLE AMERICAS Honda Aircraft Company announced that it has expanded sales of the HondaJet to Middle Americas with the appointment of SYI Aviation, based in Panama City, Panama as the newest HondaJet dealer. SYI Aviation will provide sales, service and support for the world’s most advanced light jet throughout Central America, the Caribbean and South America, including Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. “With its strong focus on outstanding quality and customer service, SYI will be a valuable addition to the HondaJet dealer network,” said Honda Aircraft President and CEO Michimasa Fujino.

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) has expanded its business into the regional airline market, enrolling three airlines year to date, including its launch customer, Denmark-based SUN-AIR and their fleet of Fairchild Dornier 328 Jets. President, and CEO for JSSI Neil Book commented: “Our move into the airline market is a natural progression. We are encouraged by the early results and are excited to deliver value to small and mid-size regional airlines that are looking for more service, cost savings, and support from their maintenance program provider.”

18 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

“We became a top-performing aircraft brokerage by building strong relationships and providing our clients the most complete, real-time market information available.”

“We get them this critical intelligence accurately and immediately—as it happens. They count on us and they know we always keep our promises. We have that same trusting relationship with JETNET. They promise, and they deliver. With JETNET, we know the market and put that knowledge to work for our clients. Knowing more gets us in the door and builds lasting partnerships.”

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QUICK LANE JET AVIATION NAMED FBO OF THE YEAR AT THE MIDDLE EAST AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS Jet Aviation was twice honored at the tenth annual Middle East Aviation Business Awards ceremony recently held at the Conrad Hotel in Dubai, UAE. The company's FBO at Dubai International Airport won the 2016 FBO of the Year Award, while its Dubai MRO facility was shortlisted in the MRO Service Provider of the Year (International) category. Organized by magazine publisher ITP Business, the Middle East Aviation Business Awards are held annually to recognize "regional and international companies that stand out for having gone above and beyond in terms of their industry contribution."

PIPER M350 CERTIFIED BY EASA

HONDAJET SETS TWO SPEED RECORDS FLYING Honda Aircraft Company announced that the HondaJet, the fastest jet in its class, has officially secured its first speed records over two recognized courses from Teterboro, New Jersey to Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Boston, Massachusetts to Palm Beach, Florida. Despite average headwinds of 60 knots (nearly 70 mph), the flight took two hours and 51 minutes at a cruising altitude of 43,000 feet with the HondaJet surpassing the existing record from Teterboro to Fort Lauderdale.

Piper Aircraft, Inc. announced the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has awarded the validated type certificate for the Piper M350, paving the way for the aircraft to enter service in Europe. “The Piper M350 is the only current production pressurized piston-engine aircraft now on the market, making type certification by EASA an important achievement,” said Simon Caldecott, president and CEO of Piper Aircraft.

TRU’S FULL FLIGHT SIMULATOR FOR CITATION CJ4 QUALIFIED BY FAA TRU Simulation + Training Inc., a Textron Inc. company, announced that its Cessna Citation CJ4 full flight simulator has successfully earned Level D qualifications from the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA). Installed in TRU’s West Coast training center in Carlsbad, California, the CJ4 simulator is one of four recent simulator announcements that support several popular Cessna business jet models, including the Cessna Citation M2, Citation CJ3+, and Citation Latitude.

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LUFTHANSA TECHNIK LAUNCHES ‘SMART LIFECYCLE PROGRAM’ Lufthansa Technik has launched “Smart Lifecycle Program”, a cost per-flight-hour service for VIP and Special Mission Aircraft customers. The company has developed the first holistic and integrative smart service available on the market which can be used for a customer individual “charges-by-the-hour” service prog ram . “S m art Li fec yc l e Program” covers and integrates the full scope of technical services alon g the l i fe c yc l e of Boeing or Airbus VIP or Special Mission aircraft in one application.

QUICK LANE RUAG EXCEEDS 500 WINSLOW LIFE RAFT MAINTENANCE EVENTS TO DATE RUAG Aviation announced the completion of its 500th life raft maintenance event on Winslow equipment. The milestone for the industry leader in aircraft component MRO was achieved in the first week of October 2016. RUAG Aviation’s one-stop shop services at its Munich location, features the industry’s only dedicated, in-house component service centre. The centre guarantees a turnaround time of just 3 days for any single component. The Component Service Centre at RUAG Aviation in Munich has reached a significant milestone with this 500th life raft service event on Winslow equipment.

WEST STAR AVIATION TO OVERHAUL PHENOM 100 AND 300 LANDING GEAR West Star Aviation announced they have entered into agreement with Embraer to accomplish Phenom 100 and 300 96month landing gear overhauls. West Star will have two facilities located in Grand Junction, CO and Chattanooga, TN, dedicated to landing gear overhaul. Grand Junction, CO (GJT) will be expanding their current landing gear shop into a 21,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility. The expansion will include chemical processing, plating capabilities, machining and additional painting operations.

FLYING COLOURS CORP. EXTENDS RANGE OF AIRFRAMES FOR INAIRVATION OFFERING North Americas-based Flying Colours Corp. has extended the range of airframes on which it can now install the INAIRVATION pre-engineered retrofit solutions in North America. At this year’s NBAA - booth 1208 - Flying Colours will be promoting the options now available for Bombardier Challenger 300, Bombardier Challenger 605, Gulfstream G450 and Gulfstream G550 models. This is in addition to the first type confirmed with the Austria-based joint venture at NBAA 2015, the Bombardier Global Express. Following the signing of the launch customer in April this year, work on the first Global aircraft began in late September 2016 at Flying Colours’ Peterborough, ON. headquarters and is progressing to schedule for redelivery in March 2017.

UNIVERSAL AVIONICS RELEASES NEW UNILINK FANS DESKTOP TRAINING SOFTWARE

STANDARDAERO SIGNS AGREEMENT FOR CHINESE M250 ENGINE MAINTENANCE

Universal Avionics UniLink Desktop Training Software for FANS and CPDLC Departure Clearance (DCL) Service familiarization is now available. The software is available for purchase via a new, active online order system on the company’s website, www.uasc.com/ult. Universal Avionics is offering the software in two versions to best meet operator needs: Lifetime License or a 1Year License.

StandardAero has signed a new agreement with Chinese partner, ChongQing General Aviation Co., Ltd. (CQGA), establishing CQGA as the company’s first StandardAero Approved Service Center for Rolls-Royce M250 engine Maintenance services in China. The agreement was signed by CQGA and StandardAero executives on November 1 at the Zhuhai Airshow. The new agreement will provide Chinese operators access to an approved facility for M250 maintenance level services with support from StandardAero, a Rolls-Royce M250 Approved Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Center (AMROC).

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QUICK LANE CESSNA ANNOUNCES PERFORMANCE INCREASE FOR CITATION LONGITUDE Cessna Aircraft Company announced during the 2016 Business Aviation Exhibition & Convention that its Citation Longitude will exceed initial performance targets with improved range and payload for this revolutionary super-midsize business jet. Further establishing the aircraft’s anticipated leadership in its segment, the Longitude has achieved an improved range of 3,500 nautical miles, an increase of 100 nautical miles, and full fuel payload of 1,600 pounds, an increase of 100 pounds.

TRU SIMULATION’S AVIATION MAINTENANCE TRAINING ACADEMY IS NOW EASA-CERTIFIED

WEST STAR GRANTED APPROVAL ON FALCON 2000 BAGGAGE MODIFICATION STC

TRUSimulation + Training Inc. announced that its Aviation Maintenance Training Academy received EASA Part-147 approval and is now able to train European-based maintenance technicians on the popular Beechcraft King Air 300 series courses. In addition, the center continues to expand its maintenance training capability with new maintenance and avionics programs being added rapidly. Opened in November of 2015, TRU’s Aviation Maintenance Training Academy is located on the Textron Aviation Mid-Continent campus in Wichita, Kansas.

West Star Aviation announced they have been granted approval on their Falcon 2000 baggage Modification STC. This modification will allow West Star to create usable, baggage space in the Aft unpressurized area. The forward servicing compartment (FSC) panel enclosure will feature a 21.75 sq. ft. footprint, and 73.5 cu.ft. of usable baggage space. The installation weight of this modification is 115 pounds and can accommodate 185-275 pounds while still allowing access to all common service and maintenance items with no additional fire detection or suspension needed.

PIAGGIO SIGNS CONTRACT FOR THE SALE OF 5 AVANTI EVO IN THE US Piaggio America, a Piaggio Aerospace subsidiary, announced at the NBAA- Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition a new contract for the sale of 5 Avanti EVO to the US based West Coast Aviation Services, which will use them for charter and fractional ownership activities. This is the first Avanti EVO sale in the US market. Deliveries of the remaining firm orders and the additional options will start in Q4 2017. West Coast Aviation Services has also signed options on 4 additional aircraft.

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FLYING COLOURS CORP. CHESTERFIELD MO. WINS BOMBARDIER’S ASF EXCELLENCE AWARD Flying Colours Corp. KSUS, the St. Louis, MO., MRO and completions facility has been awarded Bombardier Business Aircraft’s Authorized Service Facility (ASF) Excellence Award in the North America category for the second year in a row. The award recognizes the facility’s commitment to serving Bombardier Business Aircraft customers with superior quality and performance, supporting Bombardier’s strategy to deliver an exceptional customer experience. The award was presented at the 6th Annual Bombardier ASF Excellence Awards ceremony on November 2, 2016.

ON THE MOVE PEOPLE West Star Aviation announced that Steve Goede has been named director of Landing Gear and Accessory Programs. He started with West Star Aviation nine years ago as manager of Accessory Parts Sales (GJT). “As director, Steve will continue to maintain strong relationships with OEMs as well as leading the Landing Gear and Accessory team. He will oversee any expansion in these departments and maintain and oversee these departments throughout the West Star network, including recent agreement with Embraer to overhaul Phenom 100 and 300,” said Rodger Renaud, president and chief operating officer.

Mike Meglio Another announcement came from Jet Aviation St. Louis, appointing two new regional sales reps: Shannon Adams for the Western Region of the US and Canada, and Mike Meglio for the Mid-Atlantic Region in the US. Mike will be responsible for the states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Delaware, West Virginia, Virginia, and Kentucky. Shannon will be responsible for the states of California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Alaska, as well as the western

Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. Jet Aviation also announced the appointment of Edgar Guerreiro as the manager of its FBO in Geneva. Guerreiro succeeds Joao Martins, who has relocated within the company to assume the role of General Manager in Zurich. As FBO Manager, Guerreiro will oversee operation of Jet Aviation’s FBO in Geneva. He joined the company’s MRO and FBO facility in Geneva as purchasing manager in March 2016, responsible for negotiating all contracts and agreements on behalf of the company. FlightSafety International, meanwhile, announced that Jeffrey Lee has joined the company as executive director, Business Aviation Development. “We are very fortunate and proud to have Jeff join FlightSafety,” said Chairman, President & CEO Bruce Whitman. “His 25 years managing large flight departments will contribute to our ongoing development of new and innovative training programs and products. Jeff’s experience and insights as a longtime Customer of FlightSafety will help to expand and strengthen our global reach and leadership position.” Global Jet Capital, a global provider of financing solutions for corporate aircraft, has appointed Shawn Vick as chief executive officer, responsible for the overall strategy and direction of the company. Mr. Vick will remain a partner at AEI, which is focused on investing for long term growth in the commercial aerospace, Business Aviation and power generation sectors. AEI closed its first fund dedicated to aerospace and related industry segments with $680 million in equity commitments, as well as raising an additional $200 million for its co-investment vehicles, including Global Jet Capital.

Falcon Aviation announced that Pauline Smith has joined the company in the role of FBO manager. Pauline Smith comes with over 25 years of experience within the industry. Joining in advance of the launch of Falcon Aviation’s new FBO in Al Maktoum International Airport, Pauline will continue her success under the Falcon Aviation umbrella. Pauline comments “I am excited to start a new challenge within Falcon Aviation and look forward to working with the team to further develop this new and exciting project. I am fortunate to be joining such a respected company that prides itself on top quality service.” ExecuJet appointed Ettore Poggi to the new role of Group FBO director to oversee the development of its growing FBO business. Poggi, previously vice-president and maintenance director of ExecuJet Africa, relocated to Dubai and began his new role on 1 November. Poggi is now responsible for overseeing activities across ExecuJet’s 24 FBO facilities worldwide and ensuring that ExecuJet’s high level of customer service is replicated in all current and future FBOs globally. Poggi reports to Mike Berry, president of Aviation Services and Vice-President, ExecuJet Middle East.

William (Bill) Koperek

Comlux announced the appointment of Mr. William (Bill) Koperek as executive vice president of Business Development at the group level. With more than 30 years at the Boeing Company, Bill brings a wealth of business and commercial aviation experience to the Comlux team. “With the arrival of Bill on the management team, Comlux is reinforcing its knowledge and expertise on the BBJ product line. Thanks to his global understanding of the customer needs in operations, completions and maintenance services, he will support the different businesses of the Group around the world.” says Richard Gaona Chairman & CEO. TAG Aviation Europe announced that it has restructured and strengthened its Maintenance Services Operations management team in the UK with the appointments of several new senior personnel. Cyrille Pillet has been appointed vice president of Maintenance Operations and will be responsible for harmonising the maintenance and engineering processes employed within all TAG Aviation Maintenance Services locations. He is also the accountable manager of TAG Farnborough Maintenance Services Centre based in the UK. John-Paul Williams joins as the commercial manager for TAG Farnborough Maintenance Services where he will lead the Commercial team activities and assumes overall responsibility for Customer Support, Sales, Warranty and Invoicing. Greg Hoggett, TAG’s former accountable manager of TAG Farnborough Maintenance Services, has become the chief operating officer of TAG Aviation UK. In this newly created role Greg will become the Accountable Manager for the UK AOC and will report directly to Graham Williamson, TAG’s president of Aircraft Management and Charter Services.

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JETNET RELEASES SEPTEMBER 2016 RESULTS

JETNET LLC, THE LEADING PROVIDER of corporate aviation information, has released September 2016 and the first nine months of 2016 results for the pre-owned business jet, business turboprop, helicopter, and commercial airliner markets. Market Summary Highlighted in the table above are key worldwide trends across all aircraft market segments, comparing September 2016 to September 2015. “Fleet For Sale” percentages for all market sectors were mixed in the September comparisons. Business jets and turbine helicopters showed the largest increases in Percentage For Sale compared to the other markets. Generally, inventories of pre-owned business jets for sale have increased and are now above the 2,400 mark. Business jets are showing a decline (2.2%) in pre-owned sale transactions in the first nine months of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. The first quarter and second quarter were up 4.4% and 1.9% respectively. Also, business jets are taking less time to sell (11 days) than last year. However, there was a 5.6% decrease in average asking price. Business turboprops increased 5.4% in sale transactions, with no change in asking price. Piston helicopters saw a double-digit decline in sale transactions YTD, at 19.6%. Also, turbine helicopters recorded a 7% decline in sale transactions. Both turbine (up 9.9%) and piston (up 2.9%) helicopter segments showed increasing asking prices compared to last year. For the first nine months of 2016, there were 6,147 pre-owned commercial and business jets, turboprops, and helicopters sold. This is an increase of 99, or 2%, more sale transactions compared to 2015. 26 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

US GDP Real gross domestic product – the value of the production of goods and services in the United States, adjusted for price changes – increased at an annual rate of 2.9% in the third quarter of 2016, according to the “advance” estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. In the second quarter, real GDP increased 1.4%. The table below shows the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) changes by quarter since 2009. The BEA report shows that the US GDP has been on a steady course of improvement this year, with the first quarter low followed by a climb in the second quarter, leading to another improvement in the third quarter. Business Aviation does well when the US GDP percentage is above the 3.0% growth mark. See the quarters marked in yellow that are 3.0% or greater. The last quarters that were 3.0% or greater were in 2014. Business Aviation could certainly use another rise in the fourth quarter – above the 3.0% mark – to close out 2016 on a high $ note.

AMSTAT RELEASES BUSINESS AIRCRAFT RESALE MARKET UPDATE REPORT According to AMSTAT, the first three quarters of 2016 saw a slightly lower percentage of the Business Jets and about the same percentage of Business Turboprops turning over as resale transactions versus the same period in 2015. In the first three quarters of 2016, 7.1% of the global Business Jet fleet turned over. This percentage was down versus 7.4% in the same period in 2015. By comparison, 5.8% of the Business Turboprop fleet turned over versus 5.7% for the same period in 2015. Resale Retail Transaction activity year to date was up for Heavy Jets with 5.9% of the fleet turning over in the first 3 quarters of the year, compared to 5.5% for the same period in 2015. In contrast, transaction activity for the Medium Jets resulted in 7.1% of the fleet turning over versus 8.2% for the same period in 2015. For Light Jets and Turboprops, Resale Retail Transaction activity was largely flat for the first 3 quarters of the year compared to the same three quarter period in 2015 (7.8% versus 7.9% and 5.8% versus 5.7% respectively). The report also shows that business aircraft inventory levels continue to climb but with some evidence of a recent plateauing in certain market segments. 10.8% of the Heavy Jet fleet is now for sale. This percentage is up

from 10.4% at the start of 2016. Over the last 24 months more of this inventory has come from Newer Heavy Jets, with 10% of that fleet for sale today versus 8% in 2015. Today 11.6% of the Medium Jets fleet is available for sale versus 11.2% at the start of the year. As with Heavy Jets, it is the Newer Medium Jet models that are seeing their inventory increase the most. The Light Jet inventory is currently 11.8% of the active fleet. This up since the start of the year but flat compared to the same time last year. 8.5% of the Turboprop fleet is for sale, up since the start of 2016 but down from 8.7% a year ago.

