E U R O P E A N
BUSINESS AIR NEWS ISSUE 217
AUGUST 2011
A splendid 11 BGAD day of business aviation
Business & General Aviation Day
September 20th, 2011
www.bgad.aero
FBO 2 201 G N I T O V view from the top: NOW chiefThepilots’ perspectives N E P O Fill in the survey form on your mailing sheet, or log in to vote for more...
SWEDEN REGIONAL REVIEW Top nature photographer harnesses HeliAir helicopters to film Baltic wildlife
They may have many responsibilities on the ground, but most chief pilots will still find any opportunity to take the controls. Execujet’s Cedric Gitchenko competes in aerobatic championships and flies vintage aircraft. See our Perspectives feature, starting on page 6.
DEA expands into Italy as first specialist DA42 comes online Diamond Executive Aviation has received its first DA42MPP multipurpose aerial sensing aircraft and now has plans to expand its operations to bases in Italy. The latest aircraft arrived at the company’s Retford base at the end of June after a five hours 45 minute non-stop flight from the factory in Wiener Neustadt. The delivery flight was carried out by Captain Chris Dawes and flight officer Sam Weston, and was escorted by a DA42NG piloted by Henrik Burkal, managing director of distributor Diamond Aircraft UK. The DA42MPP has the ability to support a wide range of external sensors and has several features specifically added to support surveillance and reconnaissance missions. With electronic Stormscope weather detection and a traffic alerting system, both of which are displayed on the G1000 flight management system in real time, the aircraft is able to handle convective weather and conflicting traffic with ease, says DEA. It has been earmarked for a variety of pilot projects and evaluation programmes, some of
Henrik Burkal (left) officially hands the DA42MPP over to DEA’s co-founder Chris Dawes and first officer Sam Weston.
which are being directly managed by DEA and some jointly between Diamond Aircraft UK and DEA. Last year DEA and Radiola Aerospace of New Zealand signed a five-year agreement to develop the DA42 as a platform for flight inspection. Two aircraft were fully modified and now carry another 12 aerials, enhanced power supplies, TCAS and strengthened load bays to carry the $500,000 flight inspection test systems. In December DEA was granted a flight inspection extension to its AOC
by the CAA and has since flown over 70,000 miles on flight inspection with over 50 inspections and calibrations so far. With regular journeys to the Sahara, Morocco, Albania and the Middle East, including new radio beacons near Baghdad, the flying has been ‘interesting at times', especially being followed out of the Baghdad area by a predator drone. As EBAN went to press Radiola was expecting to have received CAP670 approval, which DEA’s ceo Peter Bondar describes as “the CAA’s gold standard for flight inspection in the UK, and arguably the most demanding standard anywhere in the world.” This will allow the marketing of the DEA/Radiola solution in the UK. In addition to this, DEA has provided unaccompanied donor flights working with brokers such as Flight Serve, Fly Me Now and Aviastra on UK contracts. “Today around 65% of our time is spent flying passengers, small freight and donor flights with the rest for flight inspection,” says Bondar. “We have announced our plans Continued on page 5
Gamba takes the helm at EBAA The European Business Aviation Association has appointed Fabio Gamba as chief executive. In September he will take over from Brian Humphries, who will remain in the role of EBAA president. Gamba will run the EBAA business on a fulltime basis from the association’s Brussels headquarters. He was most recently the deputy secretary general of the Association of European Airlines, where he promoted the interests of legacy carriers and established strong ties with the European institutions and EU member states. Now he is focused on the needs of business aviation: “In order to realise its truly amazing potential and deploy its full benefits to the economy, business aviation needs fair and equitable rules that recognise its specificities,” he says. “Having spent the last five years fighting the airline corner, I now look forward to using that expertise to help business aviation grow and develop its vital role in Europe.” “We are delighted to welcome Fabio to EBAA,” says Humphries. “His extensive experience in the airline sector will be a particular asset in continuing to convince European leaders of the vital role of our sector in the European economy.”
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2 AUGUST 2011
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
VistaJet plans role in RUBAA VistaJet has joined the Russian United Business Aviation Association, in recognition of the importance of the region to its future growth, and of the increasing activity of the association. “Russian customers have always admired our luxury service and we are seeing unprecedented demand in Russia,” says chairman Thomas Flohr. “VistaJet is excited about further leveraging the Russian market and sharing experiences through our membership.” Anna Serejkina, RUBAA executive director, is sure that VistaJet’s participation will help a lot to promote and develop business aviation in Russia. “I would like to thank VistaJet for their readiness to share their knowledge and experience through workshops we are planning together.”
FlairJet is first through the door at Humberside A FlairJet crew were surprised on arrival at Humberside airport recently to be presented with a celebratory bottle of champagne, as their Phenom became the first aircraft to be handled by new FBO Weston Aviation. Managing director Nick Weston was there to welcome the crew as they touched down. “This is an excellent start to our new Business Aviation Centre at Humberside Airport,” he says. “We were working hard towards opening on time for June 1st and then we started to receive requests for handling dates in late May so we decided work around the clock to open the doors early to accommodate the high level of demand we received.” Mike Chamberlain, ground operations director at FlairJet, adds: “We are delighted to be the first aircraft handled by Weston
Celebrating are Weston Aviation customer services co-ordinator Diane Scott and regional manager Amanda Clark, Humberside airport head of business development Paul Litten, Weston md Nick Weston, FlairJet crew Ian Day and David Lucas, Weston general manager Becky Carver and Humberside airport operations manager Chris Wild.
at Humberside. This extends a long-standing relationship and we
wish them every success with their new venture.”
Paul Litten, head of business development at Humberside airport, says: “Opening for business ahead of schedule due to demand is a great indication of Weston Aviation’s future. “The business secured in the first week of operating from a brand new dedicated fixed based operation, clearly demonstrates the strength of their reputation and the need for a business aviation facility in the region.” FlairJet is the first European commercial operator of both the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 aircraft and currently operates three Phenom 100 and two Phenom 300 executive jets from its bases at London Oxford and Cannes airports. Humberside airport is the third UK FBO developed and operated by Weston Aviation, joining its other facilities at Durham Tees Valley and Newquay Cornwall airports.
Cello earns praise for first year
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Cello Aviation has been celebrating its first year of operations with an Avro ABJ from its Birmingham airport base. During this time the staff roster has grown to 22, and the company is now planning to increase its fleet with the addition of a second aircraft later this year. The company says it has already generated a loyal customer base and Premiership including international football teams, royalty, EU Parliament members, golf and WWE superstars and A-list film stars and pop stars. Matt Purton, commercial jet sales director with broker Air Charter Service, is impressed: “Working with the team has been a thoroughly professional and enjoyable experience. Nothing has been impossible for them and they don’t seem to know the word ‘no’. Our clients are very specific about punctuality and onboard service, for both of which Cello have not been left wanting. “The aircraft, ops and engineering team did a great job of ensuring that all 11 departures were on time and that the aircraft was serviceable – while the cabin services team and
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Cello was selected to convey HRH Queen Elizabeth II to Ireland earlier this year (photo courtesy Irish Air Corps).
crew made sure that the service met and exceeded all expectations, and were especially receptive and resourceful in finding some specific food and beverage requests.” Purton continues: “Working with Cello is like having a blank canvas with which to do as you please. We are delighted to have secured with them the aircraft for the November tour for the same client. “We also have worked with them on flights for Middle Eastern royalty and the same client has asked us specifically for this aircraft this summer.”
AUGUST 2011 3
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
Financial crisis may leave business aviation in Greece all the stronger Greece is a country in turmoil, its government grappling with debt which can only be afforded with international assistance. In exchange for this, the country will be required to gather its taxes more efficiently and cut public spending, but more crucially in the words of its Minister of Finance: “To remove restrictions from business and trade, reducing administrative costs and structural overspending, combating bureaucracy, providing for faster administration of justice, securing stability of legislation and transforming Greece into an investor-friendly country.” This leaves Doulis Karafil of
Greek charter broker Air Business International in optimistic mood. “It is commonly acknowledged that opportunities occur in periods of crisis, and I strongly believe that the reforms the Greek government must now apply under pressure from creditors will make Greece a better country for the development of business and general aviation,” he says. “Where there is no government involvement in Greece, things run smoothly and with success. For example, there is minimum involvement of the government in the merchant marine.” Greece has always been a poor
EDITORIAL COMMENT
The only way is up for privatised Greek airports.
country with rich people. The shipping industry is second only to tourism in its earning power, there are many expatriate Greeks of great personal wealth, and there is a national trait for entrepreneurship.
priced service,” he says. So at least Greek business aviation operators will have had the opportunity to approach new customers and hopefully have a chance to retain their business in future. And there is little doubt that the privatisation of Greek airports will benefit general aviation both in operational terms and in infrastructure development. Airports run by privately owned companies will surely open for more than just a few hours a day, beyond the limited times when scheduled flights demand it. David Wright Managing editor
Although Karafil reports that traffic from Greek individuals and corporations has been lower in general during this year it has still been one of the best for aviation. Unfortunately this increase in charter demand is due to the fact that strikes and cancellations of scheduled flights have forced people to charter aircraft. To meet such demand Karafil’s brokerage department is organising an air taxi network to cover the Greek mainland, the islands and the neighbouring countries. “Suitable aeroplanes and helicopters based where they are needed and not only in Athens will offer a competitively
Ambeo moves to Stansted to meet expansion goals Charter operator Ambeo has moved from its base at Marshall Business Aviation Centre in Cambridge to London Stansted as part of an ambitious expansion plan. Ambeo employs 15 people and runs two Cessna Citation Mustangs, with clients including senior business executives and stars from the worlds of sport and music. Darryl Haynes, Ambeo coo, says the move was necessary to meet the company’s goals for continued expansion of its services and core capabilities, including the provision of bespoke aircraft management services for corporate jet owners. “Making the move to a 24/7 operational airfield closer to London means that we can now improve both our level of flexibility and cost effectiveness,” he says. Commercial director Carlo Montanini adds: “Based on two successive years of growth we know that this is the right time to make a move. We believe that relocating is critical to meeting our strategic objectives over the next few years and beyond.” Ambeo’s UK-based aircraft will now be based at Inflite Executive Jet Centre at Stansted. The second aircraft is operated from its existing base at Le Bourget airport in Paris. Blueway to add fourth EC225 over North Sea Blueway has ordered a fourth EC225 helicopter to expand its North Sea oil and gas market services. Based in Denmark’s Esbjerg area, its duties will include transportation and logistics flights covered in a North Sea services contract with Maersk Oil. To support Blueway in its bid for these services, Eurocopter ensured a timely delivery slot and will now help identify business opportunities for the EC155 helicopters that are also in Blueway’s fleet. “Blueway is pleased to sign for the fourth EC225, which will be operated in support of the Maersk Oil contract, as well as for future opportunities in North Europe,” said Jakob Bae, who was recently named Blueway’s ceo.
