European Business Air News May 2012

E U R O P E A N

BUSINESS AIR NEWS ISSUE 225

MAY 2012

AUSTRIA AND HUNGARY REGIONAL REVIEWS Pages 19- 21

FlyWales sees the future in turboprops

Having recently brought its first turboprop, a Super King Air 200, into AOC operation FlyWales is immediately on the look-out for a second. Chief pilot, Captain Gwyndaf Williams believes this is a natural progression for the company that has operated pistons for over a decade. See full story on page 3.

Avcom customers are offered aircraft-only hire within Russia Russian air charter, maintenance and FBO company Avcom is promoting its Jet Travel Club, which allows its members to use JTC private aircraft for private travel inside Russia on rental terms very similar to standard car rental schemes.

The first JTC flight was operated from Moscow to St Petersburg and back during January using a CitationJet. Qualified crew are available for JTC aircraft operations, but members are also able to use their own pilots, provided they meet JTC and Russian aviation authority requirements.

The JTC fleet consists of three CJs with Garmin 1000 modified avionics available for private use only, and three 125-700s which are available both for private and commercial operations.

All JTC aircraft are registered in Russia and have no limitations for flight operations between Russian domestic points, which is a traditional ‘cabotage’ permit headache for foreign aircraft

www.bgad.aero

Avcom chairman Evgeny Bakhtin uses his RA-registered fleet to domestic advantage.

owners and operators in Russia.

Domestic ATC charges, airport rates and fuel prices are also heavily discounted for RAregistered aircraft.

“Travelling privately by JTC rented aircraft and paying all airport and handling charges

directly, JTC members can save up to 35 per cent of expenses,” the company says. “JTC member expenses for CJ operations are equal to three business class airline fares on any up to 1,000nm sectors, giving all the advantages of business aviation for free.”

There are three JTC membership card types, allowing different levels of access to services. The fleet is based at the Avcom-D FBO in Moscow’s Domodedovo airport, which is open 24-hours for business aircraft operations without any slot limitations.

“This private travel programme is an invaluable business tool for managers and directors of a wide range of enterprises who deal with Russian regional business, and who frequently have to fly to Russian domestic points where airline service is rare or insufficient,” says Evgeny Bakhtin, Avcom Group's chairman.

“Private travel on JTC aircraft really saves time and money for the member."

Faster 45XR keeps ambulance costs under control European Air Ambulance has commenced the process of renewing its current fleet of Learjet 35A aircraft, replacing them with the larger Learjet 45XR. So far EAA has purchased two of the new jets, and the air ambulance operator has reported nothing but positive feedback following the decision. “The aircraft was a perfect fit for EAA and its clients,” explains Patrick Schomaker, EAA director sales and marketing. “Upgrading to the 45XR meant we had minimal overheads regarding additional training for pilot and crew, and it allowed us to maintain our relationship with a trusted manufacturer.”

The middle of a recession may seem a strange time to consider fleet renewal, but Schomaker says the timing was actually ideal. “It shows our clients that we are a strong, reliable and stable long-term partner, even in a period of insecurity. And it’s a good time to buy used aircraft as they are in good shape and can be purchased at a reasonable price.”

The move up to the 45XR was also part of EEA’s strategy to increase its capacity and service flexibility, as the aircraft allows for a range of double-stretcher, neonatal mission and passenger seating configurations. It also has more room for medical supplies and permits EAA to carry out missions that require additional medical crew. And in cases where relatives travel with the patient, it also provides more comfort for passengers with a higher cabin ceiling, separate toilet facility and better seating.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

MAY 2012 3

Patriot targets commercial contracts with acquisition of Veritair Patriot Aerospace has acquired a majority share in Cardiff-based commercial helicopter charter specialist Veritair Aviation.

“We are delighted to announce the completion of a deal which not only incorporates another profitable and successful company, but means that Patriot Aerospace takes responsibility for Cardiff City heliport, one of the best purposebuilt facilities in Europe,” said Patriot finance director Paul Southall. “To move forward sustainably, our helicopter operations must move away from solely private charter, private pilot training and light helicopter engineering to more

Sir Peter Rigby takes a hands-on interest in the helicopter businesses under the wing of his Patriot Aerospace group.

stable and lucrative work in the commercial field, and this announcement marks a significant step in that direction.”

Veritair founder and md Captain Julian Verity, who remains with the company, sees increased opportunities to expand commercial and utility services under the Patriot Aerospace banner: “Becoming the specialist commercial helicopter division of Patriot Aerospace gives Veritair considerably more muscle to flex when competing for the expanding business opportunities coming our way. While our Welsh roots are exceedingly important, we need the economies of scale that only come with being part of a bigger UK operation. This move gives Veritair that chance to expand and I am very pleased to be part of a good news story from a Welsh company punching above its weight.”

Southall adds: “Veritair brings a solid and respected track record in commercial operations, which gives us a great start in creating a credible British competitor for oil and gas contracts and also established operations with the police and air ambulance services. We look forward to working with the latest additions to the Patriot team as we consolidate and expand the group’s commercial operations across the UK.”

FlyWales sees the future in turboprops Having brought its first turboprop, a Super King Air 200, into AOC operation recently FlyWales is immediately on the look-out for a second. The Haverfordwest-based company has operated Piper PA31 Navajo and Chieftain aircraft, along with Cessna 172s, for well over a decade and reports that there is still good demand for the piston workhorses. However, md Jonathan Rees says that adding the King Air to the fleet is allowing FlyWales to offer clients and brokers a greater choice: “The number of requests for the King Air has prompted us, and the demand so far has well exceeded all expectations.”

In particular, requests for medical repatriation flights from within Europe have been significant, and this has spurred FlyWales to start the search for a second Super King Air 200. Clients who have travelled on the King Air aircraft have all responded positively and are extremely satisfied with its comfort and speed, the company says.

Chief pilot Captain Gwyndaf Williams, who has been with the company since its formation 15 years ago, says: “This is a natural progression for the company. FlyWales has been operating Piper PA31 piston unpressurised aircraft, and previously Seneca aircraft successfully for many years and the acquisition of a turboprop pressurised aircraft has proved, without doubt, to be the right decision for the company. The success of FlyWales has been attributed to continually providing a first class service including 24/7 operations from our base at Haverfordwest.”

E U R O P E A N

Paras Dhamecha, executive director of Empire Aviation Group, reports significant charter demand from Russia, Saudi Arabia and India.

Leisure charter demand stays strong but business use is on the up for Empire Competition between Middle East operators is now less price-based and more focused on service, to the benefit of both client and operator, according to Empire Aviation Group.

The company’s charter division reports that it is continuing to perform strongly. Executive director Paras Dhamecha says: “EAG’s recent charter passenger mix was heavily skewed towards leisure, reflecting the seasonal demand, while business charter continued but at a lower level.

“Many of our seasonal charter clients were from outside the UAE – mainly from Russia and Saudi Arabia, with Indian and Swedish clients also prominent. Our most popular charter aircraft were the Embraer Legacy 600 and the Hawker 900XP – both of which offer a lot of space and comfort to larger groups and families travelling on holiday, with a full service area and crew of three.”

Increasing demand for charter

flights means more competition among operators: “After a relatively slow period for the charter business, demand is now returning and clients are looking for value for money and service. This suits us very well as we have a strong focus on customer service, which is vital in an industry that caters to a highly demanding clientele and where word of mouth and personal recommendation is critical,” adds Dhamecha.

“We see this as a healthy development and as charter demand returns to the region, we can see that the private aviation industry has developed and matured, with a growing number of private jets positioned in the region.

“Private jet charter is increasingly regarded as a business service or a leisure service with real functional benefits rather than an expensive luxury and this all points to a very positive future for jet charter in the region.”

Leisure charters dominated the

recent festive season as families headed for the Indian Ocean while the business charter travellers took a break. As demand returns, charter rates have firmed and service has become the main differentiating factor for clients in selecting their preferred operator, EAG says.

Top of the seasonal jet charter destinations were the Maldives and Seychelles, followed by Ankara/Istanbul and Phuket, with CIS destinations also proving popular. Around 75 per cent of EAG’s seasonal charter flights were for leisure.

Empire Aviation Group says it operates the Middle East’s largest managed fleet of private jets from its base at Dubai International Airport, with around 20 jets under management on behalf of their owners, several of which are available for charter. EAG offers private jet charter, charter brokerage services anywhere in the world, and medical evacuation.

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

4 MAY 2012

Lee’s ‘dangerous’ reputation appeals to Jota Reacting to an increased demand in passenger requests, Southend-based Jota Aviation has added a King Air E90 to its expanding fleet.

Fully refurbished in January 2012 and complementing the existing King Air passenger aircraft, the new addition seats up to six passengers.

The E90 is strategically based at Biggin Hill airport, with crews on standby so that it can be airborne in less than an hour from confirmation.

The company has also appointed Andrew Lee as a new member of its commercial team.

Previously commercial manager with Skydrift, Lee brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience having worked in the aviation and logistics industry for over 20 years.

Among other specialist projects he will be overseeing the implementation of the Dangerous Goods Licence.

“We are delighted to welcome such a successful and well respected member of the industry to Jota Aviation,” says md Andy Green. “The added skills, expertise and credibility that Andrew brings to complement the team make this a very exciting appointment, and we look forward to further successes with him on board.”

“It will be great to work with Andy and the team at Jota Aviation; with new appointments and some fantastic opportunities ahead it’s an exciting time to be joining the company,” says Lee of his new role.

IN OUR NEXT ISSUE Me & My Aircraft: Twin turbine helicopters PUBLISHED JUNE 6TH

Air-Dynamic celebrates first year of pre-paid charter packages

GainJet maintenance manager Stavros Arampatzis accepts delivery of the G550 from Gulfstream’s Pete Buresh.

GainJet’s G550 extends long range capability GainJet Aviation has acquired a Gulfstream G550 which is to be based in Athens. This latest addition and the recent upgrade of its vip Boeing 757 with a stateroom and en-suite, reflect GainJet’s priority in expanding its heavy jet and corporate airliner market presence.

“The G550 offers the longest flight range capability available on the current executive market today, before the highly anticipated release of the Gulfstream G650 later this year,” says marketing director Andrew Hallak.

GainJet’s G550 is elegantly appointed with dark wood finishings and comfortable leather seats, and a stylish exterior colour scheme that the company says “oozes sophistication”. The aircraft’s cabin has been designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience for its passengers, even while hosting

G550 interior: “oozes sophistication”.

the aircraft’s capacity of 16.

GainJet ceo James McBride explains, “The acquisition of such a high performance and versatile aircraft is a major advantage for GainJet, especially when considering who our customers are and where in the world they wish to go. The G550’s versatility and range, along with GainJet’s excellent vip service, will

allow for a customised journey tailored to the passengers’ needs.”

GainJet’s fleet is based throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa to provide maximum convenience for its main target markets. The initial base of the G550 in Athens was selected as it can serve all three markets equally. McBride elaborates, “We feel the G550 will be a popular aircraft in all three of our markets, so we’ve chosen Athens as a central home base location. This gives us good access to most major cities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa”.

The G550 joins an already impressive long range fleet consisting of a vip Boeing 757, a Global XRS, and a Gulfstream G450 among others.

GainJet is expecting delivery of its Gulfstream G650 ultra-long range executive jet in 2013, and has other plans to expand its long range fleet even further.

Italian operator of Agusta A109S Grand helicopters and a Premier I jet, Air-Dynamic has celebrated a successful first year of its ‘Excellence’ pre-paid flight cards, and reveals that it now has over 1,000 cardholders.

The company launched its prepaid option for its customers to access flights at a lower cost per flight hour in spring 2011. The ‘Excellence’ cards start at €5,000 and enable cardholders, individuals or corporations to book flights by jet or helicopter at any time and at notice as short as two hours, without spending time on payment management.

The card also allows Air-Dynamic customers to access privileges, discounts and special offers at the 600 partner organisations including hotels and restaurants, cars and yachts rentals, clubs, concierge services, tailors and boutiques.

A catalogue and its online interactive version is expected to be available soon.

“On 15th March, after almost a year since the launch of Excellence card, we celebrated the great success of our card, which had never been proposed by any other private transportation company before and is today an ever-growing success,” says sales and operations manager Dorothea Hess.

At the Hub Hotel in Milan, more than 800 guests and partners attended an event featuring a performance by pianist Master Maurizio Mastrini and the works of art of Ludmilla Radchenko and Riccardo Foccaci, which were displayed during the evening.

JetRanger boosts Copenhagen fleet Copenhagen Air Taxi expects, in cooperation with Charlie9 Helicopters, to add a Bell JetRanger to its charter AOC during May, as well as a fifth Robinson R44. These will be operated alongside the company’s current fleet of R44s and a single R22.

As Denmark’s longest established general aviation operator CAT celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. In April it took on the operation of a Citation 500, a type last seen in its service around a decade ago. In May it entered helicopter operations for the first time with the Robinson.

