European Business Air News June 2012

E U R O P E A N

BUSINESS AIR NEWS ISSUE 226

JUNE 2012

Crisis calls for fresh thinking on business aviation in Greece

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Half a fleet follows Chelsea to Munich

Comfortable Hawker 4000 fills the gap for Russian charter specialist Orion Malta Orion Malta has ordered a Hawker 4000 to meet the growing demand for charter services from business owners across the EMEA region. The new aircraft will be added to its Luqa-based AOC and will slot into the current fleet that comprises a Hawker 900XP and a Challenger 605.

Director Boris Ioffe says: “Our customers expect the best service from us, which is why we selected the Hawker 4000 from a range of aircraft available to us.

“The 4000 stood out due to its exceptional cabin comfort, storage facilities, additional range and unrivalled technology. Another key factor in our decision was the global support service provided by Hawker Beechcraft, which we are sure will give our customers the peace

CZECH AND SLOVAKIA REGIONAL REVIEW Pages 10- 14

Patrick Margetson-Rushmore, ceo of London Executive Aviation, is a Chelsea football club supporter and was delighted when his team reached the final of the Champions’ League. But it was good for business too, as more than half of his fleet were booked for the occasion. LEA first officer Alistair Charlett (left), cabin crew Sophie LeDain, and Captain Steve Pearl, were just one of 15 crews making the trip to Oberpfaffenhofen. See full story on page 4.

Financial turmoil in Greece continues to provide challenges for business aircraft operators in the country. Local charter broker Air Business International (ABI) has responded by stepping up its efforts to establish a Greek air taxi network.

Air charter manager Marianna Margeti says: “The crisis has one good thing about it; it makes us think creatively and try very hard to offer financially sensible solutions. Since we cannot reduce the operating costs we position aeroplanes and helicopters all over Greece to minimise empty legs.

“At this stage we can offer an AS350, AS355 and shortly a King Air C90B from Thessaloniki, an AS350 from Crete, a Chieftain and Seneca from Rhodes, Iraklion and Kos, and a pressurised Navajo will be based in Santorini for sightseeing and short flights.”

Future additions will include an A109 fresh out of maintenance and expected to be on the AOC of the operator I-Fly shortly. “Last year it was operated under Superior’s Air AOC and will be positioned in Mykonos during June. Another A109 Elite is operated on the same AOC and a Caravan 208,” adds Margeti.

A second Bell 407, currently under German registration, arrived at the end of May and will join the first on Superior Air’s fleet. ABI says this will be available for charter by the end of June and will operate mainly out of Mykonos and Santorini.

ABI, through the Greek air taxi network, aims to standardise services, coordinate empty leg utilisation, audit the participating operators and promote sales.

Hawker Beechcraft’s Sean McGeough (left) and Shawn Vick (right) are delighted to accept an order from Orion Malta director Boris Ioffe.

of mind to enjoy their flight, wherever their destination.”

Orion Malta is registered and licensed in Malta, but also has a permanent representative in Moscow.

The company maintains its own aircraft, and performs flights to any part of the world.

“We are delighted that the Hawker 4000 is Orion Malta’s aircraft of choice to support its growing charter offering across Europe,” said Sean McGeough, HBC president, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. “This purchase reflects our positive outlook on what we view as an important region in Europe and this deal demonstrates that we are ideally positioned to capitalise on the new opportunities arising in the area.

“We see Malta as a key growth market within Europe for a number of reasons: firstly, its geography allows for

swift business travel to mainland Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Malta also boasts some of Europe’s lowest initial and recurrent fees associated with business jet operation. Lastly, its membership in the EU means that jets registered here have freedom of movement within the other constituent states. This, coupled with its residency laws, makes it the perfect base for non-EU buyers to register their aircraft, and Hawker Beechcraft expects a growing number of non-EU citizens to take advantage of Malta’s unique proposition for business travellers.”

Hawker Beechcraft announced three orders for Hawker 4000 jets at the recent EBACE show. See our coverage of InterAviation on page 6 and JoinJet on page 4.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

2 JUNE 2012

Ferry experts sign up for Caravan engine upgrade

SX-VIP’s crew pose with the aircraft at Athens International Airport.

Second GainJet 737 will test the market from its London base GainJet Aviation continues to develop its vip Boeing fleet with the addition of a 60-seat 737 corporate airliner, appropriately registered SX-VIP. It is the company’s second Boeing 737 and will operate alongside the established 48-seat variant, which GainJet says has been popular among sports teams, rock bands, governments, and other large passenger groups.

Captain James McBride, ceo, explains: “Our first 737 was a commercial success from the beginning and there has been more demand than initially forecast. At certain times in 2011 we were unable to accommodate some requests due to the aircraft being unavailable.

Although with 60 seats, this aircraft aims for a different market, the two aircraft complement each other. We will base SX-VIP in the London area for the initial phase of introduction to the fleet, while testing other

SeXy VIP, as dubbed by its crew.

markets to see the best commercial home base for the aircraft.”

McBride explains: “Ours is a part of the industry that is unique. No matter what aircraft is being flown, everything has to be perfect for the passengers. Our major challenge is when we are dealing with large groups of vips and we have to ensure that everything is meticulously

A V I A T I O N

prepared and delivered. It takes the combined effort of professional teams that can only be gained by years of experience and continuous improvement.

“Although highly technical, our industry is very much about people and personalities.

Sometimes aeroplanes attract nicknames given to them by their crews and the engineers,” he adds. “In this case, they are already talking enthusiastically about their new ‘SeXy VIP’ which bodes well for the future!”

The 737 has been refurbished in 2012 and features leather reclining seats and a baggage hold which can accommodate up to five tonnes of baggage. The six-hour flight range makes it ideal for large groups of passengers in need of a medium range vip aircraft, says GainJet. It also has airstairs for operations to remote destinations.

Aerodynamics’ Grand Caravan in its element, scattering skydivers.

Frakes exhaust stacks.

The system effectively doubles the standard climb rate for the Cessna 208B, says Blackhawk. Cruise speed also increases by up to 15 per cent, and both take-off performance and safety margins increase while operating costs are reduced.

Fifteen XP42A systems have been installed to date, including one for the Centre Ecole Parachutisme Sportif (CEPS) de l’Ariège in southeastern France, and another at Skydive Dubai.

CEPS operates two aircraft at its skydiving centre, and is benefiting from the improved climb rate and lower fuel consumption. “The Blackhawk Caravan has greatly increased our flight productivity,” says CEPS president Franck Buisson.

Skydive Dubai flies from a private airstrip near the base of the Palm Jumeira development. “Our upgraded Caravan is an outstanding performer even in Dubai’s extremely hot climate,” reports the company’s Heath Haley.

A T T O R N E Y S

Business Jet Aviation Law

Martin Courage of Aerodynamics (left) took a trip to EBACE to seal the deal on a Blackhawk upgrade to his Grand Caravan. Seen here with Jim Allmon of Blackhawk and John Saabas of Pratt & Whitney.

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Comlux brings American yacht charter experts alongside Fly Comlux has added a new Airbus ACJ319 to its fleet, its second Airbus arrival in 2012, and has signed a joint marketing deal with a luxury yacht charter firm in Florida.

“I am pleased to operate this new ACJ319 which offers a very quiet and beautiful cabin, the latest connectivity and entertainment systems, and also an excellent range of over 10 hours non-stop,” says Andrea Zanetto, ceo of Fly Comlux.

“With two Airbus aircraft based in Russia, along with three Airbus and one Boeing 767 based in the Middle East, Fly Comlux is ideally placed to capture a large demand of vip charters in Eastern Europe, Central Asia and Africa.”

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Isle of Man-based aircraft delivery and ferry service provider Aerodynamics is to upgrade its Grand Caravan aircraft engine with Blackhawk’s XP42A package.

The company has specialised since 1989 in the efficient movement of aircraft all around the world, including kit planes, piston singles, warbirds, piston twins and float planes, right up to business jets and transport aircraft. Its Grand Caravan is based at Ronaldsway airport, and is used for charter flights throughout the UK, Europe and beyond. “The XP42A upgrade package is a welcome improvement to our Grand Caravan,” says md Martin Courage. “The installation’s enhanced performance will make the 208B a more reliable and efficient aircraft for our customers and also yield stronger revenues that will justify our investment for the long term.”

“It is entirely appropriate that this milestone upgrade is an XP42A package for Aerodynamics,” says Blackhawk ceo Jim Allmon. “We offer exceptionally productive, high valueadded performance systems that are clearly worth the investment.”

The XP42A upgrade features a factory-new PT6A-42A engine with 850 continuous shaft horsepower, and a 1,000-hour, no-calendar-limit manufacturer warranty. The system also features a wide-chord, 100-inch diameter Hartzell four-blade propeller; composite cowling and high efficiency inlet duct; 40 per cent larger oil cooler; four-point engine mount ring assembly and engine mount isolators; engine hose kit; Hawkeye DigiLog engine gauges; and

1/27/12 2:34 PM

Associates, an American yacht sales and charter company based in Florida, have agreed to market each other’s services. “We are extremely pleased to partner with Merle Wood & Associates and to be able to offer to our customers the most perfect vip combination in the air and at sea,” says Richard Gaona, president of Comlux Aviation.

“It is one of the most prominent and successful yachting companies, providing a full range of services such as sales marketing, acquisition, new construction, charter and management. I strongly believe that the commonality between our two companies will enable a successful partnership and will benefit the customers.”

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

JUNE 2012 3

Lower pay and fewer benefits, but business jet pilots are still happy Almost two thirds of helicopter pilots and more than half of business jet pilots consider their flying to be ‘very stimulating and varied’. So says a survey by air charter online booking company PrivateFly.com, which found that job satisfaction among these two groups runs well ahead of their commercial airline peers.

This should come as no surprise, as business aviation is by definition much more varied and unpredictable than flying the line. Pilots typically have to take on responsibilities far beyond simply flying the aircraft, and this makes the job more interesting and fulfilling.

So much so, in fact, that they are often prepared to accept employment with a lower financial package. The survey reveals that for

PC-12 takes F1 team Sauber closer to the racetrack A Pilatus PC-12 NG with special Formula 1 livery showing the Sauber C31 racing car, will fly the Sauber F1 team direct to the racetracks of Europe in 2012.

The aircraft took off on its first mission in May, flying the eight-man team plus team manager Peter Sauber to the first European race of the season, in Spain. It was able to land in Sabadell, a small aerodrome with a 1,000m runway, just a few kilometres from the circuit.

Peter Sauber was delighted with the trip: “One of the best features of the PC-12 is its ability to land on, and take off from, very short runways. It leaves us free to avoid the big, inefficient airports.

“We were back at the aircraft within a few minutes of the race finishing and airborne shortly afterwards, thanks to the smooth air traffic control service. We really can save a lot of time, and that obviously means greater efficiency and a better quality of life for our top management and chief engineers.”