Second survey Partenavia P68 enters service with RVL
Fred Eisele, ceo of Stuttgart-based Eisele Flugdienst (left) and Nicolas von Mende, ceo of Atlas Air Service (centre with red tie) enjoy the sunny arrival of the CJ4 at Bremen.
Eisele offers Europe’s first charter CJ4 as ‘perfect’ next step Eisele Flugdienst has become the first charter operator in Europe to offer the Citation CJ4. Fred Eisele, chief executive officer of the Stuttgart-based company, accepted the jet in a handover hosted by Atlas Air Service, Cessna’s Citation authorised sales representative for Germany, at the Citation Service Centre at Bremen Airport. Eisele says: “The CJ4 is the perfect next step to help us expand our operations. We already fly a very successful fleet of Citation CJ1+, CJ2+, CJ3 and Sovereign aircraft, so we
know our customers appreciate Cessna’s trademark combination of speed, comfort and reliability. Building on that fleet, the additional range, speed, payload and cabin comfort of the CJ4 will allow us to further expand the scope and effectiveness of our charter services throughout the European Union and into Russia. “Furthermore, the CJ4 shares a common pilot type rating with the other CJs, meaning our CJ pilots are already rated to fly it, so we can integrate the aircraft seamlessly into
our fleet and begin charter operations straight away.” The CJ4 is the newest and largest member of the CJ family and is approved for single-pilot operations. The aircraft gained type certification from EASA in May this year. It has a range of 2,002 nautical miles and a top speed of 453 knots. Manufacturer Cessna has been using all the digital options to promote the aircraft including a video on its YouTube channel, and updates on its Twitter page at #fly_cessna and on its Facebook page.
RVL Group’s second Partenavia P68 survey aircraft has entered into commercial service. Acquired a year ago with its sister ship, the aircraft has since been undergoing extensive maintenance and modification work. The aircraft has a busy summer ahead of it flying for Blom Aerofilms in the UK and in Europe. Plans are already well advanced to send the aircraft to Norway and Finland on high resolution photography work. This will be the fourth RVL Group aircraft flying for Blom this year, which will itself be relocating into RVL Group’s new East Midlands Airport complex at the end of their busy summer season. Building of RVL Group’s office and hangar facility at East Midlands airport has reached another important milestone. Restoration of the office block – which will eventually house Ordnance Survey, Blom Aerofilms and the Environment Agency as well as RVL’s own staff – and the car park is complete. Construction of a new hangar complex is now under way, and by the autumn RVL Group’s entire operation will be located in the new facility.
NEXT MONTH EBAN reviews business aviation in the UK.
Certification extends MENA’s scope to Cayman and Bermuda aircraft Bahrain-based MENA Aerospace Enterprises’ aircraft operation division, MAE Aircraft Management, has achieved full compliance with the International Standards for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO). Issued by the International Business Aviation Council, the ISBAO certification is confirmation that the company operates to a code of worldwide best practices designed
to help flight departments and business jet operators achieve and maintain the highest levels of safety and quality. “Meeting this world class standard of safety and quality is testament to the hard work and professionalism of the entire team” says Steve Wilks, general manager MAE Aircraft Management. “Our charter and aircraft management customers will
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benefit from the assurance of knowing our operations meet and exceed international best standards. Captain Andreas Wieser, the company’s director of flight operations, adds: “Prior to the IS-BAO certification, MAE Aircraft Management successfully implemented a Safety Management System as approved by Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs, and is now targeting
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international safety and quality registration for the airline.” Ralph Eisenschmid, MENA Aerospace Group ceo, says: “In addition to the benefits of this accreditation, IS-BAO approval allows the company to operate and manage aircraft registered in the Cayman Islands and Bermuda. Many aircraft based in the Middle East are registered in these jurisdictions.”
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4 AUGUST 2011
LEA flies heavy metal around Europe London Executive Aviation has been busy flying heavy metal legends Iron Maiden for most of the European stage of the band’s ‘Final Frontier World Tour 2011’ from May to August. On June 30 the band and their tour management team, comprising 11 people in total, flew in one of LEA’s fleet of six Legacy 600 aircraft to perform at the Roskilde Festival, leaving the next day, and Captain Tony Myers says the experience was exceptional. “We fly all over the world and Roskilde gave us the very best and most dedicated service we have received in a long time. The friendly, attentive and cooperative attitude of all the team was faultless. Alice Eg, Roskilde Executive Handling’s head of vip and FBO relations, even took the trouble to personally wash and iron our table napkins overnight.” Myers continues: “Roskilde airport is a very well-equipped facility with first-class handling.” Copenhagen Roskilde airport director Lars Lip says: “I’ve always known Alice Eg, Peter Larsen and the team here provide an excellent service, but there is nothing better than to hear an operator like LEA offer such high praise.”
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
Operators urged to find out more about London 2012 The practicalities of the Olympics for business aviation will be debated at the forthcoming Business Aviation and General Aviation Day (BGAD), to be held at Cambridge airport on Tuesday, 20 September. An industry panel, together with moderator Charles Alcock, international editor of Aviation International News, will discuss some crucial issues facing operators, charter providers, FBOs and the 30plus UK airports that have been identified to handle business and general aviation flights for this important summer event. Practicalities to be addressed will include when to start security screening of new employees, the buying in of fuel, provision for aircraft parking and securing ground transportation, which airports are going to be declared 24/7 during the period and how and when operators and charter brokers should go about booking their slots and parking stands at airports. Industry players have been
voicing their concern for some time about the strict restrictions and proposed airspace changes being placed on London airspace, to the extent that they are starting to pose the question ‘has this great opportunity already been missed – or can it be recovered with persuasion to central government?’ One concession has been the recent move to reduce the timeframe on full airspace restrictions. It is now 14 July to 15 August 2012. Separate, geographically smaller, airspace restrictions will cover the London 2012 Paralympic Games from 16 August to 12 September 2012. Charles Alcock will also question whether this is the time for business operators to put aside the fact they are competitors and work together for the collective good of Team Great Britain and to showcase business aviation’s winning edge. During the Olympics all take off and departure slots are to be allocated and slots at peak times will be in heavy demand. On top of
PrivatAir plans training centre in Malta PrivatAir is to partner with BizAv Services Limited, a Maltese consultancy business, to jointly develop a regional centre for flight and cabin crew airline training in Malta. BizAv Services recently gained the status of Approved Training Organisation and will provide initial and recurrent ground training. “This is an exciting concept we are developing in the southern Mediterranean region and the north African continent,” says Victor Grove, PrivatAir vp selection, training and customer service. “We believe that we can grow the training business and offer customers a wide range of services that will enable us to develop a unique brand of Swiss efficiency and Maltese hospitality.” “PrivatAir’s reputation for excellence in vip flight services, complemented by our local experience and expertise in aviation, offers the positive synergy that will result in a reputable training organisation,” says BizAv director Adrian Spiteri.
their existing day-to-day activity, the 14 principal business airports in the UK are expected to handle more than 110,000 movements during the 31-day peak period, according to the UK DfT. Our Olympics panel will comprise: Trevor Jones, director client relations of business aviation operator Gama Aviation, headquartered at Farnborough, UK, and one of the largest charter companies with a worldwide fleet of 80 aircraft; David Macdonald, director private jets, Air Partner plc; Archie Garden representing Cambridge Airport that, with its long runway, is well positioned to accept Olympics traffic; James Cole, director international of Airport Co-ordination Ltd that is working closely with DfT and its consultant Atkins on accommodating Olympics traffic. They will be joined by a senior representative from ExecuJet, that runs FBOs in Europe, South
The full airspace restrictions covering the London Olympic for 2012 apply from 14 July to 15 August 2012. Separate, geographically smaller, airspace restrictions will cover the Paralympic Games from 16 August to 12 September. Changes announced in March included an exemption to allow flights to and from the airfields at White Waltham, Denham, Fairoaks and the London Heliport to access the Restricted Zone from the Prohibited Zone.
Africa and Australasia. They will share their experiences handling the Davos World Economic Forum each year and the recent 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
Register to attend this free-ofcharge one hour session at 11.00 on 20 September during the BGAD show by registering using the enclosed leaflet or online at www.bgad.aero.
Athens airport handles Special Olympics traffic with ease
Liz Tsoukatou of Athens Executive Aviation and A Papayiannis, responsible for the Athens GAT, welcomed visitors to the Special Olympic Games this summer as reported, right.
Our New Terminal Hangar is fully operational
Athens airport witnessed a modest increase in business and vip traffic of around 12 per cent this summer during the Special Olympics, reports Athens Executive Aviation. The games are much smaller than the main Olympic event, but still attracted participation from 180 countries from all over the world with attendant arrivals of media, sponsors, donors, athletes, coaches and spectators. Athens International Airport had established procedures that allowed a smooth flow of all arrivals through the main terminal building and the general aviation terminal. At the GAT the airport, police, customs and handlers collaborated to
The apron at Athens was modestly swelled by the Special Olympics.
welcome vips and sponsors, but because the majority of officials accompanied the athletes’ delegations on scheduled commercial flights, the GA movement increase was not high and did not cause congestion problems.
To arrange a visit to the site or for any further details please contact Robert Walters, who will be pleased to answer any queries about the latest stage in Biggin Hill’s new business developments.
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AUGUST 2011 5
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
DC Aviation offers security at challenging destinations
DEA expands into Italy as first specialist DA42 comes online Continued from page 1
“We have announced our plans to operate in Italy and the first two aircraft are being prepared. This operation has received regulatory acceptance from the CAA, and bases will be in Rome Urbe and Padova Aeritalia airport. “Passengers love the DA42,” he adds. “Clearly it’s a small and relatively intimate aircraft, therefore for customers who want to be ‘involved’ in the flight, it is very good, while for those who would like to be remote and detached clearly this is not the correct aircraft. “Our conversion rate and repeat business rate is very high. A number of well-known individuals have flown with us on a regular basis; TV personalities, authors, footballers, comedians and so on.” DEA provides inflight satellite tracking for its customers which means that friends, families and brokers can be involved in the whole flight process. “This was one of the spin-offs from our very demanding flight inspection approvals process,” says Bondar. The company is planning for the future development of its fleet, but favours limiting the number of different aircraft types. Coincidentally, the DA42’s manufacturer Diamond Aircraft has recently secured new funding to resume the development of the D-JET. Flight testing and building a second test aircraft are now expected to resume imminently.
