Rolling Business Aviation Daily Briefs (February 2025)

February 28, 2025

Honeywell, Dassault Sign Agreement For JetWave X Connectivity

Honeywell has signed an agreement with Dassault Aviation to install JetWave X high-speed inflight connectivity system as a line-fit and retrofit in Dassault’s Falcon business jets. The system will allow them to operate with uninterrupted coverage globally, Honeywell says. The JetWave X connects to Viasat’s Ka-band network, including the ViaSat3 and Global Xpress satellites.

February 27, 2025

Stratos Jets To Offer Five Charter Brokerages To ‘Ambitious Producers’

Stratos Jets, based in Orlando, are giving away five turn-key jet charter brokerages to qualified agents in the industry, it says, and is urging “ambitious producers” to submit their qualifications for consideration to operate their own Stratos Jets agency. Recipients will become their own jet charter brokerage owner with backing from Stratos Jets. They will be assisted by limited monthly expenses, Stratos FMS business software, a team of flight coordinators, flight followers and accountants, and “immediate credibility,” Stratos says. Applications must be received by March 21.

February 26, 2025

Gama Aviation To Open FBOs In UAE, Channel Islands

Gama Aviation’s fixed base operation in Sharjah in the UAE recorded record passenger numbers during 2024, the company announced. The FBO opened 10 years ago. The company is constructing new hangar and FBO at the Sharjah International Airport and another in the Jersey, Channel Islands, with plans for completion for both in 2025. Sharjah International Airport has become an alternative for private and business aviation operations given increasing congestion at Dubai International Airport, where business slots are increasingly limited, the company says. Gama’s Jersey, Channel Islands facility handled more than 6,000 business jet movements in 2024, while its Glasgow, Scotland, FBO recorded a 20% increase in movement volumes. The Sharjah and Jersey FBOs will offer passenger lounges, advanced maintenance capabilities and include environmentally sustainable design elements. They will also support larger aircraft and offer expanded services.

Aerocor Launches Beechcraft Premier Recurrent Training Program

Aerocor has launched an in-aircraft Beechcraft Premier recurrent training program designed to help pilots maintain proficiency and meet recurrency requirements, it says. The program offers instruction in the pilot’s own aircraft and provides “real-world training experiences” and personal coaching designed to meet an individual operator’s needs. The program includes ground and flight training.

February 25, 2025

Jet Out Opens New South Florida Base

Jet Out has opened its newest base at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida, making it the first move outside the Midwest in the U.S. The Fort Lauderdale-based fleet began serving customers in South Florida in September when the company took delivery of two new Citation CJ4 Gen2 business jets, giving the company the largest Citation CJ4 Gen2 fleet of aircraft in the U.S., Jet Out says. The company’s Jet Out facility is located within Sheltair FBO and is fully operational, it says.

Gogo/Satcom Sign Supplier Agreement With Luxaviation

Gogo Business Aviation/Satcom Direct has signed a second three-year preferred supplier agreement with Luxaviation Group, a relationship started in 2021 between Luxaviation and Satcom Direct. With the recent combination of Gogo and Satcom, the new agreement provides added flexibility and resilience for Luxaviation with added access to Gogo Galileo phased array antennas and its North American Air-to-Ground connectivity network, the company says.

February 24, 2025

StandardAero To Install Gogo Galileo HDX on Select Bombardier Aircraft

StandardAero is developing an FAA Supplemental Type Certificate for Gogo Galileo HDX high-speed inflight internet for select Bombardier Challenger 600 and Global series aircraft models. Availability is expected in 2025. The fuselage-mounted antenna will leverage Eutelsat OneWeb’s Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite network designed to deliver low variability and consistent performance across all routes globally, the company says. StandardAero’s Gogo Galileo STC will cover more than 2,000 aircraft. The company expects EASA and TCCA validations to follow FAA STC approval.

NATA Opens New Office

The National Air Transportation Association has moved to a new office in Washington D.C. The new address is 1401 Street NW, Suite 330, Washington DC 20005. It is located at the corner of 14th and I streets across from Franklin Park.
 