Is it a ‘plane? Is it a car? The striking colours of the Sauber team PC-12 will be seen around Europe this summer.

“Sauber Motorsport AG is the perfect partner for Pilatus. Both companies work with high-tech products and embrace Swiss values,” says Fred Muggli, head of sales and marketing PC-12.

“With its outstanding features and flexible operating parameters, we are confident that the PC-12 NG will provide a comfortable, safe, fast means of flying Peter Sauber’s team to races right across Europe.

We’re delighted that the team has chosen Pilatus.”

One of the Sauber cars retired from the Spanish race, but the other went on to finish fifth. The Sauber team currently lies seventh in the rankings.

pilots of similar age and experience the airlines pay more in basic salary, but also provide many more benefits. Just a quarter of business aviation pilots receive a company pension plan, while over half of airline pilots do. Only 12 per cent took advantage of a company share plan, compared with 22 per cent of airline pilots.

In fact, over a third of those flying in business aviation said they receive no company benefits at all.

So at first glance air charter operators and corporate flight departments seem to have the best of both worlds, with contented air crews prepared to accept lower salaries.

But wait... the survey has a twist in the tail.

It seems that airline pilots, with comparatively lower levels of operational

EDITORIAL COMMENT

control, were the most likely to want to save the company money.

Indeed business jet pilots were among the least likely of all working crew to choose

commercial awareness as a top three quality.

This is despite their greater spending and decision-making power, such as in deciding where to buy fuel.

This may indicate that business jet operators, whose margins are tightening in an increasingly competitive market, could be asking more of its pilots in terms of improving the bottom line.

Crews are certainly resourceful enough to make a difference, as witnessed by the travel tips provided to PrivateFly.com’s survey, which included ‘laying a wet swimming costume in a dry towel, rolling and twisting to get most of the water out’, and ‘take toilet paper!’

Survey specialist APEM invests to teach cadet pilots remote sensing skills Specialists in environmental surveys by air, APEM has launched a pilot cadet training programme designed to take 100-hour PPL recruits and turn them into fully commercially qualified crew with a frozen ATPL. The company employs over 120 scientists and over the past seven years has greatly expanded its aerial survey capabilities, concentrating on developing in-house survey expertise. The fleet now consists of five specially modified aircraft: three Vulcanair P68s, a Britten Norman Islander, and a Cessna 172SP. An established team of six full-time survey pilots is supported by several part-time pool pilots.

The cadetships are expected to last between 18 months and two years, during which time the cadets will be paid APEM employees. They will be trained to work in ground operations and as on-board camera technicians, but will spend approximately 20 per cent of their time in pilot training. The company will pay for the cadet scheme, including all pilot training, examination and hour building, with the qualified pilots bonded for three years after completing their training.

Once operational, they will then join the full-time salaried pilot staff and fly the full range of survey activities undertaken by the firm.

The pilot cadet scheme follows on from APEM’s long-standing graduate training programme for aquatic scientists, which has seen over 50 graduates join the company and begin their careers in marine and freshwater biology. The company

King Air upgrade increases safety margins Southampton-based South Coast Air Charter has ordered a Blackhawk engine upgrade for its King Air B200.

“We are delighted to enhance the performance of our excellent Super King Air aircraft,” says director Alison Steel. “The upgrade will improve the aircraft’s reliability and efficiency while adding an increased safety margin in flight operations.”

Blackhawk president Jim Allmon presented Steel with a signature leather flight jacket to mark the order.

“We are pleased that South Coast Air Charter is our 150th King Air customer, and we are confident that MCA Aviation, our partner in the UK, will deliver a flawless system installation,” he says.

The XP61 upgrade installs two factory-new PT6A-61 engines with new engine warranties.

David Wright Editor

E U R O P E A N

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APEM Remote Sensing director Dr Stuart Clough believes in investing in staff.

philosophy is that by investing in new and enthusiastic staff, the rewards are varied and numerous, not least in providing bespoke training specifically designed for the type of work undertaken by the company.

Staff retention is also improved in that people appreciate that the company values the skills they develop.

APEM director Dr Stuart Clough says: “Putting something back into

our industry to invest in the scientists and pilots of the future is something we are extremely proud of at APEM – after all the skills of our staff are what we sell. “Graduates of the cadet scheme will not only become competent, experienced commercial pilots, but they will also develop a level of skill and knowledge in the field of remote sensing unrivalled outside APEM,” he adds.

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

4 JUNE 2012

Gama selects Geneva for thirtieth base

Half a fleet follows Chelsea to Munich “Officially, we’re not biased, of course,” says Patrick MargetsonRushmore, chief executive of London Executive Aviation, with a smile, “but we can’t deny we were delighted Chelsea reached the UEFA Champions League football final against Bayern Munich. In truth, I’ve long been a Chelsea supporter and regularly visit Stamford Bridge with my sons, so I’m naturally thrilled by the team’s achievements this year.

“And what a fantastic result for Chelsea and stunning finish to the match. Didier Drogba winning the game, with literally his last ever kick as a Chelsea player, was extraordinary. As you can imagine, there were lots of happy passengers flying back to London with us.

“Ultimately, we flew a diverse fleet of 15 aircraft to the general aviation airport of Oberpfaffenhofen for the match, which represented over half our entire business jet charter fleet. In fact, our entire available charter fleet was flying over the Champions League final weekend, which goes to prove business aviation really is in high demand again and fighting back after the recession.”

He adds: “The fact the match went to extra-time and penalties meant we had to rapidly reorganise our planned return schedules and slots, but flexibility is one of the great virtues of business aviation. All our passengers were on their way home within minutes of arriving back at Oberpfaffenhofen airport after the match. We would like to thank everybody involved in the Champions League operation, including all our crews, our operations team and the handling team at Oberpfaffenhofen, for making the weekend such a success.

“Next stop: Poland and Ukraine for the Euro 2012 football championships!”

Safety in the cloud LEA recently announced that it has signed up for Vistair’s SafetyNet cloud-based safety reporting system for its entire fleet. Nick Attah, flight safety officer, says: “We pride ourselves on providing our customers with a comprehensive set of aircraft charter options, backed by a robust safety management system.

SafetyNet is a core component of that policy,” he adds.

Vistair’s customers include a variety of commercial airlines, as well as TAG Aviation and Netjets.

Kristoffer Sundberg, JoinJet's general manager (right) celebrates his double order with Hawker Beechcraft’s Brian Howell.

Lower emissions seal the deal as JoinJet signs for two Hawkers Danish air charter operator JoinJet is confidently investing in its future development by ordering a Hawker 4000 and a Hawker 400XPR, and also signing up for high-speed data access on these and its existing Hawker 800XPR and 800XP. Kristoffer Sundberg, general manager of JoinJet, says: “We wanted to purchase a segment-leading aircraft with unmatched technology without having to sacrifice efficiency, so we are delighted to confirm the purchase of the Hawker 400XPR. With its greater range, increased performance and state-of-the-art technology – integrated with outstanding payload flexibility and value – we are sure the 400XPR will prove an invaluable addition to our fleet.”

Hawker Beechcraft anticipates certification of the 400XPR in September 2012 and JoinJet’s aircraft is due to be delivered in the first quarter of 2013.

The Hawker 400XPR upgrade combines the increased power of the FJ44-4A-32 engines with the superior aerodynamics of winglets. It offers greatly improved range and airfield performance while reducing noise footprint and emissions.

“JoinJet has been so pleased with the performance and operating costs

of the Hawker 800XPR they took delivery of in the third quarter last year,” says Christi Tannahill, Hawker Beechcraft svp, global customer support. “They have great confidence in the Hawker 400XPR and are looking forward to adding it to their fleet next year.”

Commenting on the choice of the Hawker 4000 Niels Sundberg, JoinJet ceo, says: “We have been in the aviation market for more than 30 years and after a thorough evaluation it was natural for us to select the Hawker 4000.

“With its carbon-fibre composite technology, superior cabin comfort and low operating economics, the Hawker 4000 provides the value proposition we and our charter clients require.”

The Hawker 4000 will meet growing demand for charter services from business owners across the Europe, Middle East and Africa regions, says JoinJet. It is the flagship of the Hawker line, with a composite fuselage and 3,280 nautical mile non-stop range.

Using Inmarsat’s global satellite network, JoinJet’s upgraded aircraft will utilise SwiftBroadband to provide voice and high-speed data through a single antenna to the whole aircraft.

SwiftBroadband enables all key

cockpit and cabin applications, including in-flight telephony, VoIP, text messaging, email, internet and VPN access, as well as flight plan, weather and chart updates.

Sundberg adds: “We have chosen to add the in-flight entertainment options, including the iPad solution, to our entire fleet to further enhance the customer experience and continue to be a market leader in the charter business.”

The Nordic region is an area where Hawker Beechcraft has been particularly successful in recent years, with the company currently holding a 26 per cent market share of the business aircraft population in which it competes. Denmark in particular is an important market, with the country seeing the third highest overall aircraft sales in Europe over the last three years. Over that period the number of business jets registered in Denmark increased by 13 per cent.

JoinJet is part of the Danish airline Sun-Air of Scandinavia A/S that has operated regional scheduled flights from Denmark since 1978. It has 30 years’ experience of charter operations as well as being an independent aircraft broker, with additional expertise in maintenance and operations.

Hangar will limit corrosion to aircraft on salty Cyprus Cyprus-based shipping company EDT Offshore has revealed plans for a new hangar complex at Paphos airport to protect its Gulfstream G100 and B200 King Air aircraft from the island’s salty environment.

The company will also offer hangarage to other operators visiting the island, and aims to expand to

Hangarage is essential in the corrosive seaside environment of Larnaca.

offer a range of services for business aviation.

Matthew Webb of EDT says:, “The hangar door was a major consideration in the overall design of the building and, after considerable research, we selected Megadoor vertical lifting fabric doors because of their ability to operate in extreme environments and maximise the useable space, as no side pockets or floor tracks are required.”

The door is split in two, separated by a swing up mullion, giving a clear opening of 32m wide and 9m high, enabling the hangar to accept all aircraft up to Global Express and Gulfstream G650. The curtain will be translucent to allow natural daylight into the hangar and so reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Gama Group is to open its newest operational base in Geneva for business in July. The location will offer aircraft management services to existing and potential Gama customers and will also be aiming for a full Swiss AOC by the end of the year.

The office will be located within Geneva airport’s executive terminal and will be led by general manager Captain Hamish Ross.