Caravans in demand in Italy Cessna Aircraft will deliver three 208B Grand Caravan aircraft to an unnamed commercial aircraft operator based in Vicenza, Italy, during this year. The Caravans will augment the operator’s global helicopter fleet operation. “In the past 12 months, we’ve seen a very strong interest in the Cessna Caravan in Italy,” said Pana Poulios, Cessna’s European sales director. “The Caravan fits very well in the European geography and the customers appreciate the roomy cabin and its comfortable ride. The low operating costs together with its high reliability and dispatch rates make the Caravan a great working platform.” The worldwide model 208 fleet has now passed 11 million flight hours carrying out passenger, vip, utility and cargo missions.
Bristow’s Mark Duncan (left) was in Marignane to accept a momento of the delivery of Eurocopter’s 100th EC225 from president and ceo Lutz Bertling.
Bristow dispatches milestone EC225 to Malaysia for oil and gas duties Bristow has taken delivery of Eurocopter’s 100th EC225 worldwide. “We are looking forward to the introduction of this, our 18th EC225, increasing our capacity to serve the oil and gas market. This aircraft together with the two delivered in June are already contracted to a customer in Malaysia.” said Bristow svp commercial Mark Duncan. Bristow was the launch customer in the oil and gas market for the EC225 when the type was introduced into service in 2005 as well as being the launch customer for its predecessor, the AS332L in the early 1980s.
More than 50,000 hours have been logged by Bristow’s EC225s, representing approximately onethird of all flight time accumulated by this helicopter type worldwide. Bristow and Eurocopter also have a Memorandum of Agreement in place for acquisition of the EC175 for which again Bristow will be the launch customer, underscoring the special relationship and partnership between the two companies. Bristow Group provides helicopter services to the offshore energy industry worldwide. The company has a major presence in the US Gulf of Mexico and the North Sea, along with
operations in most of the other major offshore oil and gas producing regions of the world – including Alaska, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia and Trinidad. The landmark EC225 was supplied in the oil and gas configuration, but it can be used by Bristow in other missions due to the multi-role helicopter’s designed-in operational flexibility. The helicopter is the latest generation of the Super Puma/Cougar family, which has flown more than four million flight hours. The EC225 can accommodate up to 19 passengers for offshore crew change flights.
German long range and vvip operator DC Aviation has joined forces with UK security business MODA Solutions to provide extended flight and destination security services for its passengers. Dubbed the Flight Consort Service, this is designed to provide an integrated on-call service for royal, presidential or state regular users as well as corporate users. Charter clients will be offered destination guides and briefings and the current security situation there, security audits on unusual destinations where a risk may be perceived, and advice on specific client needs. Specialist inflight air marshals can be provided, as well as safe and secure vehicles, diplomatic protection drivers, translators and specialist close protection officers, including special forces personnel with country-specific know-how and local connections. A crisis management response team can be on hand to deal with any in-country problems that may occur, including security, specialist lawyers, diplomatic lobbyists and PR. MODA Solutions provides security services to individuals, companies and governments worldwide and has a reputation for ensuring security by the use of special forces personnel. “We appreciate that our clients’ journeys do not begin or end on the runway,” says DC Aviation. “Their journey has a purpose and the function of the alliance is to offer clients the choice to seek associated and facilitated support to ensure that purpose is successfully and safely carried out.”
Jet Aviation adds Phenom 300 for European charter Jet Aviation is to add a factory-new Embraer Phenom 300 jet to its fleet of managed aircraft, and expects this will be the first of its type available for charter services in central Europe. The company is currently working in close cooperation with FOCA to obtain Swiss type certification. Delivery is expected in November of this year, and the aircraft will be available for charter services as soon as certification for commercial transport is secured. The Phenom 300 accommodates six passengers for a range of up to 3,500 km. The aircraft will be based in Zurich, and is claimed to offer the
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Martin Bernegger is aiming to appeal to style-conscious customers with the Phenom 300.
largest baggage compartment in its class, as well as leather seats and cabin entertainment amenities. It has an extended galley, a lavatory with a rigid sliding door and the cabin interior is finished in natural wood veneer. “We are thrilled to offer the Phenom 300 to our charter customers,” said Martin Bernegger, svp and general manager of Jet Aviation’s aircraft charter division in EMEA and Asia. “This light jet aircraft is ideally suited to our styleconscious customer base that enjoys premium comfort and the latest technology for shorter range flights throughout Europe.”
Jet Aviation’s exclusive private fleet also includes three Citation Bravos and a Citation Excel available for charter. All aircraft in the fleet are similarly outfitted and include the latest safety enhancements, navigation devices, communication tools, business amenities and entertainment systems. The private fleet charter aircraft are 100 per cent controlled by Jet Aviation and are maintained by the company’s factory-trained maintenance crews. Cabin and flight crews are specifically trained to offer the utmost in service and discretion, says Bernegger.
6 AUGUST 2011
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
Kocoglu Powers pass 10,000 flight hour milestone Kocoglu Aviation Inc of Turkey has passed the milestone of 10,000 flight hours with its fleet of AW109 Power light twin helicopters in just two years. The eight helicopters, operated by Sky Line Transportation Trade Inc, a Kocoglu Group company, have been successfully operating across Turkey in demanding hot and high conditions, achieving 97% dispatch reliability. Over 3,800 EMS missions have been performed. Three Izmirbased Power pilots, out of the total of 73 pilots employed by Sky Line Aviation, have now logged more than 1,200 flying hours each on the AW109. Ugur Nusret Kocoglu, ceo of Kocoglu Aviation Inc says: “This latest achievement highlights our personnel’s dedication and the AW109 Power’s exceptional reliability.” Kocoglu Aviation was awarded a contract by the Turkish Ministry of Health to provide EMS helicopters as well as doctors and paramedics, for a sun-up to sun-down service, following a tender process in 2008. The Ministry of Health contract established the first EMS helicopter service in Turkey to serve a large part of the community, using bases in 16 cities. Kocoglu Aviation is part of Kocoglu Group which is involved in several sectors including construction, tourism, energy, transportation and aviation. Established in 2005, Kocoglu Aviation currently owns the largest commercial helicopter fleet in Turkey. It has 16 heliports, 18 hangars and maintenance facilities with almost 300 employees following an investment of more than €120 million so far. Sky Line, a Kocoglu Group company and an authorised JAR 145 organisation for repair and maintenance services, was appointed as an AgustaWestland Service Centre for the AW109 Power and Grand models in Turkey in June 2009. Sky Line is offering on-site support services to Kocoglu Aviation’s fleet and to other AW109 Power and Grand operators in Turkey. Its main maintenance centre is located at Ankara airport with line maintenance hangars available in other cities. A second base maintenance hangar at Istanbul’s Ataturk airport is under construction and is expected be completed shortly.
Loganair buys Suckling Loganair is to acquire Suckling Airways, the Cambridge-based charter specialist trading as ScotAirways. Suckling is to become a wholly-owned subsidiary and will continue to trade as a separate airline. It operates a fleet of five Dornier 328-100 aircraft on ad-hoc and contract charter flights, servicing an extensive customer base that includes high profile sports teams, political parties, blue-chip corporate clients and other airlines.
For Donald Douglas of helidubai every day is new and exciting, presenting its own challenges.
P E R S P E C T I V E S – Business aviation through the eyes of the chief pilot
It takes a top pilot to keep the flight department on the straight and level Flying is just the start of it Among the many and varied duties a chief pilot may be required to carry out are: ■
Safe flying!
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Flight crew recruitment
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Verifying crew qualifications
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Providing or ensuring recurrent training
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Supervising cabin crew
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Monitoring flight operations
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Issuing and updating the company operations manual
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Ensuring ground facilities and services are provided
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Ensuring aircraft meets requirements for the planned operations
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Ensuring current maps and charts are available
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Determining the suitability of airports, identifying restrictions and implementing special procedures
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Managing suppliers
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Evaluating safety and economic effectiveness
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Cooperating with financial, HR, sales and operations departments
At the heart of any flight operation, the chief pilot generally rules the roost over many vital aspects of successful business flying. Hiring and firing flight crew, ensuring full compliance, organising effective training and much more. But being a great pilot does not necessarily mark any individual out for promotion to chief pilot – the skills required are different and more wide ranging. Every pilot is accountable for the safety of the passengers they carry and so will be used to accepting responsibility, paying close attention to detail and protocol. But the chief pilot has to take this one step further and be responsible for the whole team of pilots, their organisation and the regime under which they operate.
Only a small number of pilots suit the chief pilot role Says Executive Helicopters’ Chris Shiel: “There are only a small percentage of pilots that suit the role of chief pilot. I think they need to have an interest in the position, be well versed in the regulations and be a line pilot, and preferably a TRE. They also need to be experienced in the area that the company operates and the type of operations it carries out.
As with all these positions, they should have good commercial sense and get on with people. “Providing specific training for a chief pilot is useful,” he adds, “but you need to find a suitable candidate for the position first and work from there. The operations manager can be a big help to the chief pilot.” For the purposes of this Perspectives feature we are considering the chief pilot to be the person with overall responsibility for the flight crews in an organisation, and for some AOC operators this may come under the title of director of flight operations. But every organisation is different, as Mike Roberson of Air Med points out: “The chief pilot is not normally the post holder for flight operations. In our case, the chief pilot is the post holder for crew training.” Despite the increasing volume of paperwork and regulation, most of the chief pilots we talked to still find plenty of time to go flying. Some things will never change!