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

6 MAY 2012

Rebranded Manhattan works towards ‘compliance plus’ Cello ceo Nim Bains with a canvas presented by Captain Chris Smith who was in charge of the flight that took the British Queen on a state visit last year. Smith has now taken up a post with carrier Emirates but leaves Cello with fond memories.

Cello plays on short runway capabilities The small town of Zilina in Slovakia, near to the Czech and Polish border, is home to a major European engine plant for Korean-based international car maker Kia Motors.

So far, Kia Motors, two European Champions League football teams and an international football team have taken advantage of Cello Aviation’s BAe146 aircraft to avoid road or rail transfers by flying directly into Zilina. Now the Birminghambased operator hopes to build on this business with its ability to transport 46 passengers with generous leg room and a hold capable of taking three tonnes of cargo from anywhere in Europe.

Cello has also been cleared to operate from Sion in Switzerland in the heart of the Valais Alps, despite the airport’s steep approach and takeoff requirements.

Following European Skytime’s acquisition of Manhattan Jet Charter, the aircraft charter and management company reports that it has gone from strength to strength and rebranded as Manhattan Jet Management. The new management team has implemented a strong compliance structure which was evident in an exceptional audit result during March.

The CAA representative was said to have been sufficiently impressed by the improvements set in place over the course of the year, that he recommended the Farnboroughbased Learjet specialist work towards the Compliance Plus standard, the highest CAA standard of compliance an operator can achieve.

Steve Westlake aboard one of Manhattan Jet Management’s two Learjets.

“We are thrilled with the latest audit result,” says md Steve Westlake.

“This is testament to all the hard work the team has put in to take Manhattan

Jet Management from where it was just 12 months ago to where it is today.

The key to these positive changes has been to take a clear and simple approach to regulatory compliance.

Safety is of course everyone’s number one priority but we strive to go above and beyond the minimum compliance standards, instead aiming to set a ‘compliance benchmark’ in private aviation standards.

“To be recommended we work toward the Compliance Plus standard by our CAA official in such a short space of time is a very satisfying experience. Since we took over Manhattan Jet Management in 2011 we have pushed hard to set procedures in place and encourage high standards across the board.

Those procedures are clearly working and we will continue to improve in every way we can to satisfy both the CAA and the industry as a whole.”

Earlier this year the CAA authorised the name change to Manhattan Jet Management, and the company says that its subtle rebranding reflects the specific direction it is now taking. A new logo, featuring a triple-stroke winged design, adorns the hangar and operational offices at Farnborough airport, and the web site features an online booking facility.

Farnborough airport is home to four of the five jets currently under management.

Andreas Panayiotou took advantage of the depressed used aircraft market to secure his Challenger 300 at a deep discount to current list prices.

Property mogul places Challenger 300 with ‘dependable’ LEA London Executive Aviation has taken on the operation of a Challenger 300 on behalf of Andreas Panayiotou, one of the UK’s foremost property investors.

Panayiotou, chairman of The Ability Group, has built a diverse portfolio of luxury hotel, commercial and high-end residential properties.

He will use his aircraft to visit his investments across Europe, which include multiple Hilton Hotels in the UK, the Club Med Kamarina resort in Sicily and retail properties in Germany. However, other than occasional owner use, the Challenger 300 will be extensively available for charter from its base at Luton airport.

George Galanopoulos, managing director of LEA, says: “We have an established relationship with Andreas, for whom we have previously managed aircraft. When he decided to buy another business jet, we were very pleased to advise him on his choice. We identified the Challenger 300 as ideally suited to his needs and, as the only UK charter operator with extensive experience of operating this type, were well placed to source the perfect aircraft. We dealt with all the importation and registration matters and have had the Challenger refurbished to Andreas’s exacting standards.”

The Challenger can seat up to eight passengers, two flight crew members and a stewardess. With a 3,600-mile range and the ability to operate from runways as short as 1,300m, the Challenger 300 can serve destinations as far from

London as Dubai and Moscow.

“The Challenger 300 is an immensely accomplished super midsize jet,” says Galanopoulos. “From the operator’s standpoint, we have been very impressed with the aircraft’s quality and dispatch reliability and with Bombardier’s field support.”

Panayiotou says: “London Executive Aviation has consistently proved straightforward, dependable and professional in our dealings. The company really understands customer service and makes the ownership experience painless.”

Confirming his reputation as a shrewd buyer of assets, Panayiotou took advantage of the depressed used aircraft market to secure his Challenger 300 at a deep discount to current list prices. Galanopoulos comments: “Now is a great time to buy a used private aircraft, as prices remain low in the prevailing economic climate. However, the ‘smart money’ is beginning to act on this opportunity, leading to increased activity in the used market. It won’t be long before used aircraft values rise again, so potential buyers would do well to make their acquisitions soon.”

“However, as with anything, it is important to buy wisely,” he continues. “The aircraft manager has a crucial role to play in this regard, particularly when advising a new aircraft owner. By selecting the right aircraft type for the owner’s needs, and locating the best example available, we can ensure the aircraft performs well.”

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

8 MAY 2012

Phenom experts aim to cast the managed aircraft net wider FlairJet, the Oxford-based Embraer Phenom operator, is ready to widen its portfolio with other managed aircraft types. That is the message that ceo David Fletcher and his management team will be taking to EBACE in Geneva this month. “We love the Phenoms and we don’t see ourselves diluting our expertise with the type,� he says. “However, we have some highly experienced ex-airline pilots in our team, three of whom have logged some 10,000-15,000 hours flying large cabin Airbus aircraft. “We have learned a lot building FlairJet from scratch, achieving our AOC in record time and creating a strong, operationally and technically focused team. We are now ready to broaden the fleet.�

Within the past two and a half years FlairJet has bucked the trend in Europe’s light jet fraternity and grown its team from four to more than 22 personnel. The company is profitable and has doubled the office space at its Oxford airport home and established a summer base in Cannes, where it positioned a Phenom 300.

FlairJet has also lent its technical

Phenoms have been a successful starting point for FlairJet.

expertise to Phenom operators around the world, offering numerous training solutions and has managed the acquisition, acceptance and delivery of more than 12 aircraft.

Since entering operations in December 2009 FlairJet has logged some 3,120+ hours with its young fleet, the Phenom 100 having logged in excess of 2,300 hours and the Phenom 300 having logged 760+ hours. To date, the longest sector flown was from Bursa in Turkey to Liverpool, a distance of 1,760 statute miles.

FlairJet says it has garnered a loyal following from charter brokers, who

Skyline puts world’s first EMS Legacy 600 to work An Embraer Legacy that arrived in the middle of March under the ownership and operation of Skyline and Kocoglu has already undertaken many domestic flights in Turkey and international flights to Kosovo, Moscow, Greece and Iraq. “Thanks to our experienced pilots and organised system, we are able to perform flights all over the world.� says Efvani Aybike Koc. “Skyline is proud of being the owner and operator of the first Legacy 600 in the world which is designed and used for emergency medical services.�

Based in Ankara, the aircraft has space for four intensive care patients with its professional medical stretcher systems and medical equipments approved by international aviation

authorities. It will also serve as vip air taxi, as Skyline says it is the only jet in its category that creates a comfortable environment for 14 passengers with three separate cabin zones.

Skyline Transportation Trade Inc has been a subsidiary of Kocoglu Group, which is involved in various sectors including construction, tourism, energy, healthcare and aviation, since 2008. Its fleet includes an EC130, an EC145, ten EC135s, nine AW109s, a Bell 407, a Bell 230, two Bell 407, two Bell 206s and two Hawker 400XPs. As such, Skyline is the owner and operator of the largest civilian helicopter fleet in Turkey, and serves the Ministry of Health for EMS operations across Turkey with 19 helicopters in 15 cities.

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VLL and Cheshire Helicopters have merged to operate under the name of GB Helicopters, and now have a combined fleet of an Agusta A109S, an A109SP, two EC135s, an AS355NP, two AS355Ns, an AS355F1 and AS350B3 at locations around the UK. The combined company will be VLL Limited, trading as GB Helicopters, and will continue to fly under VLL’s AOC number.

Captain Gerry Rolls, FlairJet’s chief pilot, head of training and flight operations director believes the company is well prepared for expansion.

account for more than 90 per cent of its bookings. As its clientele and geographical reach widened the company expanded its AOC area to embrace the Middle East, Africa, the Caucuses and Russia. “Now we’re ready to grow that capability with a worldwide AOC,� says Fletcher. “The addition of larger cabin aircraft in our managed fleet goes hand in hand with that ambition.�

Chief pilot Gerry Rolls formerly held the same position at Air Atlantique and was an A320 pilot for BMI before joining FlairJet. “At startup, the FlairJet team bought a great deal of experience from both the business aviation and airline world which has been consolidated over the last three years of development,� says Rolls. “We are now absolutely ready for the challenge of larger aircraft and worldwide operations. We have imbued a safety focused team in a professional, commercially minded environment, with a proven ability in introducing new aircraft to market. The difficulties we have faced, and overcome, stand us in good stead for the next phase of the company’s growth.�

Luton expansion under way as Ocean Sky eyes opportunities overseas A flurry of activity from UK operator Ocean Sky has seen work begin on a major upgrade of facilities at Luton airport, the appointment of a new md for the aircraft management division, and a fresh approach to public relations.

A multi-million pound transformation of its Luton FBO is expected to be ready in time to handle the anticipated rush of international passengers to London during the Olympics. The enlarged facilities will include a luxurious passenger lounge, a new concierge service and seamless screening.

Chief executive Stephen Grimes says: “We are forecasting a significant increase in turnover at Luton following the new FBO’s opening.

With space for up to 30 aircraft at any one time we will have the capacity in our first year to double our annual movements.�

The charter division of the business is a customer of the jet centre part of the group and is delighted with the developments. “In Ocean Sky Aircraft Charter, our philosophy is simple; we believe that flying privately should be hassle free,� says md Sam Clouder. “We care about our customers’ journeys and the importance they place on it. Our number one priority and focus, alongside safety, is customer service excellence. “Having the Luton FBO run by Ocean Sky Jet Centre means that we are able to guarantee the highest level of customer service and a hassle free experience – it gives both us and our

Sam Clouder, md of Ocean Sky Aircraft Charter, is delighted at the prospect of expanded in-house handling facilities at Luton.

clients peace of mind,� Clouder says. “The new development is a wonderful USP for us as we are not only able to assure our clients are looked after during the flight, but also on the ground.�

Meanwhile, Steve Evans has been appointed md of Ocean Sky UK Ltd. Growing the business across Europe, he will work with both the London and Moscow aircraft management offices. Evans is tasked with developing aircraft management, an area of the Ocean Sky Group that supports all other areas of the business.

Grimes comments further: “Our

diversified model covering ownership services, charter, sales and acquisition, interiors, engineering and handling protects us from fluctuations in the demand for private aviation travel. We are strongly committed to growth, which will see us expand our luxury offering to new locations in Europe and emerging territories.�

Ocean Sky is a privately held company that began as an aircraft broker in 2003, expanding into full aircraft service in 2005. In addition to its fixed-base operations in the UK, the Ocean Sky group has offices in Germany, Italy, Zurich and Moscow. The company manages a fleet that ranges from Airbus aircraft to Mustang.

It has recently appointed Luchford APM to handle its global PR campaign aimed at expanding in developing markets, such as India and China. “The upcoming communications campaign will be centred on raising Ocean Sky’s profile in each of the six facets of its business in line with their respective development: private jet charter, aircraft management, sales and acquisitions, aircraft interiors, engineering and aircraft handling. In every instance, the emphasis will be on the ability of Ocean Sky to provide outstanding, professional service,� the agency says. ‘As the European business jet market continues to mature, brand will become even more important in unlocking growth opportunities.� says Grimes.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

MAY 2012 9

Emergency operator tops 100,000 hours with Explorer Specialist Aviation Services, the UK-based emergency services and utility operator, is celebrating having achieved 100,000 flying hours with the MD 902 Explorer.

The group is the largest operator of MD 902 Explorers in the world and first introduced the type into the UK in 1998 as a dual-roled police and air ambulance helicopter. The company now supports over 20 Explorers flying in a variety of roles across the UK, this fleet also having amassed over a quarter of a million flights. Several are operating 24 hours a day and achieving between 1,200 and 1,500 flying hours per annum.

Henk Schaeken, group md says: “Reaching this level of utilisation demonstrates the significant role that the Explorer plays for our

Specialist Aviation Services group md Henk Schaeken has faith in the Explorer.

customers in the industry.

“We now have over 30 engineers operating in and around the UK, and comprehensive spares holdings at our Gloucestershire headquarters.

“Also, our significant experience with the MD 902 means that we have been able to develop technical enhancements locally, driving component extensions and streamlining maintenance programmes. These all help to further enhance the reliability and maintainability of the fleet as the hours continue to build.”