BOMBARDIER RELEASES 3Q16 RESULTS Bombardier (TSX: BBD.B) reported its third quarter 2016 results and highlighted solid performance executing its turnaround plan. For the third consecutive quarter, Bombardier had strong business aircraft delivery performance. In the nine-month period ended September 30, 2016, it delivered 109 aircraft and achieved a book-to-bill ratio of 0.8. It realized an EBIT margin before special items of 6.6% for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2016, driven by business model enhancements and transformation initiatives. Based on results to date, Bombardier is increasing guidance for the year to revenues of approximately $5.5 billion, over 150 deliveries, and EBIT margin before special items greater than 6%. Bombardier reported consolidated revenues of $3.7 billion in the quarter and $12.0 billion in the nine-month period, following the planned reduction in business aircraft revenues and the deferral of revenue recognition following active project and cash management in transportation.

items was $55.5 million, or $0.21 per share, which on the same basis, compares to $47.7 million ($0.18 per share) last year. Marc Parent, CAE's president and chief executive officer, commented: "I am pleased with our progress in executing our growth strategy in all three of our business segments. Specifically in civil, we had higher training center utilization, steady operating income growth, and robust order activity, which highlight our strong position and potential within a large market. Our customers depend on CAE as their training partner of choice and continue to be receptive to our unique solutions. For the company overall, we received $747 million in orders during the quarter for a new record $6.5 billion backlog."

TEXTRON REPORTS 3Q16 RESULTS

ROCKWELL COLLINS CAE ANNOUNCES REPORTS 4Q16 RESULTS 2Q17 RESULTS Rockwell Collins, Inc. (NYSE: COL) reported fourth quarter fiscal year 2016 earnings per share from continuing operations increased 14% to $1.58, compared to $1.38 in the prior year. Total sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2016 were $1.45 billion, a 4% increase from the same period in fiscal year 2015. Total segment operating margin for the fourth quarter increased 60 basis points to 22.6% and segment operating earnings increased 7% to $326 million, compared to the same period in fiscal year 2015. Fiscal year 2016 sales were $5.26 billion, compared to $5.24 billion in fiscal year 2015. Earnings per share from continuing operations increased 6% to $5.50, compared to $5.19 in the prior year. Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations totaled $723 million in fiscal year 2016, compared to $749 million in fiscal year 2015. Free cash flow was $530 million in fiscal year 2016, compared to $539 million in fiscal year 2015.

CAE reported revenue of $635.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2017 compared with $616.8 million last year. Second quarter net income attributable to equity holders from continuing operations was $48.3 million ($0.18 per share) compared to $75.3 million ($0.28 per share) last year. Second quarter net income before specific

Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) reported third quarter 2016 income from continuing operations of $1.10 per share compared to $0.63 per share in the third quarter of 2015. During this year’s third quarter, the company recorded a tax benefit of $0.76 per share related to settlement of US Internal Revenue Service audits and recorded a $115 million pre-tax restructuring charge ($0.27 per share, aftertax). Excluding these items, adjusted income from continuing operations, a non-GAAP measure that is defined and reconciled to GAAP in an attachment to this release, was $0.61 per share for the third quarter of 2016, down $0.02 from last year’s third quarter. Revenues in the quarter were $3.3 billion, up 2.2 percent from the third quarter of 2015. Textron segment profit in the quarter was $310 million, down $2 million from the third quarter of 2015. “We had good execution in the quarter with margin improvements at Systems and Bell,” said Textron Chairman and CEO Scott C. Donnelly. “At Aviation, we continue to be encouraged by the strong market acceptance of the Latitude and progress on our new Longitude platform with a very successful first flight two weeks ago.”

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TRANSATLANTIC EUROPE ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL: TIME TO RECONSIDER?

From the Desk of Fabio Gamba EBAA CEO THE AVIATION INDUSTRY has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades thanks to ‘deregulation’, advances in technology and manufacturing, and massive growth in passenger demand due to greater competition and lower prices. Restrictions on ownership and control (O&C), however, have not kept pace with these winds of change. In the EU, the level of foreign investment remains limited to 49.9 percent, while in the US it is actually much more restrictive. These restrictions apply to Business Aviation as well as to the legacy carriers without distinction, despite their vastly different markets, economic impact and strategic significance. O&C forms the cornerstone of bilateral air transport agreements, with some 2000 such agreements between Europe and the rest of the world, for example. From a Business Aviation perspective, however, bilateral agreements are much less significant than for the airlines for two major reasons. Firstly, nonscheduled operations are not generally subject to bilateral agreement as these are mostly regulated through exchange of diplomatic letters between governments. Secondly, European Business Aviation remains largely focused on intra-EU flights, with movements beyond the EU accounting for only some 10 percent of sector 28 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

activity. While this number has grown in recent years, it remains a small fraction of overall traffic. At the same time, the Business Aviation sector is structured in a way that is rather unique in the air transport value chain. Contrary to the airlines, many European Business Aviation operators have established different streams of revenue in parallel to their air transport activities, ranging from consultancies to brokerage and from fixed-based operations to MROs. In some notable cases, the main revenue is actually generated by these ‘auxiliary’ activities rather than by air transport and such activities are not subject to any particular O&C restriction. Yet, many Business Aviation companies are faced with the odd predicament that the strict O&C rules effectively apply by extension to their auxiliary activities, making them less agile than their standalone competitors and thus creating an uneven playing field. The main arguments against the liberalisation of O&C are well documented: safety concerns (due to looser regulations in the other jurisdiction), flags of convenience and free-rider concerns (a third party exploiting a liberal regime without offering comparable access). These risks could be mitigated at least partially through a bilateral approach, involving ‘like-minded’ countries. In reality, however, the competition fears of the legacy carriers, reinforced by protectionist trends on both sides of the Atlantic, are the key forces of inertia. The European Commission has recently indicated a willingness to reassess O&C restrictions. In September 2016 it released what it calls an “Interpretative Guideline on Ownership & Control” and asked for stakeholders’ views – including those of EBAA. This is perhaps an opportune time for Business Aviation to reconsider the issue in a changing environment. This could include a sound discussion on how the seamless and international aspects of Business Aviation could be put forward without harming its legitimate interests.

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/EUROPE

ICAO ASSEMBLY SIGNED LANDMARK DECISION Even if aviation only emits approximately two percent of all global greenhouse gas emissions, it is nonetheless committed to substantially reducing its CO2 footprint. With ICAO’s CORSIA resolution now in place, the European Commission is invited to review its current EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS). Volker K. Thomalla reports AT ITS 39TH ASSEMBLY held last October in Montreal, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) decided to address international aviation carbon emissions by establishing a global carbon-offsetting scheme. The “Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation” (CORSIA) aims for carbon-neutral growth in international aviation emissions by 2020. Needless to say, CORSIA is no less than a landmark agreement. Aviation is the first and – so far – only industry to establish its own climate protection resolution. And although the initiative mainly targets airlines, it also has important implications for Business and General Aviation. The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) worked hard to ensure that ICAO members fully understood the unique characteristics of Business Aviation. Thanks to this effort, CORSIA contains numerous technical exemptions for small operators. “The EBAA is grateful to IBAC for the constructive role it played in the debate,” says EBAA CEO Fabio Gamba. “The worldwide Business Aviation community welcomes the decision by governments to establish a single, global carbon-offsetting scheme for international aviation,” adds IBAC Director General Kurt Edwards. “The framework agreed at IACO will help us meet our collective industry

commitments while also taking into account the needs of small operators.” Edwards further notes that the global framework means the industry will avoid facing a patchwork of multiple measures around the world. The resolution recognizes the potential administrative burdens for small operators and states. For example, it provides exemptions for operators that emit annually fewer than 10,000 tons of CO2 in international flights, for aircraft under 5,700 kg MTOW and for humanitarian flights. IBAC experts will continue to participate on the ICAO Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection as technical details are further worked out in the coming months. They will represent the interests of Business Aviation to ensure administrative simplicity for the 160 - 200 operators that Edwards expects to participate in the scheme. The Details CORSIA consists of three phases. First, from 2021 to 2023, states will volunteer to participate in the pilot phase, as well as in the subsequent first phase (2024 to 2026). Starting in 2027, the second phase will include all states that have 0.5 percent of total international revenue ton kilometers (RTK). CORSIA will apply to international flights between participating countries only. Domestic flights are not covered. Sixty-five states have announced their intention to participate in the pilot phase, including 44 European countries, the US, China and Japan. These states represent 84% of global international RTK. The objectives of CORSIA can be reached by improving fuel efficiency, using sustainable alternative fuels, enhancing the infrastructure and the airspace system, ensuring more direct routings and by implementing market-based measures.

The new CO2 standard for aircraft as developed by ICAO ensures continued progress. It has to be formally implemented by national authorities for new aircraft type designs starting in 2020 (2023 for business aircraft). As of 2028, aircraft that do not meet the standard will be cut-off from production. Time for the EU to Step to the Plate This all being said, one cannot ignore the fact that Business Aviation has served as the driver for innovation within the aerospace industry. It has already taken a leadership role in meeting a series of self-defined environmental goals. As a result, many of today’s business aircraft feature the latest engine technology, highlyefficient wings and the most modern avionics – all allowing them to fly more direct routes than ever before. With these measures in place, by 2050 aviation will have cut its CO2 emissions in half, compared to the CO2 emissions volume of 2005. Now, with CORSIA in place, it is time for the European Commission to review the current EU emissions trading system (EU ETS) as announced by the Commission earlier this year.

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TRANSATLANTIC U.S.A. ON OUR RADAR THIS MONTH AT NBAA’S CONVENTION: UNIVERSAL CONCERNS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

From the Desk of Ed Bolen NBAA President and CEO IN TODAY’S dynamic global environment, the importance of adequate preparation for international travel cannot be overstated. Regardless of your point of origin, international trip planning is a top concern for all business airplane operators, and the international operations and security session at NBAA's recently-concluded Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) offered practical information for business aviators about dealing with emergencies during overseas trips. The session, “International Operations and Security Hot Topics,” also offered important tips for dealing with a security crisis overseas. For example, it is generally preferable for international travelers to shelter in a safe place in the event of an emergency, rather than going to their national embassy, which itself could be a target. Christine Fagan, Western Hemisphere division chief at the US State Department, recommended those planning to travel overseas prepare by learning as much as possible about their destination beforehand; ensuring all travelers' passports are current, with no less than six months remaining before expiration; and securing travel insurance to cover the unforeseen 30 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

costs of medical treatment, including possible medical evacuation costs that could run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. For US citizens, Fagan also recommended enrollment in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service allowing US citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest US embassy or consulate. Enrollment also provides necessary contact information for the embassy, companies, friends and family to contact travelers in case of emergency. However, even when proper preparations for an overseas trip are made, things can still go wrong, noted Caterina Taylor, manager of North America business development for Jetex Flight Support. Because international service providers have incountry relationships, speak the language and have experience with emergencies such as aircraft-onground situations, they are wellpositioned to assist. International service providers can offer valuable assistance to operators in such cases, she added, even if they were not previously customers of the handling firm.

/U.S.A. TRANSATLANTIC For flights entering the United States, it’s important that operators have complete and correct information about flight crew and passenger data submitted through the US Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Electronic Advance Passenger Information System (eAPIS) web portal. Eric Rodriguez, program manager of general aviation for Customs and Border Protection, said his agency is “working toward more seamless transactions at the border.” He noted that CBP is developing a new general aviation operators guide and striving to improve the overflight exemption process, and recommended that operators flying overseas use a contractor to manage eAPIS data because unless it is perfect, it can cause problems for those aboard US-bound flights. As the world’s largest event focused on Business Aviation, NBAA’s annual Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition offers an ideal location for international operators to gather and discuss not only topics affecting the North American Business Aviation community, but also issues spanning the globe. On behalf of NBAA, we hope to see you at the 2017 edition of NBAA-BACE, coming to Las Vegas, NV from Oct. 10-12, 2017.

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NBAA STATEMENT ON OUTCOME OF NOV. 8 ELECTIONS

You asked. We acted. Duncan Aviation has full-service locations and a nationwide network of avionics and engine rapid response teams that provide comprehensive business aircraft service and help thousands of aircraft operators every year. Customers asked for more services accessible in the western United States. In 2018, Duncan Aviation will expand its Provo facility, adding nearly 275,000 square feet of buildings with a 222,000-square-foot maintenance and modifications center and a 53,000-square-foot paint facility. We continue to listen to our customer wishes and respond by developing and providing experience, unlike any other.

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen offered the following statement regarding the outcome of the Nov. 8 elections: "NBAA has always worked with elected officials in both political parties to advance policies that foster the growth of Business Aviation in the United States. In that spirit, we look forward to working with President-elect Trump, as well as those in his administration, and congressional representatives from both parties, to promote proposals that recognize the industry's value and protect its interests."

www.DuncanAviation.aero/60

✈ Experience. Unlike any other.

MEBAA PREVIEW

INTEREST IN BUSINESS AIRCRAFT BOOMING IN DUBAI Business Aviation plays an important part in the economic development of a region and MEBAA is its platform in the Middle East. The sector remains optimistic despite the low oil prices slowing down the dynamic of aircraft sales last year. Volker K. Thomalla sees paths back to growth

DISPLAY

Falcon 8X flying over the Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai.

The number of business aircraft registered in the Middle East and North Africa is expected to rise from today’s over 750 units to 1,200 units in 2020. Operators in the region are known to focus on large cabin and long-range aircraft. No wonder that aircraft manufacturers and service providers alike are exhibiting at the MEBAA 2016 air show in Dubai. The event is organized by F&E Aerospace on behalf of the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA). It will be open from December 6 to December 8 at the Aviation District in Dubai DWC. Visitors will see 460 exhibitors, which is a 9 percent increase over MEBAA 2014. Visitor numbers are predicted to reach a new record with 9,000 visitors. The number of aircraft in the sta-

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tic display will also reach a new record as the organizers expect 50 aircraft, compared to 44 aircraft in 2014. All major manufacturers like Airbus Corporate Jet, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier Aerospace Business Aircraft, Dassault Aviation, Embraer Executive Aircraft, Gulfstream Aerospace, Pilatus Aircraft and Textron Aviation will show their products in the static display. “The static display is always popular among our exhibitors and visitors alike. As there is no equivalent to viewing an aircraft and walking onto it to experience it completely. There are often queues for popular aircraft on display, especially at busy times. With so many expected for the MEBAA Show 2016, it will certainly be a popular part of the show”, said Ali Alnaqbi, founding chairman of MEBAA. “The interest we have seen from exhibitors for this year’s show is incredible,” he continued. “There really is an incredible appetite for Business Aviation in the Middle East. This has come to the attention of companies outside the region too. We have seen a significant increase in exhibitors from places such as Asia and Europe. They know that the

MEBAA Show is the ideal place for the industry to meet and do business with professionals from the region and beyond.” Interest from global exhibitors has risen over the years, reaffirming the region’s reputation in the industry. Of the 460 exhibitors at the MEBAA Show 2016, 30 percent will be from Europe and 27 percent from the USA. With the UAE still heavily represented at almost 20 percent of the exhibitors, others are coming from further afield such as Ivory Jet from Africa, Saint Royal Aviation from Asia, Embraer Executive Jets from Brazil, Fast Transit Aviation Service from China, and – amongst others – Greenpoint Technologies from the US.

Dassault Aviation will bring a Falcon 8X demonstrator to Dubai. The new 6,450 nm (11,945 km) 8X is the company’s flagship and received EASA and FAA certification in June this year. The first aircraft was handed over to Amjet from Greece in October 2016. “To see our new flagship Falcon handed over right on time in perfect operating order gives us immense pride,” said Eric Trappier, chairman & CEO of Dassault Aviation. “We are very pleased to deliver the first example of this great new aircraft to Amjet, a long time Falcon operator.” As the manufacturer had begun ramping up production of the new types in a very early stage, he is now capable of delivering aircraft quickly. Like all Falcon Business Jets, all Falcon 8X are produced as green aircraft in Dassault’s

Bordeaux-Mérignac facility in southwestern France and flown to Little Rock, Arkansas for completion and painting. Before the end of this year, Dassault will have delivered nearly a dozen 8Xs to customers around the world, including at least one customer from the United Arab Emirates. Gulfstream Aerospace’s presence in the region is already very strong. With the G500 on final approach to certification and its bigger sister G600 very close to first flight, Gulfstream wants to even increase its market share in the Middle East. Qatar Executive, part of Qatar Airways, converted three options for G650ER into firm orders this summer. The company has signed a 30-aircraft agreement in May 2015 which includes orders for the G500 and G600 as well. When

the G650ERs are delivered, Qatar Executive will be the largest dedicated G650 operator in the world. The G500 will replace the G450 in Gulfstream’s portfolio. The company has just recently announced that it will end G450 production and that the final G450 delivery to a customer is scheduled for early 2018. The G450 built on the successes of the GIV and GIV-SP, which have been class-leading aircraft since they first entered service. In total, Gulfstream produced more than 870 GIV, GIV-SP, and G450 aircraft; which will continue to be supported and serviced by the company. The GIV family of aircraft revolutionized Business Aviation with increased range, industry-leading flight-deck technology, advanced aircraft systems, and better reliability. All of which laid the groundwork for Gulfstream to design the innovative G500. “The GIV and G450 ushered in a Business Aviation renaissance that has led to increased safety, greater reliability, better technology and improved performance,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “It’s fitting that the G500 will replace the G450 and build upon its performance legacy creating another industry game-changer from Gulfstream.” Bombardier Aerospace will highlight once again its Challenger and Global family at MEBAA. Visitors can expect to see a Global 6000 and a Challenger 650. The Canadian manufacturer expects about 350 deliveries of new aircraft into the region between 2016 and 2025, most of them large cabin and long-range jets.