Meet the chief pilots Steve Woodfine is newly-promoted chief pilot at the UK’s Gama Aviation with responsibility for the management of Gama’s pilots and all aspects of safety for the pilot teams. “I am responsible for the safety and efficiency of Gama’s European and Russian operations – embracing 28 to 30 aircraft and some 105 pilots of varying experience,” he says. “I take a pivotal role in recruiting pilots, we are recruiting now having added three aircraft to the managed
I take a pivotal role in recruiting pilots Steve Woodfine, Gama Aviation
fleet. Typically, newly qualified commercial pilots start flying with our Scottish Air Ambulance contract aboard the King Air 200s, progressively moving on to be type rated on a business jet. I am also responsible for HR, new pilot contracts, disciplinary issues and will play an active role in any flight safety issue.” Pilots can be on up to 16 or 18 different types of contracts owing to the registry of the aircraft they are flying, Woodfine explains. “In Europe we have UK registration, Cayman Islands, Bermudian and Isle of Man (private flying only) registries, so it can be a complex business. I have a team of seven fleet managers reporting to me and we work closely together, meeting monthly to discuss issues.” Training at Gama Aviation meets and goes beyond statutory requirements, with the introduction of in-house systems. “Training is thorough”, says Woodfine, “with CAE and FlightSafety providing simulator time, plus ground school for initial and recurrent training. We always carry out proving flights before a new type is introduced to service and before an aircraft comes on to our AOC – just as the commercial airlines do. We are currently working on a new style of recurrent training closer to airline systems which we hope to roll out company-wide in January 2012.”
The chief pilot is one of the key players in any flight department and so discretion is often essential. We fully understand that, in particular, those working for private or corporate operations may not be able to take part in this type of survey for privacy/security reasons.
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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
Primarily Gama’s business aircraft fleet is managed, but it operates an 80-strong aircraft fleet across Europe, the Middle East and the USA, flying types from 10 different business aircraft manufacturers (soon to be 11), so the company has plenty of familiarity with the characteristics of a variety of types. “Indeed, aircraft owners occasionally ask our advice on the best type for their mission. Our latest fleet additions in Europe are the
I love seeing the young pilots develop their careers CJ2, Global Express XRS and Falcon 2000,” Woodfine adds. He flies the Challenger 604, Learjet 45 and the BBJ for a private owner that Gama manages, averaging about 30 hours a month. A five-year Gama employee, Woodfine joined as a pilot on the Learjet 45, before moving to the Challenger 604 and becoming fleet manager on the Challenger fleet. “I have 30 years’ commercial flying experience and gained over 12,000 flight hours with various airlines including South African Airways, Virgin Express and, before joining Gama, at easyJet as captain on the Airbus A319/A320.”
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Underslung load work requires you to be focused and calm
Phill Hall-Davis’s position as chief pilot at Veritair Aviation requires him also to be post holder for flight operations and crew training. He cites his main duty at the Cardiffbased helicopter enterprise as ensuring safe and efficient operation, adhering to relevant laws. Veritair has three full-time pilots, one regular freelance pilot and several ad-hoc freelance pilots, all of whom are provided with training above and beyond the base requirements, along with role training for all staff. On choosing an addition to the company fleet, Hall-Davis says: “We all like to take part in company discussions and operations and we have recently taken on a police role BK117.” He admits: “I really fly a little too much to carry out my role as chief pilot. However, this does keep me current and familiar with all the needs and problems arising through line flying and helps me to provide a better service to our staff/crews.” A varied career began in 2002 with qualification as a CPL in October 2004. A couple of years of very hard work followed, initially in flight ops and passenger handling until chief pilot Colin Larner passed away. “Sadly, this left the company with no chief pilot and a very inexperienced pilot of 240 hours. The CAA agreed to tutor me and I
became the ‘least experienced chief pilot in history’. “Since that day I have always been open and honest with the CAA, whether we have inadvertently crossed the legal line, or whether we need some expert knowledge and opinion.
“They have been excellent and very supportive at times when we would have least expected it.” Hall-Davis then joined Veritair: “I met Julian Verity of Veritair where I converted to twins and my experience since then has been an exponential learning curve. During
this period I have written CAME manuals, AOC manuals and recently ISO 9001 quality and 14001 environmental manuals, I also write my own training programmes. And recently I designed a new target recovery system for one of our contracts, which has proved to be very versatile and efficient.” In the past 18 months he has been working on improving his personnel management skills, including a higher management course at Cardiff University. Not to mention a most unusual mission involved moving a dinosaur’s head as an underslung load across a congested area into a school in Merthyr Tydfil. “I definitely enjoy exciting flying, two of my favorites are underslung load work and events such as Silverstone, both jobs where you need to be focused, professional and most of all calm, while maintaining safe flying practices.” Hall-Davis concludes: “At times it can be exhausting but I have never been bored in my job. However, spending so much time away from home has had its effect on my private life, to the point I don’t really have time for one at the moment. Maybe one day soon when this recession slows down and our industry stabilises again!” – Phill Hall-Davis, Veritair Aviation
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Milan’s Aviation Services manages a Baron 58P and a Do328-100.
Woodfine says he loves the variety of his role. “Every day is different. I especially like helping young pilots develop, seeing the young guys develop their careers.” Gama supports the Fly2help charity for terminally ill children and provides an occasional pleasure flight. “It is tremendous to experience the pleasure these children derive from flying. It gives the whole crew massive pride,” he says. Trying to meet the high standards of the UK regulators is tiresome, believes Woodfine: “Only to find that the European playing field is not as level as it should be. Managing expectations can be frustrating. We endeavour to deliver a consistently reliable service all year round. Sometimes inclement weather or other unlikely scenarios develop that are completely out of our control (for example last year’s ash cloud) which stop us from delivering. “Private charter is all about managing time and for the client – putting them in control – but sometimes we are not immune.”
I will increasingly be called upon to ‘put out fires’ Brian Harrison-Barry, RJA
Rotana Jet Aviation (RJA) is a new face in the UAE, receiving its AOC in April this year. Offering on demand charter and aircraft management services, the company brings together a management team with a wealth of operating experience within the Middle East and worldwide. RJA’s director of operations is Brian Harrison-Barry. He told us that, unlike many regulatory bodies, in the UAE the General Civil Aviation Authority does not recognise the chief pilot as a nominated post holder position. “In common with many local operators,” Harrison-Barry explains, “we choose to have the
director of operations assume the traditional responsibilities of chief pilot. And we will likely add line managers as our fleet grows.” Currently operating a Gulfstream 450 with three pilots, RJA is poised to add a G550 and three more pilots. An A319 Business Jet is expected to join it in the second quarter 2012. “We look well positioned to add at least five aircraft a year over the first three years of operation,” says Harrison-Barry. Rotana Jet crews work a two months on/one month off schedule. “Initially, I was sceptical when it was suggested that such a rotation was more cost-effective than other nonrotation options. However, after conducting a careful study it was found (regionally) to be the case.” Recurrent training and vacations are scheduled during crew time off. Harrison-Barry feels that aviation has been particularly kind to him; starting his early flying career in the UK he soon determined that he was best suited to the challenges and rewards of being based overseas. “Apart from the Middle East and the Far East, I flew in North America for Fedex and the fractional operator Flight Options. I was with Flight Options during 9/11. “That event prompted phenomenal growth as the company expanded from five aircraft to 220 aircraft and 50 pilots to 1,050 pilots, seemingly overnight.” Administration and advance
planning form a large part of Harrison-Barry’s responsibilities, alongside balancing the expectations of the corporate sales department with available resources such as crew and aircraft. “I know from past experience, as more crew arrives, I will increasingly be called upon to ‘put out fires.’ The challenges of working and living in an alien environment can sometimes blow fairly insignificant issues, professional and personal, out of all proportion. An open door policy and (a little grey hair) can often defuse the situation and show a way forward.” And he adds ruefully: “Somewhere along the way, I seem to have been sucked in to the management role. However, I firmly regard myself as pilot and manager – not manager and pilot!” The GCAA have adopted the European CAR-OPS (EASA) as standard and crews must also train to additional, regional standards mandated by the GCAA, therefore Harrison-Barry feels that regulatory oversight of crew training is considerable. “Although administratively cumbersome, this combination of requirements results in very highly trained crew,” he says. Looking at his position as a whole, Harrison-Barry ranks sitting at a desk attending the necessary administrative matters among the most tiresome aspects, and operating globally is always challenging – a
sense of humour is essential. But on the positive side: “I have been fortunate to meet and sometimes chat with many world leaders and celebrities. I regard it as an honour that they entrust me with their safety. “Certainly, the joy I experience when advancing the thrust levers of an aircraft loaded with passengers and fuel embarking on a long journey gives me a smile from ear to ear. I fly as often as I can, and I anticipate 600 hours a year.” He concludes: “The greatest enjoyment always remains – making my parents proud of what I do.”
I enjoy the flying the most Chris Shiel, Executive Helicopters
Chris Shiel made his way up to chief pilot by learning to fly and to instruct, and setting up his own training and then charter business Executive Helicopters. As owner of a leading helicopter business in Ireland, he is post holder for training and operations manager. He employs three highly trained pilots, but Shiel ensures he takes the controls himself at least two or three times a week. “I enjoy the flying the most,” he says. And when he is not flying, his most
For Rent
important everyday tasks involve operations, crew, training and checking. At Executive Helicopters there are always new challenges, such as introducing an AS355N late last year (see EBAN April, page 14) for the Irish electricity power line inspection contract. “I started off training on an R22, gained my PPL and then went on to get my CPL and instructor rating. Then I started up a training school with an R22, developed that business, next moving into maintenance, sales and charter,” says Shiel. “We have operated a number of different types and I have been rated on R22, R44, EC120, EC130, AS350, AS355, B222 and S61N. I am a type rating examiner for the company and flight examiner for the Irish Aviation Authority. I hold a JAA ATPL with 7,000 hours and also FAA helicopter and fixed wing licences.” Continued on next page
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Perspectives: the chief pilot
Making us operate as a team has been interesting
Shiel recalls his most unusual trip as when he flew a Bell 222 from Los Angeles to Ireland, routing through Canada, Greenland, Iceland, the Faro Islands and Scotland. “The conditions in north Canada during the end of February and early March are quite cold, -35 to -40°C, and the airport locations isolated,” he explains.