The group which operates in the air ambulance, police and utility markets, is anticipating further growth in its Explorer fleet and in its broader fleet of aircraft types in the coming months as the industry continues to develop.

The Specialist Aviation Services Group comprises Police Aviation Services Ltd and Medical Aviation Services Ltd and European Support Centre bvba in Belgium.

See us at EBACE booth 1953

Bombardier and Arab Wings executives mark the delivery of the first Global 5000 jet with Vision flight deck to fly in the Middle East at Bombardier’s facilities in Canada in April. Left to right: Ali Abu Ghalyon, Manal Obeid, Sheikh Khaled Anzi, David Smith, Sameer Hdairis, Dereik Gregory and Tarek Galal.

Expanding Arab Wings takes landmark Global 5000 with Vision flight deck Arab Wings of Amman, Jordan, has become the first operator in the Middle East to take delivery of a Global 5000 featuring the Vision flight deck. The managed aircraft is expected to be available for charter next year, and becomes the longest-range jet in Arab Wing’s fleet of Challenger 604 and 605, Legacy 650 and 600, Gulfstream G450, Hawker 800XP, Citation Sovereign, Hawker 400 and King Air B200 aircraft.

“It is an amazing aircraft,” says head of sales and marketing Manal Obeid. “I flew with the aircraft directly from Montreal to Amman and it was an amazing flight.

The crew love the new Vision.”

“The Global 5000 jet’s

performance combined with its luxurious and spacious cabin makes it the ideal aircraft to meet the needs of our discerning customers.” says Mohammad Abu Ghazaleh, chairman of Arab Wings.

Further expansion of the fleet is expected soon, beginning with the Hawker 800XP expected in Amman as EBAN went to press and owned by Arab Wings, then the managed Global 5000, and finally an additional Challenger 605 which will be added to Gulf Wings fleet in Dubai.

Founded in 1975, Arab Wings is one of the first and longest-standing private executive jet charter operators in Jordan and in the Middle East. It also offers

aircraft handling, aircraft management and medical evacuation. Arab Wings is owned by the International Wings Group, an aviation holding company established in 2009.

“We are delighted to welcome Arab Wings, a longtime Bombardier customer, to the Global jet family,” says Khader Mattar, regional vp, sales, Middle East, Africa and India for Bombardier Business Aircraft.

“The Global 5000 business jet, featuring the new Vision Flight Deck, combines comfort, speed and range with the latest in avionics technology. Arab Wings’ customers will be among the first in the world to experience this fantastic jet,” he adds.

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General Aviation

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

10 MAY 2012

BUYER’S GUIDE

Check out our unique show guide on the web The EBACE exhibition will take place from May 14 to 16 at Geneva airport, and is the major event on the European business aviation calendar.

13,000 attendees, 60 aircraft on display and 500 exhibitors are expected.

We know that many of our readers travel to the show and we’d like to help you to make the most of your visit. In this feature we have asked a crosssection of industry experts to tell us the latest developments to look out for, and in conjunction with our sister publication the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe we have created a uniquely detailed web guide to the exhibitors.

Go to www.ebanmagazine.com and follow the link to our EBACE coverage and you will be able to search not only by name, country and type of company, but also by type of aircraft. Simply select the aircraft type you are interested in and our guide will list relevant charter, maintenance, sales and other companies.

During the show we will be posting news as it happens on the same site, so if you can’t travel to Geneva there is no need to miss out.

WE HELP AVIATION SALES PROFESSIONALS GENERATE DEALS

Allow two days to find your way around the EBACE maze I doubt there is an easier exhibition venue to access than Palexpo in Geneva – the home of the EBACE event. You collect your luggage after your flight, turn left, left again and then right – and you’re there!

It’s more or less the same routine if you are arriving by train. All within walking distance of your arrival point in Geneva.

But, as a long time exhibitor at EBACE – and pleased to have been associated with the show since it started – we at EBAN are also aware that perhaps visitors do not know exactly how much there is to see within the various areas of the EBACE site.

Explore the halls

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So, you have arrived at the main door of Hall 7 at Palexpo, collected your badge, and you can head off to the right, to the all-singing, all-dancing manufacturer booths, or carry straight on, to be equally seduced by the extensive static aircraft display, just a short walk away.

Hall 7 always seems to be the busiest hall at EBACE – those manufacturers don’t want you to go beyond their domain. But, unlike the NBAA convention, where the big boys are round the edges and the smaller exhibitors are in the middle, at EBACE, you need to venture through Hall 7, ascend the escalator, up some more stairs, traverse the semiopen helicopter display and then you find your way into Halls 5 and 6.

then I would suggest that your time will be well spent. Perhaps consider days two and three, the last day is always more quiet and people are happy to talk. And remember that you can walk from EBACE back to board your return flight. Some of the legacy carriers allow you to checkin first thing on the morning, so you can leave your luggage and head off to do business.

Take a train ride downtown

by EBAN’s Mark Ranger

After your brief open air excursion (parallel to the runway at Geneva’s Airport for those who enjoy a bit of viewing) the other halls are where – arguably – a lot of the real EBACE business is conducted. You will find airports, charter operators, most of the flight support and fuel companies and the myriad of specialist companies, including us at EBAN, who proudly serve business aviation.

This is where you can sit down and have a good conversation with your contacts – the further into this area you venture, the more of their time you will receive.

How long are you going to need?

EBACE has become a major business aviation event by anyone’s standards.

If you can spare at least two days,

If you are staying in Geneva, then your hotel should provide you with a free local transport pass for the duration of your visit. The train transfer from Geneva Airport station to the city centre station is swift and much more pleasurable than the road route, which can be quite congested – especially in the morning and evening peak hours.

Ironically, in the years that our team has been attending EBACE, we have come to realise that, unless your hotel is within walking distance of the EBACE site, it is actually quicker to stay downtown and transfer by train than to reach some of the airport hotels. And then of course you are already in the zone for any evening events you have been invited to.

Whatever your reason for attending EBACE, we hope it will be a worthwhile event. And if you’d like to come and meet us, you will find EBAN on booth 580.

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

MAY 2012 11

The future is not what it used to be range (3,000nm). Also, for those with baggage concerns, its baggage compartment is accessible in flight as well as an external heated (optional) compartment. This aircraft might also appeal if interior design is of particular importance as it offers great flexibility with a choice of five floor plan configurations. Who wants a jet like this? It would most likely suit those who want the cabin of a super mid-size jet, at a lower purchase and operating cost.

BUYER’S GUIDE The jet world has changed. If you still believe the old adage: “If you have to ask how much fuel it burns, you can’t afford it’’, you have not tried to sell a jet to the new buyers of today. The newer models are focusing on winglets with longer range and efficiency. Interior pressurisation levels for longer range aircraft are becoming more and more competitive. Cabin features are super hi-tech and more luxurious. At the end of the day, size matters! Here is a short recap of the newest products by the manufacturers that are expected in the very near future.

Citation M2 Projected first delivery early 2013 This is a higher entry level Citation that fits between the Mustang and the CJ2+, bridging the gap between an ‘entry-level’ jet and a model that is slightly more established and should be a great one if you are a first time buyer and testing the waters.

It has a maximum range of 1,300nm, which will offer the best range in its class giving you more value for money. It also comes with a completely redesigned cabin with new cabinets, more space efficient side rails and upgraded chairs. As a bonus it also gives you better hotand-high airport performance than its direct competitor, giving you much more flexibility on your destination airport. This model could definitely tempt turboprop owners who want to upgrade to a jet for the first time, but not wanting to compromise on size.

and also has 12 floorplans to choose from. This latest Gulfstream will certainly appeal to loyal G-V/550 owners, but also Global Express/XRS owners lured by the extra range capability. Of course with the price being the highest of any business jet below the VIP airliners, you get what you pay for. If speed matters, there is no faster corporate jet in the sky.

Citation M2

Global 6000 Projected first delivery Q2 2012

Gulfstream G650 Projected first delivery Q3 2012

By Steve Varsano, The Jet Business

Embraer Legacy 500 Projected first delivery Q4 2013 This aircraft will be a new entry into the super mid-size category. One of the biggest selling points for it will be the largest, most spacious cabin in its class and its particularly impressive

One of the most impressive features of the G650 is its ability to fly eight passengers (plus four crew members) a total distance of 7,000nm non-stop, which is by far the furthest capability of any business jet on the market. It has a longer, wider and taller cabin than any other in its class as well as one of the lowest cabin altitudes of any business jet. It boasts 16 signature super-sized oval windows to flood the cabin with natural light

This aircraft is the newest version of the Global XRS. It is reported to be super quiet with an average noise level of just 48.3db SIL. The Global 6000 also boasts impressive new technology, including the Global Vision cockpit and, as an added bonus, the auto brake is equipped as standard. The Global 6000 will definitely appeal to loyal Bombardier customers already content with the renowned spacious cabin and comfort provided by the Global family.

Embraer Legacy 500

Gulfstream 280

EBACE is all about new business aircraft The aircraft manufacturers like to keep their major model announcements secret until show-time, so look out at this year’s EBACE for Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, Cessna, Daher-Socata, Dassault, Embraer, Gulfstream, Hawker Beechcraft, Honda, Piaggio and Pilatus, along with rotary offerings from AgustaWestland, Bell and Eurocopter. See contact details and news from all of them on our web guide to EBACE.

Projected first delivery Q3 2012 This aircraft has the longest range and fastest cruise speed in the super mid-size category along with the most spacious cabin, seating 10 passengers. The G280 is also breaking new ground with the introduction of auto-braking in this category of business jet. It is not just a G200 upgrade. With the new wing, this aircraft is a completely different animal capable of airport temperatures, elevations and lengths unobtainable with the previous G200.

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Gulfstream G650

Global 6000

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

12 MAY 2012

Aerial filming Falcon on target for summer A unique ‘flying camera’ Falcon 50 has made its maiden flight to the Marrakech Air Show in April and will be presented at EBACE, for the very first time, with its pod camera.

Aerovision says it is the only European operator of this type of aircraft and can now enable air-toair or air-to-ground pictures to be carried out at high altitude and high speed. The images can be broadcast live or retransmitted. A rotation of 350° in all directions can be combined with a rotation of 20° up or 120° down for aerial pictures.

The company’s previous triumphs include flights for Airbus for photography of the A380 and A400M in particular, feature films such as Tomorrow Never Dies, and special operations carried out with Corvette jets. It believes the Falcon 50’s performance will allow Aerovision to broaden its market appeal.

It is now expected to be operational for aerial photography ahead of schedule from this

Gulfstream 280

Falcon 2000S

The Aerovision Falcon 50 with aerial photography pod will be shown at EBACE for the first time this year. Picture copyright Spot’Air/M Garcia.

summer. Modified by Uniair, the maintenance centre of Jet Services, the aircraft has a gyro-stabilised pod located underneath and a workstation in the cabin. It has a

quick change set-up offering dual use, certified for aerial work as well as maintaining public transport approval to carry out business flights, to complement Aerovision’s

other Falcon, Citation and Hawker Beechcraft jets. The gyro-stabilised pod and camera piloting system are easily removed to transform the cabin into vip configuration.

Citation Ten

Falcon 2000S Projected first delivery Q1 2013 This aircraft offers buyers an innovative wing design and ultraefficient engines for reduced consumption and lower emissions.

It also offers a 20 per cent larger cabin than most other mid-size jets.

For those who value advanced technology, the Falcon 2000S comes

with an advanced cabin management system including HDTV monitors and a media centre with multiple audio video sources.

For those who value something a little different about the interior, Falcon have partnered with BMW to create a new design concept. This is a good option for those who want the comfort of a larger cabin at the cost of a smaller aircraft.

Citation Ten Projected first delivery Q4 2013 Lured by speed? Then the new Citation Ten is one to watch. With a max speed of Mach .91 it is even faster than its predecessor, the Citation X. Design changes include a longer fuselage allowing for more legroom in the cabin and additional storage space, and the addition of

winglets as standard means increased range and fuel efficiency.

With its increased maximum take-off weight, the Citation Ten allows you to carry a higher payload ever further.

The new Rolls-Royce engines have been installed with redesigned fan blades and give additional thrust during take-off, climb and cruise.

This aircraft will certainly appeal to existing Citation X owners who want

to benefit from the increased speed, range and longer cabin.

Steve Varsano has been in aviation since 1977, selling over 300 aircraft to date. He has worked for the American Association of Airport Executives and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association in Washington DC where he lobbied various Congressional and Senate Committees. His latest venture, The Jet Business, is the world’s first corporate aviation showroom for new and preowned business aircraft.

Aircraft financing post-Lehman BUYER’S GUIDE

Looking to buy a

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Sourcing aircraft finance has been increasingly difficult since well before the demise of Lehman Brothers, the money markets by then having tightened significantly and the world shocked to have already seen oil at US$150 a barrel. Business aviation was suffering well before the depressing 2008 NBAA meeting when misplaced optimism permeated the Orlando Convention Center.

