Get Your Plane Shining: An Interview with Brett Berry of Shiny Jets

By Annamarie Buonocore

Anyone who has ever owned an aircraft or been involved in aviation can agree that aircraft ownership is a big responsibility. When we think of aircraft maintenance, we often think of engine logbooks and keeping the avionics up to date. One area of maintenance that is often overlooked is bodywork and detailing. In this interview, we had the opportunity to talk with Brett Berry of Shiny Jets, a San Diego-based aircraft detailing company that has taken detailing to new heights. Brett and his staff work tirelessly to keep airplanes shining, and they have also started an educational program all about maintaining the cosmetics of aircraft. There is much to learn, and we look forward to exploring the different options available in this interview.

BizAvJets USA: When did you get started with Shiny Jets?

Brett Berry: I got started in this business four years ago.

BAJUSA: What made you want to get into aircraft detailing?

Bret Berry: I had a previous aircraft detailing business that I started. I had it for eight years and then sold it. During my time in the industry, I noticed a lot of poor work on other aircraft. I would see things from customers’ aircraft that were terrible. There is not a lot of information on how to restore and maintain aircraft correctly.

BAJUSA: What is the most common type of aircraft that you service?

BB: I would say Gulfstreams, King Airs, and Citations. More on the business jet side…

BAJUSA: So you are based in San Diego. Are you at a certain airport there?

BB: Yes, we are at Palomar, Montgomery, and Gillespie. We have several locations within the San Diego area, and we also have some out-of-state locations, including Mesa, Arizona; Jacksonville, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada and Dallas, Texas.

BAJUSA: Tell me a little bit about your detailing process and what sets it apart.