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VETERAN

The Qatar Executive G650ER (top) and Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, the founding chairman of the MEBAA.

MEBAA PREVIEW tral EVS-3000 enhanced vision system. The HUD’s compact size allowed it to seamlessly be incorporated into the Legacy cockpit and fully integrate with Rockwell Collins’ Pro Line Fusion avionics suite. The Legacy 450 is the third Embraer type to be assembled in Florida, following the light jets Phenom 100 and Phenom 300. In just five years, the company has delivered nearly 200 Phenoms from Melbourne. In the Middle East, Embraer is very successful with its Lineage 1000 bizThe Brazilian manufacturer which started building business aircraft only 11 years ago, has celebrated the first flight of its first Legacy 450 business jet which was assembled in its Melbourne, Florida, facility on October 4. “We are very satisfied to have successfully completed this important milestone and we are on track to deliver this aircraft in December,” said Marco Tulio Pellegrini, president & CEO, Embraer Executive Jets. On October 5th, Embraer could celebrate another milestone event as the Head-Up Display (HUD) and Enhanced Vision

PARADE

Major OEMs are exhibiting some 50 aircraft on static.

System for the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 were awarded certification by Brazil’s civil aviation authority (ANAC), the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The Company has combined these two systems into the Embraer Enhanced Vision System (E2VS) to raise situational awareness in all phases of flight and enable more missions to be safely completed in inclement weather and low visibility. “The Legacy 450 and

Legacy 500 are the first aircraft to set this new standard of operational performance in the mid-light and midsize segments,” said Marco Tulio Pellegrini. “Combined with these aircraft’s Full Fly-By-Wire Technology, the Embraer Enhanced Vison System delivers innovation previously only available in much larger business aircraft, at a fraction of the price.” E2VS consists of a compact HUD, incorporating Rockwell Collins’ new Head-up Guidance System and its multi-spec-

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liner. The region is the largest market for this type. The Embraer Legacy 600 and 650 play a significant role in the region, too. The Middle East is the second largest market for this aircraft type. Textron Aviation is expanding its portfolio with bigger jets like the Cessna Citation Latitude, the Cessna Citation Longitude and the Citation Hemisphere. The latter is in development right now and should be flying from 2019 on. It will feature a 4,500 nm (8,334 km) range and a fuselage diameter of 102 inches (2,59 m), making it the roomiest of all Citations. Its smaller sibling, the Citation Longitude, took to the air for the first time on October 8, 2016 in Wichita, Kansas. The Longitude took off from the company’s east campus Beech Field Airport, piloted by experimental test pilots Ed Wenninger and Stuart Rogerson. During the two hour and two-minute flight, the team tested the aircraft’s flaps, landing gear, pressurization systems, stability and control. “Today’s successful first flight of the Citation Longitude was performed exactly as we anticipated,” said Scott

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MEBAA PREVIEW further strengthen our reputation as one of the leading general aviation service providers across the Middle East. Our skilled and friendly team of ground handlers and customer service professionals are dedicated to ensuring the best possible personalized services for all our valued clients,” said Adel Mardini, CEO and president of Jetex. Visitors and exhibitors of MEBAA 2016 might arrive earlier not to miss the MEBAA conference a day before the opening of the airshow. Featuring a line-up of industry leading speakers,

SPOTLIGHT

Netjets' Citation Latitude (top), Jeddah MEBAA Conference on 1-2 May, 2016 (center) and Jetex UAE (bottom).

Ernest, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “Our product development process is second to none and allowed us to move smoothly from unveiling the Longitude last November, to the first flight of the prototype in just 11 months. This milestone not only showcases our continued commitment to investing in new products to meet market demand, but also our focus on investing in our development and production processes to bring the aircraft to market quickly without compromise.” Textron Aviation has delivered over 7000 Jets so far, more than any other OEM. The milestone aircraft – a Citation Latitude for NetJets – was handed over in June this year. But its market share in the Middle East is comparatively small. With the new types that offer larger cabins and more range, Textron Aviation has the means to succeed in this region, too. MEBAA visitors who come to Dubai with their own aircraft can expect a superior service with traditional Arabic hospitality because Jetex Flight Support has been appointed as the official FBO and handler for MEBAA 2016. “This agreement is a testament to the quality standards Jetex offers to their valued clients. We have been pleased to partner Jetex for the past two years to successfully curate some of the most significant Business Aviation shows within the MENA region, including the MEBAA Show 2014 and the Dubai Airshow 2015,” said Michele van Akelijen, managing director of F&E. Jetex will provide full flight support services for all Business Aviation flights operating from its brand-new VIP terminal at the Aviation District

in DWC. Jetex will also offer bespoke FBO facilities for passengers and crew, in addition to customers and immigration services, visa arrangements, aircraft parking, and coordination of aircraft display areas at the MEBAA Show 2016. “We are thankful to F&E Aerospace and MEBAA for this opportunity to

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the conference, supported by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), will address a range of topics affecting Business Aviation in the region with a particular focus on the UAE market. Homaid Al Shimmari, CEO, Aerospace and Engineering Services, Mubadala, will give the keynote address launching the one-day event. Presentations will include “Investment in Business Aviation” and an in-depth presentation of the MENA region Business Aviation outlook. With Expo 2020 in Dubai looming closer, the panel discussion “Investing in Business Aviation Infrastructure in the Lead up to Expo 2020” will assess how new developments at airports such as Al Maktoum, Sharjah and Al Bateen will impact Business Aviation across the UAE, examining potential improvements in passenger handling and the expected benefits to the local economy.

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REGIONAL FOCUS

MIDDLE EAST: A MATURE MARKET WITH A LOT OF POTENTIAL

HEADWAY

The MEBAA show has grown in line with the Business Aviation market in the Middle East. 38 - BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017

Low oil prices in tandem with ongoing conflicts affect the demand for business aircraft in the Middle East. But with Iran back in aviation business, Volker K. Thomalla sees hopes for a surge in demand within the region in the near future

“B

usiness Aviation is an expanding market in the Middle East,” said Ali Alnaqbi, founding chairman of the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) at the MEBAA conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, earlier this year. “According to WINGX Business Aviation flights from Saudi Arabia in particular increased 13.8 percent year-on-year in 2014 and 14.7 percent to 2015. The first quarter of 2016 showed that flights are still increasing in the region with the trend extending into this year. As an organization, MEBAA aims to provide the platform for the industry to meet and grow.” Alnaqbi continued: “And by working with WINGX to discover specific regional trends and data, we are able to provide dedicated information that provides value to our members.” There were almost 3500 business jet flights from Saudi Arabia in 2015 with over 80 percent of them taking off from King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh and King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah. The most popular destinations included Le Bourget in Paris, London Luton and London Stansted. There’s little doubt that the Middle East is a mature market for Business Aviation with an installed fleet of over 750 aircraft, nearly 200 of them in Saudi Arabia alone. Nevertheless, Business Aviation in the region represents a relatively small percentage of

the global business fleet. As true as it is, it is also a fact that the Middle East still has a lot of potential. Iran for example was cut off from western made business aircraft for a long time and its neighbor Iraq is still not recovering from the wars that were fought and the fight against ISIS. In 2005 when the United Nations imposed sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran following a dispute over the Iranian nuclear program, its fleet decreased quickly to a number of only eight aircraft. These sanctions have partially been lifted in January 2016 and will be completely cancelled in October 2023, if all treaties are served. Now, it is once again allowed to export civil aircraft, including business aircraft, into Iran. Several sources estimate the demand for business aircraft in the country to up to 100 aircraft in the next five years alone. In March this year, the number of business aircraft based in Iran has risen to 46 units. Iran has a rich history in aviation, having one of the largest civil aircraft fleet in the 60s and early 70s. This ended with the 1979 revolution. The country is the second largest economy in the Middle East and has the second largest population in the region. It features a good aviation infrastructure with about 75 airports suitable for Business Aviation (compared to only twelve in the United Arab Emirates)

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RESPECT

MEBAA's Ali Alnaqbi (center) and Riyadh King Khalid Airport Mosque (bottom).

REGIONAL FOCUS

FACILITY

Jetex Flight Support Dubai (top) and King Abdulaziz International Airport (bottom).

and the government is willing to invest to further strengthen the airport infrastructure. Shortly before the sanctions were lifted, the NBAA had a close look at how the lifting of the sanctions would impact Business Aviation. “Currently, the number of business aircraft flights into Tehran is modest.” Chris Avillanoza, a Jetex Flight Support team leader and operations manager previously based at Jetex’s Dubai, UAE headquarters, said two-to-three flights a month to Tehran is the norm. Jetex uses a local agent in Iran to arrange ground-handling services and liaise with landing and departing aircraft. Arranging landing permits in Iran requires a letter (in Farsi) from a local sponsor, typically the Iranian company that has invited the business visitors. The Civil Aviation Organization (CAO) of the Islamic Republic of Iran will then provide approval for flight operations. Avillanoza said the landing permit process can be completed in as little as one working day. In cases where the desired airport is congested during the proposed date of operation, Iranian aviation officials may suggest an alternate airport suitable for Business Aviation. “The demand for operations is slowly increasing with European operators and we have found through our own experience that the aviation support infrastructure in Iran is quite good,” said Caterina Taylor, Jetex’s manager of North American business development. “They have ample support

equipment, safety and security facilities in place, and the experience of all I’ve spoken with has been positive in terms of service level and friendliness of people in Iran.” As in many other countries in the region, the demand is focused on large cabin and long-range business aircraft. The country needs business aircraft quickly as it wants to catch up with other economies in the region. Therefore, Iranian business owners are ready to purchase used aircraft too, if they are available. But financing business aircraft for Iranian customers is still a challenge and it poses a major hurdle to many sales because Iran so far hasn’t signed the Cape Town Convention for mobile goods. Many financial institu-

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tions are not offering leasing or financing of aircraft in the country, even if it is allowed now after the sanctions have been lifted. They prefer to finance aircraft which are registered in the neighboring states like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Bahrain. After decades of sanctions, it will take some time until the banks and financiers will become comfortable with dealing with Iranian customers. The demand in Iran is not limited to aircraft for business travel. The local airlines have a strong need to train their pilots accordingly when they buy new aircraft – which they have announced only weeks after the sanctions were lifted. There are opportunities for aircraft OEM’s to offer entry-

ly. Ahmed Al Ansari, Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Dubai South, said at the MEBAA conference: “With its high concentration of high net worth individuals, Saudi Arabia remains one of the most promising of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets in terms of this demand. In addition, private jet usage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also higher than the global and regional average.” Al Ansari said that as the Gulf countries diversify, the resulting increase in trade and business will attract more traffic. He highlighted that with that comes the need for better infrastructure, airport capacity and airport access for private jets to accommodate the growth in the Business Aviation sector. level business jets for pilot training. Emirates Flight Training Academy and Etihad Flight College, both of the UAE, have ordered five respectively four Embraer Phenom 100E for their training programs. They could serve as a role model for flight training in Iran, too. Etihad Flight College has taken delivery of its first Phenom 100E in July this year and will have all its training jets delivered by the end of 2017, while deliveries of Emirates’ Phenom 100 will start in the first half of 2017. Emirates Flight Training Academy is due to open in October 2016. It upgraded its order for the Phenom 100E to an order for five Phenom 100EV which was launched in July 2016 at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Featuring a new avionics suite with the Prodigy Touch flight deck, based on the Garmin G3000 and modified Pratt & Whitney Canada PW617F1-E engines; the Phenom 100EV offers more speed with superior hot-and-high performance compared to the original Phenom 100E. Business aircraft demand in the Middle East is also spurred by aircraft replacements, even if the drop in oil prices has hit the market in this region especially hard. Honeywell saw a slight decrease in demand in the region in its last forecast, which is no surprise given another year of significant political upheaval and ongoing conflicts in conjunction with low oil prices. The overall demand for the region will stay below the traditional 4-7 percent range of global aircraft

deliveries. But according to the Bombardier Business Aircraft market forecast, the number of business jets in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa) is predicted to grow over 80 percent by 2023. There is a reason for it. In average, business jet owners in the region are much younger than the global average. They also have more liquid assets and have more likely inherited their wealth than self-made, reported Richard Koe, managing director of WINGX, in BART International. The typical aircraft purchase value in the Middle East was at USD $48M compared to the then global average of USD $16M. As the oil prices are expected to rise again, the replacement demand will increase according-

The UK based Gama Aviation has released its market research results early this year. They have found out, that 56 percent of the Middle East’s fleet are medium to large business aircraft while 14 percent are bizliners up to the Boeing 747. Compared to the global distribution, the Middle East market leans clearly towards the heavy side as only 30 percent of the global business aircraft fleet are medium to large aircraft while the bizliners account only for 0.3 percent of the global fleet. It is no wonder that at least half of all flights from the Middle East are operated in large cabin Bombardier and Gulfstream aircraft. Entry level and light jets don’t play any important role in business travel in the region. The same is true

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TRAINING

Phenom 100E of Emirates Flight Training Academy (left) and Etihad Flight College (right).

REGIONAL FOCUS East & Africa in the 2016 Professional Pilot PRASE Survey, the company’s 6th such honor. “I am very proud and honored to accept this award on behalf of our team of handling professionals in Dubai,” said Philippe Gerard, senior director of Jet Aviation’s Dubai FBO. “We strive to distinguish our services by paying attention to the smallest of details to provide personalized service that is truly memorable.” The Business Aviation ground infrastructure in the region is very good and investments are made to even improve it. Dubai South will open its first dedicated VIP terminal in time for the upcoming Middle East

SERVICE

Gama Aviation Sharjah FBO (left) and Jet Aviation Dubai (right).

for turboprop aircraft. Martin Ringrose, GAMA Aviation’s Managing Director for the Middle East region, commented: “The Middle East Business Aviation market is rapidly developing and is one of our major focus areas, which is why we are expanding our operations at the Sharjah International Airport. We expect to see the number of business aircraft in the region – especially the larger ones, which we focus on – to increase and with our experience, global footprint and economies of scale, we believe we are well positioned to capitalize on this growth.” The need for long-range aircraft in the region is self-explaining with a look at the major destinations of business flights. Only a very small portion of business traffic is within the Middle East region itself. With Iran being back on the Business Aviation map again, this might change in the mid-term. But right now the vast majority of all business aircraft flights are heading to Turkey, closely followed by the United Kingdom and France. The most popular destination for flights originating in the Gulf region is by far the UK’s capital London. The Middle East has always been a good market for Business Aviation related services and this sector of the business is expected to grow. But it is a very competitive market, too with more players coming to the region. Jet Aviation has been present in the Middle East for years now. It operates two FBOs in Dubai (one in Dubai South, formerly known as Dubai World Central and one at Dubai

International Airport) and three (Jeddah, Medina and Riyadh) in Saudi Arabia, which is the country with the largest installed business aircraft fleet in the Middle East. At the tenth annual Middle East Aviation Business Awards ceremony recently held at the Conrad Hotel in Dubai, Jet Aviation’s Dubai International Airport FBO won the 2016 FBO of the year award, while its Dubai MRO facility was shortlisted in the MRO service provider of the year category. Jet Aviation had established its FBO at Dubai International Airport in May 2005 to strengthen the company’s global network for its clientele in the Middle East. Since then, it has handled more than 25,000 aircraft arriving in Dubai from all over the world — and received numerous awards for its 24/7 domestic and international handling services. Earlier this year, it was voted Best FBO in the Middle

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Business Aviation Association show in December. The terminal will house two FBOs: Jetex Flight Support and Falcon Aviation Services. Jetex will offer its customers a unique service: It has entered into an agreement with the commuter airline Seawings. Customers landing at the former Dubai World Central Airport will benefit from air transfers to major locations across the Emirates onboard a Cessna Caravan amphibious plane. According to Jetex, this service will significantly save time for clients by helping them avoid road traffic heading towards the city. Fitted leather seats and a spacious air-conditioned cabin of the Cessna Caravan will ensure a relaxing trip for VIP travelers. The service compliments an extensive range of FBO services Jetex has on offer at Dubai South which includes three Bentley automobiles for ramp transfers besides the

main ground handling arrangement, on-site customs and immigration, concierge service and much more. “Our main aim is to ensure our clients have the best experience. We are proud to collaborate with Seawings and to enhance our service offering in our hometown. This service will provide a convenient mode of transport for our customers.” said Ahmad Badreddine, Operations Manager at Jetex. “Seawings is proud to work with Jetex and Park Hyatt and to provide a premier wing to wing service from Jetex FBO to Dubai Creek. This oneof-a-kind service offers travelers a comfortable travel experience com-

bined with incredible views of the UAE. Seawings seaplanes can take off and land on water or runways and thus offer easy connectivity to various locations. Travelers can save time spent on busy Dubai roads and take the scenic route to the doorstep of their hotel. The Park Hyatt is only a few steps away from the Seawings seaplane dock at Dubai Creek and offers luxury living in park-like surroundings in the heart of Dubai.” stated Stuart Wheeler, CEO of Seawings. The Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi is located only some 50 miles southwest of Dubai South airport. It is the first dedicated private jet airport in the Middle East and North Africa and was handed over from the military to Abu Dhabi’s airport authority in 2008. The airport has a capacity of 50 jets and promotes itself with fast and efficient turnarounds with no holding patterns and

short taxi times. The airport is undergoing expansions of its infrastructure which include a new VVIP facility, apron enhancements, renewal of the runway, a new fuel farm, upgrades to existing hangars and free zone benefits. The Sharjah International Airport targets the same markets as Al Bateen and Dubai South. UK’s Gama Aviation is building a FBO and maintenance facility at this airport which is – according to Gama Aviation – closer to many key Dubai destinations than its competitors. Business Aviation maintenance is expanding in the region, too, with new facilities being built at Al Bateen, Dubai South and other airports. MRO companies are traditionally facing tough competition from European service providers or OEM’s authorized service centers in Europe who look after their client’s

aircraft while they are on business trips in Europe. But the maintenance knowledge base in the Middle East – especially in the UAE and in Saudi Arabia – is quickly growing with more and more locals working in this sector to serve their customers. DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, for example, is a joint company between Germany’s DC Aviation and a local investor in Dubai. They are building a second maintenance hangar in Dubai South to accommodate more aircraft. They are attracting potential customers with the claim: “DC Aviation Al-Futtaim unites quality made in Germany and Arabic hospitality.” “Business Aviation in the UAE is still a growing industry”, said Ali Alnaqbi. “There is a wealth of opportunities here, in addition to some region specific challenges.” He pointed out that government and industry support is necessary to allow the industry to grow at such a rate, with airport support, landing slots and clearances all required to foster growth. “I am pleased to report that the three governments, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, represent the majority of the Business Aviation market in the MENA region and are listening to our requests,” he said. “Infrastructure changes and developments do not happen overnight, but the Business Aviation requirement has been identified, and we are working towards a solution that will benefit the industry and therefore the economy as a whole.”