Following Lehmans’ collapse and subsequent global economic turmoil, aircraft values undoubtedly fell off the proverbial cliff and most have not materially recovered since.

Manufacturers who had robust order books at the time found that industry-established and new buyers alike immediately cancelled and deferred valuable orders. Corporates sought to manage cash in times of serious recession, also critically avoiding stockholder revolts and increasing press scrutiny.

Commercial charter and fractional operators saw demand collapse and could neither justify nor fund acquisitions.

HNWIs optimised strategies to take full advantage of a depressed market, continuing to buy in much smaller numbers. Those having early positions on new or replacement aircraft were forced to take delivery at

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Our online guide to EBACE 2012 lists the finance and leasing providers exhibiting in Geneva, including the major players such as Bank of America Leasing, Credit Suisse and GE Capital, and more specialist business aviation providers.

by Gary Palin, Interavia

contracted prices while having nowhere to sell their redundant older aircraft. Values plummeted further at each turn of events and even the bravest of financiers became wary of supporting deals as the environment deteriorated.

As lenders were forced to rebuild fragile balance sheets, book values of assets against which they had secured loans reduced to a fraction of their pre-downturn figures, forcing significant write-downs. While many values have undoubtedly stabilised, some uncertainty continues as to where some might finally settle and

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

lenders are far more cautious with models financed, age and condition, amount financed, and true ability of borrowers to perform.

Yet aviation is fundamental to promoting global business and economic growth, consequently aircraft continue to be in demand and require financing support. Lenders generally see aircraft as good security so long as they can be comfortable with the integrity of asset value and the ability of a borrower to repay.

While all stronger banks have supported key relationship customers throughout, many revitalised financiers have returned to the sector seeking only the better propositions.

Opportunities for lenders are abundant, but they can and must now be highly selective, today preferring modern, in-production models, either new or under five years old. Most prefer larger, longrange types such as the Falcon 7X, Global Express and bigger Gulfstreams, viewed as safe bets.

Light and medium-sized jets are more difficult to finance, as there has been oversupply and an excess of models, some viewed as having a particularly difficult future.

The optimism of 2006-08 for very light jets is now a faded memory.

Many very light, light and mid-cabin jets transacted in the post-Lehman era have traded for cash and at a hefty discount, as have a significant number of Challengers – an aircraft type hit hard – as buyers realised that they could now afford ‘more aircraft for their dollar’.

To a large extent, lenders have been unwilling to enter this territory unless in support of an established house client, or well supported by OEM or export credit agency (ECA) guarantees.

OEMs have been forced by weak sales and increasing unsold inventory to support buyers unable to secure funding themselves. In order to deliver aircraft, they have discounted deals, maximised their own banking relationships and additionally sought Government agency funding to support deliveries of pre-contracted aircraft, with a number of governments focused on keeping jobs and supporting commercial bank funding with ECA guarantees previously used to primarily support Boeing, Airbus and other airliner deliveries.

Lenders are again funding aircraft if the loan to value ratio is right for the model and if the aircraft is new or otherwise relatively young and well maintained. They have very precise views on values and proportion advanced. In days gone by, borrower net worth of perhaps five times the loan value would have secured funding for, say, 90 per cent of appraised value.

Today, a borrower’s real net worth may be dependent on fragile asset values and other variable factors, so proven cash flow is therefore viewed as being much more important. A typical new large cabin aircraft may well today secure funding of 75-80 per cent of its value, if the applicant is a known client of the lender and has good cash flows.

A five-year-old Challenger with relatively low time and an excellent maintenance history may, however, only secure 60 per cent funding of a significantly reduced appraisal, but again established borrower relationships and cash flow are critical if the deal is to be done with ease.

Loans with mortgages remain the most common form of financing, along with lease purchase and finance leases. Operating leases are more rare in the segment. Norecourse funding is scarce, not least as values remain in flux, with lenders

MAY 2012 13

EBAA group to explore future financing options for business aviation The European Business Aviation Association has established a focus group to look specifically at finance and leasing issues, and this met for the first time in March under newly appointed chair Aoife O’Sullivan of Gates and Partners.

The group will focus on dealing with the challenge of reduced financing options as it explores and identifies new means of finance. It will also promote solutions at a

seeking security beyond the asset itself. Key players for larger business aircraft and customers with a solid track record remain the big international banks, including Bank of America, Barclays, BNP Paribas, Credit Suisse, Deutsche, DVB, HSBC

European level that aim to reduce risks from a financier’s perspective.

The group brings together operators, manufacturers, financiers and insurers to review and assess aircraft finance in business aviation. “We know aviation, it’s what we do day in and day out, so we really are in a strong position to provide this kind of educational platform,” says O’Sullivan. “Combined with EBAA’s

and Lombard (RBS). Lessors CIT and GE are also highly active.

If contemplating a purchase in today’s market, cash is king and will secure the best price from any seller, whether new or used. If financing, then, though funding is increasingly

associate member advisory committee finance and leasing group, we are able to encourage and provide excellent opportunities to collate and then disseminate valuable information to an even wider audience,” she continues.

O’Sullivan will be speaking at the EBAA safety workshop, and the transactions conference both to be held on May 13 during EBACE.

available, a quick deal can only be put together if one has a history with the lender. Expect the lender to be aggressive on the loan to (proven) value ratio, to want sound accounts and to likely seek additional personal guarantees.

Aoife O’Sullivan chairs the EBAA’s new finance and leasing group

Gary Palin is an industry veteran having managed the operation of most modern business jet types and personally overseen over 200 jet transactions in more than 30 years of business jet sales. He is managing director at consultancy firm Interavia (www.interaviagroup.com).

WORL D - C L AS S T RAIN I N G. W O R L DWIDE R E AC H.

Bombardier Challenger 605 Training Coming to London Farnborough

O

perators of Bombardier Challenger 605 aircraft will soon have the option to train at FlightSafety’s London Farnborough Training Center. Our high-

quality Challenger 605 training offers exceptional overall value and can be tailored to your specific requirements.

Our experienced instructors use comprehensive courseware, a new Level D-qualified full flight simulator, and our exclusive MATRIX training system to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your training.

This is just one of the many initiatives we’re taking to serve business aircraft operators in Europe and around the globe.

We continue to invest in new high-quality training programs, advanced-technology simulators for current and nextgeneration aircraft, and in expanding our global network of conveniently located training facilities.

Now that you have a choice, take advantage of our new Challenger 605 programs no matter where in the world you are based. Training begins soon, so we invite you to schedule now.

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Challenger 605 image provided courtesy of Bombardier Inc.

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Learning Center network. Everything we do is designed – Larry Flynn to help you achieve the highest levels of proficiency.

President, Gulfstream Aerospace

London Farnborough Training Center s +44 1 252 554 500 s farnborough@flightsafety.com Scott Fera, Vice President Marketing s 718.565.4774 s sales@flightsafety.com s flightsafety.com

A Berkshire Hathaway company

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

14 MAY 2012

Training to go the distance BUYER’S GUIDE In the current climate, in-house solutions and hard bargaining can pay dividends for training budgets.

At the best of times, the job of the chief training captain (or head of training) for a business aviation charter operator is a challenge. The task entails delivering a pilot training scheme fully fit for purpose, yet deliverable on a budget that does not cause senior management palpitations. In the current climate of recessionary cost-consciousness, that challenge is even greater.

However, with a little imagination and careful planning, there are various steps operators can take to extract the maximum value from their training budgets.

London Executive Aviation (LEA), where I have led the training function

by Neil Onions, chief training captain, London Executive Aviation

for eight years, is one of the UK’s largest charter operators. We presently operate a 23-strong, allturbine fleet of business aircraft, consisting of six aircraft types, which are spread across seven bases and

When you advertise to the business aviation community, it is easy to be seduced by claims that you’ll get to thousands upon thousands of recipients.

But are you getting to the RIGHT people?

Here at European Business Air News, the circulation of both the printed magazine and our web site is independently audited, which means we have to prove that we are reaching the people we claim to.

It is part of our commitment to you - we will deliver your message to the people you most want to reach - owners and operators of business aircraft in Europe and the Middle East.

And we will do this using the best printing and

flown by more than 90 crew members. However, while the scale of our training programme is unusually large, many of the management issues we face are common to most operators.

Perhaps most obviously, operators should not be afraid to negotiate for better prices with external training providers. We are accustomed to our own customers driving hard bargains, but charter operators are not the only parties who have to compromise and compete in an economic downturn. Most training organisations are commercial realists and can still find an acceptable ‘winwin’ situation in agreeing improved terms with valued customers.

At the same time, a policy we have found delivers valuable cost savings and a better overall training outcome is developing an in-house training capability to complement our use of

Find exhibitors relevant to your aircraft In our online guide to EBACE 2012 you can simply search for your own aircraft type and immediately find connected charter, maintenance and training organisations, with full contact details. Data comes courtesy of Europe’s most comprehensive business aviation industry directory, the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe.

outside suppliers.

Although external type rating training organisations (TRTOs) offer high-quality, generic type rating courses, in-house recurrent training can often prove more cost-effective in the long term and better tailored to an operator’s exact requirements.

In LEA’s case, we employ type rating examiners (TREs) for all the aircraft types we operate and select instructors from our flight crew for ground-based courses in areas such as first aid, customer

production techniques, and the most accurate distribution list possible.

We’ve got a wide range of advertising options, both print and digital, that are designed to make the most of your valuable promotional spend.

EBAN – the magazine of choice for business aviation in Europe and the Middle East Contact Mark Ranger on:

+44 (0)1279 714509 mark@ebanmagazine.com

E U R O P E A N

BUSINESS AIR NEWS

relationship management and deicing, as well as providing aircraft technical refreshers.

This self-reliance can, of course, create its own administrative headaches. For example, keeping an overview of crew operating standards during training ‘on the line’ (in the normal course of operations) can be difficult, especially when aircraft and crew are dispersed across multiple bases. However, we have found technology to be an effective solution in this area, with electronic reporting enabling us to keep track of training progress.

We are presently extending electronic reporting to all training documentation, enabling the rapid updating of our central database, which in turn permits a companywide overview of matters such as ratings, licences and air operator’s certificate (AOC) requirement validity. While creating such a system may entail some investment at the outset, the expense can quickly be recouped through efficiency gains.

A deterrent to in-house recurrent training has been the high dry leasing cost of flight simulators in Europe.

The US has not necessarily provided a cost-effective alternative solution, as external training providers based in the US took a long time to understand the different training requirements of the European operating environment. Lately, though, such US companies have begun providing short recurrent programmes that meet the need for six-monthly crew checks at a price that is no longer prohibitive.

The cost of simulator training remains higher in Europe than in the US, partly because of limited competition between providers.

Currently, Europe-based simulators also cater for a narrower range of aircraft types than the market demands. As a result, European operators can often find it cheaper, and sometimes unavoidable, to send crews to the US for training, especially for longer courses.

The alternative to simulatorbased training has been to carry out aircraft-based instruction, taking advantage of ‘dead legs’, when use of the aircraft is effectively ‘free’ to the operator. However, in an industry committed to maximum safety, it is an inescapable fact that simulators offer superior training experiences. In consequence, it seems likely the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) will come to mandate the use of simulators where available, irrespective of the cost implications. I am therefore sure all operators would loudly welcome an expansion of simulator supply in Europe and the price reductions that ought to result.

Of course, some challenges in the training area are more intractable than others, not least the time and associated administrative and training costs of complying with EASA’s Part-FCL (Flight Crew Licensing) regulations. Nevertheless, by taking stock of one’s bargaining position with suppliers and considering which training might be better conducted in-house, operators can find various ways in which to enhance their training while preserving their commercial viability.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

MAY 2012 15

Aircraft upgrades – what’s new?

BUYER’S GUIDE In the current depressed market for used aircraft sales, particularly at the lower end of business jets and helicopters, it is perhaps the upgrade market that provides the best opportunity for adding value to an older aircraft and providing an edge over a competitor in the charter market by offering something above the competition. The growth of new products appears to have slowed, with many fewer new avionic systems being debuted at the recent Aircraft Electronics Association convention in Washington. However, there are still many opportunities out there for installers, both in cabin systems, avionics and performance packages.

On the avionic front, glass cockpit EFIS upgrades seem to be progressing well for the turboprop and light jet market. Garmin’s G1000 system on the venerable Beech 200 King Air

French King Air undergoes Blackhawk mods A King Air C90 flown privately by Aélia Assurances has become the first aircraft to be upgraded with Blackhawk engine and system modifications by Canadian service company Flying Colours.

Flying Colours Corp, a global aviation service company specialising in aircraft completion, maintenance and refurbishment, signed a service agreement with Blackhawk Modifications Inc at the NBAA 2011 conference.