Particularly enjoys line training a receptive pilot Jonathan Gordon, Atlantic Bridge Aviation
Jonathan Gordon is chief pilot at Atlantic Bridge Aviation based at Lydd Airport, Kent, and takes on additional duties as accountable manager and training manager. Alongside flying as often as possible he sees regulatory compliance as his key responsibility. “And keeping an open atmosphere that encourages honest exchange is also important,” he adds. Atlantic Bridge employs five pilots and uses home grown rostering and flight time limitation control. Particular emphasis is placed on line training. Gordon says he particularly enjoys line training a really receptive and willing pilot. “Conversely, I dislike training pilots who are basically lazy and want to do only the minimum acceptable. We usually find these pilots are poor on paperwork and need constant checking.” Gordon’s flying career begin at Oxford Air Training in 1975, followed by a spell with British Caledonian flying BAC-1-11 and DC-10 as first officer and captain on long and short haul routes. Later on, Gordon specialised in setting up airlines, operating Sky-Trek and LyddAir from Lydd airport for the last 14 years. He is rated for BAC-1-11, DC-10, F27, King
Veritair Aviation chief pilot Phill Hall-Davis (centre) with former Welsh Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones (left) and Prof Brian Morgan from Cardiff University.
Air series, multi-engine pistons and Hawker 400A with UK and FAA ATPLs and has flown 13,500 hours. Looking back, Gordon remembers some tricky situations: “We used to operate Trislanders and sold the last two to the Philippines in 2009. I flew them both out. The Monsoon in July 2009 was particularly severe when I flew through it. The Trislander is built strong (I can testify to that) but lacks niceties such as radar and
autopilot – and it lets the water in! “I have also had to off-load drunken passengers and cope with passengers opening windows and blowing up life jackets in flight.”
I took dog biscuits for the custom’s sniffer dogs Cedric Gitchenko, Execujet
At global business aviation organisation Execujet, chief pilot
Cedric Gitchenko is also post holder for ops and training, focusing on ensuring that everything runs safely and smoothly. Gitchenko explains the company’s set-up: “We employ about 200 pilots organised through lead pilots who are responsible for an allocated number of staff.” Pilots receive additional online training with CAE and the company’s own training, including line oriented
flight training at various locations around the world. Gitchenko frequently has the opportunity to fly. “One of my recent bigger projects was flight training for the German Air Force. I have just returned from a trip to South America where we did some ground training, and various approaches and landings in many quite challenging locations such as Cusco, Peru, where the airport lies within a mountain range. “I have done a lot of flying in my life, including medevac operations with Rega, all over the world, flying in aerobatic championships and flying vintage aircraft. “On our last flight training trip to South America I took dog biscuits with me for the custom’s sniffer dogs. You could say I “bribed” them, but of course we had nothing to hide on board!” Gitchenko says that one of the most enjoyable aspects of his job is working with the crew. “Everyone is different but making us all operate as a team has been one of the most interesting aspects of my job so far.”
Less opportunity to fly than before Gianpiero Allegri, Aviation Service
Aviation Service srl, Milan, is a small operation where Gianpiero Allegri is chief pilot, among other senior duties. Everyday tasks include supplier management involving checking routes/terminal charges, maintenance operators and handling companies. Allegri is aided by two part-time pilots and each is
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I enjoy keeping up-to-date with the latest regulations
Capital Air Charter has head offices and operations based at Exeter International Airport and offers private chartered flights, medical repatriation and urgent air freight services. Managing director Malcolm Humphries fills the post of chief pilot and accountable manager. “I have been flying for 35 years, training captain for 25 years and chief pilot for 20,” he says. “For me, the most important day-to-day task is ensuring our operation complies with current regulations and this means I am in constant touch with the other company post holders, and available for consultation by my operations staff and flight crew.” The company now flies an average of 80 sectors a week. “This means that I can’t disappear down the line for days on end like I used to when the company was much smaller,” says Humphries. Capital Air Charter has a team of 13 full-time pilots,
responsible for their own training. The company manages a Baron 58P and a Do328-100 and has recently taken into consideration a Cheyenne. Allegri says that he is finding less
opportunity to fly than before. His career began as an investor in small aircraft, moving into consultancy in financial solutions for general aviation companies. He is
QUALITY AND EXPERIENCE
type rated for the Do328 and has programme rating for the Citation 500, is approved as an auditor and quality manager and an expert in business planning.
normally joining on the company’s PA31 and then moving on to a Beech 200. “As a company we have developed a very high standard of online training that allows all of our employees, whether they fly or not, to learn at their own pace and in greater detail than would normally be possible, in addition to the normal flying and ground training that the company provides.” Humphries is not phased by the paperwork and administration that comes with the job. “Strange as it sounds, I actually enjoy keeping the company up-to-date with the latest rules and regulations, because I believe this builds a stronger organisation. With the implementation of EU-OPS and Safety Management Systems, I am sure my team and I are going to be kept busy.” And the best thing about being chief pilot? “You are in charge of course, isn’t that what all pilots want to be?” – Malcolm Humphries, Capital Air Charter
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One of the inconveniences Allegri says he encounters as chief pilot is that some handling companies try to charge unfair fees, taking advantage of their position.
Fly to keep up with what is happening at the coal face Richard Thomas, Twinjet
“I am the nominated post holder with the title of director of flight operations,” says Richard Thomas at UK general aviation services provider Twinjet. “In addition to my post holder position, I fly the company Airbus A319 regularly and am officially ‘half a pilot’, the other half being the senior training captain (STC). I also deputise for the STC and ground operations manager.” Thomas considers his most important daily task to be the overall supervision of the operations department, including monitoring all flying activities. Liaison with the CAA, manual revisions and general dayto-day administration keep him well occupied. “Also, as DFO, I have been closely involved in the implementation of a safety management system into the company and this has taken up quite a chunk of my time,” he says. Twinjet employs nine pilots, four of whom fly the Challenger 604 and five the Airbus A319. Pilots are rostered but, as Thomas explains, the nature of the ad-hoc charter business often makes forward planning impossible as many trips are arranged at short notice. “Flexibility is the key, while paying close attention to FTLs.” Generally, Twinjet’s pilots stick to mandatory training. “It is so extensive, but we do practice certain activities more often than required because of our type of operation, such as ETOPS, MNPS and circling approaches. We make full use of Continued on next page
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Perspectives: the chief pilot
online training, in addition to the usual classroom work, to cover mandatory ground training. “Furthermore, if any crew member felt they needed specific training to enhance their overall performance, the company would do all that it could to meet such requests.” Flying single seat aircraft in the military for many years was the starting point for his career, before Thomas left to join Airtours (My Travel) flying A320s for three years. “For the next eight years I ran an organisation that operated a vvip Airbus A340 worldwide. Apart from flying the aircraft, I was responsible for every aspect of the operation: safety, operations, HR, administration, finance and maintenance activities. All-in-all a fascinating job in which I was constantly challenged.” He adds: “Nowadays, I fly the ACJ regularly, not only to keep up to speed on the aircraft but also to keep abreast of what is happening at the coal face.” As chief pilot, Thomas believes every day is different and eventually the unusual becomes the norm. “I would say that a chief pilot in the vip/corporate world views everything as 'business as usual'. “I enjoy the variety that the job provides and the people with whom I work. I like the unpredictability the business brings which can be difficult domestically, but makes life interesting. “The endless paperwork and the constant work on company manuals are my least favourite part.”
We all do our bit in a small company John Dundon, Diamond Executive Aviation
John Dundon is head of flight operations, head of training and and head of flight safety at Diamond Executive Aviation, headquartered in North Yorkshire, UK, with a fleet of Diamond DA42 Twin Star aircraft. He maintains a close overview of day-to-day tasking, operational constraints and ensures safe execution of those tasks by nominated crews. Three active captains, two copilots and a number of pilots in the training programme make up the crew roster. Captains are tasked by mutual agreement between themselves and ground operations, while the co-pilots, who are only used on flight calibration missions and repositioning flights, generally act as ground operations support when not flying. Dundon believes that single pilot IFR is possibly the most demanding of commercial flying disciplines, saying “It seems the gaining of a commercial licence and instrument rating are a long way short of the genuine piloting abilities we need for our operation.” Dundon first acted as pilot in command of an Air Cadet glider at the age of 16 some 39 years ago. Having joined the Royal Navy as an aircraft technician he was promoted into flying duties in 1981. “I flew Lynx helicopters for eight years and spent the final eight years of my commission on exchange with the Royal Air Force, flying Bulldog and eventually T67 Firefly fixed wings,” he explains. “I completed my service life as an instructor with Elementary Flying Training Standards Squadron in 1997. I then operated Bagby Airfield for almost 10 years prior to joining Diamond Executive Aviation.” And now? “I fly as often as I can, I’m often
Following a period at the Portuguese Air Force High Command as a flight training coordinator he was requisitioned in 1997 to the Portuguese Ministry of Defense where one of his duties involved coordinating the Open Skies mission. “In 1999, I was contracted by civilian company Aerocondor Transportes Aereos where I was chief pilot until its demise in 2007, then I was chief instructor at Leavia School of Aviation. Later I was invited to launch a regional flight between Lisbon Vila Real and Bragança with Aero VIP.” Among many interesting episodes as a pilot, the strangest situation Correia has had to deal with was at Aerocondor Transportes Aereos. “I had to replace a pilot because the commander refused to fly with the co-pilot assigned to its crew, due to an incompatibility of personalities.”
Situations can change very quickly Michael Spörri, Rotex Helicopter
Clients at the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel can sometimes have some demanding requirements for helidubai, who occasionally have to pull out all the stops to satisfy them.
close to my FTL limits. We all have to do our bit in a small company.” As for job satisfaction, Dundon enjoys the successful completion of a difficult calibration task ahead of schedule, despite any obstacles in the way. On the downside, he dislikes chasing issues that need addressing which may seem obvious but sometimes drift over the heads of crews, as well as “finger marks on the G1000 glass cockpit and crews not leaving aircraft as they would like to find it!” he says.