Ross brings with him a wealth of industry knowledge, says Gama. He has spent over 30 years as an instructor of professional pilot licences, corporate pilot and manager of aviation companies. Most recently he was based in Sharjah as Gama Aviation FZE’s director of flight operations. During the past two years he has been instrumental in developing the flight operations side of Gama’s United Arab Emirates’ AOC. “I am delighted to be able to lead Gama’s Swiss-based operation,” says Ross. “Our new facilities in Geneva complement the recent significant growth in Gama’s global offering, now numbering over 30 operational bases around the world. Geneva is located at the centre of modern Europe, and Switzerland offers political and financial stability for the long-term.

Together, these factors create a beneficial business environment very attractive to Gama Aviation’s clients, present and future. We want to ensure that those clients are able to choose a locally-based company that offers the highest standards of safety and efficiency for their aircraft management or charter needs.”

Captain Hamish Ross previously developed flight operations for Gama in the UAE.

The first child seat certificated for business jet take-off and landing.

Meanwhile, Gama subsidiary Fairoaks-based Gama Engineering has introduced what it says is the world’s first child’s seat certificated for take-offs and landings on most business jet configurations. It displayed the seat aboard a Challenger 300 at the EBACE show.

The seat is already in service with long haul airlines Virgin Atlantic and Cathay Pacific, has been designed to fit seamlessly with the latest aircraft seat design trends and can be tailored to individual aircraft owners and operators bespoke interior schemes. It is now available for a wide range of aircraft manufactured

by Bombardier, Dassault and Gulfstream.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

JUNE 2012 5

Controlled growth sees Concierge spread wings to Biggin Concierge Aviation has added an eight-seat Hawker 750 to its managed fleet and is offering the aircraft for charter from Biggin Hill.

The Kemble-based operator continues to fly its Learjet 40XR from home base, but reports that the first weeks of operation of the Hawker have been busy. “We see this expansion as a key stage in our development,” says md Glen Smith, formerly with Air Partner at Biggin Hill. “It presents the opportunity for us to demonstrate our service quality in the mid-size market from a London base. The Hawker 750 combines range and speed with a true stand-up cabin, offering our clients a far wider range of non-stop destinations. The classic cabin configuration of five individual seats and a three-seat divan is more spacious than many other aircraft in this class.

“There is a strong charter market at Biggin Hill, well supported by

Blue Jet takes Learjet 60XR on tour Polish-based business air carrier Blue Jet recently took a factory demonstrator Learjet 60XR aircraft on its first ever tour of Poland.

“The business charter industry in Poland is much less developed compared not only with western Europe or Russia but even with the Czech Republic,” says head of sales and marketing Grzegorz Wydmanski.

“There are a few dozen Polish customers using this type of service but the number of people who can afford this kind of transportation is five to eight times higher. So the tour had at least two goals – to educate and to sell.

“We chose Warsaw, Krakow (and Katowice which is very close), Wroclaw, Poznan and Gdansk airports to present the aircraft, and invited Ferrari Poland to demonstrate its cars as well.”

The tour comprised private viewings: “I don’t think it is a secret that there are a few prospective customers highly interested in buying the Learjet after this tour. They are my prospects as well – if they buy the Learjet or other aircraft then Blue Jet will help them to manage, maintain and charter (if they would like to put the aircraft into commercial usage).

Ferrari Poland gained new contacts as well, as they have their showroom only in Warsaw. There are several additional customers who are my prospect on charters. I believe most of them I will convert to charter customers to increase the aviation business in Poland.”

Blue Jet manages seven aircraft: a Global 5000, two Challenger 300, a Citation XLS, a Premier One, a CJ2, and has just registered a Legacy 600 which it is in process of putting it into commercial usage. Last year the company flew more than 4,200 charter hours and says it is always looking for new business opportunities. “We plan to expand our fleet by the end of this year with additional aircraft for management and charter,” adds Wydmanski.

Glen Smith (right), md of Concierge Aviation, with Robert Walters, business development manager of Biggin Hill airport, alongside the Hawker 750 at the terminal hangar.

extensive aircraft maintenance facilities for most types in current use. We are pleased to become a part of this growing community,” he adds.

Concierge Aviation launched AOC operations in September last year with the Learjet 40XR and, despite the market conditions, has seen an

excellent level of interest in this aircraft. Smith adds, “On the whole, the charter market remains very competitive, but we will not undersell our aircraft. We are contracted to manage the aircraft on behalf of the owners. We look after their long-term interests which includes maximising return per hour and maintaining the residual value of their asset. We have deliberately focused on service delivery as we see an opportunity in the market, particularly in the light and mid-size sector. Some would call this approach ‘old school’ but we are receiving enquiries from clients who are looking for exactly this type of operation.”

Chief pilot Bryan Treadgold expressed his belief in the Concierge ethos: “We will grow at a rate where we can control our service and stand by our assurance of quality – over promising and under delivering is not an option.”

FAI looks forward to third Global Express Nuremberg-based operator FAI renta-jet was at the EBACE show to promote its latest acquisition, a second Global Express. The aircraft has a complete new interior for 14 passengers plus a two-seat crew rest area, wi-fi high speed internet and worldwide satellite TV. “D-AFAM is available for charter of course, but also for sale or lease,” says Siegfried Axtmann, chairman of FAI. “We are experiencing increasing demand for long range aircraft in both air charter and ACMI lease, which is the reason why we decided to add a second Global to our fleet, very likely to be followed by a third one soon,” he adds.

FAI operates a fleet of 20 jets including Global Express, Challenger 604, CRJ 200, Falcon 900 EASy and Learjet 35/40/55/60.

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6 JUNE 2012

FAL takes on first Saudi Legacy 650 FAL Aviation, a privately owned subsidiary of FAL Group based in Riyadh, has purchased and taken delivery of a Legacy 650 Owned by Sheik Fahad Al Athel, the company was one of the first operators of the super midsize Legacy 600 in 2003 and now it has become the first to fly the Legacy 650 in Saudi Arabia. Complementing the 600, the 650 has longer range which will allow FAL Aviation to fly non-stop from Riyadh to London or Beijing.

“For us, the Legacy 650 was the natural upgrade of the 600 to fit our needs in terms of extended range,” says Sheik Fahad Al Athel. “Both our Legacy aircraft combine luxury, large baggage volume, innovation and operating efficiency, and will afford our clients journeys that are as fast and pleasant as possible.”

Lauda reduces downtime with hourly cost engine support Formula One racing icon and airline entrepreneur Niki Lauda has enrolled the engines and APU of his newly delivered Global 5000 on to hourly cost maintenance programmes provided by JSSI.

CAE’s Camille Mariamo, Masterjet contracts manager Karol Gueremy and training manager Jean-Marie Dreau, with CAE's Daniel Fakhoury.

Masterjet commits to training in Dubai and London Paris-based operator Masterjet has signed a long-term agreement with CAE for the training of its pilots in Dubai, UAE, as well as at centres near London, New York and Dallas.

The deal covers the company’s Cessna CJ3, Falcon 7X, 900 and 900EX EASy aircraft types.

“CAE meets the very high standards we have with regard to meticulous safety and application of advanced technology to the training

programme,” says Philip Queffelec, president of Masterjet. "The flight training our pilots receive will help us to continue to provide exceptional service to our clients.”

“Masterjet’s passion for safety and customer service is well respected in the business aviation community,” says Camille Mariamo, CAE regional leader, Middle East and India.

Masterjet signed the agreement at the EBACE show in Geneva, where

CAE also hosted a number of other operators booking training services. These included Viennabased Avcon Jet top management of ceo Alexander Vargas, flight operations director Aleksander Radanov and coo Maximillian Maruna, who selected CAE for training on the Challenger 300, 604 and 605, Citation CJ and XLS, Falcon 2000EX EASy, Gulfstream G150, G200 and G550, and Hawker 800.

Longer range and comfort are key for expanding Romanian operator Niki Lauda appreciates the value of predictable engine costs.

“I am on the move all the time and always looking for services that can help minimise my downtime and keep me moving, so JSSI makes perfect sense to me,” he says. “It provides us with a predictable maintenance budget, and the JSSI technical services team acts as our advocate to make sure we get back in the air as quickly as possible whenever there is an engine or APU maintenance issue,” adds Lauda.

A three-time Formula One world champion and former Jaguar Formula One racing team manager, Lauda is also a dedicated aviator who has piloted and owned several business jets.

JSSI’s Platinum programme for Lauda’s BR710 engines provides comprehensive coverage for scheduled engine maintenance, while delivering budget stability and peace of mind from any unexpected maintenance costs. It also includes supplemental lift coverage, which addresses concerns regarding the availability of the limited rental engine pool for these BR710 engine models. In the event that a JSSI client experiences an AOG situation or has scheduled maintenance requiring a BR710 rental engine, JSSI will cover certain aircraft charter costs if rental engines are not available.

JSSI recently acquired two BR710A2-20 engines to loan out whenever off-wing engine repairs or overhauls are required by its clients.

Romanian air charter operator InterAviation has placed an order for a Hawker 4000, which will join its 900XP in service at Bucharest Baneasa. “We are delighted to have added the Hawker 4000 to our growing fleet as we continue to expand on the range of services and number of destinations we offer to our customers,” says Captain Octavian Pita, general manager of InterAviation.

“It is our intention to provide an excellent level of service, comfort and efficiency which is why the Hawker 4000 was the natural choice for us.”

Owned by a major Romanian industrial group with interests in agriculture, energy, chemicals and tourism, InterAviation caters for business travellers, government officials and families looking for transportation throughout the Middle East, Europe, Russia and the CIS in particular.

“This is the second jet InterAviation has purchased from us in as many years, having bought a 900XP last year, and we look forward to strengthening our relationship with this fast-growing operator as it continues to capitalise on the demand for business aviation in the region,” says Sean McGeough, Hawker Beechcraft president,

Sean McGeough of Hawker Beechcraft (left), with InterAviation president Adina Niculae and general manager Captain Octavian Pita, and Hawker Beechcraft evp Shawn Vick, sealing the deal on a new Hawker 4000.

Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific. “Eastern Europe is a key market for us and this sale reflects our view that the region presents significant opportunities for growth.”

Within eastern Europe, Hawker Beechcraft believes that Romania presents one of the best growth markets. “While its business aircraft fleet may still be relatively small, with 20 based in the country, it has already

grown rapidly in recent years with a three-fold increase in deliveries between the first half of the past decade and the second half,” the company says. “We believe that the size of the fleet will continue to grow quickly. Between April 2011 and April 2012, Romania saw a four per cent increase in business flights, representing the ninth largest annual increase in Europe.”

Royal Jet offers luxury holidays Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet has launched a luxury travel division in partnership with the UK’s Eden Luxury Group. “This partnership will offer affluent travellers a wider choice and greater flexibility when booking holidays,” says Shane O’Hare, president and ceo.

Eden’s Paul Beacall says: “Creating Royal Jet Luxury Vacations will further add value to Royal Jet’s already extensive portfolio. The hotels we offer are highprofile properties, with strong personalities that can either be city centre, chic resorts, villas, ski chalets, yachts or private hideaways.”