February 21, 2025

Bucharest Aerospace Museum Seeks Aircraft Donations For Display

The Bucharest Aerospace Museum, a nonprofit organization based in Bucharest, Romania, is working to set up a small aerospace and engineering education and exhibition exhibit for young people. As such, it is seeking aircraft donations, including small aircraft, ultralights, light sport aircraft, experimental, gliders, jets, propeller aircraft and others.

Helijet To Donate Sikorsky S-76A Air Ambulance

Helijet international is donating a medically equipped Sikorsky Aircraft S-76A helicopter to the People of Ukraine to transport victims injured in the war with Russia. The model of helicopter was designed by Ukrainian-born Igor Sikorsky. It is the first private donation of an aircraft such as this from Canada to Ukraine. It was organized by the efforts of the Canadian business and the Ukrainian diaspora. The Maple Hope Foundation, Ukrainian World Congress and Initiative E+ have worked with Helijet to accept delivery and title of the air ambulance helicopter. The gift is made on condition that it is used solely for noncommercial, humanitarian and medical evacuation missions to airlift individuals in need of urgent care to hospitals in Ukraine.

February 20, 2025

Royal Netherlands Air Force Launch Customer For PC-7 MKX

The Royal Netherlands Air Force has become the launch customer for the Pilatus PC-7 MKX training system. The Koninklijke Luchtmacht has become the first customer to select the PC-7 MKX. Delivery is planned for the first half of 2027. Pilatus will deliver eight PC-7 MKX aircraft and associated ground-based training systems, including four simulators.
 

Air Charter Services Open Italian Office

Air Charter Service has opened its first office in Italy, one of the company’s 35 offices worldwide. The office, located in Milan, opened Feb. 3, 2025. It will be headed by Leonardo D’Alessandro.

February 19, 2025

West Star To Expand Chattanooga MRO Facility

West Star Aviation is expanding its Chattanooga Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility in Tennessee. The project includes a 40,000 ft.2 maintenance hangar with 15,600 ft.2 of attached shop, office and storage space. It also includes a 34,000 ft.2 two-story building with a first floor dedicated to additional shop space and the second floor reserved for future office use. Along with the new construction, light renovation will be made to the Chattanooga Airport’s vehicle maintenance facility. The project will better align operations with the market’s shifting demand, the company says, especially to accommodate larger aircraft. Construction is expected to being in the third quarter of 2025 with completion in the fourth quarter of 2026. 

UrbanV, Pax Aeroportos To Launch ‘Regulatory Sandbox’ In Sao Paulo

Italian vertiport network operator UrbanV and Pax Aeroportos, the concessionaire of Camp de Marte and Jacarepagua airports in Brazil have been selected by ANAC (Agencia Nacional de Aviacao Civil), to launch a regulatory sandbox at Camp de Marte Airport in Sao Paulo. The initiative is a milestone for the development of Advanced Air Mobility in Brazil by creating a testbed for “solutions under real-world conditions,” ensuring that safety, efficiency and regulatory standards will be met. Testing will include definition of design criteria for vertiports, passenger processing analysis and seamless integration of eVTOLS into existing airport infrastructures.

February 18, 2025

Flightstar Completes Hangar Construction, Expands Aviation Maintenance

Flightstar Corp., an MRO service provider based in Illinois, announced the completion of a new aircraft storage hangar, dubbed Hangar 11. The hangar adds 27,000 ft.² of aircraft storage capacity, bringing the campus’ total managed hangar space to over 137,000 ft.². Additionally, the space doubles the dedicated space for maintenance and avionics operations, according to the company.

‘RESCUING DOC’ B-29 Restoration Story Now Available

“Rescuing Doc,” a book by Dave Franson, details the decades-long journey of Tony Mazzolini and company to acquire and restore one of the last B-29 Superfortress aircraft. The 188-page book includes one-on-one interviews and several stories spanning from the recovery of “DOC” and its relocation from China Lake, California, to Wichita for restoration. “This book is intended to share the fascinating and often incredible accounts of DOC’s restoration as one of only two airworthy B-29s left in the world. It will also serve as an enduring tribute to the patriots who designed, built, and flew B29s, as well as those who eventually restored this aircraft,” Franson said. “I think it’s fitting that it is being released 80 years after it entered service and after the B-29 helped bring an end to the most devastating war in history.”