An alternative solution is always a challenge Dimitris Kehayas, Gainjet Aviation
Dimitris Kehayas explains that Gainjet Aviation SA does not have a chief pilot position, instead he undertakes relevant duties as nominated post holder for flight operations manager. A private charter operator and management company with headquarters in Athens, the most recent addition to the fleet was a Global Express. Kehayas’ duties are typically wideranging. “I am involved in the day-byday running of our operations control centre where we monitor the aircraft and deal with any problems such as bad weather, rerouting, airport capability, crew availability and competence. “I ensure the legality of our operation in all its aspects, including overseeing maintenance and compliance with EASA standards and regulations and HCAA requirements.” Supervising the flight standards division and the cabin crew is part of his daily routine, as is the hiring process and validation of pilot training. “Bringing our company to the highest level of safety is the most important achievement I am pursuing,” Kehayas adds. Gainjet Aviation has around 35 pilots on its roster, with a few freelancers used mainly for training purposes. Pilots are organised mainly by aircraft and then by fleet, requiring the cooperation of the training
I have lots of administrative work António Alberto Fernandes Correia, Aero VIP
A fleet of DA42 Twin Stars are operated by Diamond Executive Aviation.
manager and crewing department. Piloting only for line en route evaluation approximately twice a year for each aircraft type and sometimes for training evaluation, Kehayas does not have much opportunity to fly. With around 18,000 hours as captain on YS11A, B707, B727, B747, A300, A310, A340 types, Kehayas’ career has also encompassed roles such as flight ops control director, safety manager, a ceo in Macedonia and HCAA flight operations inspector. He has a degree in airline operations management and is an accident investigator. When flights are running late or an ad-hoc request comes up, Kehayas says that finding a solution can be very complicated. “This can be especially difficult when disruptions occur that are out of our control, such as bad weather causing aircraft to be grounded. An alternative solution is always a challenge.”
Flying makes me feel good Kemal Suler Kaan Air
Kemal Suler is general manager of Istanbul-based Kaan Air, operating a fleet of helicopters flown by three pilots to provide executive air transport and air tours. Suler does get involved in the selection of aircraft for the company, with Agusta helicopters being the most recent additions. “I fly often myself,” he says before concluding: “flying makes me feel good.”
Portugal-based Aero VIP is a transport company operating two Dornier 228s, one Piper Chieftain and one Shorts 360 with four permanent crew at its service. Being a small company means that chief pilot António Alberto Fernandes Correia can personally hire the pilots he feels are the best for the job. Correia says that the company aircraft were chosen specifically for the kind of operations that are the vocation of the company. “Right now I am looking at the Dornier “New Generation” to renovate our fleet,” adds Correia. “Negotiations are at an early stage but with a steady pace.” Presently, Aero VIP’s core business is regular flights between Lisbon Vila Real and Bragança, but the company also operates charter flights. Correia says: “As a small company I fly often, not only to keep proficient but also to be close to the crew, it’s a hands-on philosophy. Being small helps me to know everybody in the company, but has its disadvantages because I have a lot of administrative work, that robs me of the time to do what all pilots love to do best – fly.” A love of aircraft for Correia grew from living near an airfield. “I often helped at the Monte Real Count airfield where I mingled with lots of famous Portuguese pilots. Fuelled by these experiences, I enrolled in the Portuguese Air Force in 1973, and I earned my wings in 1974. I have flown many types of military and civilian aircraft.” From 1975 to 1986, he was a pilot instructor and was then transferred to 503 Squadron during which period he performed many missions from sea search and rescue to medevac. “In one of the medevac missions in which I was captain, a baby was born and named after the aircraft in which he was born!”
At Rotex Helicopter AG in Liechtenstein, chief pilot Michael Spörri is also post holder for flight operations. As chief pilot, he is responsible for recruiting pilots, training, licensing, monitoring duty and flight time. Flight operations involves the supervision of the sales and project managers, and ensuring that a job is carried out in accordance with the law. Additional duties as ground manager mean that Spörri recruits flight assistants and monitors their training and education. Five pilots are organised over a monthly duty plan, ensuring the continuous availability of pilots and that each pilot can enjoy their own free time. According to Spörri, Switzerland is unique in that national law dictates an External Cargo Sling programme. “If a pilot starts a career with Rotex Helicopter they must have at least ECS 4,” he says. “After K1200 Rating (in the USA) they will be supervised for 100 hours on the job by a qualified Kamax pilot, usually the chief pilot.” Rotex Helicopter has operated two Kaman Kamax helicopters since 1994. The company has received some unusual applications from would-be pilots. “I got an application from a guy who wanted a job as a co-pilot on the Kamax – which has only one seat – and another application from someone with a “Zeppelin” rating.” From a personal perspective, Spörri enjoys logging and construction work. “To fly sling loads is an everyday challenge and to fly in the Swiss and European alps needs a good understanding of the weather. Situations can change very quickly,” he explains. “And of course I love to fly the Kamax because you definitely have to understand this helicopter. It is like walking the dog. If you fight against the Kamax it will fight back.”
Need to learn on an everyday basis Joaquim Salvador Roca, Executive Airlines
Executive Airlines in Spain is composed of several fleets and Joaquim Salvador Roca is operations manager and chief pilot. He takes responsibility for the coordination of flight operations, instruction, flight dispatch and everyday incidents related to operations.
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Helicopter operator helidubai employs Donald Douglas as chief pilot and training manager. The company’s motto of Maximus – Fleximus reflects its aim to do the best it can to accommodate customer needs, and Douglas says of his role in the organisation: “I would say that often I have to put out little fires.” Each of the company’s eight pilots must be either a post holder position or have a major secondary duty. “Being a small operator we all have to roll up our sleeves and contribute,” says Douglas. “As a training manager, my mandate is to maintain the standard. As the company grows, we are looking at expanding in the area of flight instruction.” Two AS350B3s have recently joined helidubai’s fleet, one in support of the increasing helicopter scenic tour industry and the second
In collaboration with ground operations, Roca manages the schedules of a sizeable team of 50 pilots daily when there are relevant changes, or monthly. “We have to update our pilots’ documentation, we also control and coordinate both their training and flight hours to observe regulations,” says Roca. “Our training standards are higher than the legal requirements to cover the demands of our customers.” A new Gulfstream 200 has joined the Executive Airlines fleet, following a decision making process that included Roca’s department. Roca himself is captain of a Falcon 900EX which he flies regularly. Before joining Executive Airlines 11 years ago, Roca worked for several airlines with different responsibilities and has flown many different jets. Those years of experience have shown Roca many things. “As our company operates all over the world, I have been greatly surprised by the operation in some far countries. In this profession, you need to learn on an everyday basis and face new challenges.”
I fly too much – I just can’t help it Gerry Rolls, FlairJet
Gerry Rolls is chief pilot at FlairJet, a Phenom 100/300 business jet operator based at London Oxford Airport. Since the summer the company has one of its two Phenom 300s based out of Cannes and with more Phenoms set to join the fleet, it is currently recruiting more pilots.
for filming. “We were involved recently in aerial filming for the fourth installment of Mission Impossible,” Douglas adds. “We are confident that this will increase and that Dubai will become an international destination for major movie productions.” Douglas flies as often as possible: “In order for our pilots to enjoy their weekends and annual leave, I gladly sign out a helicopter and get out of the office.” In the service industry, says Douglas, it is common to accept that the customer is always right. “But with the aim to please, we must remind the customer of our limitations.” One incident he recalls is a case in point. “We were asked to pick up two passengers from a short field area; the customer showed up with four passengers and so the pilot called me for advice. I ask him to
relocate to the nearest suitable clear area and that the customer should meet him there by road to complete the transfer. “I am glad that these situations seldom happen. Our highest profile client is the iconic Dubai hotel, the Burj Al Arab. On occasion we have to pull out all the stops to meet the somewhat demanding requirements, on occasion, of some of their client base. “It can be difficult to explain to a customer that the helicopter they booked several months in advance has gone AOG and we cannot provide an immediate replacement. When this happens we always try to provide an alternative, or compromise in terms of rescheduling or a reasonable discount and the opportunity to have a priority listing for a rebooking.” Despite these minor trials and tribulations, Douglas confirms that
I gladly sign out a helicopter and get out of the office Rolls explains that the chief pilot of FlairJet is not a nominated post holder position as such, although he does hold the flight ops and training post holder positions. “The chief pilot is a line manager role for the line pilots, with responsibility for HR, contracts and discipline.” FlairJet currently employs 16 pilots rostered in accordance with CAP371 at least two weeks prior to the start of a new roster period. Says Rolls: “It is probably the most challenging part of keeping the business operational, but luckily for me the responsibility for rostering comes under ground operations.” With his director of training hat on, Rolls is responsible for ensuring all initial and recurrent training for the flight crew is completed to a satisfactory standard before being released on the line. “My mission is to ensure that all the training we deliver in-house or provided by third party organisations is relevant to our operation,” he says. “There are too many generic courses out there that just tick EUOPS boxes for my liking. For instance, we have secured an original set of Phenom 100 seats with which we are planning to build a fire and smoke cabin training rig. There are plenty of airport fire stations offering training with jumbo sized training rigs but what about carrying out the training in a rig representative of the size of aircraft that we are actually using?” Aircraft selection at FlairJet is
Diamond Executive’s John Dundon first acted as pilot in command on an Air Cadet glider at the age of 16.
something the entire management team is involved in. “We regularly assess the pros and cons of various types so that we can be ready to move quickly if an opportunity presents itself. Most recently we have been
T R A INING
P L A NNING
he enjoys getting up in the morning and not knowing what lies ahead. “Every day is a new day. They are all different and exciting. I enjoy the challenges that are presented to me and that I can ask my colleagues what we can do about them. Therefore, we can come up with a good plan.” – Donald Douglas, helidubai
”
involved in adding the Phenom 300 to the AOC but since then we have prepared applications for a number of larger types.” Rolls started his flying career as a cadet pilot for Air Atlantique in Coventry. “After painting many offices and cutting lots of grass, I completed my studies and flying training for the frozen ATPL in 1997. During my time with AAQ I flew lots of different types
including DC-3, Metroliner, Citation and ATR-42/72. I also gained TRI/TRE rating for the Metroliner and Citation.” After 11 years he joined British Mediterannean, flying the Airbus A320/321 to the Middle East and Africa. The company was bought by BMI and Rolls stayed with BMI for a year or so during which time the opportunity to set up FlairJet arose. When it comes to job satisfaction, Rolls says: “I enjoy the training. From completing a newly rated pilot’s initial circuits and landings, line training them and then seeing them put their training into practice during the biannual simulator sessions – there is a terrific sense of satisfaction. I also enjoy the Phenom delivery flights from Brazil. “I fly too much to be honest. I just can’t help it!”