IN OUR NEXT ISSUE Belgium Regional Review PUBLISHED JULY 4TH

Geneva’s own Dasnair dispatched crew training manager Bruno Desmeules and general manager Angelo Conti to do the deal for its Falcon 7X and 2000EX EASy pilots; while Antwerp-based Flying Group were represented by training manager Walter Dierick, training assistant Ulla De Spiegeleire and coo Frans Dechaene arranging training for its fleet of Cessna, Dassault and Gulfstream aircraft.

Premium Jet offers Swiss or Austrian AOC choice Zurich-based Premium Jet has fulfilled its plan to allow customers to choose between Swiss and EUbased AOC operations (see EBAN March 2012) by signing a joint venture agreement with SGC Aviation of Vienna.

“Irrespective of ‘where the shoe pinches’ an aircraft owner, whether this is certain import or VAT taxation practices, aviation related taxes or other burden presently encountered, Premium Jet can now supply either a Swiss or an Austrian solution and help its customers choose the most suitable one,” the company says. “The eventual extra effort required will be definitely worth it.”

Premium Jet is currently embarked on a significant expansion of its fleet, and has recently completed a pre-purchase inspection on a Global Express in the US. The aircraft is said to be in very good shape and delivery is expected in June with the start of operations in July. The company also expects to add two more ultra long range jet to its management fleet later this year, bringing its overall fleet by that time to 13 aircraft.

Meanwhile, the Phenom 100 and the Citation Excel recently added to its Swiss AOC are now checked out and fully available for charter with immediate effect.

Premium Jet is offering a Falcon 2000S for sale, with a scheduled delivery in October 2013, interior to be chosen by the buyer.

JUNE 2012 7

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Cambridge to show its development potential during largest BGAD show yet This year’s Business & General Aviation Day, BGAD12, at Cambridge airport is already promising to attract more business than ever. For the first time, a major business aviation conference is to take place alongside, and the airport itself will promote the opportunities available for businesses to build facilities in a new area earmarked for development.

Booth reservations are running significantly ahead of 2011. “What pleases me most about this increase in bookings,” show organiser Mark Ranger says, “is that we continue to attract new names to the event, as well was welcoming back many companies who have taken part in BGAD since 2001.”

First time exhibitors so far confirmed include Gulf Aviation, Tim Leacock Aircraft Sales, 2Excel Aviation and clothing and gift specialists Plum & Ivory. As usual, BGAD12 is expected to feature an excellent static aircraft line up, with aircraft already being pencilled in to attend.

The eighth outing of the one-day business show will take place at Cambridge airport on Tuesday, September 18th. On the Monday Cambridge will also host the sixth annual Future of Business Jets

conference, organised by Quaynote Communications, and finishing at lunchtime on BGAD day.

The airport has recently announced a major expansion plan, that will see new areas of the airport site opened up for companies to be based themselves. Airport director Archie Garden says: “Business aviation continues to go from strength to strength at Cambridge, and we are therefore delighted to hear that this year’s BGAD will be bigger than ever – especially with the parallel run of the important Quaynote Event.

We have great plans to attract more companies to the airport, and indeed have attracted five new businesses since BGAD11. Cambridge is known for its entrepreneurial and high tech enterprises, and the airport is run in a similar vein.

“This year, we also have our FBO partnership with ExecuJet, now fully operational in good time for the anticipated increase in traffic heading for the Olympic Games in London this summer,” adds Garden.

Visitors wishing to stay in the historic centre of Cambridge can take advantage of special rates that have been negotiated with the Crowne Plaza hotel. Full details can be found at www.bgad.aero.

Aerobatic airline joins the line-up New resident at Cambridge 2Excel has three King Air aircraft and will be exhibiting at BGAD for the first time. The company says it is the world’s only aerobatic airline, and operates the Blades aerobatic display team as well as its AOC operation, dubbed BroadSword.

2Excel was formed in 2005 and by the end of 2008 the Blades had flown 170 displays and run over 120 corporate events flying more than 1,000 passengers.

“The economic climate made things more difficult and Barclays withdrew their sponsorship,” the company says. “But, rather than collapse, we diversified and in 2009 doubled the size of the company.

Having proved flying laboratory and contract air concepts with a Navajo, we varied our AOC to include A to B passenger flying and bought our first King Air in 2010.

Eurocopter EC135

Agusta Westland A109

Eurocopter AS365

Bell 412

Lower maintenance and greater payload are top of twin helicopter operators’ wish lists ME & MY AIRCRAFT Twin engine helicopters For this latest report in our ongoing ‘Me & My Aircraft’ series we talked to owners of some of the many twin turbine helicopters in current

operation to gauge their satisfaction.

We selected the owners of all 4,383 helicopters in Europe and the Middle East and provided a private web form where they could deposit their innermost thoughts. We asked about maintenance support, dispatch reliability, operating capabilities and value for money, and gave a chance to comment more widely.

Only EBAN readers who we have verified as current users of a

particular helicopter type were given access to the survey forms. Our brief overview of the wide variety of helicopters available in this competitive sector includes our readers’ thoughts and opinions about the aircraft of which they have personal, hands-on experience.

It seems that maintenance issues are the most common cause for complaint, which should be no Continued on next page

The King Air fleet grew to three in 2011 as we consolidated our operations and the workforce reached 32 personnel in 2012.”

Co-founders are Andy Offer, who previously commanded a Harrier squadron in Afghanistan and flew and commanded the Red Arrows, and Chris Norton.

Third Challenger comes online for Rizon in Doha Rizon Jet has added a third Challenger 605 to its managed charter fleet.

“The 605 continues to receive strong market acceptance, and it is a gratifying achievement for Rizon Jet to see another one being delivered to the Middle Eastern market, joining Rizon Jet’s managed fleet,” says director of sales and aircraft management Simon D’Oyly.

“This new management contract affirms the market’s confidence in Rizon Jet’s ability to operate and charter the Bombardier family,” says ceo Captain Hassan Al-Mousawi.

“Together with our first two Challenger 605s and the Hawker 900XP already based in Doha, this additional aircraft offers a highly comfortable and luxurious flying experience for our vip clientele.

“The demand for corporate

aircraft in the Middle East has been growing very rapidly in the past few years and it is anticipated that demand will increase over the coming years,” he adds.

This particular aircraft’s cabin is certified for nine passengers, offering a club four seating configuration in the forward cabin, with a divan plus club two arrangement in the aft divan, facing a four-seat dining table in the aft compartment. A spacious lavatory is at the cabin’s end and the baggage compartment is accessible in flight through a door in the lavatory’s aft wall.

The 605 can fly up to 4,000nm non-stop enabling Rizon to fly from Doha to major business destinations, including London, Singapore and Johannesburg in an interior described as ‘comfortable, functional and elegant’.

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8 JUNE 2012

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Second EC225 helps keep the lights on in France

ME & MY AIRCRAFT Twin engine helicopters

The top ten by numbers 1. Eurocopter EC135

572

2. Agusta Westland A109

454

3. Bell 412

369

4. Eurocopter AS365

344

5. Eurocopter AS355

337

6. Mil Mi-8

271

7. Sikorsky S-76

246

8. Agusta Westland AW139

223

9. Eurocopter BK117

196

10. Bell 212

184

Continued from previous page surprise when dealing with machines as complex as modern helicopters.

However, overall performance, especially of the newest models, gets a general thumbs up from our expert readers.

Next month we will be looking at light jets, so please look out for our invitation to take part.

A second EC225 helicopter for power line inspection has been delivered to Airtelis, the whollyowned subsidiary of France’s RTE public utility company.

To date, the company has logged a combined total of more than 250,000 flight hours – an equivalent of nearly 30 years of uninterrupted helicopter flight – mainly on surveillance, maintenance and construction work on high and very high voltage power lines.

As with Airtelis’ initial EC225, its second helicopter will be equipped with an innovative new system enabling the pilot to control a sling used to deploy electrical cables during flight.

The EC225 is capable of carrying external loads, including a water bucket for firefighting duties using a removable tank, installed in the cargo compartment, with a water capacity of 4,000 litres.

This system was developed especially for Airtelis, and is integrated in the helicopter’s cabin.

EUROCOPTER EC135 The EC135 is the most prevalent twin helicopter in Europe and the Middle

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Ever vigilant – the EC225 surveys power lines.

It enables the helicopter to carry loads that have contact with land or water, with their orientation

East, with a registered fleet of almost 600 examples in 27 countries. The largest fleets are with emergency service and offshore operators. It has seating for seven, including two pilots, or six in vip configuration.

EC135 owners and operators responding to our survey praised the helicopter for its ease of maintenance, support and particularly its dispatch reliability.

“We work it very hard in police operations,” says Keith Sturgess of Western Counties AOU. “It is well suited for police operations.”

He adds that the most desirable upgrade might be an increase in AUW, although this would be too expensive.

This mirrors the comments of other users, including one corporate operator who

maintained steady beneath the aircraft within a pre-specified coneshaped deployment zone. The

would like to see the transmission upgraded to support a supplementary payload.

The EC135 has a lot of gadgets for a small helicopter, says one respondent, and is very expensive, while another is unhappy with the main shaft and “the recent AD which is to be complied with every 10 hours.”

AGUSTA WESTLAND A109 The A109 is in widespread use, with over 450 in total in 28 countries.

It is most common in Italy, where it is manufactured, and in the UK where there are now well over 60 owner/operators. Notable large fleets around Europe are those of Helicopteros de Cataluna (about 20 aircraft), Castle Air in the

system is said to guarantee the highest safety levels for Class-C sling operations.

UK and Swiss Air Ambulance.

It has seating for up to eight people including crew, or has a five/six place club seating configuration. The A109S Grand has a larger cabin and the option of a luxury interior.

John O’Sullivan of Premier Helicopters flies the A109E, and would like to benefit from a larger cabin as well as an increase in payload or Cat A. In common with the majority of owners replying to our survey he is satisfied with the maintenance support on offer.

There is also broad agreement as to the best attribute of the A109, which is clearly its performance, and more specifically, speed. “The earlier A109s were underpowered,” says David George of UK distributor Sloane Helicopters. “But the Power,

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JUNE 2012 9

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

the Grand and the Grand New now do what it says on the tin.”

Critics of the A109 have concerns about its capacity, reporting that it is not always possible to carry a full fuel load. Also tailboom cracks and generator issues; cabin volume and maintenance costs are singled out for attention.

“It offers outstanding value for money when compared with the EC135 or the MD 902,” says George.

“It would be great if it cost even less!”

For one operator the most desirable upgrade is simple: “I would change our Grand for a Grand New.”