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BART: DECEMBER - JANUARY 2016 - 2017 - 43

DEDICATION

Al Bateen Executive Airport terminal (right) and MEBAA Conference (left).

CONNECTIVITY MEBAA

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR INFLIGHT CONNECTIVITY IN MENA REGION Inflight connectivity

aboard business aircraft has gone from being a

novel “nice to have” to a business necessity. And operators in the Middle East have been quickest to adopt the latest systems. The MEBAA show at Dubai World Central on 6-8 December will be an opportunity to find out what is available. Steve Nichols reports

BROADBAND

Bombardier Global 6000 (left) fitted with Inmarsat Jet ConneX (right).

igh-speed Ka and Ku-band systems now allow TV, video calling and conferencing, highspeed broadband internet access, email, VPN access, VOIP and much more for the cabin. And the flight deck is not being forgotten either with wirelessly-updated flight maps, real-time weather updates, and maintenance information. So what is driving this growth? By MENA Inmarsat’s Jet ConneX (JX) Ka-band service for the Business Aviation community will have achieved commercial service introduction. While Inmarsat’s existing SwiftBroadband (SB) service uses Lband frequencies in the 1 to 2GHz range, Ka uses much higher microwave frequencies in the 26.5–40GHz area of the spectrum. Just as an FM radio broadcast can offer higher quality than medium wave, the higher Ka-band radio frequencies being used means data throughputs can be increased dramatically, offering in the region of 15-30

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Connectivity at the speed of business Staying connected while on the go is no longer an option, it’s a requirement. Rockwell Collins’ ARINCDirectSM ensures you and your passengers have access to the fastest broadband speeds available – anywhere, anytime with Jet ConneX Ka-band service from Inmarsat. Unleash the next generation in aircraft connectivity and experience unparalleled performance – global, seamless and reliable. All from your trusted source for comprehensive flight support services. Learn more at rockwellcollins.com/arincdirect

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CONNECTIVITY MEBAA

SELECT

Honeywell’s tail mount MCS 8000 antenna. Kurt Weidemeyer, Inmarsat VP Strategy and Business (center).

megabits per second (Mbps) to a tailmount antenna, compared with 200432kbps with SB – up to a 30-75x speed increase. Honeywell is building the antennas and avionics needed for aircraft wanting to use the service. Narrow and wide-body VVIP aircraft can be fitted with a fuselage-mounted Honeywell MCS-8200 JetWave antenna that can track the satellite. Smaller aircraft, such as bizjets, can use the tail-mounted MCS-8000 parabolic dish antenna. Tipping the scales at just 9lbs, the lightweight bizjet antenna can easily be balanced on one hand. Both antennas will have to sit under a radome made from specialist materials transparent to the microwave radio signals being beamed down from the three I-5 satellites 22,000 miles above the equator. STCs for both antennas are coming thick and fast. Honeywell originally STC’s the fuselage-mounted antenna on its Boeing 757, but that STC is being joined by others for the Airbus A319, A320, A330, A350 and A380. Kurt Weidemeyer, Inmarsat’s vp Strategy and Business, said: “We already have a lot of pre-orders for customers upgrading to GX from SwiftBroadband. It is already fitted and STC’d on an VVIP Airbus A340 and other potential users have tested Jet ConneX. The demand is huge.”

Weidemeyer said that the tailmount antenna for smaller business aircraft is also proving to be more efficient than they originally thought. “Testing has shown that we can get throughputs of up to around 38Mbps to the tail-mount, which is higher than the 30-33Mbps we originally designed for.” The tail-mount antenna was tested originally on Honeywell’s Dassault Falcon 900, but other manufacturers are also being covered. Speaking at NBAA-BACE 2016, Carl Esposito, Vice President Marketing and Product Management, Honeywell Aerospace,

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said: "As the exclusive hardware provider and master airtime service distributor for Jet ConneX, Honeywell has been attracting strong market demand even before the service's commercial service introduction was achieved. There are eight aircraft models that have been certified for JetWave installation and over 20 certifications in progress - with hardware delivering now. Business jet operators are demanding access to fast in-flight Wi-Fi and Honeywell is excited to substantially raise the standards for the business aviation industry with Inmarsat." In late October, Honeywell has launched its new CNX-900 cabin network router which maximizes inflight connectivity capabilities for business jet operators and passengers. The router is supported by Honeywell's GoDirect routing software, which maximizes available onboard bandwidth. If several devices are connected with the internet at the same time, the available bandwidth for each device decreases. Honeywell has developed an app which allows users to see who on board is connected with the router and which provider is used. The app enables users to control access to the router and give priority to certain devices which then can use the full bandwidth to up- and download large files, for example. The app also offers control over the connectivity cost by enabling or disabling a provider if there is a choice. It is tailored to the individual customer and its rate plans. Bombardier announced in September that all existing Global aircraft customers can now take advantage of ultra-high-speed inflight Jet ConneX internet access with seamless coverage across the globe. Awarded a supplemental type certificate, Bombardier Wireless Access Virtually Everywhere (WAVE) can now be installed on all Bombardier Global 5000 and Global 6000 aircraft, as well as previous Global aircraft models as a retrofit. Jean-Christophe Gallagher, vice president and general manager, Customer Experience, Bombardier Business Aircraft, said: “Existing Global aircraft customers can install

the system at any of our Bombardier Service Centers, and take advantage of an ultra-high-speed in-flight connectivity and productivity solution to make the most efficient use of their time onboard. “Global customers can benefit from the Service Centre Network’s comprehensive capabilities and flexibility, all while maximizing their downtime by pairing their installation with their next aircraft maintenance event,” he added. Bombardier flew its JX-equipped and STC’d Global 6000 to EBACE in May, complete with its tail-mount Honeywell antenna. The pilot reported the system worked well, allowing FaceTime and Skype calls while over the Atlantic en-route and delivering multi-megabit speeds. GDC Group is working on the development of Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) for the installation of the Honeywell’s Ka-Band JetWave hardware on different Boeing and Airbus aircraft. It says the FAA/EASA STCs will be finalized during the 1st quarter of 2017. Weidemeyer said that it could have a total of 40 different aircraft installed with JX within eighteen months. Customers can pick a JX package to suit their needs, with guaranteed speeds of up to 15Mbps – that’s up 30x faster than Inmarsat SwiftBroadband. Once the service is up and running fully this may be increased to, perhaps, up to 30Mbps – Inmarsat wants to see how the system performs and how demand pans out before making a decision. So with GX coming online any time soon, is that the end of Inmarsat’s slower SwiftBroadband (SBB) service. Far from it, Inmarsat expects the two services to be complementary, not for GX to replace SBB. In fact, Inmarsat is continuing to invest in SBB which it feels has a long life ahead of it. As well as offering data speeds to the cabin of up to 432kbps – enough for emails, small file transfers and phone calls using Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) – there is a lightweight version known as SB200, which uses smaller, lighter antennas and is therefore well suited to bizjets.

Fabien Bordet, aviation business development director at Dubaibased Universal Satcom, will be exhibiting at MEBAA (stand 484) and is a big fan of SwiftBroadband. “It is a very cost-effective solution,” he said. “A typical SBB installation can cost less than half that of a typical Ku-band system. Also, I think some Ku-band suppliers over promise on the typical speeds that are available. This then questions the validity of a VSAT (Ku-band) investment against its very late break-even point. “While they may say you can get one Mbps download speeds, a typical upload speed might be more like

128kbps. That’s the kind of upload speed you can get with SwiftBroadband,” he said. “Also, you don’t necessarily get worldwide coverage with Ku-band coverage, which you do get with SBB. And the Ku-band VSAT speeds are not guaranteed, and neither are the committed speeds advertised. I believe that as long as Ku-band comes with volume limitations, it will never be anything more than just an SBB+.” Bordet said he will be happy to talk to potential customers at MEBAA and outline how Universal Satcom is able to offer a complete turn-key project-managed solution (from engineering to Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization work, installation included) with Cobham SATCOM equipment. Inmarsat is also currently flight testing aviation “Safety Services” – air traffic control (ATC) instructions passed from the ground to aircraft. Known as SwiftBroadband Safety (SB-S), this will allow Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS) data messages to be passed over an SBB satellite link to a Cobham terminal. Inmarsat Aviation President Leo Mondale said: “This is the start of a revolution in communications for the flight deck. It shows the way forward for Future Air Navigation Systems (FANS) for the nearly 10,000 aircraft currently relying on our Inmarsat

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TRADEMARK

Honeywell’s fuselage mounted Ka-band antenna for Inmarsat (top). Universal Satcom (bottom).

CONNECTIVITY MEBAA

PRIDE

ViaSat's James Person with small Ka-band antenna (top).

Classic Aero services, which were launched over 20 years ago. “SwiftBroadband Safety provides prioritized voice and ACARS/FANS data transmission when an aircraft is out of reach of land-based communications, which is indispensable for aircraft flying over oceans.” As well as ACARS, SB-S also supports flight deck voice services and IP connectivity to the flight deck, enabling other flight operations and cockpit services, such as inflight updates to Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) downloads. It also supports aircraft position reporting and tracking, and voice transmission for air traffic management (ATM) communications. A range of terminal variants will be available, ensuring SB-S can meet the requirements of all aircraft types, including business jets. So is there anything else in the pipeline for bizjet operators? Iridium has also been another mainstay for operators in the MENA region. Using a constellation of lowearth orbiting satellites, Iridium’s biggest plus has been the small antennas needed for the system to work. Often only the size of a hockey puck, this has meant installation costs could be kept low. The downside is that Iridium only offers very low data speeds of around 2.4kbps – good enough to offer telephone services and basic e-mail services, but not fast enough for video or large file transfers.

Iridium is also authorized for critical air traffic control communications (Safety Services) for aircraft operating in oceanic airspace This followed the completion of an FAA process evaluating aircraft flying in airspace under its jurisdiction to use Future Air Navigation System (FANS) 1/A over Iridium. But times are changing and the company has plans for a new constellation of 66 satellites and a number of in-orbit spares to be launched called Iridium NEXT. Iridium announced in June that its first NEXT satellites have completed assembly and testing, and are now

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prepared for shipment to the launch site at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. “After more than seven years of effort, the first of our next-generation satellites are finally ready for space,” said Matt Desch, chief executive officer, Iridium. All the Iridium NEXT satellites were originally scheduled for launch by late 2017. Starting in 2018, the Iridium NEXT constellation will enable Aireon’s satellite-based system to provide global aircraft surveillance in real time. Iridium and SpaceX have partnered for a series of seven launches, with ten Iridium NEXT satellites deployed at a time. But SpaceX’s recent launch problems, with a rocket exploding on the launch pad in Cape Canaveral in September, means no firm dates can be put on the Iridium NEXT launches, which may delay the timescale for the global roll-out. Facebook, in partnership with Eutelsat Communications, had been due to use the Amos-6 satellite, which was destroyed, to deliver broadband internet coverage for parts of sub-Saharan Africa as part of its Internet.org initiative. But if you don’t want SwiftBroadband or Iridium, and can’t wait for Jet ConneX or Iridium NEXT, there is another alternative available to bizjet operators. ViaSat’s Yonder and Exede in the Air high-speed connectivity services promise cable-like performance, plus seamless connections around the globe, via Ku-band and Ka-band satellite connections. Yonder offers up to 1.5 Mbps to the aircraft and up to 128 kbps off with STCs for a host of aircraft including Gulfstream, Boeing (BBJ), Cessna and Bombardier. ViaSat currently has extensive coverage throughout the world and there are plans to extend this further over the next few years, especially over parts of North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Far East and Northern Scandinavia. There is currently good coverage over the Middle East. ViaSat signed a multi-year agreement with Dassault Aviation at EBACE to deliver bundled global Ku-band broadband inflight connectivity, inclusive of in-cabin network equipment.

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CONNECTIVITY MEBAA

FEATURE

Satcom Direct provides SiriusXM satellite weather and radio to the bizav industry.

Installation of the system will begin mid-2016 on the Falcon 8X, with deliveries by the end of the year. ViaSat said if Falcon owners want to move up to a tail-mount Ka-band antenna at a later date, the upgraded components are the same form and fit as their Ku counterparts, so it is a relatively easy procedure. And talking of Ka-band, Viasat Exede in the Air takes speeds even higher thanks to its higher frequency, but there is currently patchy coverage over the Middle East, with large area of Saudi Arabia not covered, although there is a footprint over Dubai and Bahrain. Exede boosts cabin-available speeds up to around 12-15Mbps via a network of three satellites. Europe is covered by an agreement with Eutelsat for coverage over its KA-

SAT satellite. ViaSat-2 is also coming in 2017, bridging North America and Europe Ka-band satellite coverage. ViaSat also has embryonic plans for Ka-band coverage over the MENA region in the future with its ViaSat-3 constellation, which will eventually bring three terabits globally from around 2020. ViaSat’s James Person said: “Each of the three Ka-band ViaSat-3 satellites will bring 1,000 Gbps of new capacity to the market. There has been exponential, not linear, growth in the mobile data market and we aim to supply that demand.” The first two ViaSat-3 satellites will focus on the Americas and Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), respectively, with a third satellite system planned for the Asia Pacific region, completing ViaSat’s global service coverage. Once all three satellites are in position, ViaSat says it will be able to offer more than 200 times the Ka-band capacity of Inmarsat’s Global Xpress solution. Satcom Direct (SD) from Melbourne, Florida, provides global connectivity solutions for business and general aviation as well as for military aircraft. The company has always been a pioneer in aviation connectivity. On November 1, it announced another first: It now provides SiriusXM satellite weather and radio to the business aviation industry. The SiriusXM services are integrated into SD's flight operations management platform, SD Pro, providing access to view and manage subscriptions. SiriusXM is not a

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global system, but it focusses on the North American market and provides North American coast-to-coast high-resolution weather and inflight entertainment. Its fleet of satellites operates on S-band frequencies. Pro Weather service delivers detailed weather and data including NEXRAD storm cell attributes, cloud-to-cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning strike locations, high-resolution composite and base reflectivity radar, surface visibility; TAFs and METARs, wind and temperatures aloft, to name a few. Panasonic Avionics Corporation announced at NBAA-BACE in Orlando, that it has chosen Satcom Direct as its first business, private and government aviation reseller for its global connectivity service. David Bruner, Vice President of Global Communications Services, at Panasonic, said: "For business customers, staying connected is more than just email. With SD, we are changing the game in business aviation communications. Not only will these demanding customers experience higher speeds and more reliability than other services, they will also be able to enjoy three channels of live television everywhere they fly." Scott Hamilton, CSO for SD, added: "We are proud to have been chosen by Panasonic as the first value added reseller for its Ku-band service." Satcom Direct announced in late October that it had agreed to acquire TrueNorth Avionics, a Ottawa, Canada, based company that offers the latest technology in cabin communications solutions. "The acquisition of TrueNorth will broaden our avionics product portfolio and enable us to accelerate our efforts to bring fully integrated communications solutions to our customers. The ingenuity behind the Satcom Direct Router and our SD Pro flight operations platform combined with TrueNorth's highly advanced avionics will give aircraft operators and unrivaled ability to manage their aircraft communications systems, while giving passengers a user experience which exceeds their expectations", said Jim Jensen, founder and CEO of Satcom Direct.

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COMPLETION

THE BIG SHOW DRAWS THE BIGGEST PLAYERS Kirby Harrison sees renewed confidence and expansion in VIP cabin completion centers despite a temporary slump in aircraft deliveries Most are moving more energetically into maintenance and overhaul, often combining it with simultaneous cabin refurbishment, saving the customer time and money as well as broadening market appeal. Associated Air Center provides repair service, not only at its Dallas, Texas facilities but also at any other location deemed necessary by the customer and authorized under its 14 CFR Part 145 repair station approval. Airbus Corporate Jet Center is actively courting airline business. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are very much involved in cabinupgrades, which we expect to grow in the next few years [and] we have already signed contracts with major airlines,â&#x20AC;? said Bruno Cousin, head of ACJC sales.

FAIR

Airbus ACJ350 (top) and its dining room by Jet Aviation (center). MEBA Show is the largest faceto-face bizav event in the Middle East (bottom).

hen the 7th MEBAA Show 2016 opens on December 6 at Dubai World Trade Center in the United Arab Emirates, it is expected to draw record numbers and among them will be some of the larger VIP cabin completion centers, along with many of their major suppliers. At the same time that these centers are living out a minor boom, they are anticipating a temporary slump as deliveries of new VIP aircraft dwindle. And looking forward, many centers are expanding their capabilities in an effort to diversify their revenue stream and comfortably ride out the lull until deliveries of the next wave of new VIP jets begins in 2018.