This first project, which was completed at the end of February, entailed modifications to Aelia’s King Air C90 at Flying Colours Corp’s Peterborough location in Canada. The aircraft underwent a series of maintenance, avionics and interior modifications which have improved cost effectiveness and performance from the aircraft. The principal modification involved a full Blackhawk XP 135A engine upgrade which provides increased true air speed, maximises aircraft range and supports more efficient climb rates. The upgrade also reduces maintenance requirements in the future. Operating costs and safety systems were also enhanced following a complete fuel cell replacement, a general propeller overhaul and a full radar upgrade.

The woodwork throughout the aircraft was completely refinished and there were numerous soft furnishing enhancements.

“The first modification under the agreement with Blackhawk has gone to schedule and demonstrates that Flying Colours is committed to providing this service to King Air and Caravan owners and operators,” says Sean Gillespie, director of sales and marketing Flying Colours Corp.

“The aircraft was completed on time and delivered to high customer praise, which is precisely what we are looking for in our distributors,” says Bobby Patton, Blackhawk Modifications director for international distribution.

adds massive additional capabilities as well as providing upwards of 100Kg in weight saving with installed prices from around US$300K. The G1000 system is also now available through Cessna-owned service centres for the CJ1 Citation Jet. Universal Avionics 890R retrofit glass cockpit is gaining a significant market share and can be seen in many popular light jets as well as turboprops and simplifies the process by allowing connection to existing nav radios. The Garmin G600 is selling well as an affordable glass cockpit for the small class 3 aircraft and is also now available as the G500H for popular light VFR helicopters.

Aspen Avionics also has its EFD1000H certified on light helicopters and it is proving to be a very competitive low cost alternative

to the Garmin system. All of the G500/600 and EFD1000 systems can be complemented by the new Garmin GTN series of touch-screen Nav/Com/GPS systems that benefit from Garmin’s unique EASA AML STC approval and therefore reduce the certification effort.

All of these retrofit EFIS systems now offer synthetic vision options for improved situational awareness, so hopefully adding to safety and reducing the risk of CFIT accidents.

In the cabin, the primary growth area seems to be SwiftBroadband, with lower cost systems from Aircell, Cobham, Thrane & Thrane, etc offering systems starting at 200kbps for a relatively modest cost.

Unfortunately, the additional benefit of wireless connectivity in the cabin faces the certification hurdle of an automatic STC for what could

WITH US

by Harry Lees, managing director, Gama Engineering

TIME IS ON YOUR SIDE

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

16 MAY 2012

Track down the top aircraft upgrades Aircraft owners will always be on the look-out for engine, propeller and avionics upgrades, and the major manufacturers will be on show in Geneva once again. See contact details and news from each on our web guide to EBACE.

otherwise be a simpler and cheaper minor change.

Cabin entertainment and cabin management systems have seen massive changes with new systems such as Venue from Rockwell Collins, Ovation from Honeywell and a much cheaper but equally effective system from Flight Display Systems, all of which allow touch-screen control of aircraft systems, as well as allowing passengers to plug in their own iPad or iPod to import music or video into the aircraft system. Apps even allow control of the cabin functions from the iPad!

Aircraft performance change modifications are a much more limited market but do provide some significant benefits to operators. King Air operators can see considerable performance gains from engine upgrades such as Blackhawk or Silver Hawk. Coupled with BLR winglets and Raisbeck wing lockers, the capability of this workhorse can see considerable improvement.

For the future, we may see more engine upgrades such as already available on the Beech 400 and older Citations, to improve fuel efficiency and reduce noise.

Air Alliance orders third Raisbeck performance system for 35As Air Alliance Express (AAE) of Germany has purchased a third Raisbeck ZR Lite Performance System for its GRO fleet of Learjet 35As. AAE has been flying Lear 35As for more than eight years, and installed its first ZR LITE two years ago. One Learjet is also equipped with Raisbeck’s Aft Fuselage Locker.

Air Alliance has recorded overall fuel savings of 5-7%, along with better take-off and climb performance, especially from hot and high airfields, and increased range. The company says the ZR Lite system is paying for itself in fuel savings alone.

“The improved take-off performance with the system enables us to depart our home base EDGS with a full fuel load,” reports Matthias Kupisch, AAE head of ops. “However, a big part of our decision to install it on 35A-504 is the fact the system increased the value of the aircraft – it is even possible to sell an ageing Lear 35 if it has been equipped with the Raisbeck systems.”

Raisbeck’s ZR Lite Performance System enhances the takeoff, climb, cruise and descent performance of Learjet 31, 35 and 36 aircraft. In addition to being able to fly higher, faster and farther from more airports, ZR LITE saves at least 5% on fuel at normal cruise and up to 14% or more when pilots can take full advantage of the Learjet’s improved climb and cruise capabilities.

by Lori Browning, aircraft interior designer, Duncan Aviation

Investment in fabric and veneer during downtime can pay off BUYER’S GUIDE Upgrading an aircraft interior is as important as making a good first impression. When passengers and guests come on board, the overall look of the interior can either give the notion that the aircraft is well maintained or deliver a shady sense of doubt that what’s under the skin is as outdated as the interior components.

The best time to upgrade the interior is when an aircraft is down for maintenance work. Minor changes, like new carpet, can be the most economical way to have a big impact without major expense.

Whenever possible, plan several weeks ahead! Almost all aircraft carpeting requires extended lead times for ordering and delivery. This will also allow for time to perfect

colour matches and procure a higher quality carpet. In addition, higher end carpet pad will allow better acoustics and extend the life of the aircraft carpet.

Skandia Inc makes a high quality carpet padding that is being used on new aircraft by many OEM manufacturers. New upholstery can also bring new life to an aircraft. New foam and leather will not only make the seats look better, but be more comfortable. Lately, leathers that showcase their natural qualities have been very popular. Garrett Leather has introduced a line called Native that has a rugged and mottled appearance.

Other exciting, new textures and colours are being produced by Moore and Giles specifically for aircraft.

They vary from subtle textures to wild exotics. Finishing the seat

stitching with a heavy thread adds custom detailing.

Re-veneering cabinetry is a more costly upgrade, but sometimes essential, especially for lighter aircraft (like Citations) on the resale market.

Replacing worn-out veneer or laminate with a modern wood species makes a grand first impression when coming on board.

Straight-grain species such as a walnut or eucalyptus are very popular for their neutral brown colour and availability of high quality logs. CPI Aircraft Interiors offers reconstituted woods that are becoming very popular for their modern aesthetic and variety of fresh tones.

For operators who want to customise their jet with their corporate logo and identity, there are many vendors that can provide this level of customisation to their

No need to suffer an inferior interior

Essential reading wherever you are

Simply visit our web guide to EBACE 2012 and see all of the companies exhibiting aircraft interior products and services in one convenient listing.

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.

Out now! www.handbook.aero

Handbook of Business Aviation in Asia Pacific The reference book for fixed wing and rotary business aircraft owners and operators in the Asia Pacific region. www.handbook.aero

Global Business Jet Yearbook The reference book for long range business jet owners and operators worldwide. www.gbjyearbook.com

Royal Jet selects Sabena for BBJ refurbishment Abu Dhabi-based operator Royal Jet has selected Sabena Technics to carry out a full upgrade for one if its six-strong fleet of Boeing BBJs. “We are entering our ninth year of operations on a record of strong growth,” says Shane O’Hare, Royal Jet president and ceo. “Our commitment is to provide guests with the most luxurious in-flight experience possible and so it is important that our jet interiors and systems are up-to-date and of the highest quality.

“This refurbishment project is part of Royal Jet’s development strategy in which we have invested heavily to ensure that we continue to offer the very best in cuttingedge technology and luxury in the

private jet travel market.”

Ahmed Al Mamari, the company’s chief operations/ technical officer, says: “The BBJ is the mainstay of our fleet. The project will last five months and we are leasing a replacement aircraft to ensure that customer service is maintained. I am confident that Sabena Technics will be able to minimise downtime through its Part 21G certification and its extensive maintenance, repair and overhaul workforce.”

The aircraft will undergo an indepth cabin refurbishment, livery painting, maintenance and a systems upgrade including state-ofthe-art entertainment, satcom, wifi and global mobile systems.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

products. Goodrich Cabin Systems and Booth Veneers can incorporate just about any design or logo into a sheet of veneer.

Spinneybeck Leather is using lasers to engrave designs and Scott Group Carpets can also incorporate designs in their materials. Freshen up cabinetry in the galley and lavatory with new countertops.

Dupont Corian has added new colours to its palette. Solid surfaces such as Corian are more durable than laminate or stone and can easily be repaired or polished to remove scratches.

Solid surface can also be incorporated in the cabin on tables or drink rails for a more durable surface than traditional veneer. Protecting an aircraft’s surfaces, whether solid or soft goods, is always at the forefront of the maintenance crew’s concerns.

For fabrics, FTS Inc is offering a stain protection treatment that is being used by Dassault Falconjet and has proven very effective in preventing against wet stains. It can be applied to almost any fabric used for upholstery or covering panels, but it is best if applied to the roll of material before application.

When selecting products with any of these vendors, the most important thing is to have clear expectations.

Ask about the negatives or risks of using certain materials and look at actual samples whenever possible.

Plan in advance as much as possible so any potential availability issues will not have a large impact and the interior upgrade process should be a success.

Lori Browning is an aircraft interior designer at Duncan Aviation’s Battle Creek, Michigan (BTL), facility, specialising in business aircraft modification, completions and refurbishments. Duncan Aviation is a well-known maintenance, repair and overhaul facility headquartered in Lincoln, Nebraska.

MAY 2012 17

Simple telephone or full broadband, the choice has never been greater BUYER’S GUIDE Satellite communication first arrived on the scene for maritime use in the 70s and quickly spread to use in aviation. Connectivity requirements in the cockpit, and increasingly in the cabin, have driven the proliferation of satellite services in recent years to satisfy this demand. With the continued development of faster and ever-more complex passenger mobile devices using technologies such as streaming video on demand and cloud computing, this trend is bound to continue.

Business jet and vvip operators in Europe, the Middle East and Asia (EMEA) have a number of choices to make in determining the best satellite communications solution for their aircraft. Choosing correctly requires a full understanding of exactly what the particular aircraft satellite communication system needs to achieve.

EMEA has several satellite communication providers, each

offering various levels of capability with relative cost structures. Iridium, for example, offers communication packages with lower data transfer speeds, which are better suited to pure telephone communications.

Telephone-only systems are preferred installations for small aircraft.

This type of system can be linked to hardware in the aircraft supplied

by Aircell, ICG, Truenorth, or Rockwell Collins. Prices for such a system generally start at US$75,000 for a simple installation. As with all satellite communications, the operator will also need to factor in the installation of an antenna. While this can be achieved through several means, the simplest is for the installer to purchase a Service Bulletin from the aircraft OEM, or an existing Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). A small antenna installation starts at US$50,000, assuming an STC for the installation is available.

Inmarsat also provides satellite communication services that, with

Communicate with the top suppliers Communication systems is just one of over sixty fully researched categories you can use to search through the exhibitors at EBACE 2012 using our online guide. Data comes courtesy of the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe.

14 L O C A T I O N S

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by Jonathan Allwood, SCM category manager, Jet Aviation Basel

the exception of the Polar regions, have global coverage. Linking Inmarsat satellites’ Swift Broadband service to hardware in the aircraft supplied by Thrane & Thrane, Rockwell Collins or Honeywell/EMS, via EMS, CMC, Chelton or Ball antennas enables a whole host of services for the cabin. Typically, these packages offer relatively high voice quality and data transfer speeds up to 432kbps per channel. Though not comparable to speeds offered on the ground, the packages at the higher speeds can enable telephony, text messaging, VoIP, email and internet, as well as secure cockpit safety services. Prices for such systems range from US$500,000 to $1.2m.

L O N D O N

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T R A V E L

Customer requirements and available space on the fuselage determine whether a high, intermediate or low gain antenna will be installed. Though these types of installations are suitable for small through to large aircraft, system performance depends on the size of the antenna used.

For customers demanding a higher data transfer rate, Jet Aviation also offers KU band satellite system solutions from ViaSat or Panasonic Avionics Corporation. Coverage is not yet global, with coverage currently missing in India and Pakistan, up into China and Eastern Russia, but this is expected to be rectified in Q1 2013.

The KU band solutions are only available for medium to large aircraft and are best suited to those which require fast data transfer speeds. They range from installation prices of US$800,000 for a medium business jet up to US$2m for larger aircraft. While the speeds vary depending on the communication direction, whether aircraft to ground or ground to aircraft, connection speeds experienced are between 1 and 2Mbps.

Future satellite communications will see the introduction of KA band satellites, offering greater bandwidth and even faster data transfer speeds.

Given the numerous satellite communication systems and options available, the sky really is the limit. Buyers need only be absolutely clear about client needs and expectations – not to mention budgetary constraints.

N E E D S

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

18 MAY 2012

How to maintain high standards

INDUSTRY NEWS...

BUYER’S GUIDE

Maja Wazniewicz aims to raise money for water provision in South Sudan.