ME & MY AIRCRAFT Twin engine helicopters

Me & My Aircraft throughout 2012 JULY Light jets SEPTEMBER

BELL 412 In service for over 30 years now, the Bell 412 is the four-blade development of the model 212. Its large cabin can accommodate up to 14 passengers.

There are around 370 in operation in 18 countries across Europe and the Middle East.

The Bell 412 is extremely popular in the United Arab Emirates, where Abu Dhabi Aviation, the Dubai Air Wing and Falcon Aviation Services have sizeable fleets.

Among a mixed fleet, Thomas Muensterer of HDM, a part of German emergency operation DRF, uses HP and EP variants for interhospital transfer of intensive care patients, for emergency rescue operations and to transport physicians and equipment, in day and night operations. He considers the 412 to be a reliable helicopter, but is currently very unhappy with maintenance support after waiting for parts for some six months.

Some feedback was also received on other Bell models, and spare parts availability problems were a common theme. The best attribute of the Bell 230 is reported to be its wide cabin, while the Bell 427 is seen as good value for money.

EUROCOPTER AS365 AND AS355 Flying for over 40 years, the AS365 series has been continuously developed, and carried on today in the form of the N3 version and the EC155. There are 340 in service around Europe and the Middle East, and the type is most prevalent in Italy, France (where Heli-Union has the largest fleet at 28) and the UK. Surprisingly, given the number of aircraft, we received little feedback from operators in our survey.

The same was the case for the AS355 Twin Squirrel, which is a helicopter well suited to operations in the UK it seems, as there are well over 40 owner/operators there.

Cabin class piston twins NOVEMBER Super midsize jets

Make your opinion count!

UTair general director Andrey Martirosov celebrates his order for ten AW139s with Bruno Spagnolini, ceo of Agusta Westland.

UTair brings the AW139 to Russia in numbers and starts service training UTair of Russia has been certified as an AW139 helicopter operator and is set to operate a fleet of ten for passenger, corporate and vvip transport missions in Russia. The first aircraft is expected to be handed over this summer with deliveries planned to be completed by summer 2013.

The aircraft will be deployed in Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Sochi and at additional bases located in Siberia. Additionally UTair is set to become an authorised service centre for the AW139. Initial training of UTair staff has started

SIKORSKY S-76 The choice of royalty throughout the region, from the British Royal household to the Bahrain Royal Flight, the S-76 has grown in numbers to about 250 in Europe and the Middle East.

Mehmet Yuksel Hocaoglu of Swan Aviation is happy with his S-76C++ because it has a good reputation and low noise levels in the cabin, and one anonymous UK-based corporate operator agrees: “It has a smooth comfortable ride, is quiet

inside, and has easy access.”

But the power and available payload are the factors which appeal most to Richard Cove of Cardinal Helicopter Services (IOM). He is happy with virtually every aspect of S-76 operations, but disappointed by the amount of maintenance required.

His most desirable upgrade would be a Universal flight management

with plans for approximately 60 pilots and 40 technicians to be qualified to fly and maintain the AW139.

The AW139 has been chosen by a number of Russian companies, including Exclases Holdings which placed an order for two earlier this year.

The AW139 is to be assembled and delivered by the HeliVert plant located in Tomilino, near Moscow. HeliVert is a joint venture company established by Russian Helicopters and Agusta Westland.

The plant will have the capacity

system, while others would appreciate more fuel capacity.

The best upgrade for Swan Aviation would be the step up from S-76C++ to S-76D, or the Agusta A139, says Hocaoglu. He adds that he believes new EASA regulations, as well as domestic restrictive regulation in Turkey, are killing the edge that the helicopters have against fixed wing.

EBAN also received feedback about the larger Sikorsky S-92, praised for its capacity and range, albeit at a high price.

AGUSTA WESTLAND AW139 As well as achieving great domestic success in Italy, the AW139 is popular in the UK, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Spain. There are now over 220 in Europe and the Middle East.

Susanne H Lastein of Danish

Harrods adds support for the EC155 In response to customer demand, Harrods Aviation has added the Eurocopter EC155 to its part 145 maintenance approval at Stansted airport. The Eurocopter will be joining the Sikorsky S-76 and S-92 series and the Agusta A109E/S. “We have made a significant investment in our staff to provide the appropriate training as well as purchasing all the tooling required to provide a full service for this aircraft type,” comments John Bool, Harrods Aviation technical director.

“Stansted airport is the ideal location from which to support this helicopter, with many customers already

using the EC155 to interline with either fixed wing private or commercial aircraft. With facilities available to base an aircraft including hangarage, office space and a 24/7 operations team, we will be looking to attract EC155 operators to our London base,” he says.

“This is a great step forward in our capabilities at Stansted,” commented Kate Bayes, Harrods Aviation md. “The engineering support we can now provide will complement the services already on offer with our helicopter management and charter company, Air Harrods.”

to assemble up to 20 helicopters a year, with production to start in the forthcoming months and progressively increasing to a steady state regime by 2015.

UTair Aviation JSC is the world’s largest helicopter operator in terms of carrying capacity and number of rotorcraft, with more than 330 helicopters of all classes. UTair is the largest helicopter service provider to the United Nations, with cooperation agreements since 1992.

In Russia core clients for UTair helicopter services include the major oil and gas companies.

operator Bel Air Aviation is a great cheerleader for the AW139, having recently put two into service in offshore configuration. “They have excellent performance, are flexible in configuration and comply with the latest EASA requirements. The manufacturer is open to new solutions from the customer,” she reports.

Another respondent to our survey, using the AW139 for medical missions, has more mixed opinions.

He is very happy with the operating capabilities in very hard conditions with ice and turbulence, but feels let down by parts support and, in

Whichever type of aircraft you own or operate, we are keen to hear your views. Log in at www.ebanmagazine.com and you will find voting forms for each type in your fleet. It takes moments to complete, and the more replies we receive the better our final reports will be. Your user number and pin is on the back of the mailing sheet included with your magazine, or request a reminder on the web site.

Don’t delay, take part today!

particular, “a large problem with tail rotor blades.” Tailboom and rotor problems are also cited by Chris Tamerius Antrobus of Swiss-Jet, who has both short and long-nose variants and praises the spacy cabin.

EUROCOPTER EC145 There are now over 130 EC145 helicopters in service around Europe and the Middle East, the great majority in government, ambulance or police service. The largest populations are in France and Germany, but the model has made inroads to the east with a variety of operators in Russia and Ukraine too.

The manufacturer is keen to emphasise the EC145’s high inservice time due to the low level of scheduled maintenance required, but the best aspects according to our readers are the avionics suite and auto pilot, in addition to the spacious cabin. One reports satisfaction with the maintenance support available, but says that some modification is needed for the heating of the cabin.

There is general satisfaction with performance as well, although “for hot and high conditions you still have performance difficulties on take offs.”

Negative comments related to maintenance costs and a mast moment problem, especially on unprepared areas to land/take offs. A greater choice of seat coverings, colours and interior options would be appreciated too. ■

10 JUNE 2012

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

CZECH REGIONAL REVIEW

O P E R AT I O N S N E W S . . .

ExecuJet Europe md Cedric Migeon, PR manager Juliane von Heimendahl, marketing manager Christy Fendell and FBO director Nicole Gut.

ExecuJet and RUAG partner in Geneva

Ocean Sky consolidates in Menorca

ExecuJet Aviation Group and RUAG Aviation have joined forces to provide handling services at Geneva airport, based at RUAG’s completely remodelled and well established FBO. RUAG’s facility currently handles more than 6,000 movements per year, with a capacity to handle peaks of up to 80 movements a day. It offers a discreet environment for clients on the north side of Geneva Airport with a dedicated ramp. ExecuJet currently operates a managed fleet of over 50 aircraft in Europe and has added six aircraft based in Geneva during the past two years.

Ocean Sky Jet Centre has purchased the Mahon FBO that is operated by MTA (Menorca Tourist Assistance).

This purchase will increase Ocean Sky’s movements to around 1,000 per annum in Menorca as well as giving it the ability to expand its commercial aircraft supervision capability.

Ocean Sky will be employing the previous owner Karen Green to be the manager of FBOs at both Menorca and Ibiza.

Signature adds Berlin to roster

Eurojet Aviation has opened its £5 million business aviation centre at Birmingham airport, and also received approval from Cessna Aircraft Company to become an authorised Citation service facility.

In addition to vip passenger lounges the new FBO offers extensive facilities dedicated to meet the needs of aircrew. The complex includes a crew lounge, crew kitchen, private studies, flight planning room, shower facilities, and a ‘snooze room’ with individual softly lit dens.

The newly opened FBO will also join the Avfuel-branded affiliate FBO network, including a dedicated fuel truck on hand.

Signature Flight Support has signed an agreement with Berlin Schoenefeld airport to offer supervisory handling at its general aviation terminal beginning in June. The new Signature location will feature private crew and passenger lounge areas for rest or work. The airport will be renamed as Berlin Brandenburg airport and will become the sole airport serving Berlin when Tegel permanently closes later this year.

Meanwhile, Signature Frankfurt now offers fueling services through Rheinland Air Service.

Aero Toy Store opens widebody FBO Aero Toy Store has opened its first European FBO facility, at London Stansted’s ‘diamond hangar’.

Local md Mike Foley says: “The vast square footage gave us the scope to design and build a facility truly capable of facilitating almost any aviation requirement.

It’s a great first step for our entry into Europe.”

The full luxury refurbishment of the FBO is expected to be completed prior to the London Olympics.

Eurojet Birmingham approved as Citation service centre

Al Bateen hangars at the ready Al Bateen Executive Airport has completed refurbishment works on three hangars at its facilities in Abu Dhabi. Around half of the space has already been committed to new and existing Al Bateen customers, representing an investment of US$5 million.

The works are progressing in parallel with the roll-out of the free zone at Al Bateen to facilitate the establishment of company registration services.

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Management at ABS Jets are seeing a return on their efforts with good growth so far this year.

At the gateway to eastern Europe, Czech operators report rising demand for air charter With a generally stable economy, the Czech Republic was seeing a slow recovery from the effects of the 2008/9 recession. However, with its economic reliance on manufacturing for export, particularly automotive, it has since slipped back into recession.

A diverse business aircraft fleet is showing a transition in progress from eastern European aircraft to more modern, longer range models such as the Citation Sovereign and Legacy 650. Even so, the most numerous type throughout the country remains the domesticallyproduced Let 410.

With bases at Prague Ruzyne airport and in Slovakia at Bratislava, ABS Jets is a key player on the CEE business aviation market. It reports good growth so far this year and recently added a Phenom 300 to its managed fleet, the first aircraft of its type to be registered in the Czech Republic.

CEPA sees a reason to smile in CEE region In November, Prague Congress Centre will host the next Central Europe Private Aviation (CEPA) convention. The board of the three-year-old association attended EBACE, where founder Dagmar Grossmann said: “The CEE region has not been so affected by the financial turbulence in Europe this year and we have a reason to smile.