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Most of the centers are also finding a ready market for cabin connectivity – Ka- and Ku-band – and in-flight entertainment with emphasis on audio and video streaming and ultrahigh definition. “This game-changing technology allows operators to experience the long-anticipated convenience of inflight connectivity that is as good as at home or in-office,” said GDC Technics General Partner Mohammed Alzeer. ACJC Expands its Role in the Airline Market Airbus Corporate Jet Center in Toulouse, France remains a major VIP cabin completions provider; but in addition, said Cousin, “we are capitalizing on our VIP experience to improve our solutions of customized cabins services for world class airlines.” He noted that a big part of ACJC’s work today is airline-related and involves maintenance. ACJC will be sharing a booth with Airbus Corporate Jets at the convention, highlighting the capabilities and new offerings of both. The Toulouse-based completion and MRO center recently delivered an ACJ320 in for maintenance and a connectivity upgrade – an Airbus SwiftBroadband solution within the frame of ACJC cabin connectivity services. Also currently in the shop is an AC319 for maintenance and cabin modifications. ACJC continues to focus on service and cabins, on both the corporate jet and the airline sides of the business. Bruno added: “We also see potential in the second-hand market, especially VIP conversions; in particular in VIP kit installations and cabin upgrades on AC330 and A340 aircraft previously used by airlines. Customizing these aircraft for VIP and government needs represents a growing market.” Aeria Luxury Interiors Opens in Singapore Aeria Luxury Interiors, a division of ST Aerospace of Singapore, delivered its first green BBJ completion in December 2015. At the time, Vice President and General Manager Ron Soret described the event as “a pivotal moment for Aeria Luxury Interiors.”

This year, San Antonio, Texas-based Aeria expanded with the launch of its VIP aircraft refurbishment and maintenance services at Seletar Airport in Singapore. The new facility is part of ST Engineering at Seletar and offers services for narrow- and wide-body VIP aircraft. Until now, Aeria has operated exclusively from its San Antonio facilities. In addition to the green BBJ delivery in December, Aeria has had another four aircraft through its workshops for maintenance, avionics, modification or refurbishment. With a workforce of more than 120, work is currently in progress on one widebody and delivery is planned for the first quarter 2017. The company’s initial target market was green aircraft completions. The avionics business was added later and by 2015 comprised 20 percent of the business. Aloft AeroArchitects Plans Surprise and Appeal Maintenance and refurbishment is also alive and well at Aloft AeroArchitects. The Georgetown, Delaware center, formerly PATS Aircraft Systems, was rebranded last year. The center plans several anouncements at the show, “some of which will surprise and appeal to long-time aircraft maintenance and refurbishment customers,” said Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing

John Eichten. “We’re also planning to focus on solutions such as ADS-B and FANS compliance for existing aircraft operators.” Like some other VIP completion and MRO centers, Aloft AeroArchitects is expanding its capabilities to include VIP, airlines, systems, OEMs and operator market segments. The company is performing a la carte services based on the level of need and including program management, design, engineering, certification and STC approvals. As for the market, particularly in VIP aircraft, “there is a bit of a lull as we anticipate the forthcoming new aircraft variants like the BBJ Max and the ACJ319 and ACJ320neo,” said Eichten.

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STYLE

First green BBJ redelivered by Aeria Luxury Interiors (top) and Aloft AeroArchitect design (bottom).

COMPLETION maintenance for a repeat customer based in Asia. This past summer, Associated Air Center received what it described as “the industry’s first approval for a Boeing 787 series aircraft.” It is a limited airframe rating from the FAA, authorizing the company to perform composite, bolted major repairs and alterations for the BBJ 787 series composite airframes. The new rating was approved subsequent to Associated’s delivery of the industry’s first BBJ 787-8 head-ofstate VIP interior completion in February this year. “Additionally,” he pointed out, “existing owners are enjoying the capability they have with current aircraft assets.” As we receive BBJs for heavy maintenance, the associated interior upgrades are very individual in nature and largely tailored around upgrading technology such as CMS and IFE. “We’ve become very adept creatively, providing the services that ‘fill the gaps’ of capability the customers may not have in-house” explained Eichten. “We provide that tangible leg work, detailed technical processes and management to bring their inventions, improvements and products to life in the air.”

UPKEEP

StandardAero Boeing 787 Dreamliner (left) and AMAC Aerospace Basel facility (right).

AMAC Continues to Grow AMAC Aerospace, which delivered its initial cabin completion in 2009, continues to grow and in 2016 offers ample evidence of a rapidly expanding MRO expertise, in addition to green VIP cabin completion and refurbishment. The sprawling facility in Basel, Switzerland returned to customer service a BBJ 787-800 in April following heavy maintenance check and cabin electronics upgrade. In July, AMAC celebrated three maintenance contracts – an ACJ319 for a heavy maintenance C-check and two ACJ320s that have since been inducted at center for an annual check and a C-check. An ACJ340 was delivered following a C-check and AMAC delivered a private 747-8i after an annual inspection. Following a maintenance program, including a C-check, a BBJ was turned over to its head-of-state customer in August. Also in August, AMAC signed

a contract for a BBJ upgrade, including a new cabin oxygen system replacement “with a minimum modification work on the existing cabin interior.” Since spring this year, AMAC has been promoting its new light-weight cabinetry process. The company claims a 30 percent weight savings compared with the standard process. The process was developed by subsidiary JCB Aerospace of Auch, France, a company acquired by AMAC this past spring.” Associated Air Wins 787 Series Approval This year, StandardAero’s cabin completion and MRO specialist Associated Air Center, delivered three major projects – a BBJ 787-8 and a BBJ 747-8, along with a BBJ 12year inspection and cabin refurbishment and upgrade, as well as an Airbus Corporate Jet in for heavy

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“Owners and operators of BBJ 787 series airplanes that require maintenance and/or composite bolted major repair and alteration work scopes, such as letter checks/inspections and Ku/Kaband antenna major alterations, now have a choice in MRO providers,” said Associated Air Center President James Colleary. According to Patrick Altuna, executive vice president of sales at the Dallas, Texas-based facility, “from a cabin perspective, we are seeing a need to address a lot of older technologies that are becoming obsolete with diminishing support options. The options include very simple solutions such as use of personal electronic devices (PEDs) and development of complete system upgrades to service the aircraft for years – systems that include a backbone that will support future growth,” he noted.

COMPLETION Greenpoint Features Award-Winning Azure 787-9 Cabin Greenpoint Technologies, sharing a booth with parent company Zodiac Aerospace, has found its way into the cruise charter business. The Kirkland, Washington-based center is involved in the design and completion of a luxury Boeing 777-200LR for Crystal AirCruises. Greenpoint’s design team collaborated with Crystal AirCruises early in the process, designing a luxury interior in line with the company’s brand and existing ships. The aircraft also

DESIGN

Interior concepts of ACJ318 cabin by Comlux (left) and 787-9 VIP BBJ Azure by Greenpoint Technologies (right).

Comlux VIP Maintenance Staying Busy At a time when many completion centers are reporting a bit of a drop in business, Comlux America seems to be the exception. In 2016, the facility has seen multiple VIP completions – one ACJ330, one BBJ and one SBJ (Sukhoi Business Jet) – along with a steady stream of maintenance projects, including three BBJs and an ACJ. The Indianapolis, Indiana-based facility is currently at work on a BBJ completion for a customer in the “Far East” and anticipates customer turnover, including new exterior livery, next summer. Comlux has had “a very busy year as [we] have continued to ramp up maintenance on top of the already busy completions business.” The first three quarters of 2016 saw three BBJs and an ACJ320 in for a mix maintenance, modifications and warranty inspections, along with interior upgrades. To round out the year, the last quarter is bringing “a full order book for the MRO services business to finish out the year even stronger than it started.” In 2015, Comlux America received warranty and service approvals from both Airbus Corporate Jets and Boeing Business Jets, allowing clients “a high quality and reliable alternative for their maintenance and upgrade needs.” GDC Moving Forward on JetWave STC GDC Group of Geneva continues to work on development of an STC for installation of Honeywell’s Ka-band JetWave hardware in various Airbus Corporate Jet and Boeing Business Jet aircraft.

Engineering and certifications will be carried out by GDC Engineering in Munich, Germany, with installation and final ground and flight tests done by GDC Technics in Fort Worth, Texas. The first STCs are expected in the first quarter 2017 and will cover the B747-300/400, the Boeing 777200/300, the Boeing 737600/700/900, earlier BBJ2, BBJ3 and Airbus Corporate Jets ACJ320/319. Subsequent STCs will cover the ACJ330/340, with approvals expected in the third quarter 2017. According to GDC Group, the STCs will provide aircraft owners and operators access to “the fastest, most reliable Internet in the sky.” Main features include HDTV live streaming, advanced in-flight entertainment, office features, voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) telephone, virtual private network, HD video conference, high-speed Internet connectivity and social media.

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features Crystal AirCruises Executive Class seats, WiFi connectivity and inflight entertainment. The interior was designed to ensure maximum personal space and comfort for 84 guests. The airline variant of the 777-200LR is typically configured for approximately 300 passengers. “We teamed closely with Crystal AirCruises’ design team to understand their ship designs and brand value [and] while pulling similarities, we embraced the company’s unique experience in flight,” said Greenpoint Design Director Annika Wicklund. The aircraft is currently undergoing completion at Greenpoint’s facility in Moses Lake, Washington. It is on schedule for delivery in 2017 and will be employed transporting guests in VIP accommodations on 14-, 21- and 28-day itineraries “to the world’s most exotic locations.” Greenpoint is also completing its second BBJ-787-8, scheduled for delivery in 2017.

COMPLETION

On the Zodiac side of the exhibit, the emphasis will focus on various business jet products, including aero-systems, cabin design, seating and aerospace services. The company’s considerable commercial interior offerings will provide the Business Aviation industry with expansive alternatives. The exhibit will highlight Greenpoint’s awardwinning BBJ 787-9 with the Azure cabin in the form of a 1/20 th scale model and various Zodiac Aerospace cabin products. Jet Aviation Shows ACJ350 Rendering Jet Aviation has been appointed by Airbus Corporate Jets to render an ACJ350 VIP cabin interior. The ACJ350 is a new-generation composite aircraft, introduced at European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition last May with “Easyfit” provisions for cabin outfitting. Called the ACJ350 XWB (for Xtra Widebody), the Easyfit interior features hundreds of attach points, “greatly simplifying the VIP cabin outfitter’s job.” “Our design takes inspiration from both high-end hotel and residential philosophies, balanced with the most innovative new technology available in private aviation,” said Elisabeth Harvey, director of design at the Jet Aviation Completions Center. LANDMARK

Lufthansa Technik is the first center to do scheduled maintenance work on a Boeing 747-8.

Lufthansa Technik Lufthansa Technik is one of the best known VIP completion centers in the Middle East region and the Hamburg, Germany-based center is promoting a recently concluded agreement with DC Aviation Group,

a leading operator of business jets in Europe and the Middle East. The two companies plan to offer their VIP customers “a first-class package of services at Al Maktoum International Airport [in Dubai].” The contract services will be provided in the hangars and VIP facilities of DC Aviation Al-Futtaim. They will consist of regular checks as well as maintenance services. These include unplanned repairs, for example those required by an aircraft on the ground (AOG). The portfolio also features services for aircraft cabins, including small modifications, and there are plans for a mobile aircraft and cabin service in the region. Back on the VIP cabin completions stage, Lufthansa Techik will deliver a fully outfitted BBJ 747-8 in the near future, which will make it the first center worldwide to have delivered three BBJ 747-8s. Lufthansa has also become the first center to do scheduled maintenance work on a BBJ 747-8 and this year will complete the first cabin modification of a BBJ 787. Perhaps bigger news is that by the end of 2016, Lufthansa will have completed the process of finalizing preparations for an Airbus ACJ350 completion and maintenance work. Sierra Completions Enters the Market Sierra Completions, a subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation, is new to the VIP completion business and the Colorado Springs Airport-based facility plans to begin with heavy maintenance for VIP aircraft, with the goal of VIP cabin completion and refurbishment.

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Plans are now underway on a four-phase, $88 million facility and capabilities will also include design, aircraft modifications and overhaul. “In Sierra Nevada, we have a great partner backing us,” pointed out Ed Topps, vice president of programs division leader. Sierra Nevada Corp., headquartered in Sparks, Nevada has a 50year record in aviation and aerospace and has been recognized as among “The World’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in Space,” as well as “The Top Womanowned Federal Contractor in the US. The company has 3,000 employees in 33 locations in England, Germany, Turkey and the United States. Expectations of a Lull in the Completions Business While business appears to be increasing in the MRO side of the VIP completion industry, demand for VI P g reen complet ion wor k seems to be slowing as the new aircraft pipeline gradually drains. According to industry insiders, the order book has been thinning as most of the new aircraft in the manufacturing pipeline have now been delivered to completion centers and are either in the process of cabin completion or have already been turned over to the new owners. Now the challenge to the VIP completion industry is drumming up enough business in the MRO and cabin refurbishment and upgrade to stay busy until the next wave of new VIP aircraft begin arriving for cabin outfitting. AMAC is well ahead of some completion centers in promoting its MRO capability. In September, an ACJ330 arrive in Basel for heavy base maintenance and a Ccheck, as well as a partial cabin removal. AMAC Group COO Bernd Schramm’s response was quiet an understatement: “We are happy to welcome another widebody at our facility and to continuously grow with new projects by delivering customized and costeffective maintenance solutions.”

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Other companies may just lease you a jet... Only Comlux offers you the most comprehensive range of business aviation solutions for the most demanding VIP travel needs. Flying your own routes to your own timetable Buying and managing your aircraft personally and professionally Designing and building your own cabin following your own vision Maintaining your asset and its value This is exactly what our crew, dispatchers, designers, engineers and mechanics do for you everyday at Comlux. FLY | OWN | CUSTOMIZE | MAINTAIN www.comluxaviation.com

CABIN

CABIN ENVIRONMENT BETTER THAN EVER

With generous sense of space, clean air and quietness, cabin comfort can make all the difference on a flight. Kirby Harrison compiles latest innovations

“A

DECOR

Gulfstream G650ER (top), Airbus A350 XWB lounge design (center) and Greenpoint 747-8 lounge aft.

n aircraft does not simply accommodate you; you wear it,” says Christopher Mbanefo, founder and CEO of Yasava Flight Couture. All the more reason that the cabin environment should mirror the needs and desires of those who “wear” it. According to Dr. Paulo Alves, vp of Aviation and Maritime Health at MedAire, the cabin environment on a long-haul flight is a major consideration, including but not limited to factors such as space, cabin pressure, air circulation, relative humidity, noise and and water purity. Airbus promotes its ACJ320 as “the most spacious cabin in the corporate jet market,” with almost 100 square meters (1,076 sq ft) of floor space, approximately the size of a one-bedroom apartment in much of America. The new ACJ350 XWB features 270 square meters (2,910 sq ft) and Boeing’s new BBJ 747-8 offers 444 square meters (4,786 sq ft). In terms of comfort, according to Airbus Corporate Jet Center Head of Sales and Marketing Bruno Cousin, the major factor impacting cabin environment is space. “The wider and taller the cabin, the more relaxed you feel. Think how you feel walking into a small hotel room, compared with a large one. You immediately realize the importance of space, which becomes even more pronounced the farther you fly,” he stated. Sometimes, said one cabin designer, the illusion of space can be as important as space itself. With this in mind, more VIP jets are being delivered

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with special attention to décor and layout. Long center aisles, straight lines and square corners are giving way to open areas and curvilinear design. Annika Wicklund, director of the design team at Greenpoint Technologies, sings the praises of things new. Among them is a “vast array” of whatever is the latest and greatest and make the client’s life easier – dish washers, induction ovens and organic light-emitting diode screens etc. “We’re seeing an interest in technology that helps expand or adapt the space – projectors, movable bulkheads and panels, interactive screens,” she added. “On top of fascinating opportunities integrating technology into design, we’re seeing an interest in global trends and cultural appreciation. Customers want us to explore traditional techniques in modern ways; they want luxurious materials and detail quality that uniquely represents their identity.” “When the cabin environment is uncomfortable, it can greatly increase the stress of long-distance travel,” said Daron Dryer, Comlux America vp of Engineering and Certification.

Boeing Business Jets spokeswoman Elizabeth Bieri. “It allows passengers and crew to arrive at their destination feeling refreshed and not jet-lagged. Passengers report fewer headaches, bloated feeling, dry eyes and jet lag.” Gulfstream’s large-cabin G650ER has a range of 7,500 nautical miles and in terms of size alone is just a half-step below the VIP single-aisle. But the cabin is a quantum leap down with a 4,100-foot altitude cabin “at lower or initial cruise altitudes.”