Previously a chief flight instructor Joakim Kalijarvi, Hastens Sangar
Joakim Kalijarvi is nominated chief pilot with Hastens Sangar AB and come September will be also act as training manager for a European AOC. “My most important task is to keep my aircraft fit for flight, my pilots and staff up-to-date and to do it as cost-efficiently as possible.” As chief pilot on the Citation X, has has two full-time pilots and one pilot as a back-up part-time. Kalijarvi says: “On the training side we have contracted FlightSafety which means we are in the US twice a year for a week at the time, so we are Continued on next page
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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
Perspectives: the chief pilot
providing training well beyond the requirements stipulated in EU OPS.” The chief pilot at Hastens Sangar is responsible for selecting aircraft and the latest addition was a Citation X which Kalijarvi flies almost every week.
My mission is to ensure training is relevant to operations Kalijarvi’s aviation background includes corporate aviation, flying the Learjet 55 and Citation 501/551. “I am also rated on the Learjet 45 and I have flown cargo and domestic regular traffic with the BAe ATP/Jetstream 61. I was previously a chief flight instructor in one of Europe’s largest flight training organisations and CFI and CGI for West Air Sweden,” he says. “Nowadays I fly commercially with
the Citation X. My ratings and licence are FAA and JAA ATPL and I am rated on the Citation.”
Most rewarding teaching young pilots Karl Ratcliffe, London Executive Aviation
Since 2000, Karl Ratcliffe has been the nominated post holder as chief pilot at London Executive Aviation (LEA), one of Europe’s largest business jet charter operators. LEA has grown consistently since its founding in 1996 with two small piston aircraft, and throughout much of that expansion Ratcliffe combined his chief pilot’s position with the role of chief training captain. Now, with LEA operating a fleet of 24 jets for charter, he focuses exclusively on the chief pilot role. Ratcliffe says: “My primary task each day is to liaise with and support
Rotex Helicopter’s Michael Spörri believes that, if you fight the Kamax, it will fight back.
my team, responding to everyone from fleet managers to individual pilots. We currently employ 71 flight crew and that number is rising. Given such growth, I cannot directly manage everybody, so I now have a team of fleet managers – one person for each of the aircraft types we fly – who report to me but directly manage
their own fleet and crew.” He believes that communication is the most fundamental tool needed to ensure pilots are able to carry out their work on a day-to-day basis. “Beyond that, my responsibilities are very wide-ranging, from checking relevant new publications and proposed amendments through to
LL AT RO FU ILS .AE TA AD DE .BG W
W
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BGAD11 – the UK Business & General Aviation Day, Tuesday September 20th, Cambridge Airport. The UK’s only dedicated business aircraft – helicopters, props and aviation event – BGAD11 – will jets – and be able to take part in take place again this year. quality, free to attend seminars. Presented jointly by Cambridge Airpor t and European Business BGAD has become a must Air News, BGAD is an effective attend event for business aviators in the UK – we look forward to day of networking. You’ll see around 40 exhibitors, seeing you there. Register online an excellent line up of business at www.bgad.aero
For further information, visit the BGAD web site or contact Mark Ranger on +44 (0) 1279 714509, email: mark@bgad.aero
E U R O P E A N
BUSINESS AIR NEWS
involvement in matters of recruitment, training, promotions and new business.” “I am also closely involved in selecting new aircraft. We have enjoyed excellent experiences operating Cessna jets, from Mustangs to Excels, but we are increasingly adding larger, longer-range aircraft to our fleet, such as the Legacy 600/650, the Falcon 900EX and the Challenger 300.” Ratcliffe spent 15 years as an engineer before deciding to fulfil his teenage passion for flying. Having secured his private pilot licence, he gained his commercial licence at Oxford Air Training School before making his way to start up LEA in 1996. “I still fly for LEA, which I think is good for team morale and helps me keep in direct contact with crew – aware of their concerns and responding to their questions. I like to think anyone can approach me on any matter. I always seek to offer advice so that we train our pilots far beyond the statutory requirements. In fact, I’d say the best and most rewarding part of my job is teaching young, low-houred pilots and watching them achieve their goals.”
Ensures the highest quality of training Stefan Kukura, ABS Jets
ABS Jets has bases in Prague and Bratislava and recently reached an agreement with Avcon Jet that will result in the opening of an Embraer line maintenance station at Kiev Boryspil airport. Chief pilot and flight operations manager Stefan Kukura manages to put in around 300 flying hours a year and provides an advisory service for owners looking to acquire an aircraft, the most recent being an Embraer 600. According to Kukura his everyday duties can involve, among many other things, flight operations, issuing and updating the company operations manual, approving necessary procedures for flight operations, verifying crew qualifications, evaluating safety and economic effectiveness and ensuring current maps and charts are available. Twenty-seven pilots and 12 flight attendants are coordinated by crew control department, with training organised by the crew training manager and his deputy. ABS Jets’ long list of training items and training programmes are approved by CAA and published in the ops manual, part D. Examples include special C airports simulator trainings, P-RNAV, winter operations and procedures standardisation training. Says Kukura: “Our target is to increase the standard of training procedures, we are developing our own training programmes. In our team we have several instructors for different types to ensure the highest quality of training.” Kukura’s more than 10,000 logged hours began as a business aviation pilot 25 years ago, over which time he has gained experience with the King Air, Citation Bravo, Hawker 800 and Embraer Legacy 600. ■
Calling all lobbyists In our September edition our report will focus on the lobbyist. If you would like to offer your thoughts and opinions, please contact newsdesk@ebanmagazine.com urgently.
AUGUST 2011 13
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
SWEDEN REGIONAL REVIEW
INDUSTRY NEWS... PiperJet assembly begins Piper Aircraft has started fabrication and assembly will begin in August of the first conforming flight test article of the single engine PiperJet Altaire business jet. Inaugural flight of the conforming Altaire is planned for 2013 with certification and deliveries in 2014.
Autopilot upgrade for Baron Avidyne Corporation is to offer the DFC90 Digital Flight Control System for Beechcraft Baron models. The system is certified for Entegra-equipped Cirrus SR20s and SR22s, and near to certification for Piper PA-46 Matrix and Mirage. The DFC90 adds the precision and reliability of an attitude-based flight control system, along with Indicated Airspeed Hold, improved flight director and a “straight and level” button.
The Eastair Learjet 45 has been in increased demand for ambulance flights.
Recovery may be slow, but Sweden’s operators see better times ahead Swedish companies are still emerging from recession at slow pace, says Claes Åström of charter broker Flight Management Stockholm AB. This opinion is confirmed by the Eurocontrol air traffic statistics of recent years, which show the number of business movements per day in Sweden peaking at 115 in 2007, falling dramatically to 87 in 2009 and recovering only to 88.4 last year.
Business aviation in Sweden by the numbers
Stockholm’s Bromma airport is the main hub for business aviation, more than twice as busy as Gothenburg Save, while other significant destinations remain Umea, Visby, Skavsta, Sturup, Lulea and Arlanda. But there is widespread optimism that a more fulsome recovery is only a matter of time, and many companies are in the mood for expansion. Robert Almqvist, md of Nordic Air Brokers AB, says: “We have a new team member starting in mid-August who will take the company forward. We have also signed a GSA agreement with a Citation operator late in June, which is an area where we are growing.”
71 business aviation airports Major business aviation airports* 1. Stockholm Arlanda 2. Stockholm Bromma 3. Malmo Sturup 4. Goteborg Save 5. Umea
ESSA ESSB ESMS ESGP ESNU
ARN BMA MMX GSE UME
* ranked by the number of handler, charter, maintenance, sales and training organisations based at each.
46 business charter operators Leading fixed-wing charter operators** 1. EFS European Flight Service 2. WaltAir Europe 3. Flygcentrum i Stockholm 4. Petter Solberg Aviation
Leading helicopter charter operators** 1. Fiskflyg 2. Lapplandsflyg-Lap-Air 3. Jamtlands Flyg 4. Copterflyg ** ranked by number of aircraft for charter
aircraft 21 business maintenance organisations Leading maintenance companies*** 1. Patria Helicopters 2. Priority Aero Maintenance 3. European Maintenance Service
Leading TRTO training companies*** 1. John Miles Air Consulting 2. Braathens Training 3. Twospeed Aviation 4. Northern Helicopters *** ranked by number of aircraft types covered
business aircraft on SE 323 the Swedish register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe, and the EBAN reader roster.
Jon Tralla, Eastair flight operations manager.
Based at Bromma, Uppsala and Arlanda, Eastair AB mixes fixed wing with rotary. “Flight hours have increased, we have expanded the fleet with JAR-OPS 3 and aerial works by helicopter, so we are flying a lot,” says Lars Österwall. “Ambulance flights have also increased, and the charter market has also increased a bit. The price for charter is very low at the moment, so it is difficult to have a good business jet to meet the demands of customers. We expect demand to be better in a year or two. “Sweden is a small country far away from central Europe. With a business jet from Stockholm it takes about an hour and 30 minutes to reach business locations in central Europe.” Österwall singles out Per Lie, chairman and quality manager, for praise. “He started as a consultant a couple of years ago but ended up in a full time role to develop and organise the company. He has long experience in aviation, started in the business in
A Gulfstream G150 demonstration aircraft has set a world speed record between Gander and Geneva, Switzerland, beating the existing record by 37 minutes. The 2,464 nautical miles were covered in five hours and six minutes at an average Mach 0.80, with two crew and four passengers.
Planning for Citations now on iPad
Jämtlands Flyg chief pilot Ulf Grinde is also one of the owners of this family business. Said to be Sweden’s most experienced helicopter pilot of all time, he has over 21,000 hours rotor time as well as over 8,000 hours fixed wing.
the 70s at Nyge Aero in Sweden, later in the 80s for Norwing in Norway and from the 90s ExecuJet Scandinavia and Air Alpha in Denmark.” The company has appointed Marcus Karlsson as continuing airworthiness manager and has a new team of helicopter pilots, lead by flight operations manager Jon Tralla. Recently the company flew to Afghanistan to rescue an injured soldier with the Learjet 45, as its customer has a contract with the Swedish military.