“We have a number of international events coming up in the region, not least the UEFA European Cup, which will inevitably see more western business aviation charter companies flying in.”

The association’s primary goal is to represent members’ interests to support the growth of private aviation in the Czech Republic and abroad.

Silesia Air ceo Tomas Karhanek has looked east for increased business during the crises in western Europe.

Comparing its executive handling results from the first quarter of 2011 with first quarter results this year shows a 30 per cent increase in the provision of services at its Ruzyne headquarters. A key factor was a record-breaking March for the company, that showed a 28 per cent increase compared to the same time last year.

“The opening of ABS Jets hangar N last year, combined with the purchase of additional handling equipment and an increased number of handling agents, has allowed us to significantly enhance our operations and deliver more improved services to our customers,” says ground ops director Jan Kralik.

ABS Jets currently operates from two of four hangars at Ruzyne terminal 3. These facilities have established ABS Jets as the largest executive jet handling provider in Prague and such services form a fundamental part of the company’s business plan.

Commercial director Antonia Tomkova adds: “We set up a new marketing strategy for the promotion of executive handling and we are happy that these activities have evolved into such positive economic results and that the number

of customers has increased so dramatically.”

Silesia Air operates a Citation 560, two 560XL and a CitationJet 525 from its base at Prague Ruzyne airport.

Chief executive Tomas Karhanek reports that average flight hours per aircraft are slowly but steadily increasing, especially for the company’s flagship Excel and XLS+.

He says: “It is difficult to mark any flight as unusual in our company.

Almost every second flight has its unique unusual aspects. Generally, I can say that some flights, such as a visit to Yakutsk in the winter period, might be quite a challenge. Our ambulance flights often take us to the African continent which could make the daily routine a bit adventurous these days.”

Karhanek concurs that the banking crisis in Europe has affected the company’s business: “The prices quoted and even prices of flights operated were pushed down by the crisis to almost the cost of operation.

We were also forced to focus our business on the eastern market much more than we did before.”

As a small company, Silesia Air relies on each team member for its smooth operation.

Karhanek explains: “The environment of business aviation has become so complex that no part of the company could exist without the rest. I rely on an experienced team of postholders who try to keep the company running smoothly: Captain Jiri Bohacik in matters of flight; Captain Jiri Bradna in ground operations; Milan Janik for maintenance; Captain Dalibor Kramer for safety; and Ondrej Schaumann for quality.” Even chef Jan Klika in the catering department gets a special mention for his part in making sure passengers enjoy their flight to the full.

The main future target for Silesia Air, not only for the rest of the 2012, is to keep to its trend of steady growth.

“The question of effectiveness is the key, so I try to consider every important decision in that view.”

Based at Ruzyne and Brno-Turany airports, Time Air reports an increase

JUNE 2012 11

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

in flight hours over the past year.

Managing director Martin Prazsky adds that the company does not seem to have been affected by the negative economic situation in Europe.

Time Air carries out passenger and freight charter with its fleet comprising a Beechjet 400, two Citation Mustangs and a Super King Air 300.

Since 1999, Air Transport Solutions has offered charter broker services on the Czech market, with its main activity in the cargo business.

The company’s Jiri Sedlacek says: “Over the years we tended to carry larger cargoes, but in the last couple of years we have become active also in small and urgent shipments. We mainly cover Europe and Africa in that field and use all suitable jet and turboprop aircraft.”

Sedlacek adds: “We also carry passengers on dedicated charter flights, with the major market being in Europe. We have carried out numerous vip and group charter flights with tailor-made services for the client including limo service, high quality catering and more.” And things are looking bright for Air Transport Solutions, as Sedlacek explains: “Despite the current general global economic situation we face increased demand for our services, including from the Slovak market.”

Karlovy Vary spa town is famous for its hot springs and the warm-water Teplá River. By Dudva (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.

Business aviation in the Czech Republic by the numbers 18 business aviation airports Major business aviation airports* 1.Prague Ruzyne 2.Brno Turany 3.Ostrava Leos Janacek 4.Hradec Kralove 5.Prague Vodochody

LKPR LKTB LKMT LKHK LKVO

PRG BRQ OSR VODZ

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

33 business charter operators Leading fixed-wing charter operators** 1. ABS Jets 2. Aeropartner 3. Silesia Air 4. Time Air 5. Grossmann Jet Service

Leading helicopter charter operators** 1. DSA 2. Aerocentrum ** ranked by number of aircraft for charter

aircraft 18 business maintenance organisations Leading maintenance centres*** 1. DSA 2. Bell Helicopter (Aviation Service) 3. ABS Jets *** ranked by number of aircraft types covered

business aircraft on OK 153 the Czech register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe, and the EBAN reader roster.

ABS celebrates eight years of safe flying

Petak is delighted with the awards recognition.

Aircraft Service Klatovy in the west of the country has carved an important market niche for itself, offering maintenance services very specifically for the Shorts Skyvan SC7.

Managing director Thomas Lewetz

ABS Jets has received two awards recognising the safety of its operations. NBAA’s Commercial Business Flying Safety Award has been given to ABS Jets for its eight years and 19,938 consecutive flying hours without accident, incident, injury or damage to persons or property.

In addition, the NBAA Pilot Safety Award has been given to ABS Jets pilot Stefan Kukura for his 5,500 safe flying hours.

Kukura was one of the first pilots flying for the company and has been instrumental in maintaining the company’s safety record. As well as flying, Kukura develops ABS Jets’ reports that, with little competition in this field, the company has no plans to expand or need to market its services.

The company is associated with Pink Skydiving of Austria, which has a base in Vienna from which its Skyvan

training and safety programmes. He says: “For my work with ABS Jets to be recognised by NBAA is something I could never have imagined.”

With a company strategy of increasing its fleet by one aircraft a year, safety is a fundamental part of ABS Jets’ operations.

Chief executive Vladimir Petak is delighted that ABS Jets safety record has been recognised, saying: “This is very exciting to receive these awards and a great honour that our track record in safety has been acknowledged. They underline the stringent procedures we implement when it comes to safety and security.” and crew travel to different drop zones throughout Europe all year round, one of these being Klatovy.

NAV Flight Services at Ruzyne airport has been in operation for more than 20 years and, in addition to

CZECH REGIONAL REVIEW

handling, offers some interesting additional services. Its NAVsystem software, and the lighter version NAVrouteplanner, can be used by operators with their own navigation, dispatch or operational departments, or for individual flight planning by pilots, or even by companies providing flight planning services for their clients.

Sales and key account manager Jan Vanous says: “We compete with other companies in the market thanks to high standard of our services and also thanks to the individual and sensitive care provided to customers.”

NAVjet is the section of the company that provides handling services at all international airports in the Czech Republic, dealing with Continued on next page

12 JUNE 2012

Karneyli at the English language Wikipedia CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/), via Wikimedia Commons.

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

CZECH REGIONAL REVIEW

Continued from previous page

around 50 movements a year on average. Vanous says that business is most affected by the financial crisis, an ongoing issue for the past three years or more.

Airports across the country Euro Jet is providing handling support for several hundred Euro 2012 flights and reports that neighbouring countries, like the Czech Republic will also play their part. The company’s Gareth Danker says: “We have our own agents on the ramp of each Polish and Ukrainian football match city; however, due to limited parking space, several Czech Republic and Slovak Republic airports will play an important role as alternate locations for flights and repositioning aircraft.

“This gives us a distinct advantage for being able to handle all types of flights related to the tournament throughout the region.”

Prague Ruzyne ABS Jets and Aviation Service both have FBO facilities at Ruzyne airport, while handling agent Euro Jet provided ground handling support to more than 400 flights last year there, including business jets, commercial aircraft, military missions and cargo aircraft.

In Prague there is a choice of FBO services, however these mostly

Prague castle at night.

specialise in handling commercial airlines or local operators and Gareth Danker says that Euro Jet has specialised in taking care of vip clients or special missions going through Prague.

Another Prague handler, Menzies Aviation (Czech), estimates that it handled 9.52 per cent of all movements from the GA part of the airport in 2011, although it has yet to receive accurate data from the airport authority. Commercial and handling coordinator Jaroslav Castka says that

with eight GA handling providers offering services at the airport, there is a highly competitive atmosphere.

“We are preparing a new continental Europe corporate business plan in this handling category,” he adds.

“We would like to set the same standard of services for all stations where we provide services and have a valid handling licence for GA.”

Vodochody Just 15 minutes from the city centre of Prague, the Aero Airport at

Vodochody is a private international airport without slot restrictions.

Brno Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic, with a large part of its industry focused in the technology sector. Brno in the south east of the country serves as the central airport for holiday flights in the eastern region.

It has no based handlers other than the airport itself and saw a 40 per cent increase in traffic in 2011, despite a dip the year before. Euro Jet handles approximately 50 flights a year into Brno, the majority being business jets and cargo aircraft.

Ostrava Similar to Brno, Ostrava airport to the east is a central airport for passengers from Poland, Slovakia and the eastern part of the Czech Republic, and therefore a hub for many holiday charter flights, with commercial flights hitting their peak during the summer months.

Ostrava is expected to play an important role during the Euro 2012 football championship, as one

Comprehensive data for Czech Republic and Slovakia online free-of-charge The 2012/13 EBAN Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe is out now, and gives details of many more Czech Republic and Slovakian 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

of the key airports for flights having to reposition from Poland.

While there is no FBO service, Euro Jet handles approximately 50 flights a year into the city.

Pardubice Pardubice is a small regional airport located 100km north east of Prague.

Euro Jet handles several flights a year there for mainly recreational aircraft traffic. Pardubice is also a hub for the Czech presidential aircraft and military planes.

Karlovy Vary Karlovy Vary in western Bohemia is one the most popular spa resort towns in central Europe, a popular holiday spot for people from Russia and the former CIS countries. Euro Jet handles more than 100 flights a year there, and is busiest during the Karlovy Vary film festival that occurs every summer. ■

Bell and Cessna chose Prague for European maintenance

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E U R O P E A N

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US manufacturers Bell Helicopter and Cessna Aircraft Company have chosen Prague for their European maintenance base to make the most of high technical standards and relatively low costs.

Operated by Aviation Service, the facility has received EASA Part 145 MRO certification and provides maintenance, repairs, modifications, customising and completion as well as aircraft component overhauls for almost the complete line of Bell helicopters.

It also provides line and base maintenance for most Cessna Citations, with training planned to incorporate all other models.

Bell Helicopter Europe general manager Gordon Harveson reveals that there are plans to expand the facilities at Ruzyne airport to provide more capacity for maintenance and FBO services, although he admits that the continuing economic situation in Europe had undeniably dampened overall demand for aircraft and services.