Lower Cabin Pressure Lower cabin pressure improves the flight experience. That is the opinion of business jet manufacturers, cabin completion specialists and the medical community. Most business jet cabin have pressurization levels set at 8,000 feet altitude, but that is rapidly changing. The new ACJ320neo from Airbus offers a lower average cabin altitude of 6,700 feet as standard. The new ACJ350’s carbon fiber fuselage allows an even lower cabin altitude pressure of 6,000 feet, also as standard. Greenpoint Technologies’ Steve Daschel, senior director of Project Definition and Integration explained that the new BBJ 787-8 offers a cabin altitude of 6,000 feet, “which results in higher oxygen and moisture levels, which in turn reduces passenger fatigue, drying of the eyes and skin, and increases respiratory comfort.” This is especially true on longer flights and passengers with respiratory problems. “The low cabin altitude of new aircraft improves the cabin experience tremendously,” said

Fresh Air Circulation Fresh air circulation is also a primary concern in a healthy and comfortable cabin environment. Air in ACJ cabins is changed every two to three minutes, said ACJC’s Cousin, “providing a much fresher environment for passengers.” While most aircraft use bleed air from the engine bypass to introduce fresh air into the cabin, the BBJ 787 uses outside air entering the aircraft via RAM air inlets. It is compressed, heated and distributed via the passenger air conditioning system (PACS) units. The fresh air percentage can vary from 50 to 100 percent, depending on the setting. In the BBJ 787, higher percentages of fresh air increase drag and consumer energy (fuel) to condition and distribute air. Airflow is typically measured in cubic feet per minute, but engineers often evaluate the air change rate to ensure maximum passenger comfort. Of growing concern, especially on longer, polar flights, is ozone expo-

sure, more common on lengthy polar routes. For this reason, said MedAire’s Alves. Modern aircraft today, he said, are typically equipped with ozone converters. Passengers with pre-existing respiratory problems, such as asthma, are especially sensitive to ozone exposure. Pro-lounged exposure may result in reduced lung functions or airway inflammation. Catalytic ozone convertors are available and widely used, according to ACJC. They are standard fit in Airbus wide-bodies because of their “nonstop to the world” range means frequently flying at high altitudes for long periods of time. Ozone converters are also optional on the ACJ320 family. Quiet, Please! According to Alves, today’s VIP cabins have average noise levels ranging from a high in the 62 dB range and a low of around 46 dB, with 60 dB being a noise level approximately equivalent to office conversation and 50 dB rough equivalent to a library. There is no simple solution to a noisy cabin and the sources of noise are myriad – air passing over the skin of the aircraft and engine noise are the most obvious. There is also noise created by actuators, fans, pumps and even air forced through the distribution ducts. And each requires a different technique and different materials to isolate and reduce the noise. And frequently, the elimination of one sources of noise exposes another; a sort of whack-a-mole version of noise reduction.

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GALLEY

Jet Aviation has installed its first in-house-designed in-flight dishwasher, the ADW 600.

CABIN Clean Water More Important Than Ever

IN-HOUSE

Comlux America provides cabin refurbishment work on inservice aircraft.

There are combinations of insulation blankets installed above the overhead and outboard of sidewalls, acoustic padding under carpets and/or below floor panels, mufflers for air conditioning ducts and distribution grills and the vibration dampening isolators at structural joints and attach points. Some completion centers have gone so far as to redesign the ductwork to eliminate the 90-degree turns that are responsible for much of the noise in the distribution system. Unfortunately, as with many things that fly, there is a tradeoff, noted Daschel of Greenpoint. One cost of noise reduction is usually a gain in aircraft weight. But with new technology and materials, that weight penalty is being reduced. “Greenpoint has cut sound pressure levels (SPLs) in the speech interference level (SIL) frequencies from the mid 70-dB range to the high 40-dB range. Comlux America, to date, is average 1.5 dB (SIL) below target values “and has never exceeded a max contractual sound limit for VIP cabins,” said Dryer. Comlux’s most recent aircraft have exhibited a master bedroom sound level of 45.4 dB (SIL), even with the inclusion of an emergency exit. At the same time, the interiors average 846 kg (1,865 lbs) below the contracted weight limit. Deconel from custom carpet supplier Kalogridis International of Dallas, Texas is a popular light-weight material for aircraft bulkheads, overheads and sidewalls that is sound-absorbing as well as decorative. According to Deconel Director Nichole Gradert, Deconel can absorb up to 3 dB, thanks to the flexible material and foam backing. “Deconel is a

sound absorbing material, but also enhances the look and feel of a cabin interior; soft to the touch but resistant to dimpling, and can even be used with thin and delicate materials such as silk.” Increasing Cabin Humidity While the dry cabin environment of the cabin is a cause of discomfort – dry eyes, dry skin – Dr. Alves said it is not sufficient to cause per se dehydration or any other medical situation over a relatively short flight. “The story is different for people with respiratory problems, particularly those suffering from chronic bronchitis.” Jet Aviation’s Sales Engineering Manager Florent Klinger notes that clients expect the aircraft and experience of flying to feel like home. “So we add humidifier systems to maximize the humidity throughout the cabin, and install an air cleaner which uses a so-called bi-polar plasma ionization process. It is similar to that used in hospitals to remove volatile organic compounds, odors, pathogens and allergens from cabin and cockpit.” Weight is also a consideration in cabin humidification. In addition to the system itself, Dryer of Comlux America pointed out that humidifying a narrow-body (ACJ or BBJ) cabin to 20 percent for a 10-hour flight requires 121 kilograms (260 pounds) of water and a wide-body VIP aircraft may require twice that weight of water. There are two major companies that are supplying cabin humidification systems – CTT Systems of Nyköping, Sweden and Liebherr-Aerospace of Toulouse, France – and many of the completion centers are incorporating the systems into their cabin outfitting process.

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Pure water has become more and more important, considering its use throughout a VIP aircraft, from showers to cooking to bidets to humidification systems. Daschel of Greenpoint said onboard water purification technologies have improved significantly. Most Greenpoint completions, he explained, now involve additional water purification, including system-wide or point-of-use particle filtration, coupled with UV sterilization. “Recirculation systems are also being introduced which minimizes the quantity of water and waste required, and reduces aircraft weight and saving fuel.” Jet Aviation also pays special attention to water purification, using UV sterilization and a filtering system to treat “all water that is distributed to faucets and shower heads.” And Klinger points out that at Jet Aviation the filter or UV lamps are replaced in the recommended manufacturer threshold, so there is no impact on water quality throughout the complete operation of the aircraft. A Healthy and Comfortable Environment is Essential “Stress and discomfort [in cabin] can be consciously or unconsciously associated with the interior. It is essential that great care and consideration be given to certain aspects,” said Dryer. Cabin designers will often pay extended visits to clients’ homes and offices in orders to understand their personal tastes and expectations. “Just like your home is a reflection of your personality, the same is true for the custom aircraft interior,” said Lauri Church, chief interior designer for Comlux America in Indianapolis, Indiana. “Our clients usually want something that reflects their personalities and tastes [and] brings calm, comfort and a sense of space.” “We look at how their tastes might change over the years, how their expectations might change with the addition of a wife or children and how they might be changed by their careers.” “Life is defined by how you use it,” said Mbanefo of Yasava. “Your space must enable you to achieve your highest ambitions, essentially becoming a positive extension of your being.”

✈

At Jet Aviation Completions

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PERSONAL Meet Ettore. And Didier, Eddy, Delphine, Jean-Yves, David, Michael and Kevin. It takes over 600 people to craft a beautifully-finished VIP completions interior. At Jet Aviation, all of these key trades are represented in-house and on-site in Basel, in a close-knit team that pairs artisan craftsmanship with the latest technological innovations. It means we know what is going on at every stage of a project, and it means our clients know that every detail is completed to the highest Jet Aviation standard.

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NBAA CONFERENCE

STEER YOUR CAREER AT THE SCHEDULERS & DISPATCHERS CONFERENCE

EXECUTIVE

NBAA's Vice President, at operational excellence & professional development Mike Nichols.

ake charge of your career at the 2017 NBAA Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference, February 7-10 at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Texas. “It’s for the people who are responsible for business aircraft scheduling and dispatching,” said Mike Nichols, vice president for operational excellence and professional development at the National Business Aviation Association. “It’s designed to help them perform their jobs better, and provide an opportunity to grow and increase their value to their companies.” Every Business Aviation flight, in one way or another, is scheduled and dispatched, and the responsibilities of the S&D community are growing. They not only include weight and bal-

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It’s that time of year when a slate of educational sessions will help pave the way for growth as Business Aviation professionals at the SDC2017. Kirby Harrison reports

ance and regular maintenance, but they are now responsible for tax and regulatory issues. “They’ve become part of the leading edge in the Business Aviation industry,” said Nichols. Education sessions and development content at the show change each year as they evolve to align with the needs of the industry, and the curriculum will include as new content as well. There are two reasons for the high quality of the programming, said Nichols. The first is the focus on a crew approach, whether it’s a single pilot or a flight department. The second is a robust exhibit floor with an array of Business Aviation providers from caterers and fuel providers to FBOs and trip planners, and more.

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NBAA CONFERENCE

STARDOM

Retired bobsledder Devon Harris (top). Thrilled attendees (center). Motivational speaker Sarita Maybin (bottom).

One example is UAS International Trip Support, a fast-growing company that will use the show as a stage to highlight its new UAS flightevolution as “the tool set to revolutionize the way users plan, see and file executive flights.” The new technology permits highly compressed data, a key to allowing approach chart overlays, route planning and synthetic vision worldwide, even while the PED is offline. Despite the huge amount of stored data, the minimum recommend onboard storage space with the flightevolution is just 32 GB. The drawing cards for those attending the show are diverse, depending on the individual. “For some it will be motivational speakers, for others, perhaps peer-to-peer opportunities,” said Nichols. “Or it may be our Ambassador Program leading to lifelong career opportunities and friendships, or the main floor with more than 500 exhibitors.”

The show will actually open on Monday, February 6, with day-one of the two-day Licensed Dispatcher Recurrent Training for those dispatchers already licensed, led by Gary Martin of Universal Weather & Aviation. Also on the same day, a session on Goal Achievement and Performance Reviews will be presented by Dr. Shari Frisinger of Cornerstone Strategies. Main speaker at the Opening General Session on Wednesday, February 8, will be Sarita Maybin, author of “If You Can’t Say Something

The luncheon speaker on Thursday, February 9 will have three-time Olympic bobsledder Devon Harris of Jamaica on the stage, discussing teamwork. Harris was a founding member of the Jamaican Olympic team. One of the more popular events at the conference is the Pay-It-Forward program that allows attendees and exhibitors the opportunity to make charitable contributions to the host city and local community. This year, the organizers are asking for volunteers to participate in pack-

Nice, What Do You Say?” The presentation will offer practical approaches and positive phrases for those times when you need to say something that is not so nice, such as how to deflect the negative comment of a well-meaning friend or how to let a business colleague know what he or she is doing drives you crazy – without destroying the relationship.

ing “Ana’s Baskets” to benefit Safe Haven of Tarrant County. The nonprofit group exists to end domestic violence through safety, support, prevention and social change. The baskets are filled with household cleaning supplies and will assist survivors of domestic violence start a new life free of domestic violence. Attendees and exhibitors may donate 30 minutes or more of their time to fill the baskets on Tuesday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Donations to Safe Haven for purchase of cleaning supplies may be made during the conference registration process. Nearly 40 educational and developmental sessions are scheduled throughout the three-day conference. A short list includes: ❍ Operating In Asia: Opportunities & Difficulties – With billions of dollars in new aircraft deliveries and infrastructure investments in places like China and India, the Asian Business Aviation environment is rapidly

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flightevolution™

UAS flightevolution™ simplifies advanced global flight planning, weather, performance, mapping, and trip support into a streamlined web and mobilebased platform that allows you to navigate even the most complex logistics with ease. It empowers pilots and dispatchers to get real-time, self-service access to a tool set that is faster, more efficient, and truly global. With an intuitive interface and high-definition graphics, you will be amazed at how the complex is made simple, elegant, and refined. The platform boasts a number of key benefits, including: • The comfort of knowing your flight plans are optimized every time based on up-to-the-minute weather, charts, procedures and global positioning • The convenience you get from planning your flights easily with or without a data connection • A sense of control from unsurpassed situational awareness and accurate, dependable data – anywhere in the world

Special Introductory Offer Take advantage of our early-bird rate – at $800.00 off the annual rate of the subscription. And if you pre-order now: • Get a free iPad • Get one month free Visit www.uas.aero/evolution to sign up today or call: N. America Toll Free: 1-866 UAS TRIP Worldwide: +1 281-724-5400

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Your Local Partner with global reach

NBAA CONFERENCE

expanding. But despite gains in recent years, operating in the region remains fraught with challenges and idiosyncrasies. ❍ Managing A Medical Emergency – New and seasoned schedulers and dispatchers should learn the benefits of creating and implementing an emergency procedure plan that includes case management of an inflight illness, injury or death. ❍ Your Essential Role in Safety Culture Development – As the primarily communication conduit, schedulers and licensed dispatchers play an influential role in developing safety culture within their organiza-

OPPORTUNITY

SDC provides networking with more than 2,800 industry professionals attending the event.

tions. Unfortunately, they are often overlooked by leadership in this respect. ❍ Europe – What Could, Might and Will Happen – The United Kingdom is on the brink of one of the biggest changes to the European Union in recent history. The panel will detail the possible effects the industry will see as it relates to operational activity, fuel prices and the future of Business Aviation in Europe.

❍ Africa/Middle East Operations – This session will cover what operators need to understand, including passenger expectations, taking proper health and security precautions, understanding what services will and won’t be available, and cultural considerations. ❍ Understanding Tax and Regulations On Business Aviation Aircraft – The session will examine personal use/SIFL, business use,

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entertainment flights, business/entertainment use, nonentertainment flights, business and personal property tax, and setting up a TimeShare. At this year’s conference, NBAA anticipates some 2,800 attendees and more than 500 exhibitors. The event continues to move from city to city, this year in Fort Worth, Texas. Next year’s conference will be in Long Beach, California, February 6-9. “We move it around so we can be as close as possible to as many operators as possible,” explained Nichols. He also noted that attendees will include a global representation and exhibitors will include a growing number of European companies. For more details on the 2017 Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference, contact NBAA at 1-202783-9000 or access the Web site at www.nbaa.org.

✈

NBAA-BACE REPORT

NBAA-BACE BODES WELL FOR BIZAV FUTURE

NBAA-BACE is by far the most important show for Business Aviation. More than 1,100 exhibitors flocked in to Orlando in November to present their products and services. Despite some soft market conditions, the overall mood was optimistic. Marc Grangier and Volker K. Thomalla report

eart of the Business Aviation industry beat in Orlando 1-3 Nov. 2016, with exhibitors showcasing the best of the market and attendees witnessing the big moments. At the end of the day, the National Business Aviation Association’s Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAABACE) was a reminder of the industry’s size and significance in the US and all around the world. The show attracted better than 27,000 attendees and some 1,100 exhibitors at the Orange County Convention Center and at the Orlando Executive Airport, where 114 cutting-edge aircraft were on display “to make side-by-side comparisons of aircraft capabilities and technology,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. Ranked as the sixth largest trade show in the US, NBAA-BACE filled more than one million square feet of exhibit space and was attended by Business Aviation manufacturers, owners and customers from more than 90 countries. Energy was high

on the show floor, where exhibitors showcasing their best works and services discovered new business opportunities. Rescheduling an aircraft development program is something that Business Aviation has seen too many times. But the rescheduling of Gulfstream’s new long-range, largecabin programs are unique, because the Savannah, Georgia, based manufacturer is progressing much faster than anticipated with both the G500 and the G600. The PW800 Pure Power engined G500, which was scheduled to enter into service in 2018, is now on track for EIS in the fourth quarter of 2017. The test fleet has accumulated 1,750 flight hours with major test topics already finished. Structural testing including the ultimate load test of the G500 has been completed and Gulfstream has now started the fatigue testing of the aircraft and its systems. The G500 has reached in its test program a maximum speed of Mach 0.995 with a targeted maximum in-service speed of Mach 0.925. It will be able to fly 5,000

nm at high-speed cruise of Mach 0.85 and 3,800 nm at Mach 0.90. NBAA-BACE attendees could visit the first G500 with a full production interior. The larger sibling of it, the G600, will take to the air for the first time anytime soon. “The first G600 is ahead of schedule”, said Mark Burns, president of Gulfstream Aerospace, in Orlando. The entry-into-service of the new 6200nm-business jet is now planned for the fourth quarter of 2018. At program launch, Gulfstream had envisioned an EIS for the G600 for 2019. The Canadian manufacturer Bombardier Aerospace had a great start of the show. The Chinese Minsheng Financial Leasing placed a firm order for four Challenger 650. They will be leased to the Singaporebased charter company Zetta Group, which operates a nine aircraft allBombardier fleet. The company also reported on the imminent first flight of the new ultra-long-range Global 7000, which was doing taxi-tests in Montreal during NBAA-BACE. But Bombardier

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POWER

Ed Bolen making opening speech at the show (top right). G650R (top left), G500 (left) and Challenger 650 (right).

NBAA-BACE REPORT Meanwhile, Honda Aircraft Company announced at the convention, that they had officially secured their first two speed records. The light twinjet with its unique over-the-wing engine mount offers its customers a maximum cruise speed of 422 knots. The US National Aeronautical Association had approved two records: One from Teterboro, New Jersey, to Fort Lauderdale and one from Boston to Palm Beach, Florida. Both flights were piloted by Peter Kriegler and Glenn Gonzales. The first flight took two hours and 51 minutes, while the

NEW

Citation Longitude (left) and Hondajet (right) took the stage at the static display.

put a much larger emphasis on expanding its customer support and service network at the convention. Jean-Christophe Gallagher, vice president and general manager at Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Experience, said in Orlando: “Nobody is better placed to service Bombardier aircraft than Bombardier. We’re hiring 200 skilled technicians and project managers.” The newly acquired facility at London Biggin Hill airport will be open for business as Bombardier’s factory owned and operated service center even before the end of this year. Another new facility is located in Tianjin in China. It is scheduled to open in early next year, bringing the number of factory-owned service centers worldwide to ten. Textron Aviation took the center stage at the static display at Orlando’s Executive airport with its impressive range of aircraft. The new large-cabin family of Jets were the highlights of the display. Cessna had interrupted the flight test program of the Citation Longitude and presented the first aircraft of this type – still without final paint – in Orlando. The Longitude impressed with a better performance than planned. Due to a modification of the winglets, the range of the newest Citation grew from 3,400 nm to 3,500 nm, while the full-fuel payload increased by 100 lbs to 1,600 lbs. At the convention, Textron lifted the curtain of secrecy of suppliers for the Citation Hemisphere. The aircraft will be the largest and farthest-reaching Citation of all times. It is in its early development stages and will be able to cover 4,500 nm nonstop. Textron unveiled a cabin mock-up of the Hemisphere at NBAA-BACE. The fuse-

lage diameter of 102 inches allows customers to outfit the cabin according to their needs, be it a corporate shuttle or a traditional business jet. The customer advisory board requested Textron to make the cabin as comfortable as possible. Cabin altitude of the Hemisphere will be at only 5,000 ft to reduce fatigue. Large windows allow the cabin to be flooded with natural light and two skylights at the top of the fuselage will allow natural light to enter the galley and the lavatory respectively. Textron Aviation announced that they have chosen the Safran Silvercrest engine to power the Hemisphere. But contrary to the Dassault 5X, which will also be powered by the Silvercrest turbofan, Safran will only deliver the turbomachinery and accessories for the Hemisphere, where at the 5X the company will supply an integrated propulsion system including, pylon, nacelle and thrust reversers. “This engine meets the specs of Cessna in terms of thrust, fuel consumption and weight”, said Olivier Andries, president of Safran Aircraft Engines. “We are compatible with Cessna’s timeline.”