February 17, 2025

Radiant Technology Unveils Portable Altimeter

Radiant Technology launched a new portable altimeter, named SafeAlt, designed for use by pilots and passengers. According to Radiant, the device can be used as a backup to panel-mounted altimeters and VSI gauges, but also for corporate pilots or passengers to monitor cabin pressurization changes. SafeAlt is a small, USB rechargeable device that utilizes an accurate solid-state pressure sensor to provide an altimeter range between zero and 20,000 ft., with an adjustable pressure alarm set at 10,000 ft.

Fly Alliance Selected As Starlink Authorized Dealer

Fly Alliance announced its selection as an official Starlink Authorized Dealer. The private aviation company is now accepting pre-orders for Starlink installations for summer 2025. According to Fly Alliance, installations will take place at three of its MRO satellite locations in Teterboro, New Jersey; Miami and Stuart, Florida. Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency internet access in the air, allowing for streaming, video conferencing and gaming.
 

February 14, 2025

Epic Aircraft Begins 2025 Demo Tour

Epic Aircraft launched its second annual U.S. Demo Tour to showcase its E1000 GX single-engine turboprop aircraft. According to Epic, the tour will begin on Feb. 10 in Sacramento, California (KSMF) and will conclude in Scottsdale, Arizona (KSDL) on Nov. 8. In total, the tour will stop at over 75 locations across the U.S.

Viva To Add Six Tecnam Aircraft For Pilot Academy Expansion

Viva, a Mexico-based airline, announced its purchase of six Tecnam single-engine P210TDI and one multi-engine P2006T aircraft. The deal also includes an option for three twin engine and 12 single engine Tecnam aircraft. The order was made in support of Viva’s Pilot Academy expansion program, where the aircraft will be used for private and commercial pilot training. “Viva is committed to shaping the future of aviation by investing in world-class training and sustainable innovation,” said Mayela Flores, technical training director officer for Viva.

February 13, 2025

SkyShare Celebrates Record-Breaking Q4

SkyShare is celebrating its performance in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, citing a 35% increase in charter services. According to the company, the quarter was the best in SkyShare’s history, due in part to the recovery of its fractional product sales following the pandemic. Additionally, SkyShare’s brokerage sector made its largest single transaction and finished 2024 with its best December performance in company history. 

JEKTA Partners With Aerovy Software And ATA Insurance

JEKTA, a Swiss-based zero-emission aircraft manufacturer, announced the beginning of two partnerships for its PHA-ZE 100 passenger hydro aircraft. JEKTA selected Aerovy’s software platform to provide aircraft health monitoring and predictive maintenance. JEKTA also partnered with Advanced Technology Assurance (ATA) to develop insurance products for the amphibious aviation sector. “With amphibian aircraft that operate on water, paved and unpaved runways, the ability to monitor aircraft performance and facilitate predictive maintenance will enable operators to reduce downtime and optimize operations,” says Aerovy CEO Nick Gunady. “Our Spectra platform will enable JEKTA to better support operators regularly flying in remote or environmentally challenging environments, reducing maintenance-related downtime and supporting consistent revenue generation.”
 

February 12, 2025

Japan Selects Beechcraft T-6 Texan II ITS For Pilot Training
Textron Aviation, alongside Kanematsu Group, announced the selection of its Beechcraft T-6 Texan II Integrated Training System (ITS) by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) to modernize its pilot training. Japan joins 14 other countries using the aircraft, adding to the global fleet of more than 1,000 T-6 aircraft delivered.

Flexjet Launches FXLUXE Travel Series
Flexjet announced the launch of its exclusive travel series, FXLUXE, for Flexjet aircraft owners. According to Flexjet, the series was designed by its chairman, Kenn Ricci, and includes eight international destinations. The series offers planned and vetted trips organized by the FXLUXE Travel Concierge. “For three decades, we have been curating and refining private travel experiences. It is with this knowledge gained that we have come to define what it means to offer Red Label service onboard our aircraft and within our private terminals,” says Flexjet CEO Mike Silvestro. “Our newest project, FXLUXE, we have combined Kenn’s life-long passion for travel and Flexjet’s expertise to offer our Owners the most unique experiences.”

February 11, 2025

Hartzell Composite Talon Propeller Approved For GB1 GameBird Aircraft

Hartzell Propeller, alongside aerobatic pilot Sean D. Tucker, earned FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) approval for its composite three-blade Talon carbon fiber propeller and spinner for GB1 GameBird Aircraft. The 77.5-in. diameter propeller offers enhanced climb performance and a more than 20% reduction in takeoff ground roll, according to Hartzell.