Harveson says: “The Prague

labour market is very technically capable and is quite cost competitive by European standards. Offering a factorybacked maintenance solution for Bell and Cessna aircraft provides an improved level of service to the European customer base.”

Scott Nelson, Cessna’s Prague service centre maintenance manager, adds: “Cessna has a large fleet of aircraft operating in Europe. This facility in Prague is a significant step toward providing our operators with a more comprehensive customer service and support experience in their region.”

In addition to this new customer service and support capability in Prague, it is the European headquarters for regional commercial sales for Bell Helicopter. The 12,440 square foot facility will also be where Cessna’s second mobile service unit in central Europe will be positioned.

It will complement the maintenance work done there for Citations by travelling to customers in surrounding areas.

JUNE 2012 13

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Slovakia’s operators thrive through diversity and specialisation

AIRCRAFT NEWS...

SLOVAKIA REGIONAL REVIEW Smaller models make up the majority of Slovakia’s mixed business aircraft fleet, that ranges from PZL Swidnik helicopters to a Falcon 2000. With Slovakia’s High Tatra mountains forming the highest range of the Carpathians, the country is a popular skiing destination and nearby PopradTatry airport is the focus of arrivals for the winter season holiday makers.

Air Transport Europe has a long history of providing a diverse range of flights for leisure, air ambulance, survey/surveillance, filming, aerial works, fire services, logging and construction.

In its fleet are 10 Agusta A109 K2, a Mil Mi-8, Eurocopter AS355 and a Citation 560 Encore.

Located at the foot of the highest mountains in the country, many flights for ATE are challenging. In 2011 alone, the company carried out 1,398 HEMS missions, logging 91,892 flight minutes. “The number of flight hours per aircraft increases from year to year, though we have to take into account the location of the HEMS base,” explains business manager Emília Vargová. “The bases located in the vicinity of the mountains perform more primary missions, those in the cities mostly secondary missions.”

ATE has EMS bases at PopradTatry, Kosice, Bratislava, Banska Bystrica, Nitra, Trencin and Zilina.

Flight Service’s Igor Susko says helicopter business is growing.

A Citation 560 Encore acquired last year is used for medical and commercial vip flights. “Our team is able to switch the aircraft interior in about 90 minutes,” says Vargová.

“Our crews and clients including patients are very satisfied with its performance.”

With the provision of HEMS at its core, to an extent ATE’s business remained unaffected by the economic crisis. “On other areas we were definitely affected, as our company is also a service centre and repair base (for Mil and Agusta helicopters), so we have experienced fewer requirements for repairs and overhauls of aircraft. The number of deliveries of spare parts has also been decreasing,” says Vargová.

Continuous staff training is one area ATE plans to turn its focus to for the remainder of 2012. Additionally, says Vargová: “Our effort is also concentrated on becoming part of international assistance service organisations providing wide ranging services to patients in need, repatriations flights, transplantation

Poprad-Tatry airport is convenient for skiers visiting nearby mountain resorts.

programmes, etc.”

Based at Bratislava’s MR Stefanik airport, Flight Service was established in 1996 with the aim of offering services for helicopter and aircraft flights, purchase and sale mediation.

Despite the world crises, the helicopter business in Slovakia is growing rapidly, managing director Igor Susko reports. “Our clients, from private and business sectors, are getting more and more used to hiring helicopter services and even buying helicopters for themselves.”

Specialising in the monitoring of electrical power grids and gas pipelines, as well as geological surveys, Flight Services works across all of Slovakia and abroad.

“With these growing numbers of helicopter users and work possibilities, we are starting to look for a new economic partner who could help us to cover all the project possibilities that are happening in our country and bring our company to the next level,” says Susko.

Aelis Group offers aircraft trading, leasing and aviation consulting services in central Europe, with key markets in the private aviation and regional commercial aircraft areas.

“We cover every aspect of the process of selling or buying an aircraft, from the sourcing of offers and compilation of sales documents to the conclusion of actual sales, delivery and payment,” says president and ceo Philippe Lienard.

“Aelis may also buy aircraft for its own portfolio and lease them out on an operating lease.”

Looking at the current issues that most impact the business, Lienard says that, as operators aim to improve the efficiency of their services, fleets need to be restructured. “Aelis became a favourite partner for operators to dispose of their used aircraft and introduce replacement aircraft. We also work with Slovak operators to provide customised services, such as insurance agreements and aircraft financing advisory.” The development of helicopter operations in Slovakia has been of major interest to Aelis which offers added value services to clients in sourcing and putting helicopters into operation.

Aelis Group successfully delivered a Eurocopter EC130B4 to a South African client in April 2012, marking the 121st transaction recorded by all Aelis team members over the years.

Flying into Slovakia Bratislava Bratislava enjoys a central location in Europe, with Vienna less than an hour away by car. At MR Stefanik airport, a complete range of services is offered for general aviation flights, composed mainly of vip, business, training, medical and unscheduled private flights or cargo.

Continued on next page

Ralph Acs, vp and general manager of Learjet, and Steve Ridolfi, president of Bombardier Business Aircraft, at the launch of the new Learjet 70 and 75.

Bombardier launches Learjet 70 and 75 Bombardier has launched the Learjet 70 and 75 aircraft, featuring technology from the Learjet 85. The jets will have a next generation cabin management system, the Vision Flight Deck, superior aircraft performance and low operating costs, the company says. Entryinto-service is scheduled for the first half of 2013. Firm orders, letters of intent and other commitments have been made for over 50 aircraft.

The aircraft will have an improved Honeywell engine, lower weight and the canted winglets for aerodynamic efficiency. Overall, up to a nine per cent improvement in field performance under hot and high conditions and up to a four per cent improvement in fuel efficiency are expected.

Inside will see improved seating comfort; cabin management system featuring individual touchscreen monitors; LED lighting throughout the entire aircraft; a generous baggage suite and a spacious galley.

Both models will have a range greater than 2,000 nautical miles at a cruise speed of Mach 0.75.

Altenrhein becomes Phenom service centre Embraer has appointed Swissbased Altenrhein Aviation as a Phenom 100 and 300 authorised service centre starting in the third quarter of 2012. Altenrhein will cover central, southern and eastern Europe, providing scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, avionics and electrics, sheet metal and structural repairs, plus interior and aircraft painting.

Falcon 2000S to beat performance targets Dassault reports that its Falcon 2000S is demonstrating performance figures substantially higher than the capabilities originally announced. To date, the test aircraft has accumulated more than 300 flight hours in over 130 flights. It has been operated through its full flight envelope and demonstrated excellent handling qualities.

The 2000S is fitted with inboard slats and winglets that work together to reduce landing speed and, together with a unique auto brake system, make it possible to

access more challenging runways.

Better than expected low-speed performance will greatly expand the number of secondary airports the aircraft can serve.

AW169 takes maiden flight The first prototype of the AW169, a new generation 4.5 ton light intermediate helicopter, has completed its maiden flight, and is on schedule to achieve basic civil certification in 2014.

The helicopter performed as expected during the flight which included an assessment of the helicopter’s general handling and basic systems. The first prototype will be joined by two more aircraft later this year and a fourth prototype in 2013. Fifty have been ordered so far.

Cessna’s latest and longest-range Citation, the Longitude.

Citation Longitude to fly 4,000nm Cessna has launched its longestrange business jet, the Citation Longitude. It will offer a 4,000nm range and a maximum speed of Mach .86 at a price of $25.999m.

The Longitude will be powered by two Silvercrest engines, on an on-condition maintenance plan which is expected to reduce the operating costs because maintenance intervals will be extended significantly.

The cockpit features Garmin G5000 avionics with touch-screen controls and all of the capabilities required to comply with emerging operating requirements for intercontinental aircraft, including FANS/CPDLC, ADSB and RNP. With space for a crew of two plus up to eight passengers and one optional additional crew member seat, the Citation Longitude options include a dual-club eightseat arrangement and a four-place forward club with a three-place couch and entertainment credenza.

For long-distance travel, the cabin is equipped with dual-zone temperature control, a fully operational galley with an oven and cold storage along with a pressurised water system. The aircraft features a large lavatory equipped with a vacuum-assist toilet. Entry into service is expected in 2017.

HondaJet enhanced Honda Aircraft has announced enhancements in the HondaJet’s avionics and cabin management systems, as well as the first flight of its fourth conforming flight test aircraft. It is the first manufacturer to announce and demonstrate plans for a new 40/60 display configuration on the Garmin G3000 Primary Flight Displays for the HondaJet. This enhancement is said to provide pilots a more userfriendly visual scan of additional flight information in a concise format that contributes to improved situational awareness and safety.

Honda Aircraft also unveiled plans for a new cabin management system that will enable passengers to use a wireless device such as a tablet or smartphone, to view real time flight information and to control the cabin lighting, temperature, music, and window shades.

Seastar CD2 to tour Europe Dornier Seaplane Company recently landed its Seastar CD2 seaplane in Germany after a successful US and Canadian demo tour. It will next travel through Europe, India and other destinations in Asia. The company hopes to announce a factory location for the FAA and EASA-certified, all composite, amphibious aircraft in the third quarter of this year.

TBM 850 is CIS certified The TBM 850 has achieved type certification in the CIS, including Russia. “We anticipate a CIS market demand for the new TBM 850,” stated Victor Kuklyaev, general director of Infinity Aviation, which is the authorised TBM sales representative in Russia. “The 2012 Elite model is well-suited to Russia’s business transportation requirements, offering fast cruise speeds, excellent range, low operating costs and cabin flexibility.”

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

SLOVAKIA REGIONAL REVIEW

CHARTER BROKER NEWS...

Business charter growing strongly, says Air Partner

Continued from previous page

The GAT offers a vip lounge and was opened in 2005 to enhance the processing of ground handling and speed up the passage of customers coming through. Responding to the growing number of unscheduled flights at the airport, 12 new parking places for Embraer 135 type aircraft have been made available and, for special events such as summits, additional parking can be made available. An advantage for flights using Bratislava airport is the flexibility offered by not having slots, and the 24-hour handling services.

At the beginning of the 21st century Slovakia saw an influx of foreign capital, with many foreign companies starting activities there.

“In that period, thanks to economic growth and the increased purchasing power of the population, demand for vip flights rose,” says an airport spokesperson.

This prosperity was aided by events taking place in Bratislava and neighbouring countries, such as the NATO summit in 2009, European Football Championship in 2008 in Austria and Hockey Championships in Slovakia in 2011.

Handler Euro Jet has a dedicated ramp agent at the GAT and deals with around 100 flights a year.

Poprad-Tatry Poprad is a popular ski resort town located in the Tatry mountain range and, as a cold weather holiday destination, the winter months do tend to bring the highest levels of aviation traffic.

Air Transport Europe finds HEMS flight hours increasing year-on-year.