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second one lasted for two hours and 58 minutes. Both records are awaiting approval from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) in Lausanne Switzerland before they are officially world speed records. At Honda Aircraft’s Headquarter in Greensboro, North Carolina, the production ramp-up is in full swing. Honda has delivered so far 18 aircraft to customers in the US, Mexico, Canada and Europe. It is planned that production will nearly double next year. The private equity firm Acorn Growth Companies has announced just weeks prior to NBAA-BACE that it has acquired Raisbeck Engineering of Seattle, Washington. The founder and aeronautical engineer James D. Raisbeck, who has invented many useful and performance-enhancing modifications to King Air and Learjet aircraft, will remain with the company. Under the new ownership, the company intends to expand its modifications into additional aircraft platforms. Blackhawk Modifications, Inc. of Waco, Texas, came to NBAA-BACE with the news that it had submitted to the FAA a flight test plan for the XP67A

engine upgrade for the King Air 350. The flight tests are anticipated to begin in November and should be finished with the approval in May 2017. With the XP67A modification, Blackhawk installs a more powerful PT6A-67A turboprop to the King Air 350. The new engine will deliver 1,200 shp compared to 1,050 shp of the standard PT6A-60A. The new engine requires a more robust propeller assembly which will be delivered by MT Propeller of Straubing, Germany. With the XP67A modification, the King Air 350 will have a much better performance. It will

climb for example from sea level to FL350 in as little as 18 minutes, whereas the standard King Air 350 needs 45 minutes. Typical cruise speed is increased by up to 37 KTAS. “In my 10 years at Blackhawk, I have test flown every engine upgrade that we have put on the market,” said Blackhawk’s Regional Sales Manager and Chief Pilot Chris Dunkin. “I can confidently say that the XP67A engine has the most impressive performance that I’ve seen by far.” Dassault’s chairman and CEO Eric Trappier admitted: “Market conditions remain tough. There are encouraging signs but still too many factors creating headwinds”. However, his company is working hard to offer new products. At NBAA, it exhibited its new Falcon 8X which has earned two additional certifications – from Brazil and the UAE – since entering service less than one month ago. Others, including India, are expected shortly. In the coming months, the aircraft is on track for additional deliveries in a dozen countries, from Brazil, the US and Europe, to the UAE and India. The Falcon 8X – a stretched derivative of the 7X with a

max range of 6,450 nm – will be available with a wide range of options, including an onboard shower and Dassault’s new FalconEye Combined Vision System, the first Head Up Display to combine synthetic and enhanced vision capabilities. The aircraft will also be equipped with the new Falcon Sphere II, a Dassault-designed second-generation software suite embedded in a lightweight ultra-thin electronic portable display. Trappier also mentioned that Dassault was working on a new business jet to be presented after the 5X – whose entry into service is planned in 2020 – but denied to say more. Ignaz Gretener, vice president of the General Aviation Business Unit of Pilatus Aircraft, told BART that further to the introduction of the new PC12 NG last year, the market has responded positively, with the company on track to deliver 90 new PC-12 NG aircraft in 2016 – an over 20 percent increase over 2015 sales. Mid-2017, Pilatus will deliver its 1,500 PC-12 and Gretener proudly stressed that a 10year old PC-12 is still sold 80 percent of its original list price. Concerning the

PC-24 light twinjet development, both prototypes are currently completing a rigorous flight test program. The first prototype has been undergoing further aerodynamic testing in Europe, while the second prototype, based in the USA in recent months, has undergone hot and cold weather trials plus tests on the avionics and autopilot. This latter momentarily interrupted its test flight program to come to Orlando for a day. The two prototypes have completed a combined total of over 1000 hours and almost 600 flights. The third and final prototype – the first series aircraft – will join the test flight program beginning of 2017 and will be used for function and reliability testing. Certification is planned for the third quarter of 2017 and initial deliveries of the US$ 8.9M aircraft will go ahead thereafter. The order book for the PC24 remains closed through 2019. Existing PC-12 customers have ordered most of the first block of 84 aircraft. NBAA-BACE has always been the backdrop for new and exciting aircraft announcements, and this year has not been a disappointment.

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KICK OFF

New kids on the block: Dassault Falcon 8X (top), Blackhawk King Air XP67A (left) and Pilatus PC24 (right).

NBAA-BACE REPORT

EXPOSURE

Embraer exhibited its new Phenom 100EV (top). Jet Aviation’s booth (bottom).

Piper Aircraft’s M600 made its debut at NBAA. Piper’s top-of-the-line, single-engine aircraft is powered by Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A turboprop engine flat rated at 600 shp. It has a maximum speed of 274 ktas / 507 km/h at maximum available power settings and has a max range of 1,484 nm / 2,748 km at intermediate cruise settings. Featuring the Garmin G3000 touch-screen-controlled avionics, the new Piper aircraft is sold US$ 2.853 million. Embraer unveiled a new version of its Legacy 650 large business jet, the Legacy 650E, which now carries a 10year or 10,000-flight hour warranty, the highest in the industry according to Marco Tulio Pellegrini, president & CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. The entry into service is scheduled for 2017 at the list price of US$ 25.9 million. Refinements to the aircraft flight deck include the Synthetic Vision System (SVS), as part of the latest Honeywell Primus Elite Advanced Features (PEAF). The Legacy 650E, which may be configured with up to two lavatories, has a

range of 3,900 nautical miles (7,223 kilometers) with four passengers, with NBAA IFR fuel reserves. Embraer also exhibited its new Phenom 100EV, an upgraded version of the 100E featuring new Garmin 3000 avionics and more powerful PW617 engines. First deliveries of this US$ 4.495M jet are planned during the first half of next year. Jet Aviation announced that its Basel completions center took delivery mid-October of the first of two VIP B777-300ER ready for interior completion, commissioned by Boeing on behalf of a government client based in Asia. The company also indicated it had started construction of a third new hangar at its MRO/FBO facility at Seletar airport, Singapore. The project slated for completion in November 2017 will add 3,850 sqms of hangar space to the facility, as well as 380 sqms to the Interior Shop and additional space for equipment and storage. With the new hangar, the Singapore facility will have a total hangar space of 11,650 sqms, with hangar three equipped to accommodate an additional two Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) aircraft or five Gulfstream G550 aircraft. Jet Aviation also indicated it has added eleven aircraft to its managed fleet in the United States and nine to its fleet in EMEA & Asia. Mohammed Alzeer, General Partner of GDC Technics was one of the few persons really exuberant at the show. While its competitors were retrenching against the headwinds of weakened large-cabin VVIP aircraft sales and growing overcapacity in the VVIP completions business, he told BART that his company was bucking the trend. During the last quarter, he

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signed contracts for completion of ten new aircraft. Since 2015, GDC has committed more than US$ 20 millions to developing new technologies. “Connectivity becoming the second nature to all of us, we have developed an unbeatable trio of technologies, first with airborne connectivity employing Honeywell Ka-band JetWave hardware that delivers true broadband speeds up to 50 Mbps, second with advanced light-weight material technologies, and third with breakthrough aerodynamic solutions that we will introduce in the months ahead”, Alzeer told BART, adding that his company, which managed to divide its operating costs by three during the last 18 months, will soon open a new facility in Northern Africa. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) announced that its PW617F1-E engine received type certification from Transport Canada. With 1,730 pounds of thrust, this modified version of our PW617F1-E engine has been selected to power the Phenom 100 EV. The manufacturer also gave information concerning its PurePower PW800. Since its certification in February 2015, this engine has completed more than 9,000 hours of evaluation tests and over 12,000 cycles. This includes more than 510 flights and over 4,000 engine flight test hours combined on P&WC’s advanced Boeing 747SP flying test bed and Gulfstream’s G500 flight test aircraft. The PW800 will enter service in 2017 to power the Gulfstream G500 and 600. General Electric completed testing a 35 percent-additive manufactured demonstrator engine designed to validate additive parts in its clean-sheetdesign Advanced Turboprop (ATP), which will power the all-new Cessna Denali single-engine turboprop aircraft. Additive components reduce the ATP’s weight by 5 percent while contributing a 1 percent improvement in specific fuel consumption (SFC). The ATP will utilize more additive parts than any production engine in aviation history; 855 subtractive manufactured parts will be reduced to 12 additive parts. GE expects to run its first full ATP engine test by the end of 2017. StandardAero disclosed it had recently surpassed more than 19,000 Honeywell TFE731 turbofan engine Core Zone Inspections (CZIs) and

Major Periodic Inspections (MPIs) since first servicing these engines nearly 40 years ago. In addition to these heavy maintenance services, the company has also responded to more than 5,000 customer requests for mobile services and performed thousands of other services on TFE731 engines. As the only OEM authorized HTF7000 heavy maintenance MRO in the world, the company announced that it currently has more than 40 HTF7000 qualified inspectors and technicians on staff, covering 5 locations globally – as well as providing field services through StandardAero Mobile Service Teams located at 14 sites across the US. Honeywell’s Primus Epic integrated cockpit system has been selected by Cessna for its new Citation Hemisphere large-cabin business jet and will provide pilots with a conformal 3-D view of the outside world even in challenging weather conditions such as fog, rain or snow. The company also disclosed that its liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are now certified as single display replacements for older generation cathode ray tube displays.ss Flying Colours Corp. has extended the range of airframes on which it can install the INAIRVATION pre-engineered retrofit solutions in North America. It now includes Bombardier Challenger 300, Bombardier Challenger 605, Gulfstream G450 and Gulfstream G550 models, in addition to the Bombardier Global Express. Following the signing of the launch customer last April, work on the first Global aircraft began in late September 2016 and is progressing to schedule for re-delivery in March 2017. Connectivity will be upgraded with the installation of a GoGo ATG 5000 high-speed data system. According to Panasonic, Satcom Direct (SD) will be the first Value Added Reseller (VAR) for its global Business Aviation connectivity service. With this partnership, SD will be able to offer its customers services such as VoIP calling with improved call quality over Panasonic’s bandwidth, geofencing services with boundary notifications and alerts, and SD’s GlobalVT which allows customers to make calls and send text messages using their personal device from any altitude.

Concerning the ADS-B Out mandate, Universal Avionics publicized it was extending its unit trade-in incentives through the end of 2017 to further assist its customer base in the transition to NextGen equipage. The ADS-B Out Incentive Package pairs Universal Avionics SBAS-FMS with Rockwell Collins TDR-94 (D) Mode S Transponder to provide an equipage package that meets the upcoming NextGen ADS-B Out mandate. FlightSafety International’s upcoming Gulfstream G500 training program will include the first business jet simulator equipped with a CrewView collimated glass mirror display. The simulator is located at FlightSafety’s learning Center in Savannah, Georgia. The company also indicated that training for the Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft has begun at its Paris-Le Bourget Learning Center. The simulator is equipped with the Honeywell Dassault EASy III avionics suite, “FalconEye” HUD with Combined Vision System, Enhanced Visual System and Emergency Vision Assurance System.

One year after the opening of its new FBO in Milan Linate Prime and after a joint venture between its subsidiary Prime Aviation Services and Signature Flight Support (BBA Aviation Group), SEA Prime has started the construction of the first of the new hangars, of over 3,600 sqms, which will be able to accommodate all last generation Business Aviation aircrafts. In 2017, the group will also open Malpensa Prime, its new FBO in Milan Malpensa. Jet Support Services (JSSI), in the midst of its best sales year yet, announced that its exclusive Tip-toTail Program coverage is now available for the Dassault Falcon 8X, the Embraer Lineage 1000 and the Airbus family of ACJs, including the ACJ318, ACJ319 and the ACJ320. These three newly introduced programs include coverage for the Pratt & Whitney PW307D engines on the Falcon 8X, the GE CF34-10E7-B engines on the Lineage 1000 and the CFM56 engines on the Airbus ACJ family, along with complete airframe and APU coverage.

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UPBEAT

About 1,100 exhibitors packed the big hall. Standard Aero (top), Universal Avionics (center), JSSI (right).

NBAA-BACE REPORT BUSINESS AVIATION INDUSTRY FORECAST – NO RESURGENCE BEFORE 2018 According to Honeywell’s latest Outlook, Business Aviation industry continues to face a slow near-term pace of orders due to a slow-growth economic environment across many global markets along with many political uncertainties. Honeywell forecasts up to 8,600 new business jet deliveries worth $255 billion from 2016 to 2026, which represents a 6 to 7 percent reduction from the values noted in the 2015 forecast. 2017 deliveries are projected to be slightly lower, but should pick up in 2018 with the entry into service of new models. During the next five years, operators plan to make new jet purchases equivalent to about 27 percent of their fleets, as replacements or additions to their current fleet, an encouraging increase but one that is less than firm in timing. Of the total purchase plans for new business jets, 21 percent are intended to occur by the end of 2017, while 18 percent are scheduled for 2018 and 2019, respectively. It’s interesting to note that operators continue to focus on larger-cabin aircraft classes, such as the Bombardier Global 7000, the Dassault Falcon 8X, the Gulfstream 500 and 600 and the Cessna Longitude and Hemisphere which will then be at or reaching full production, and these models are expected to account for more than 85 percent of all expenditures on new business jets in the next five years.

SCOPE

The show featured the who’s who of the industry. Universal Weather (left), Jeppesen (right).

Universal Weather is expanding its Latin America ground-handling network. At NBAA-BACE, it announced the opening of a Business Aviation terminal at La Romana International Airport/Dominican Republic. This location is Universal’s 18th in the region and 65th worldwide. Universal Weather also indicated that it has selected AviationManuals as its preferred Safety Management System (SMS) provider for its clients. Known as ARC, the AviationManuals SMS software is now available, together with SMS manual development ser-

vices, via uvGO, Universal’s scheduling mobile application. ARC is an iPad-friendly, flexible online solution for submitting, storing and analyzing SMS data. The software serves as a central location to store files, complete risk assessments, post company news as well as manage read and initial logs. Further to a recently agreement between Rockwell Collins and Stellar Labs, the two companies will co-develop a next-generation flight operations management platform, based on Rockwell Collins’ ARINCDirect Flight Operations System (FOS), to create an all-new, easy-to-use system in the cloud. As the new system develops, features will become available to current FOS users, allowing them to take advantage of the advanced capabilities Stellar and Rockwell Collins are creating in this new infrastructure. Duncan Aviation and Rockwell Collins announced a year ago their partnership to install a Pro Line Fusion flight deck in the Citation CJ3. Both companies worked hard and the first equipped aircraft was presented

customers ranging from Bombardier Challengers and Learjets, to Textron’s Cessna, Hawker and Beechcraft jets. Fly Comlux announced the signature of its first VIP flight service contract OneAbove by Comlux with Polaris Aviation Solutions for the sale of VIP flights on its Gulfstream G550 and Boeing BBJ based in New York, USA. Similar to Fly Comlux, the VIP operator of the Comlux Group, Polaris Aviation Solutions with headquarters in Atlanta, GA USA, is a worldwide executive aircraft management company. UAS launched a new all-in-one trip planning and weather solution, UAS flightevolution. Created for pilots and dispatchers with a mobile-first approach, it is set to improve the process of advanced global flight planning, weather checking, aircraft performance calculation, and in-flight situational awareness owing to its high speed, simplicity and convenient mobile capabilities. Available anywhere around the globe, it will enable pilots and dispatchers to plan, review and execute missions with or without a data connection.

this year at Orlando. Along with being certified WAAS/LPV, the baseline upgrade will meet the current 2020 mandate for ADS-B. The Pro Line Fusion flight deck replaces the factory-installed portrait displays with larger 14.1-inch landscape touch screen primary flight displays. Certification is expected in early 2017. GlobalParts Aero Structures, a division of GlobalParts.aero, has announced an agreement with Turbine Aircraft Services (TAS) to provide, cost-efficient inlet repair and replacement services for a broad list of aircraft

Jeppesen introduced Jeppesen Operator, a new online Business Aviation platform that integrates key Business Aviation functionality in a “one-stop shop“ self-service environment. Available through the Cloud, Operator integrates flight planning, runway performance, weight & balance, crew scheduling & management, aircraft scheduling, domestic and international trip planning and reporting.

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The 2017 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) will have over 27,000 attendees, 1,100 exhibitors, and 2 static displays of aircraft – one inside the exhibit hall and the other outside at Henderson Executive Airport. Don’t miss this important opportunity to gain brand recognition and be seen as an industry leader at the world’s largest business aviation event. Learn more and submit your application today.