George J. Priester Aviation Expands Managed Fleet
George J. Priester expanded its managed fleet with the addition of 14 business jets in 2024. The company now operates nearly 90 aircraft across three brands, spanning internationally in Singapore and domestically in the U.S. “Aircraft owners are responding to the expertise, support and capabilities our teams offer at our regional bases,” says President and CEO Brent Moldowan. “They value the personalized attention and values we can provide, along with the nationwide and international resources to enhance their ownership experience.”

February 10, 2025

Signature Opens Renovated Terminal In Huntsville

Signature Aviation has opened its newly renovated private terminal at Huntsville International Airport (HSV) in Alabama. According to Signature, the terminal’s design was partly inspired by the city’s “Rocket City” moniker, highlighting the area’s aerospace and aviation roots. The renovation added more than 2,500 ft.² of space for guests, including a redesigned entrance and ramp expansion. “We are excited to unveil our state-of-the-art facility in Huntsville, a city renowned for its legacy as a cornerstone of aerospace, defense and technology,” says Signature Aviation CEO Tony Lefebvre.

Phenix Jet Cayman (Hong Kong) Set 32 World Speed Records In 2024
Phenix Jet Cayman in Hong Kong ended 2024 with 32 world speed records onboard the Bombardier Global 7500, including destinations to New York, San Fransisco, Los Angeles, Tokyo, Paris, London and Delhi. According to Phenix Jet Cayman, the company completed a flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo in 10 hr. and 28 min. Additionally, the company flew from Newark to London in 5 hr. 45. min. “We are excited to announce these 32 new world speed records as they reflect our commitment to excellence and the capabilities of our flight program,” says Andrew Svoboda, CEO of Phenix Jet Cayman. “We are thrilled with the records on the Global 7500 and can’t wait to set even more impressive records on the Global 8000 when Bombardier commences delivery of this impressive new type.”

February 7, 2025

Freeman Jet Center Renovates Acadiana Facility

Freeman Jet Center completed renovations at its facility at Acadiana Regional Airport (KARA). The innovation includes an additional 2,000 ft.², transforming the previous two-story layout into a single-story design with 17-foot ceilings. “Our newly-renovated facility is a reflection of Freeman Jet Center’s dedication to delivering exceptional service and comfort to our guest,” said Scott Freeman, CEO of Freeman Holdings Group. “We are excited to welcome customers to our upgraded amenities and invite them to enjoy the vibrant local culture woven into every detail.”

Daher, GAMA Open Third Annual International Internship

Students from France and North America can now apply for an international internship provided by Daher Aircraft and the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA). The program selects two students from both France and North America to take part in an eight-week internship at Daher’s production and final assembly sites in Tarbes, France, or Sandpoint, Idaho. Additionally, the interns will complete the program by working with Daher’s team at the EAA AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. According to Daher, applicants must be 21 years of age or older and must submit their application by Feb. 21.

February 6, 2025

GM Aviation Selected As Tecnam Dealer For Germany, Austria

Tecnam Aircraft appointed GM Aviation as its exclusive distributor of sales and customer support services in Germany and Austria. GM Aviation, located at Koblenz/Winningen Airfield, will offer Tecnam’s line of ultralight and certified single- and twin-engine aircraft. “From the very beginning of our conversations, we were perfectly aligned in our vision to offer an outstanding and comprehensive package of services to our partners and clients,” said Pasquale De Rosa, Tecnam sales manager for Europe. “Beyond private customers, I strongly believe that our school partners will also greatly benefit from GM Aviation’s expertise in aircraft sales, maintenance services and spare parts distribution.”

BETA, 47G Sign MOU To Bring Air Taxis To Utah

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with BETA Technologies and 47G Utah Aerospace & Defense to establish an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) transportation system for the state. According to BETA, the MOU is the first step of a 10-year, multi-phase plan to modernize the state’s transportation system. “Utah is at the epicenter of cutting-edge innovations in the commercial aviation industry that will play a critical role in Utah’s economic future. Utah is not just embracing the future of transportation—we are leading it,” Cox said.