Jämtlands Flyg AB Eastair AB
G150 speeds from Gander to Geneva
Jämtlands Flyg chief pilot Ulf Grinde is also one of the owners of this family business. He is said to be Sweden’s most experienced helicopter pilot of all time, with over 21,000 hours rotor time as well as over 8,000 hours fixed wing. Things are going well at Jämtlands Flyg, says Jon Håkansson, executive vp/coo: “We have increased our flight hours per aircraft and the total. We have managed to achieve new all time flight hour records in six out of the last 12 months – and we have been operating for 57 years.” The company recently introduced the Robinson R44 Raven II and reports that this is performing well in passenger transportation as well as aerial work for reindeer herding, power line inspections and forest surveys. However, “the risk of not thought through regulations hindering the use of single engine helicopters for passenger transportation over the vast forest lands in northern Sweden, in other words classifying the forest as a Continued on next page
Citation operators can now plan flights using iPads with iPreFlight software from Aircraft Performance Group. The app features real-time METARs and winds aloft, graphical weather, routing, graphical weight and balance, a worldwide database, flight planning, Runway Analysis Max Payload Estimator and other features. iPreFlight will also feature takeoff and landing performance derived from Cessna’s Citation Performance Calculator, part of the CESNAV package. Calculations are completed on APG’s server, which means internet access is required.
have exceeded 1,400 flight hours over 525 flights. Manufacturing of the first non-test aircraft is complete, with production acceptance testing under way.
Caravan upgrades approved A newly certified engine upgrade package from Blackhawk will boost the power and capabilities of Cessna Caravan aircraft. The XP42A upgrade has received its FAA STC, and involves the fitting of a more powerful 850 SHP PT6A-42A factory-new PW&C engine, a streamlined carbon composite nose cowling, Frakes exhaust stacks and Hartzell four-blade propeller. The package effectively doubles the aircraft’s rate of climb while using less fuel.
Legacy 500 takes shape Embraer has joined the first Legacy 500’s cockpit, centre and aft fuselage sections and anticipates beginning flight tests before the end of the year. The main structure of the midsize jet is built of aluminium alloy, with a substantial content of composite materials.
Empire sells utility Kodiak Dubai-based Empire Aviation Group is to distribute the Kodiak utility aircraft for Quest Aircraft Company, covering 12 countries including the GCC (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, UAE), Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, Turkey, Iraq and India, where Empire is about to open its first branch, in Mumbai.
Al Bateen targets tech stops Al Bateen Executive Airport continues to promote itself as a convenient tech stop, as well as building its own based fleet. In the first half of the year private jet movements grew by almost 40% compared with the same period last year. The airport recently unveiled its DhabiJet FBO.
Gulfstream renames G250
Flying farmers boosts Oxford’s summer
The Chinese take numbers very seriously, based on similar sounding words in Mandarin or Cantonese language. So, the number 4 should be avoided as its pronunciation is similar to the word for death, while 8 is highly sought-after as it sounds like prosperity. In Mandarin the number 250 can cause offence. Gulfstream cites cultural sensibilities as its reason for renaming the G250 aircraft as the G280. The change will not affect any other in-production Gulfstream aircraft. The G280 flight test programme is well under way. Three aircraft
Sunny weather, the Henley Regatta and a number of local celebrity functions, including Kate Moss’ wedding, all contributed to a doubling of normal business aviation activity at Oxford airport on the first weekend in July. Over 100 commercial movements passed through, and the airport expected the rush to continue with Silverstone Grand Prix traffic and then the CLA Game Fair later in the month, which will bring in an anticipated 140,000 visitors just a mile up the road at Blenheim Palace. Typically 50 ‘flying farmers’ and other grand estate owners fly in.
Schiphol GAT open for business A new GA terminal at Schiphol-East has opened to serve the 4,500 business jet flights through the airport each year. The main users of the terminal are the handling agents KLM, Aviapartner and Jetsupport. Other parties, including Jet Netherlands, Nayak (aircraft management and maintenance), Aerdynamics and Solid Air, are already renting half of the office space. Photo courtesy of Jetsupport.
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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
first new addition since 2005. We have supplied the Royal Court with helicopter services in the Scandinavian mountains for decades,” says Håkansson.
SWEDEN REGIONAL REVIEW Continued from preceding page
hostile area, disregarding the fact the forests are littered with landing areas, is a potential problem,” he says. “We didn’t experience the negative effects from the financial crisis, as most of our business is either aerial work or flights you cannot replace with any other means except to hike for a couple of days in the remote and mountainous areas of northern Scandinavia, so business aviation has fully recovered in our area,” he concludes. Jämtlands Flyg pilots fly through the night herding reindeer during the summer, when it never gets dark in the North. This is because the calves cannot be herded during day time when it is too hot for them. The company equipped its EC120B Colibri with permanent floats and a hole through the floor and sampled over a thousand lakes all over Sweden in an environmental survey for govern-
CHARTER BROKER NEWS...
HeliAir Sweden
Mattias Klum, one of Sweden’s most well known nature photographers, has chosen HeliAir Sweden as his exclusive helicopter partner in his quest to document the animal life of the Baltic Sea (www.heliairsweden.com).
ment agencies. This autumn it will sample another 2,000 lakes. In January, Jämtlands Flyg was awarded the honorable title Royal Warrant Holder by His Majesty The King of Sweden. The label is appointed to an exclusive group of purveyors to the Royal Court of Sweden. “We are the first aviation company to receive this title and the
Comprehensive Swedish data online free-of-charge The 2011/12 EBAN Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe is out now, and gives details of many more Swedish charter operators. It also lists business aviation facilities and services including airports, FBOs and maintenance centres. The details can be accessed online through a search of aircraft operated or the airport bases. For more information please visit www.handbook.aero
HeliAir Sweden is working with both still photos and its Cineflex system to film over the Baltic Sea in the shortest time possible to avoid disturbing animal life more than necessary. The quality of life of over 90 million people is affected by the environment in the Baltic Sea, and the photos will form part of an international documentary. In March this year, HeliAir Sweden purchased the wellestablished company Flygtjänst & Helikoptertransport i Sverige AB. The deal made it one of the largest helicopter companies by fleet size in Sweden. The company currently operates with one MD600N, three MD500s, one Long Ranger and two SC300s. Meanwhile HeliAir Maintenance has acquired an EASA Part 145 permit from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sweden which means that it can perform scheduled service on the AS350, MD500, MD600 and Bell 206. It is located at its own apron at Västerås-Hässlö airport. ■
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Since January MTS Aviation, the FBO at Sturup, has been operating from a new air conditioned hangar and facilities, the biggest on the airport. IceFly Aviation Inc has established a new company named East Sweden General Aviation, an FBO operator at Linkoping. It is building a GA terminal, offices and more hangar space. Based in Malmo, Sweden’s own flight software company is about to launch a flight operations control system (FOCS) that has been in development for seven years. Jonas Persson of Flygprestanda says that FOCS will expand the company’s business into a new segment of the market, and will interact with crew EFB applications. “The market demand for applications working on iPad has led us to develop some new solutions for this platform,” he says. “We are working with several operators to put it into operation and get the necessary approvals from the authorities.” Megadoor reports that business has increased significantly over the past few years, despite the general economic downturn, and specialises in hangar doors with minimal air leakage (vital for painting operations). Meanwhile Andy Noble of Air Sweden Aviation is planning to develop his own business – OPSontap. This will provide aviation support services such as operations, crew scheduling, staff supply and outsourced operations control and planning.
PrivateFly ceo Adam Twidell, sales and marketing director Carol Cork (right) and marketing manager Viv Diprose (Carol's identical twin sister) recently spent a day at Tower 42 in the City of London briefing the businesses about the benefits of business aviation. They dressed as air crew and arrived in their branded Ferrari to give away branded cupcakes. The car is part of a new partnership with the Ferrari Owners Club.
PrivateFly seeks further funding
broker and the end user, and nothing should come between that.”
PrivateFly.com is seeking second round investment funding of £1.5m to accelerate its expansion into international markets. The company raised £510,000 in first round fundraising in June 2010, allowing development for the UK and other English language countries. “The private aviation industry is growing again, yet it is still highly fragmented and dominated by legacy business practices – it has yet to see the major online shift experienced by other travel sectors. The ad hoc charter segment also holds strong appeal post-recession, rather than the upfront commitment and price premium of fractional ownership or jet card schemes,” says PrivateFly chairman Richard Carrick.
Air Partner moves closer to Gatwick
EAS publishes charter brokers’ Bill of Rights
ACI takes Afghan police to Turkey
US-based air charter and management company Executive Air Services has published a ‘Charter Broker Bill of Rights’ to reassure brokers that it will not solicit clients without explicit authorisation. “In the US, we estimate that 65-80 per cent of people who charter do so via brokers, we therefore published the Bill to let brokers know that we respect their client relationships, and that we will never solicit the end user,” says Matthew Winer, president of EAS. The Bill promises that neither operations staff (including charter, dispatch and back office), nor flight crews will contact the end user for any reason, unless explicitly requested by the charter broker; that for broker trips, flight crews have neutralised business cards with the aircraft tail number and their names on them; and that charter aircraft are neutralised, but for any information required by law. It concludes: “The broker is our client. Privity lies between the
Authorities in Afghanistan are busy preparing a new police force to maintain order as foreign military support is gradually withdrawn, and broker Air Charter International recently had the opportunity to assist by arranging transport for police officers in training. “We received the inquiry just three days before the first flight was supposed to take place,” says Claire Brugirard, manager of the charter sales department at ACI. The 560 law enforcement personnel selected were transported to Sivas in Turkey using four rotations of a Boeing 737-300. “Many other aviation companies bid and there was a lot of competition involved,” says Brugirard. ACI also had to deal with tight operating hours at Sivas. “On Thursday this airport closed at 1800 and on Friday at 1400 so realistically it was almost impossible to fit a schedule into such operating hours. We worked at and were granted special permission by Turkish authorities to land at a later time,” she said.
Air Partner has relocated its UK headquarters to larger offices alongside London Gatwick airport. “Coinciding as it does with our 50th birthday, we are very excited about this relocation,” says Mark Briffa, Air Partner ceo. “It gives us a much more contemporary home, befitting our image and brand as Royal Warrant holder listed on the London Stock Exchange. It also gives us the advantage of having more room for our established inhouse training academy.” The new offices are opposite The Beehive, Gatwick’s original terminal building, where Air Partner began trading in 1961.
AUGUST 2011 15
EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS
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Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe The reference book for fixed wing and rotary business aircraft owners and operators in Europe and the Middle East.
Jets Turboprops Turbine Helicopters In a suite of comprehensive services to meet every business need
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Using a globally focused, multi-lingual research
Handbook of Business Aviation in Asia Pacific
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The reference book for fixed wing and rotary business aircraft owners and operators in the Asia Pacific region.
More importantly, AMSTAT provides the tools
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Global Business Jet Yearbook The reference book for long range business jet owners and operators worldwide. www.gbjyearbook.com
Information that moves you forward
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