Skyfleet owner heads for Africa Polish business aviation consultant Skyfleet Aviation Consulting has embarked on an extraordinary charity action called “Flight for Africa”. Managing partner Maja Wazniewicz together with acrobatic pilot Dawid Sobieszek is about to depart on a flight of over 10,000km from Warsaw to South Africa with a Wilga 2000 light aircraft. The flight supports the Water Campaign by Polish Humanitarian Action and money collected in course of the flight will be allocated to the construction of wells in South Sudan, a region greatly troubled by the lack of access to potable water.

The Wilga 2000 will be delivered to its new owner in South Africa.

“The flight with Wilga to Africa is a great challenge. We will spend seven hours a day in a small cockpit, carrying fuel reserves on the back seats”, says Wazniewicz.

touchscreen CMS controller in the galley as well as individual, in-seat touchscreen units that control video, audio, lighting and temperature. A 17.5-inch LCD monitor comes standard but customers can choose from a number of monitor options including up to a 32-inch credenza version, a 24-inch, aft-bulkhead configuration or individual seat monitors.

PW210 engine to power X4 Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW210 engine has been selected by Eurocopter to power the nextgeneration X4 helicopter. The PW210-powered X4 is expected to enter into service by 2017.

The X4 marks the third application for the PW210 family of engines, joining the PW210S certified in 2011 and the PW210A which is slated for certification in 2013.

Cambridge unveils further development Cambridge Airport is to further expand with a major infrastructure upgrade and development of airport land into a vibrant business hub. In July work will start on the green field site to the south site of the runway.

The investment will focus on a new taxiway, which will provide a key access route to the south of the runway, and on a major rehabilitation of the runway.

“Tenants will be offered a range of property development options including self-build, build and buy back or lease of properties, built by Marshall Aerospace. A vibrant business park, a hotel for crew, operator bases, this is the type of project that could be achieved,” says airport director Archie Garden.

Embraer shows off 650 interior Embraer has launched the global tour of the Legacy 650 with the new 2012 interior.

“The 2012 Legacy 650 interior significantly raises the bar for the large executive aircraft class,” said Ernest Edwards, president, Embraer Executive Jets. “We offer a new cabin management system, reduced noise levels and avionics advances that equip the aircraft for the future air traffic control system. It also includes new finishing materials for cabin, galleys and lavatories. With this new interior, customers will have a more advanced and comfortable environment in which to relax or to maintain their productivity.”

The interior includes an 8.9-inch

The Rusaero quality control team is set to grow from five to ten staff in coming months. From left to right: Irina Efimenko, Igor Khotentsev, Svetlana Shilkova, Vladimir Klementiev.

Rusaero doubles up on quality control Russian flight support company Rusaero has established a new quality control department to monitor the daily tasks of dispatch, train new personnel, and develop new innovations and technology in order to deliver top notch service to its clients.

Svetlana Shilkova, who was deputy head of dispatch, heads the team of five – which is due to grow to ten in coming months.

“We take precision very seriously.

Our quality control department is an essential group of individuals who consistently test and retest all the aspects of operational work,” says Shilkova.

AW139 flight training device is qualified Frasca International’s AW139 flight training device has been qualified to the new JAR FSTD-H FTD 2 standards. The FTD is in use by Rotorsim at its facility in Italy.

EASA approves King Air 250 The Beechcraft King Air 250 has achieved EASA certification. New features include composite winglets that improve efficiency in all phases

of flight, composite propellers that provide new aerodynamic technology and lighter weight, and engine induction modifications that contribute to its increased performance.

“We’re looking forward to starting deliveries in Europe very soon,” said Sean McGeough, president, Asia, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “According to Eurocontrol, the King Air B200 series has been the most flown business aircraft in Europe over the last four years.”

CEPA names advisory board The Central European Private Aviation organisation has appointed an advisory board. This comprises: Oliver Stone, md of London-based Colibri Aircraft, the private aircraft brokerage and asset advisory firm; Alan Cunningham, asset finance partner at DLA Piper, a worldwide practice which represents banks, leasing companies, operators and owners on aircraft sales/purchase; Philippe Liénard, who jointly created the Aelis Group in Bratislava, Slovakia; and Jean Michel Bonte, co-founder and shareholder of Aelia Assurances, the specialist insurance broker.

Karl Lagerfeld to design vip AW139 AgustaWestland has called on leading fashion design house Karl Lagerfeld for the design of vip helicopter interiors and exteriors.

Work has begun on the AW139 medium twin but may later include other models. The fashion house will be entering the helicopter exterior/interior design sector for the first time.

DA52 makes maiden flight The newest twin engine model from Diamond Aircraft, the DA52, has made its first flight, powered by two Austro Engine 180 hp turbo-diesel engines. It is designed to carry up to seven people. With five knots headwind the take off roll was less than 300m without flaps.

Choosing the right maintenance provider may be just as important as finding the right aircraft, and while selecting a maintenance facility may sound easy, it can drive costs up significantly. For example, an organisation with maintenance facilities at the same airport as your aircraft is based may seem to be the cheapest option available, but this could be only half the truth. If that company does not hold sufficient spare parts stock your aircraft could be grounded unnecessarily.

Another issue to be taken into account is whether your aircraft operates globally or is limited to a certain region; in the latter case, a small and flexible maintenance company dedicated to your aircraft type may be a better option than the globally operating enterprise.

However, in some cases size does matter, at least when we are talking about fleet size. Operators with large fleets may receive discounts and services that a single aircraft operator may not be able to procure from its maintenance partners.

Aircraft buyers should talk to their operators, maintenance managers or CAMOs to decide which option will best suit their needs. These parties should have the knowledge to talk over the options available and, as an aircraft owner, you should always seek to get an independent view.

Some aircraft operators are large enough to have their own maintenance departments. Even though this situation has certain advantages through the close connection, usually promoted as a one-stop-shop solution, it can have major disadvantages as maintenance costs are more or less uncontrolled and prices cannot be compared. Besides this, you could lose the leverage to get what you, as the aircraft owner, want from a maintenance provider.

I strongly recommend that any

by Stephan Krainer, maintenance postholder for Avcon Jet and gm Primus Aircaft Management Solutions

aircraft is enrolled on a support programme and the same considerations apply when making your choice, with a proper comparison of the costs, benefits and disadvantages of all options. It may seem incomprehensible to start paying from the first flight for events that may occur in future, but it does truly make sense as it equalises maintenance costs and removes unexpected bills from the equation, shifting them to direct operating costs.

As an aircraft owner you will know in detail what the expected costs per flight hour should be. Most aircraft are put up for sale after the warranty period and, at that point, those previous regular payments start to pay off, keeping the value of the aircraft up and helping resale. Some providers of ‘power by the hour’ agreements provide a payback option if the funds are not used.

Independent advice should always be sought, as not every programme will suit every need, with the options available less and less transparent for those who are not experts. Every salesperson wants to sell their product, be it a vacuum cleaner, a car, an aircraft or maintenance services and seeking independent advice could save you millions. ■

Eurocopter España and TAF Helicopters create support platform for light helicopters Eurocopter España has acquired an 80 per cent stake in new company Sabadell Helicopters Service Center (SHSC), which brings together the aircraft maintenance and repair activities of the Catalonian company TAF Helicopters SL. With an initial staff of 35 technicians based at Sabadell Airport near Barcelona, SHSC will enable Eurocopter to provide direct, specialised support for all civil helicopter fleets.

There are currently more than 700 civil helicopters registered in Spain and this number has steadily increased over the last 20 years at an annual rate of 5 per cent, with Eurocopter products accounting for 60 per cent of the Spanish fleet.

Eurocopter also aims to increase

the turnover deriving from aftersales activities, which are expected to undergo similar growth in the medium and long term.

“This acquisition is an integral part of Eurocopter’s strategy of developing support and services activities,” says Francisco Vergé, Eurocopter España ceo. “The new logistics platform will enable us to respond to the support needs of the operators in a faster and more efficient way.”

SHSC plans to sign ad hoc agreements with operators to provide maintenance and airworthiness activities. In addition to providing support for operators, the new company will also perform helicopter customisation, modernisation and retrofits.

Falcon 2000S on track Dassault’s Falcon 2000S has completed its first year of flight testing, chalking up 260 flight hours in over 110 flights.

Outfitted with inboard slats and winglets that work together to reduce landing speeds, the 2000S also features a unique autobrake system which will allow it to access shorter and more challenging runways.

Find the exhibitor to maintain your aircraft It's simple. Select your aircraft type from the drop down menu on our online EBACE guide and you can find a list of maintenance companies approved to provide services to you.

MAY 2012 19

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

AUSTRIA REGIONAL REVIEW When EBAN first carried out a review of Austria’s business fleet 20 years ago, a total of 166 jets, props and helicopters made up the numbers. Nowadays that figure has risen to 455, making the country's fleet one of the fastest growing anywhere in Europe.

According to the latest statistics from Avinode, international charter requests are predominantly to Germany and the Ukraine, and inbound from more widespread locations in France, UK and Italy indicating perhaps that Austria remains a business and holiday destination rather than an overseas investor country. Charter demand to Germany may not be surprising given the historical links and common language, whereas to the Ukraine may result from geographical convenience.

Austrian charter operators include one of the biggest in Europe – if not the world – Vistajet. The company recently signed an agreement with Beijing Airlines to investigate joint marketing, sales and operational opportunities, with VistaJet establishing a base in Beijing and eventually operating point-to-point within China. As reported in April’s EBAN, a significant increase in demand has arisen for the company to base aircraft in the country from Chinese businessmen who have flown VistaJet internationally.

With a roster of more than 30 aircraft and a $2 billion aircraft purchase order backlog, the fleet is expected to double by 2015. Chief

Traffic into Austria can depend upon the quality of the skiing season. Image by High Contrast [CC-BY-3.0-de (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/de/deed.en)], via Wikimedia Commons.

Tentative recent growth signals increased business on the Austrian horizon commercial officer Ian Moore said: “No one else in the private business aviation sector is taking delivery of brand new aircraft at the rate we are, nor is anyone more committed to maintaining the youngest fleet in the skies.”

ABC Bedarfsflug GmbH offers fractional operations, passenger flights, freight services, trips for filming and leisure from its based at Innsbruck.

Available for charter are a fleet of three Citation 560XL and five

CitationJet 525 series aircraft.

Helmut Eder, ceo, admits that, although flight hours have increased a little over recent years, the prices currently being charged are very low.

That said, he believes that the effects of the Europe-wide economic crisis

have been no more negative to the company than they were around 2009.

And what does the company plan for the remainder of the year? “Keep on going...” says Eder.

Continued on next page

MONDAY, MAY 14;

Business aviation in the Austria by the numbers

& WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2012

13 business aviation airports

PALEXPO AND

Major business aviation airports* 1. Vienna Schwechat 2. Salzburg W. A. Mozart 3. Innsbruck 4. Linz Blue Danube 5. Graz

LOWW LOWS LOWI LOWL LOWG

VIE SZG INN LNZ GRZ

TUESDAY, MAY 15;

GENEVA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

* ranked by the number of handler, charter, maintenance, sales and training organisations based at each.

79 business charter operators Leading fixed-wing charter operators** 1. VistaJet 2. Airlink Luftverkehrs 3. International Jet Management 4. Amira Air 5. GlobeAir

Leading helicopter charter operators** 1. Heli Austria 2. Hubi-Fly 3. Helios Hubschraubertransport 4. Goldeck-Flug ** ranked by number of aircraft for charter

aircraft 18 business maintenance organisations Leading maintenance centres*** 1. Gate V Aircraft Maintenance 2. Austrian Technik 3. Diamond Maintenance 4. Jetalliance Technical Services 5. Punitzflug Aircraft Maintenance

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND

*** ranked by number of aircraft types covered

business aircraft on OE 455 the Austrian register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe, and the EBAN reader roster.

LEARN MORE AT

www.ebace.aero

20 MAY 2012

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

CHARTER BROKER NEWS...

Apron Aviation chairman Zafer Yesilgul seals a partnership with Arab Tourism Organization president Dr Bandar Bin Fahd Al Fuhaid.

Apron Aviation sets its sights on Bursa Turkish air charter company Apron Aviation has welcomed a new investor with a 25 per cent stake, in the person of the president of the Arab Tourism Organization, Dr Bandar Bin Fahd Al Fuhaid.

The partnership agreement was signed in Istanbul in April and aims to set up a new airline company which will be based in Bursa, and to convert the region to a new aviation centre by expanding the use of Bursa airport.

Apron Aviation chairman Zafer Yesilgul and Dr Al Fuhaid are aiming to start the project with an investment of US$50m in the first phase. “Bursa Airlines will transform the airport,” says Apron Aviation md Gökcehan Dace.

“Within the scope of the investment plan air taxi and an aircraft maintenance centre are also under consideration.”

Nordic reports top results The winter and spring have been very busy for Nordic Air Brokers.

“When we close our books for the last 12 months at the end of April we’ll present the best result since the company started 2004,” says Robert Almqvist.