Letisko Poprad-Tatry opened its new pilot lounge in May 2012 and is planning a new departure terminal, with the present building being converted to a dedicated general aviation facility within two years, following the completion of a departure hall for commercial flights.

The company’s Juraj Rokfalusy has no precise statistics of business aircraft movements, as all movements except scheduled and charter flights of commercial aircraft are counted together, but about 15-20 per cent are business/air taxi flights on a commercial basis. “In 2011, Poprad-Tatry airport recorded a total of 6,954 movements, of which 222 was scheduled traffic and 228 charter traffic. The rest – 6,504 – were general aviation, 15 per cent being international,” Rokfalusy says.

Helicopters represent about 20 per cent of the airport’s movements, as helicopter operator Air Transport Europe is based at the airport, while other companies, namely Tatra Jet and EHC Service, frequently fly to the airport. Air Transport Europe has a

maintenance facility for Agusta and Mil helicopters there. Euro Jet provides handling support for several business aviation and sports charter flights every year, with a dedicated pilot lounge that includes a full workspace for the crews.

“A decision has very recently been reached for a football training facility, partly financed by UEFA, to be built in Poprad, so more sport charters and business flights could be expected,” says Rokfalusy.

Sliac Located in the middle of Slovakia, Sliac underwent a major renovation in 2009 and re-opened to civilian traffic in the summer of 2011. With its central location, Sliac is used for many holiday charters during the summer months and also sees frequent flights by the Slovakian military.

Piestany Piestany is not far from Bratislava and a popular choice for commercial charter airlines and cargo aircraft.

It handles around 45 business aircraft movements a year, and 257 helicopter movements.

Kosice Kosice is an important industrial town, with US Steel its largest employer. Euro Jet handled nearly 100 flights there last year. There is a GAT at the airport. ■

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business aircraft on the OM 60 Slovakian register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation in Europe, and the EBAN reader roster.

While the market remains challenging, Air Partner says it is starting to see improvement in the private aviation sector, with sales in its private jets division 30 per cent ahead year on year.

Mark Briffa, ceo, says: “We are also seeing a growth of business in emerging markets, particularly in Asia, as well as the development of new ‘hubs’ for private jet activity.

Enquiries are being generated in Ukraine and Russia, where we expect demand for private jet charters to continue to grow.”

Air Partner expects the hot destinations this summer to be: The St Tropez Polo Club, Cote d’Azur, with 15 competitions held over the summer; the Copa del Rey Regatta, Real Club Náutico de Palma, Mallorca; the Vermentino Cellar, Monti, Sardinia, a two-day wine festival; and the Arena di Verona, the ampitheatre built in 30 AD which hosts the Verona Opera season.

Direct Air Charters warns over name confusion BACA member Direct Air Charters Limited has advised customers and suppliers to avoid confusion with any other companies with a similar name. “It has come to our attention that a broker has set themselves up using the name Direct Aircraft Charter Ltd, trading as Direct Air Charter,” says Emma Brown. “Obviously with this being one letter shy of our trading name, it is causing some confusion within the marketplace.

“Direct Air Charters Limited would like to state for the record that this is a completely different company to ours, that we have not moved offices or employed any new staff. Our team continues to comprise Emma, Wendy, Farid, Stella and Ian.”

Somerville says: “We did not want to create another jet card per se – we were keen to create a three dimensional product. With this in mind we developed the loyalty card with access to a host of offers, discounts, upgrades and sporting events.”

ProAir SMS service is a hit ProAir reports that its service sending SMS text message to clients with updates on flight monitoring via Eurocontrol, actual departure times, estimated arrival times and possible slots is proving popular, especially during large events over an extended period of time.

The facility was introduced at the start of the year when ProAir expanded its Stuttgart headquarters with a new customer care and flight support division.

Employees Adriane Hadbawnik, Anna Monastirli and Kathrin Schüßler, provide additional support for group charters, including deployment of a trained ProAir employee as a check-in assistant and flight attendants on board; support in the event of lost or missing luggage; co-ordination and inspection of on-board services provided; and operations personnel on call 24 hours a day.

ConnectJets launches loyalty card ConnectJets is launching a dedicated loyalty programme for clients who are able to commit to 25 or more flight hours per year.

Known as Jet Card Europe, it will provide guaranteed aircraft availability and pricing throughout Europe and holders will also receive Jet Miles; bringing a traditional benefit of commercial airline travel into the business aviation world.

Jet Card members select the desired cabin size and, after making a single upfront payment, are ensured completely transparent pricing with no hidden charges, says ConnectJets.

Prices start from €4,550 per hour for a VLJ. Special offers are provided to card holders, such as luxury villa specialist Royal Villas Europe, official suppliers to the X Factor television programme judges, which is offering a complementary private chef for the week at its 400 luxury European villas.

ConnectJets md Gabriella

Erik Lindbergh will be working with ACS on a number of projects for its cargo and passenger divisions.

Erik Lindbergh joins ACS Erik Lindbergh, renowned aviator and grandson of world famous Charles Lindbergh, has joined Air Charter Service as a brand ambassador.

Erik’s grandfather was the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1927. In 2002 Erik recreated the feat on the 75th anniversary of his grandfather’s achievement, by flying the singleengine ‘The New Spirit Of St Louis’ from New York to Paris.

Chris Leach, chairman of ACS, says: “It is a great honour to have Erik on board – his pioneering work in the world of aviation is inspiring and he shares our visions for the future of how we travel around the planet.”

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

JUNE 2012 15

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Global XRS

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 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

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 $38.995M. 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. www.jetsales.com.

Email:sales@jetsales.com

2008, S/N 141. TT1,275, 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

S/N 5364, 5,903 TTAF, engines on condition. Collins ProLine IV, Honeywell EGPWS, Collins TCAS II w/Change 7.

Dual Collins FMS-6000 FMS w/dual GPS4000, DVD, VCR, 9 Pax. Tel: +1 403 291 9027 John Hopkinson & Associates.

Web: www.hopkinsonassociates.com.

Email: sales@hopkinsonassociates.com

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-of-charge.

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

Available for sale or lease. 7,166 hours.

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

4 single-seats and private lavatory.

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

2001, D-ACRN, S/N 7486. EU-OPS 1.

Available for sale or lease. 19,414 hours.

50 pax interior configuration w/aft lavatory and divider. 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

Jetstream 32 Captain/FO positions Redstar Aviation seeks two Captains and one First Officer for our air ambulance operations.

Applications should preferably be JAA licence holders with BAE Jetstream 32 Type Rating

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

2005, 2005. S/N 9158, 1,368 hours TTAF. Manufactured in 2005 - in service 2006.

Triple FMS. EVS Display. HUD. High Speed Data. Satellite TV. Extended Range SB C/W. High Max Take-Off Weight SB

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. Zero engine option. Tel: +1 403 291 9027 John Hopkinson & Associates. Web:

1999, S/N 048. This aircraft has an excellent pedigree, having been 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: 447557-237730 Innotech Aviation. Email: andrew.pearce@innotech-execaire.com

Sabre 65

1981, 1981, S/N 465-60. TT 5,590, aircraft meets Euro Regs, 100% JSSI, APU, dual UNS-1LW, T-CAS II chg7, TAWS-A, MFD640, HF-718-U5M, speed brakes mod, ext. bag. mod, beautiful interior, air show 400, 7 pax, ext - new paint 2008 by Sabreliner, asking make offer Aircraft Consultants, Inc.. Web: www.aircraftconsultantsinc.com.

SALES / AIR CHARTER BROKING VACANCIES JetAir is currently seeking to recruit a number of experienced personnel for roles within its expanding Gatwick based air charter brokerage.

Our ideal candidates will have at least three years successful experience within a similar aviation related business, and will have the desire, focus and energy to excel in a challenging sales environment. You will demonstrate the highest levels of client support and service for which JetAir is renowned, and be prepared to go the extra mile to achieve it. In a fast paced environment, you will need to communicate confidently and knowledgeably, be numerate and literate, with excellent IT skills.

Fluency in another European language would be advantageous.

In return, successful candidates will receive an attractive remuneration package with many additional benefits.

First Officers; min TT: 500hrs – Type: 250hrs experience.

This is an excellent opportunity join our company, based in Istanbul

Closing date for applications is 29 June 2012

Please send your CV with details of your qualifications to:

emred@redstar-aviation.com www.redstar-aviation.com

Sales Executive and Aircraft Charter Broker Oxygen Aviation has opportunities in its expanding team of aviation professionals in Horsham. We are a highly specialised provider of independent worldwide business aircraft charter to a VIP clientele.

Sales Executive To meet the challenges of the sales executive role you will need to be motivated, organised and have excellent communication skills. Experience is not essential as training will be given but ambition and enthusiasm are a must!

OUR NEXT ISSUE: Global 5000

SABRELINER

If you are looking for a role where you will be instrumental in driving the company’s expansion, please send your application with a full CV to careers@jetair.co.uk or by post marked “Private and Confidential”, for the attention of Sue Coxhead, JetAir, 3 City Place, Beehive Ring Road, Gatwick, West Sussex, RH6 0PA.

Captains; Min TT 1500hrs – Type: 500hrs experience.

Citation S/II

CRJ 200LR

2004, S/N 5060, 3,226 hours TTAF. In-service 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

Career opportunities

Learjet 55C

Challenger 604

G550

2009, D-AMIG, 2009, S/N 623 | EU-OPS 1. Available for sale or lease. 2,083 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

Falcon 900EX

Falcon 2000LX

Challenger 604

Falcon 900DX EASy

JULY 2012

FINAL BOOKING DATE: JUNE 26th

Charter Brokers Candidates interested in this position will have a minimum of two years aviation experience. You should be able to thrive in a sales orientated environment where you will be expected to build your own portfolio of clients. Combining excellent communication skills with a rounded knowledge of the market is vital. You should be able to demonstrate a strong client care ethos from the outset.

Both roles will report directly to the directors of the company as you will be influential in the on-going success of this dynamic business.

Oxygen Aviation will offer the right candidates very desirable packages and company bonus schemes.

Please apply in writing with a CV for the attention of Justin Barber to justin@oxygenaviation.com.

Closing date 13 July 2012.

Transform the Way You Fly Hawker 400XPR

Higher. Farther. Faster. The Hawker 400 series has always set the standard for light jets. Today the factory engineered Hawker 400XPR upgrade offers more powerful Williams International FJ44-4A engines, Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics and sleek Hawker Winglets. The 400XPR’s high quality finish and treatments are all backed by the world’s largest factory-owned service and support network. Change your sense of the possible. Let us prepare a 400XPR proposal customised for your needs today. Innovation Above All. For more information please contact: Europe, Middle East & Africa +44 (0)1244 523 803 or email: jetset@hawkerbeechcraft.com

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