SUBMIT APPLICATION: www.nbaa.org/2017/exhibitbart

FROM THE COCKPIT

IN SEARCH OF THE ELUSIVE PERFECT LANDING BASICALLY,

IT’S SIMPLE A

TACTIC

The perfect landing, or touchdown, requires adherence to a few simple rules.

ll of us, I imagine, are occasionally (or frequently) embarrassed by a landing that doesn’t turn out the way we intended. What we always intend is a glassy-smooth transition from flare-out to taxiing. What we sometimes get is a noticeable arrival that awakens the slumbering passengers and draws comments from crew members on board. It is incorrect to speak of a “good landing” in terms of a smooth touchdown. The landing is more than placing rubber on runway. Landing involves a stabilized approach no less than a mile out and 500 feet above the airport. It continues with crosswind correction, power reduction, flaring from glidepath to zero-descent rate and a controlled touchdown and rollout. But, let’s face it; we grade ourselves by the jar that’s felt when the wheels hit. You and I try to finesse that moment and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. As I’ve heard it said: “It’s not my fault, it’s not your

Sad but true: A pilot can fly smoothly around

thunderstorms and navigate through turbulence, yet still have difficulty in touchdown. Capt. LeRoy Cook shares elements of a perfect landing

fault; it’s the asphalt.” Like most pilots, I’ll take luck over skill as long as it works. The fact is, getting a “grease job” arrival is luck, in a lot of ways. Some airplanes are just plain unpredictable to land. Not dangerous, just a tad inconsistent with the way they pay off at the end. Some airfoils are fat with lift well into the stall, others seem to quit flying as soon as you leave Vref. Swept-wing designs tend to flare themselves as long as the speed is managed correctly. The type and placement of the main gear plays a large part in covering for the pilot’s imperfections. Trailing-link main gear designs are pilot (and passenger) pleasers; but they are heavy, expensive and take up extra fuel tank space. Short, straightleg gear, like those on the older Cessna Citations, are simple and rugged; but are known for transferring every nuance of pavement and piloting to the airframe. If the main gear is located far aft, it takes special

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care to avoid pounding it into the runway while flaring out from the descent. The old Boeing 727 reportedly needed to be unloaded with a little power and forward shove on the yoke at the flare to make sure the dual wheels were rolled on level. Compounding the problem is that jets being flown into comparatively short runways need to be landed NOW, not floated along while oozing off every ounce of energy from the descent. Braking is critical to getting stopped in the available space and the sooner you spike on the tires, the quicker the ground spoilers and antiskid can go to work. So, we accept a graceless clunk that jars the cabinetry in favor of a safe turnoff. In thousands of hours of research, involving added thousands of landings, I’ve learned that the perfect landing, or touchdown, requires adherence to a few simple rules. They are: Get as low as you can; get as slow as you can; zero out the sink rate and have the wheels rolling straight. That’s it.

Get the Tires Near the Runway You can’t make a smooth landing by parking the airplane ten feet in the air and waiting for it fall out of the sky. The third rule, eliminating sink, will be compromised, if gravity takes over and the gap between tire and pavement closes suddenly. Learning how to place the main gear just inches from the asphalt takes experience with the aircraft. Your eye level is far above the wheels and just how far is something you have to learn to judge, using sight references along the runway edge. Keep your seat in the same position each time, for consistent flare and hold-off pictures. Get As Slow As You Can Excess kinetic energy transfers to the landing gear, so if you can eliminate extra speed at touchdown you’ll get a smoother arrival. The problem is that some wings, and tails, don’t hold onto the airflow if you try to slow down into the near-stall regime. Again, experience with the type of aircraft tells you how far you can push the slow-down. Do not pursue touchdown speed reduction so far that you suddenly lose lift and thump to the ground. Zero Out the Sink Rate Ideally, we want to skim the tires along in absolutely level flight as they contact the pavement. A Navy carrier landing, designed to catch the ideal Number Three Wire, is predicated on sink rates of ten feet per second or more. They are painful to watch, but they are done for a purpose. Since we have more than a few hundred feet of runway length, we can use the transition from a stabilized Vref, or 1.3 x Vso, to bring the sink rate down to zero. Timing the flare and power reduction, however, takes experience. Have the Wheels Straight The last ingredient, keeping the tires lined up with the direction of travel, is often overlooked, as we devote our attention to the flare-out and holding-off tasks. In one case, many otherwise acceptable landings are spoiled because the aircraft’s longitudinal axis is not aligned with the runway centerline, leaving the tires slightly skewed as they contact the surface. This jerks the airplane around to force the tires into the

direction the plane is traveling, and the shock is felt through the airframe. Or, alternatively, the tires ARE in alignment, but they are drifting sideways, either from uncorrected crosswind drift or an unwanted bit of crossed controls which create sideslip. Again, there’s a palpable jerk at touchdown as the sideways movement is forced into a forward rollout. A lot of pilots neglect the five knots of crosswind or minor misalignment, accepting the bit of roughness as the tires touch as being within their personal standards of acceptability. And their landings never improve, because they are not watching the details needed to make a perfect landing. Do Not Ignore Drift If the wind is blowing from anywhere but directly down the runway, you need to drop a wing and place the upwind main tire on the ground just before the downwind one arrives. Just enough to hear “chirp, chirp” from the gear. I know you can kick the plane straight to negate a crosswind during the flare, but the timing has to be perfect, so the inertia of forward motion won’t be altered by crosswind drift before the tires hit. And a tad of crossed controls has to be applied during the de-crabbing maneuver to avoiding lifting the upwind wing as the airplane’s yaw coupling takes effect. I still prefer to sideslip for a flawless touchdown in a crosswind within the aircraft’s limitations. Unless you’re sitting on the centerline of the aircraft, in single-seat or tandem configuration, it’s easy for your seating position to allow the airplane to touch down while cocked slightly from the runway alignment. Use tire marks, pavement seams and painted markings to give you the clues you need kick out all misalignment. Cockpit visibility may be restricted during the nose-high arrival, but stretch as much as you can in order to see the runway clearly. I have observed some unintentional mechanical inputs as the stick or yoke is moved aft, particularly from pilots of short stature or those favoring a forward seat adjustment. This could stem from the space between hands and torso closing into a small gap. The human arm joints have to

bend as the hand is pulled toward the chest and the wrist can pick up some rotation movement, placing unwanted force on the controls and generating a bit of roll. Thus, the airplane touches down one wheel first, without a crosswind to negate, causing a slight lurch. I’ve also observed unintended rudder inputs during a flare before landing, perhaps because the pitch forces are high in a heavy airplane, or insufficient trim is used. It turns out that the pilot was “standing” on the rudder pedals to get more leverage and uneven pressure yawed the aircraft out of alignment. A seat adjustment usually cured the problem. There are a multitude of ways to spoil a landing effort and I am conversant with most of them. It has been my privilege to fly with some truly “natural” pilots, born with bird blood in their veins and displaying a oneness with the aircraft as they manipulate the controls at the end of a flight. I can only stand in awe and envy.

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CHALLENGE

Despite technological advances, the possibility of not landing right is always lurking in pilots' minds.

SAFETY SENSE

IS ANYBODY OUT THERE? When All is Perfect

Nowhere else is the

communication process

he captain of the Embraer 135 BJ Legacy was at ease. The aircraft was cruising along at FL370 above the vast Amazonian jungle. The weather could not be better and flying conditions were smooth. The crew had taken off with the brand new aircraft from the Embraer factory in São José dos Campos and were en-route to Florida with a technical stop in Manaus. Everything was running as planned.

The departure from São José dos Campos had been performed under time pressure. After the aircraft delivery ceremony, the five passengers had wanted to depart quickly. The crew had little time to complete their flight preparation and the co-pilot was busy finalizing the set-up of the performance calculation software on his laptop. A joint review of the route and flight plan was neglected in favor of a rushed departure.

MISHAP

A breakdown in the communication process often leads to less than desirable events.

ATC Clearance Before departure from São José dos Campos, the crew received their airway clearance to climb to flight level 370. No clearance limit was assigned. No mention was made of any flight level changes required along the route. Silence The flight climbed to its assigned flight level. Traffic was light and the radio frequencies remained very

more important than in the cockpit of an aircraft, Michael R. Grüninger and Capt. Carl C. Norgren advise through real-life experience

quiet. After changing frequencies to Brasilia Area Control Centre (ACC BS) at 18:51 there were no more radio communications for the next 35 minutes. Unfortunately for the crew, the radio frequency used to establish contact was incorrect. As the aircraft proceeded along the airway, radio contact was lost. When Silence is Heard At 19:26, ACC BS tried calling the aircraft for seven times, but without any success. It was another 22 minutes until the co-pilot of the EMB-135 started feeling uneasy about the silence on the radio and attempted to contact ACC BS. Apart from the last assigned frequency he used his enroute communication chart and tried several frequencies published for the specific area. He made a total of 12 attempts – no success. The crew was now aware that they were flying without radio contact.

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Tragedy Strikes At 19:56, a sudden violent jolt is felt and the aircraft veers sharply to the left. The autopilot remains engaged and returns the aircraft back on track. The crew is startled. In cruise with unlimited visibility something has impacted the aircraft without any warning. The crew focuses on controlling the aircraft. Without knowledge of the extent of the damage they commence a descent towards the nearest aerodrome. The crew again attempts to contact ACC BS to declare an emergency and to inform ATC of their situation and intentions. They call on all published frequencies as well as on 121.5 MHz, but without success. Through the relay of another aircraft on 121.50 MHz, the crew receives the radio frequency of the tower of their diversion aerodrome and 5 minutes prior landing ATC contact is re-established.

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SAFETY SENSE

Damage Inspection After landing, the crew inspects the aircraft: Part of the left winglet is missing and the left stabilizer and left elevator are damaged. It was a very close call. Mid-air Collision They were extremely lucky to have survived a mid-air collision with a Boeing 737 airliner. However the other aircraft was less fortunate. It lost the outboard half of the wing resulting in loss of control. 148 passengers and six crew members perished. How could such a fatal mid-air collision occur between two modern aircraft under ATC control in class-A controlled airspace? Communication The separation of aircraft in controlled airspace requires permanent and effective communication between aircraft and air traffic control (ATC). When communications are lost, so is the ability of ATC to provide separation between aircraft. Hence, radio contact is a basic requirement for IFR flight and redundant radio transmitters and receivers are installed.

HURDLE

The language barrier and wide-ranging accents can also pose problems.

The Safety Net TCAS provides an additional layer of safety. When ATC fails to separate air traffic TCAS is designed to provide for coordinated avoidance maneuvers between two aircraft on a collision course. TCAS relies on transponder signals. For unknown reasons, the transponder of the EMB-135 stopped transmitting a signal at 19:02 hrs. It had been inadvertently switched off.

No cautions were generated to alert the crew. ATC did not notice the disappearance of the transponder signal. Without transponder, the TCAS was inoperative and the aircraft was invisible to other TCAS equipped aircraft. The EMB-135 was flying in RVSM airspace. An inoperative transponder would have rendered the aircraft nonRVSM and would have required an increased vertical separation of 2,000 ft. See and Avoid Even with perfect flight visibility the chance of detecting traffic approaching head-on on the same airway centerline and the same altitude with a closing speed of 1.6 times the speed of sound is too small to constitute a feasible safety net. ‘See and avoid’ at high altitudes and at high speeds is not a viable survival strategy. Somebody is Always Out There Radio silence is a loud warning to any pilot flying in IFR. There is always ‘somebody out there’ and avoiding them requires effective communications with ATC. A functioning TCAS is an additional safety layer. In a New Aircraft, in a Foreign Land The crew had completed their type rating course in the US. At the time of the accident the PIC had 5:35 hours on type. It was his third flight in an EMB-135 BJ. The co-pilot had accumulated 3:30 on type. Previously, he had accumulated 300 hours on EMB145 aircraft. Both of the crew mem-

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bers were only getting to know their new ‘office space’. It was also their first flight in Brazilian airspace. They were not familiar with the details of the communication procedures and the navigation requirements. The airway they were using required even flight levels for their direction of travel. The flight level was correctly filed in their flight plan and contained on the navigation charts. Language The ATC command of the English language was another barrier to effective communications. In Brazil, Portuguese is used in parallel with English to control air traffic on the same frequency and in the same airspace. Radio transmissions in Portuguese did not convey any information to the EMB-135 BJ crew.

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Michael R. Grüninger is Managing Director of Great Circle Services (GCS) Safety Solutions and Capt. Carl C. Norgren is a freelance contributor to Safety Sense. GCS assists in the whole range of planning and management issues, offering customized solutions to strengthen the position of a business in the aviation market. Its services include training and auditing (IS-BAO, IOSA), consultancy, manual development and process engineering. GCS can be reached at www.gcs-safety.com and +41-41 460 46 60. The column Safety Sense appears regularly in BART International since 2007.

TAX

EUROPEAN VAT TREATMENT OF AIRCRAFT: NO PIECE OF CAKE Aoife O’Sullivan takes a look at the basics of European VAT law,

examining the cases

where aircraft owners have to pay or are exempt mercial purposes are however subject to VAT. Some examples of the different options are given below. Each case is bespoke as the VAT treatment depends entirely on the actual use of the aircraft.

alue Added Tax (VAT) in Europe continues to plague every aircraft intending to fly within Europe carrying European residents on board. The application of the tax does not depend on registration or ownership of the aircraft. It applies therefore to any aircraft, not just those based in Europe. Various jurisdictions within the continent have promoted various import schemes – suffice to say there are tried and tested import options open to all commercial users of aircraft which are very tax efficient. Aircraft used primarily for private non-com-

Option 1 - The Airline Zero Rate Qualifying aircraft are subject to Zero rate VAT. A qualifying aircraft is any aircraft which is used by an airline operating for reward chiefly on international routes. “Airline” means an undertaking which provides services for the carriage by air of passengers or cargo (or both). For private jets to qualify the legislation states that the aircraft has to be used by an airline and so if an operator was to provide transportation services on behalf of the owner of the aircraft, it would not qualify unless the owner is an airline. This is because it is the owner rather than the operator which is using the aircraft. However, if the owner was to give exclusive use to the operator then it would be different and HMRC are likely to accept that the operator is using the aircraft rather than the owner. Operators holding an air operators certificate (AOC) will qualify as an airline for this purpose. Option 2 - Isle of Man Captive An aircraft owning company that provides passenger transport services to customers for reward that may include the parent company (including its subsidiaries) of the aircraft owning company. The aircraft owning company should be VAT registered. The IOM Company purchases the aircraft once the company is VAT regis-

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COMPLEX

The VAT issue is a conundrum for aircraft owners or operators flying within Europe.

TAX

tered. The IOM Company signs passenger transport agreements with its parent company for which it will charge. Profits arising in the IOM Company are subject to Corporation Tax in the Isle of Man at a rate of zero percent. The aircraft is then imported at a zero rate. If using this route, we very strongly recommend getting not only a tax opinion but also a VAT ruling from the local revenue and a legal opinion on compliance with aviation regulation. Particular care needs to be taken to avoid what is known as “illegal or grey charter”. When an aircraft is operated privately the owner is on board or guests of the owners may be on board provided they are not paying for the flight. At EASA level, any payment for the flight is illegal unless the aircraft is operated by an AOC holder that is a licensed operator with an “Air Operators Certificate” (AOC). In the UK, the Air Navigation Order uses the definition of “public transport” which is a similar concept to “commercial air transport” save that “any consideration” may include non-cash payments. For example, if I let you fly on my jet in return for a free room in your hotel, this is considered to be “valuable consideration” for the flight. If the flight is not operated by an AOC holder, technically it is an illegal flight, known colloquially as “grey charter”.

ESTEEMED

Aoife O’Sullivan specializes in aircraft finance and regulatory issues.

Option 3 – VAT Registration Pay and Reclaim The company owning the aircraft can apply to register for VAT and importation privileges in the different member states. The VAT is reclaimed back through the usual VAT rebate system. The company must be engaged in economic activity and in most cases the relevant member state

prefers that the company is a local corporate structure (although this is not necessarily a legal requirement). Most member states will require a business plan and in all cases a ruling should be sought from the local revenue office. Some member states (e.g. Isle of Man) have a deferment system where the VAT is not paid but is deferred which may help from a cash flow perspective. Denmark is the only member state we are aware of to date that will afford VAT status to a non-European company. To qualify for such a registration a specific “qualifying transaction” must take place in Denmark. Maltese Private Aircraft Lease The Maltese VAT department issued a new set of guidelines for the VAT treatment of aircraft leasing in April 2016. This is not an import option and has been confused by many as being an alternative to the options given above. It is however a very efficient leasing structure for private aircraft. The lease of a private aircraft is considered a supply of service which is subject to VAT with the right of deduction of input VAT by the lessor (when applicable). This service is taxable according to the use of the aircraft within the airspace of the European Union which can result in as little as 5.4 percent being paid on the lease (as opposed to the standard rate). The application of the new guidelines is subject to certain conditions such as the leasing agreement must be between a lessor and a lessee both of whom are established in Malta, the lease agreement cannot exceed a period of 60 months and the lease instalments shall be payable every month.

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Aoife O'Sullivan is a London-based lawyer specializing in business and commercial aviation, military aircraft and civil aerospace. She is a leading partner at a boutique firm dedicated to the aviation industry, The Air Law Firm LLP. Aoife is internationally renowned for her work in aircraft finance and speaks regularly at conferences and industry events. Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine named her as one of the top 10 leaders in Business Aviation in 2014. Aoife is a member of the Board of Aerion Corporation Inc, a pioneering company dedicated to developing aircraft for supersonic flight. Aoife was a founding member of IIBN, a network of Irish entrepreneurs of in excess of 5,000 members worldwide. She was previously chair of the European Business Aviation Association finance and leasing group. Aoife O'Sullivan is extremely knowledgeable and commercially savvy, particularly in relation to the corporate jet market. Contact Aoife at: aosullivan@thelawfirm.com