“Our latest employee Carina Kjellgren has contributed a lot, with experience from her previous position as charter sales manager at City Airlines. We now have a great aviation team with deep knowledge in aviation management, charter and operations.”

The broker has seen a rise in larger group travel, and reports having had two Boeing aircraft flying parallel to Nice a month ago with a four day stay. “The company event was very much appreciated and we are well booked with similar flights during the autumn,” adds Almqvist.

First hand experience of heaven and hell Many brokers have intimate knowledge of business jets, without ever having the chance to set foot aboard one. So Jens Dreyer of Aviation Broker GmbH leapt at the chance to be the only passenger on an empty leg from

Billund to Miami operated by Air Alsie with a Falcon 7X recently. “It was a super experience with a highly professional crew. I would recommend this company to everybody,” he says. “I flew back to Europe by commercial carrier in economy, in a seat that was damaged and could not be adjusted. Heaven and hell can be very close in the aviation industry!"

Chapman Freeborn offers yachting in Asia Chapman Freeborn and Aqua Voyage have partnered to provide private aircraft and luxury yacht (PALY) travel packages in Asia.

Private air travel might be new to the Asia market and commonly perceived to be an experience limited to the ultra-rich and famous, but Nicolas Chemin, senior manager of Chapman Freeborn in Singapore, believes the newly launched PALY packages open up opportunities in Asia for more people to experience flying in a private aircraft: “We are delighted to be the first to introduce this one-of-a-kind travel experience with yacht charter company Aqua Voyage. With these unique packages, we are offering a complete lavish experience from the moment clients step into a limousine; to on board the yacht that is exclusive to themselves; to the luxurious accommodation on the island; and a flight back in a private aircraft coupled with a limousine ride home.”

Chemin adds: “Our aim is to offer a complete luxury travel experience. The combination of private aircraft and yacht is an experience to be enjoyed at least once in a lifetime.”

JetLogic expands to India UK-based broker JetLogic is to open its first office in India in May. “With the increase in demand for flights from India we believe that having local representation is key to developing this market further,” says Leigh Wilson. “To coincide with this we are also launching an aircraft acquisition arm of the business to clients which will include aircraft management on a private or commercial basis.”

Demand for Tyrolean Jet Services’ heavy aircraft has grown.

Continued from previous page

GlobeAir AG has recently received approval for its maintenance shop and Claudia Fanini, marketing and communications manager, told EBAN of a recent flight that tested the company’s expanded capabilities.

“We flew to Bergen, Norway, which is not very common for us and unfortunately while parked overnight, with gusting winds up to 70kts, we suffered a shattered windshield. The only good news was that, as we had just received approval for our maintenance shop, we were able to take care of the AOG internally.”

A fleet of 10 Citation Mustangs operate out of 11 bases in Austria, France, Switzerland, Italy and the UK. The newest aircraft was delivered in August 2010 which Fanini reports has been performing well, accumulating 1,400 hours with very few unscheduled events.

Since the GlobeAir fleet expanded to 10 aircraft flight hours have, in fact, gone down. “However the reduction has mainly been as a result of being able to better optimise our flight schedule,” says Fanini. “We have been able to reduce our ferry ratio and therefore each aircraft is flying about the same amount of occupied flight but with fewer empty legs.”

Business was inevitably affected by the financial crisis in Europe, she reports. “In the last quarter of 2011, when the media bombarded us with Greece, Italy and the weakening euro, we saw a significant reduction in bookings. The good news has been that since January bookings have outpaced our expectations – maybe it is the ‘Monti effect’.”

When it comes to an effective workforce, a team focused on the same goals is most important for GlobeAir. “We have a great customer care and dispatch team on duty 24/7, our crew is fantastic and together with the office team everyone is focused on ensuring that we are always able to handle our clients’ needs,” says Fanini. “Our clients choose to fly on private aircraft in order to have greater flexibility and if our entire team is not ready to follow,

Helmut Eder has seen an increase in ABC Bedarfsflug’s flights hours.

then our business will fail.”

Ambitious plans are afoot for the company’s future. Fanini reports that fleet expansion is in mind, along with more tailored crew training. “We need to ensure that our entire crew is familiarised and trained to operate where our clients want to go, therefore we have planned increased training into airports such as La Mole (St Tropez), London City and Lugano.” And there is more: “We have also started to add capacity to our customer care/sales team as we have learned that our clients all deserve a more tailored service.” she adds.

Managing director Reinhard Kraxner at Heli Ambulance Team GmbH & CoKG reports that business usually involves HEMS during the winter season in Austria out of six bases at Zürs, St Anton am Arlberg, Sölden, Hintertux, Zell am See and Patergassen.

The company has a fleet made up entirely of EC135s and Kraxner reports that this type performs as well as needed for mountain operations.

Although the European economic situation resulted in a slight decrease in the number of tourists visiting the Austrian ski resorts overall, following a perfect winter season, flight hours took an upward turn.

Kraxner believes that no single member of the team is more important than another, with each mission bringing special challenges for one or more of the team, be it medical, rescue or pilots.

2012 marks five years of operation for MJET. Asset manager Dan Rusu joined the company in 2007, the same year the company received its operating licence and AOC, and took delivery of its first jets. He reports that MJET’s fleet currently features a Gulfstream V, two G450 and two G200, two Hawker 900XP and three Fokker 100EJ, based mainly at eastern European airports, with a midsize jet based in Geneva.

As reported in April’s EBAN, MJETs is expecting short notice bookings for

both Euro 2012 and the London Olympics and is ready to tackle the challenge of obtaining suitable slots.

Tyrolean Jet Services has an extensive fleet offering passenger charter, ranging from the 19-seat Airbus ACJ 318 wide body business jet, through the nine-seat Gulfstream G200 to the six-seat Cessna CJ2. The extended range Airbus was added in summer 2011 and has already performed flights to several continents due to the additional centre fuel tanks.

A recent task for the Innsbruckbased operator was a global road show taking in Korea, Vietnam, Japan and Russia, finishing with a flight from Moscow directly to Los Angeles to continue with the next project.

TJS’s Karin Schöpf says: “We have noted an increased demand for our smaller and heavy aircraft but all-inall flight hours per aircraft kept stable in comparison to 2010.”

The way in which clients utilised the company’s services was affected by the banking crisis across Europe, notes Schöpf, with customers who might previously have flown on the smaller aircraft switching to airline business class, whereas customers for the midsize segment downsized to smaller aircraft.

Martin Lener of TJS has introduced a ‘floating base’ concept to boost business.

“Our ceo Martin Lener has been with TJS from the very beginning in 1980. He has succeeded in compensating for the reduced flight hours of our own aircraft by winning several managed aircraft and by introducing a ‘floating base’ concept for the first time in our company for middle and long range aircraft.”

Schöpf highlights the charter sales team – Corina Platter, Michaela Triendl and Toos van der Leeuwen – as deserving special mention, facing tough competition but working hard to fulfill all demands.

For the future, reorganisation of the current owned fleet is planned, along with acquisition of further management aircraft.

MAY 2012 21

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

“Moreover, TJS is working on acquiring shareholdings and company set-ups in aviation business,” Schöpf explains.

Heli Austria’s Bell 412 and BO105 Superlifter were called upon to help after an avalanche in Switzerland. Roy Knaus says: “We had to fly many Russians out of Ischgl by the end of January when the road was closed for some days. Due to the heavy snow falls and the imminent avalanche danger the road was closed and the helicopter was the only option to get in our out. Furthermore, our helicopters were used to clear the power lines and to prevent trees falling into the power line.”

Knaus is full of praise for the BO105 Superlifter: “We have been in Switzerland with it and Air Zermatt was very impressed that the aircraft could climb on one engine at 15,000ft with a 1,200fpm climb rate and four people onboard, 250kg of fuel and 70kg baggage. They said it even outperforms the Lama and B3 at that altitude. That’s what we expected because two C30P engines with 726HP each give a lot of power.”

At Heli-Line GmbH, four Robinson R44 and three Robinson R22 are to be joined by an R66 in September 2012, reports the company’s Wolfgang Pitterle. A range of pleasure flights are offered alongside aerial work and taxi flights for business.

Russian twins babies were evacuated by Heli Austria after roads were closed.

Meanwhile at EBACE in Geneva this year, Amira Air is planning to run a lottery once more and is offering prizes of an iPad, an iPod Touch and Nano to entrants who drop their business card in the bowl on the company’s stand.

Amira Air was founded in 2005 and is based in Vienna, operating the biggest fleet of Bombardier Challenger 300 in Europe as well as Global Express, Global 5000, Challenger 604, Hawker 400XP and Cessna CJ2 aircraft. ■

Comprehensive data for Austria and Hungary online free-of-charge The 2012/13 EBAN Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe is out now, and gives details of many more Austrian and Hungarian 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

HUNGARY REGIONAL REVIEW

Business aviation in the Hungary by the numbers 11 business aviation airports Major business aviation airports* Stunning architecture may be the draw for film studios in Budapest. By Maurice [CC-BY-2.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0], via Wikimedia Commons.

Hungary’s continued development points to more flights in future There are just 61 business aircraft on the Hungarian register, only five of which are business jets. Twinengine turboprops are well represented, albeit at the larger end of the size range.

Fly-Coop Ltd operates a large fleet of helicopters that are variously used for taxi flights, pilot rating, sightseeing, photography, agricultural spraying and oil pipe work. A fleet of light aircraft carries out taxi flights and sightseeing work.

The company has a Part 145 maintenance and repair licence and makes periodic inspections, repairs and overhauls as well. “We repair engines, airframes, including crashed aircraft, we do paintwork and also carpeting,” says Erno Jakab. “We carry out type rating for pilots as well. Our airfield is located in Kadarkút with a hangar built just two years ago.”

“Compared to last year we are flying more this year, though this is due to oil pipe checking works,” reports Jakab. “The company does not feel the effect of the bank crisis directly but sometimes we feel that there is less work to do, for example in agriculture.”

In the future, he says that Fly-Coop would like to expand its services, adding: “It is important for us to keep up the interest of customers with mailshots and advertising. We would like to expand the number of aircraft, as well as employees, and extend the company more within Hungary and in Europe.”

Ground handling expert Euro Jet has locations in 28 countries at 175 airports offering flight support and its own people on the ground for handling supervision. Euro Jet says it is the only flight support company with a presence on the ground in Hungary, providing support to more than half of all general aviation going into Hungary.

Peter Pazurek is Hungarian country manager for Euro Jet Intercontinental, based in Budapest.

He says: “Budapest has a GAT that, while it is not branded by one of the major world FBO networks, functions in the same way with the same services provided, including a complete vip service.” On offer at the GAT is standard aircraft and baggage handling, customs and immigration and a vip lounge.

Pazurek continues: “The majority of Hungarian aircraft are based out of Tokol as it is more cost-efficient.

While there is a Challenger and Falcon aircraft based out of Budapest, the rest are based out of Tokol. These include several Citation jets and a Beechjet.”

He explains that approximately 15 business flights arrive daily, however, as the summer season traffic increases, up to 40 flights a day can be expected in July and August.

So what does the future hold for

Budapest – is it a lucrative opportunity waiting to be developed by an aspiring FBO chain?

“The GAT does not have any plans to be changed to one of the major worldwide FBO chains,” Pazurek says.

“Budapest is an active private aviation airport, but already has the infrastructure in place to properly handle business jets to the highest standards. What we do see is the continued development of Hungary and as more business investment is made here that will lead to more private aviation flights.”

There are several industries in Hungary that have brought private aviation to the country, including the movie business, the automobile

industry, and oil and gas. Auto manufacturing and oil refinery plants are common in Hungary reports Pazurek, and several US filmmakers have been attracted to Budapest meaning it has become a hot spot for movie making. “Right now there are two major movie studios. Perhaps it is Budapest’s ability to look like several European cities, or that the Hungarian people are very friendly and accommodating!”

He continues: “In early August we also have Formula One racing. This event will cause a significant increase in business aviation traffic. It is not unusual to have 45 flights in a given day during this period.”

Pazurek has been in aviation for

1. Budapest Franz Liszt Int’l 2. Tokol 3. Nyiregyhaza 4. Debrecen 5. Sarmellek Balaton

LHBP BUD LHTL LHNY LHDC DEB LHSM SOB

* ranked by the number of handler, charter, maintenance, sales and training organisations based at each.

business aircraft on the HA 61 Hungarian register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe, and the EBAN reader roster.

more than 30 years, spending seven years working for ATC at Budapest Airport and then at the GAT for 20 years. “I was the GAT manager for four years before I left to work for Euro Jet, where I have been ever since.”

Hungary is a very aviation friendly place, believes Pazurek, and if all proper procedures are followed and appropriate paperwork filled in, there will be no issues. “While any place can have issues that pop up, they are very rare in Hungary, and the flights here go very smoothly,” he says. ■

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

22 MAY 2012

Marketplace Contact Mark Ranger on: +44 (0)1279 714509 mark@ebanmagazine.com

Aircraft for sale

OUR NEXT ISSUE: JUNE 2012 FINAL BOOKING DATE: MAY 24th

Special packages are available for advertising aircraft for sale in EBAN and on our web site (www.ebanmagazine.com). Picture adverts (40 words of text plus colour picture) cost £75 each.

You can also choose our new display advertising option for larger inventories.

BOMBARDIER

environment with excellent rest facilities and delightful family & dining environment with large rear monitor for entertainment. It has an excellent operating pedigree– worth a viewing.

Andrew Pearce Tel: + 44 7557-237730 Innotech Aviation. Email: andrew.pearce@innotech-execaire.com

Career opportunities

lease. 4,723 hours. Smart Parts Plus, R/R Corporate Care. To be delivered with new interior including woodwork and fresh 8C inspection. 14 pax + 2-seat crew rest area configuration. Forward and aft lav. Contact: Thierry Huguenin. Tel: +49 911 36009 375 or +1 561 771 1322 FAI rent-a-jet AG. Web: www.rent-a-jet.de.

Email: JetSales@fai.ag

Job advertisements can be placed at a cost of UK£52 per single column centimetre, the minimum depth being five centimetres.

Job opportunity advertisements are also included on the EBAN web site free-ofcharge.

Career Opportunities Hunt & Palmer are seeking to recruit experienced aircraft charter brokers to join their renowned executive aviation team based near Gatwick Airport in the UK. Applications are invited from motivated individuals who can demonstrate sound commercial acumen, at least 3 years proven track record in a similar environment and with a strong focus on B2B sales and business development.

Challenger 604

This aircraft has undergone all recent inspections and is being offered with a fresh 48 month, 96 month and 192 month gear inspection completed.

Enrolled on the GE on Point engine program, CAMP, and an APU service plan, this aircraft is well suited for extensive flying without any significant scheduled maintenance coming due.

Andrew Pearce Tel: +44 7557 237730 Innotech Aviation. Email: andrew.pearce@innotech-execaire.com

Challenger 604

1995, S/N 5302, 5838 hours TTAF. Smart Parts Plus. APU on MSP. Major inspections (6/12/24/48/96/192/240/ gear overhauls) complied with November 2011 at Duncan Aviation.

Precision Plus avionics upgrade. Triple Collins FMS 6000. Dual Litton LN-101 IRS. Airshow Genesys. Great paint and interior. Asking: $7,950,000 USD. Video and blog about this aircraft on our website. Tel: +1 303 444 6766 J. Mesinger Corp Jet Sales, Inc.. Web: www.jetsales.com. Email: sales@jetsales.com

Global XRS 2006, S/N 9203, 1,701 TTAF. Excellent pedigree and condition. RRCC. HUD/EVS/triple FMS. High speed data with wireless LAN. Tailwind 500 satellite TV. CES (Collins) software 7 upgrade.

High service bulletin compliance. Asking $41M. Watch a video about this exciting aircraft on our web site. Tel: 800 671 6766 or +1 303 444 6766 J. Mesinger Corp Jet Sales, Inc. Web: www.jetsales.com.

Email: sales@jetsales.com

Excellent remuneration packages, including competitive salary, company bonus scheme and an attractive benefits package are offered to successful applicants.

Full details of all vacancies may be found on our website at: www.huntandpalmer.com/careers Applications in writing with full CV for the attention of Suzanne Clitheroe to: careers@huntandpalmer.com Closing Date 31 May 2012

Challenger 604

VP-CAP, The owner has appointed Innotech as its new exclusive broker.

Impeccably maintained CL604. The interior is configured to offer both a comfortable business working

Global Express

D-AFAM, Entry into service in 2000, S/N 9028 | EU-OPS 1. Available for sale or

Learjet 55C 1989, D-CFAZ, S/N 136. EU-OPS 1.

Available for sale or lease. 7,002 hours.

MSP-Gold. Extended fuel capacity to 7705 lbs. Delta Fins. 7 pax configuration.

4 single-seats and private lavatory.

Charter Sales Executive

International Sales Director

ased in Geneva (Switzerland), we are one of the largest companies of private jets in Europe. We provide our international clientele with the ultimate service in air transport efficiency, comfort, safety and convenience. To reinforce our international growth we are offering an opportunity for a pro-active, convincing and motivated personality as our

ased in Geneva (Switzerland), we are one of the largest companies of private jets in Europe. We provide our international clientele with the ultimate service in air transport efficiency, comfort, safety and convenience. To reinforce our international growth we are offering an opportunity for a pro-active, convincing and motivated personality as our

B

B

INTERNATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR CHARTER SALES EXECUTIVE

The challenge:

Reporting directly to the Charter Sales Director, you are responsible for the sales of charter flights on the phone. Within a team, you strengthen long term relationships and develop repeat business. Your success is constructed on a dependable network of clients for whom “time is priceless”. You know the product you are selling and provide clients with the most tailored solutions adapted to their needs. You guarantee the highest quality of services.

Reporting directly to the General Manager, you are a stakeholder in the charter sales strategy of the company and play a key role in the expansion of the charter business. You are also responsible for the charter department of the company & for the commercial growth of our private and business jet charter division. You fix objectives to the team to develop the business but you also develop your own network of new clients strengthening long term relationships and developing repeat business. Your success is constructed on a dependable network of clients for whom “time is priceless” and an aircraft an essential part to business.

Together with your management, you define the goals of the charter team and make sure they are reached. As the central contact person, you coordinate internally to ensure that optimal service is delivered at all times.

Yourself:

Yourself:

You are customer oriented and have a previous experience in charter sales. You are alert, dynamic, you have a quick mind and you focus primarily on the quality of the services you are offering. You are able to work under stress, you know how to prioritize and you have a strong team spirit. You have a perfect command of the English language; additional languages will be an asset. You do like telephone contacts and have very good communication skills.

You have a confirmed and solid experience as a Sales Director in aviation, preferably in business aviation and are therefore used to the high demanding expectations from this sector. Ambitious and dynamic you are a seasoned negotiator and understand the importance of personalised start-to-finish executive air travel services. Pro-active in your market approach, you are result oriented and both look and find creative solutions. Your high level business environment is multifaceted and multicultural. Skilled at time and priority management, you are dedicated to your customers’ needs. You are between 30-40 years old. You hold a valid Swiss work permit or are E.U national. You have a perfect command of English, any additional European language will be an asset.

The challenge:

We offer: The opportunity to join a company whose name has become familiar to the demanding clients of private business travel. Highly professional support, administrative and logistic teams who spare no effort to deliver services to clients’ full satisfaction. The perspective to be part of the company’s success and growth.

Location: Geneva

We offer: The opportunity to join a company whose name has become familiar to the demanding clients of private business travel. Highly professional support, administrative and logistic teams who spare no effort to deliver services to clients’ full satisfaction. The perspective to be part of the company’s success and growth. A rewarding and attractive financial remuneration based on your skills, performance and achievements.

Location: Geneva

Please reply in strictest confidence with CV, motivation letter & picture to

box26@ebanmagazine.com

Please reply in strictest confidence with CV, motivation letter & picture to

box26@ebanmagazine.com

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Contact: Thierry Huguenin. Te: +49 911 36009 375 or +1 561 771 1322 FAI rent-ajet AG. Web: www.rent-a-jet.de . Email: JetSales@fai.ag

CESSNA

MAY 2012 23

Honeywell FDR. Great maintenance history. 10 passenger configuration.

Great paint and interior. Asking $9,250,000 USD. Watch a video and read a blog post about this exciting aircraft on our website. Tel: +1 303 444 6766 J. Mesinger Corp Jet Sales, Inc.. Web: www.jetsales.com. Email: sales@jetsales.com

operated on UK registry since new.

Operated by TAG Aviation UK on behalf of a London FTSE listed group for last ten years. Maintained to highest standards. No damage history.

Major 2C check and Landing Gear Overhaul January 2012. Andrew Pearce Tel: 44-7557-237730 Innotech Aviation.

Email: andrew.pearce@innotechexecaire.com

EMBRAER Citation S/II 1985, Airframe TT: 8,576, Cycles: 6,755, TSO: 1,304, Pro Line II, GNS-XLS, GPWS, CVR. New windows 2007, RVSM, Freon air, cosmetics refreshed & Permaguarded. Looking for offers. +1 403 291 9027 John Hopkinson & Associates. Web: www.hopkinsonassociates.com. Email: sales@hopkinsonassociates.com

Citation Ultra Citation Ultras available. Honeywell Primus 1000 3-Tube EFIS, Honeywell GNS-XLS FMS, Honeywell MKVII EGPWS, Honeywell TCAS II w/Change 7, w/ski tube. Recently Permaguard.

Recently refreshed interior. Fresh phase 1-5. One year cescom enrollment. Zero engine option. Tel: +1 403 291 9027 John Hopkinson & Associates. Web: www.hopkinsonassociates.com. Email: sales@hopkinsonassociates.com

DASSAULT

Falcon 2000LX

2008, S/N 141. TT1275, 675 landings. 10 seats. EU-Ops compliant. Engines on ESP. Owned from new. Beautiful paint and interior. Superb condition.

Exceptionally low operating costs. $23.75m. Contact Roger Stainton tel: +44 1353 661636 JetFlight Ltd. Email: JetSalesUK@aol.com

Falcon 900DX EASy

2009, D-AMIG, 2009, S/N 623 | EU-OPS 1. Available for sale or lease. 2,037 hours.

Head Up Guidance System, FalconCare and MSP-Gold. 14 pax configuration.

Forward and Aft Lav. Contact: Thierry Huguenin. Tel:+49 911 36009 375 or +1 561 771 1322 FAI rent-a-jet AG. Web: www.rent-a-jet.de. Email: JetSales@fai.ag

Legacy 600

2007, G-CGSE, Visit Airclaims at EBACE 2012, stand # 2360. For sale and lease, hangared in London Stansted.

T/T SN 2,112 hours. Enrolled on Embraer and R-R corporate care programmes. Integrated Primus 1000 avionics suite. 13 pax interior, inc 3seat divan. Forward crew and aft passenger lavatories. Contact Ben Dean. Tel: +353 1 6650 443/ +44 7525 411652 Airclaims Ltd. Web: www.airclaims.com. Email: ben.dean@airclaims.com

Falcon 900EX

1999, S/N 048. This aircraft has an excellent pedigree, having been

HAWKER BEECHCRAFT

G550

Premier 1A

2004, S/N 5060, 3,198 hours TTAF. Inservice date August 2005. Two owners since new. Engines on RRCC. Airshow 4000, Honeywell Planeview w/HUD & EVS. Forward crew rest area. Aft full service galley. Asking $35,900,000 USD. Watch a video about this outstanding aircraft on our website at www.jetsales.com. Contact: Tel: +1 303 444 6766 J. Mesinger Corp Jet Sales, Inc.. Web: www.jetsales.com. Email: sales@jetsales.com

OM-VPB MSN 256, YOB 2008, 738 hours, 784 landings, engines 100% under JSSI, single point refueling, full EASA OPS1 compliance, immediately ready, excellent beige interior, one owner, one operator since new, agressive pricing 3,150,00 USD. Philippe Lienard Tel: +421 911 973 114 Aelis Group.

Web: www.aelisgroup.com. Email: philippe@aelisgroup.com

Coming up in EBAN June

- Twin turbine helicopters - Business aviation in Czech Republic and Slovakia

July

- Farnborough show issue - Light jets - Business aviation in Belgium

August

- Long-haul operations - Business aviation in Ukraine and Belarus

EUROCOPTER

EC120B

Falcon 2000 1997, S/N 48, 5,788 hours TTAF. Engines on CSP. Heads-up display. Triple FMS.

GULFSTREAM

2008, SX-HVR, S/N 1565. Available for sale. 141 hours. VFR/Night, dual controls, emergency float. One corporate owner and pilot since new.

Contact: Thierry Huguenin. Tel: +49 911 36009 375 or +1 561 771 1322 FAI rent-ajet AG. Web: www.rent-a-jet.de. Email: JetSales@fai.ag

September - ILA Berlin and BGAD12 show issue - Cabin class piston twins - Business aviation in Germany October

- NBAA show issue - Social media and business aviation apps - Business aviation in Poland

Business. Class.

“We considered several other aircraft, but the Hawker 900XP delivered a combination of range, speed, payload and comfort that we could not find in another midsize jet.”

CHRIS MACE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SAXONAIR

Non-stop service from the UK to Europe, Russia, the Middle East and North America, when Saxonair clients demanded it Managing Director Chris Mace’s choice was unequivocal – the Hawker 900XP. Innovation Above All. To learn more about Chris Mace’s Hawker experience contact Faye Goodyear at +44 (0)1244 523 803 or email Jetset@hawkerbeechcraft.com to receive a complimentary copy of Journey magazine or download from the iTunes store.

Visit us at EBACE at booth no. 7060.

HawkerBeechcraft.com