238

ISSUE 238

JULY 2013

Voldirect leads the way for single engine commercial passenger flights

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Sovereigns prove their worth

Chief pilot Wolfgang Karlstetter has been so delighted with the performance of Aerowest’s pair of Sovereigns that the company is already considering adding more. “They are very good and very reliable. They are both flying extremely well,” he says. See full story on page 6.

After 20 years of industry lobbying, single engine IFR operations with turboprop aircraft have become a reality in Europe for the first time.

Although the EU Ops regulations still do not allow single engine commercial passenger services, France has broken ranks and issued the continent’s first such AOC. Voldirect SAS of Rennes has been granted the AOC, enabling it to transport commercial passengers using its TBM 850 turboprop in instrument meteorological conditions. The AOC is standard and there is no restriction in Europe.

“In today’s difficult context for France’s air transport sector – especially business aviation – we must thank the French DGAC civil aviation authority, which understood the value of leveraging economic and fast aircraft such as the TBM 850 and TBM 700, with proven reliability,” says Voldirect ceo Frédéric Caussarieu.

“We also want to praise the support of the manufacturer, which has been responsive to our needs and assisted us in the certification process.”

Caussarieu adds: “Now that we have got this AOC we can expand. The idea is to get out of this AOC more areas from which we are going to operate, and more planes, and more business. We are planning this expansion in other main cities in France, and we also have some contacts for other countries, which are interested in doing the same thing.”

The high reliability of the PT6 engine was undoubtedly a

factor in the AOC being issued.

The engine type has accumulated more than 350 million flight hours. From the operator’s perspective, there were many reasons for wanting the certification: “We wanted to offer our service to different corporations and companies from the ones which we served initially,” says Caussarieu. “We had many more requests from companies that did not have any connection in terms of capital and equity in our plane or in our group. We had to find a way to accept the requests from those other companies.

“I am extremely happy that we’ve crossed the threshold.”

The AOC has lent increased professionalism and security to Voldirect’s operations. It now uses standard operating procedures, with documents numbering 2,000 pages, and it also makes thorough route calculations to include possible Continued on page 4

Frédéric Caussarieu, Voldirect ceo, at the Paris Air Show.

Shell brings CHC onboard for sub-Saharan exploration Vancouver-based CHC Helicopter has signed a contract worth several million dollars to support Shell in its deep water exploration missions off the coast of sub-Saharan Africa.

The five-year agreement sees CHC supply two Eurocopter Super Puma L2 aircraft with the capability to offer transportation services and to implement emergency medical evacuations where required. Shell is

FREIGHT – Combining passengers with parcels Page 11

using its Noble Globetrotter II deep water drill ship in multi-country operations.

CHC has a long-standing history of providing offshore support to complex operations, and has so far provided services in 19 different African countries. It operates more than 240 aircraft in around 30 countries worldwide and, according to regional director for Africa and Euro-Asia Chris

Krajewski, is the obvious choice for an operation such as this. “We support customers in challenging oil and gas territories around the world, including in recent projects for EHL, Petrobras and British Gas throughout East and west Africa,” says Krajewski. “This contract reflects CHC’s ability and our commitment to customers, as we help them safely go further and do more in Africa and around the world.”

CHC Helicopter says it is now at the forefront of providing transportation to offshore oil and gas platforms and vessels in sub-Saharan Africa. Its pilots are specially trained to fly over open water and equipped with stringent training and procedures. CHC comments that missions are becoming trickier as rigs move farther offshore, and the soaring temperatures of subSaharan Africa also pose a challenge.

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JULY 2013 3

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Vityaz Avia’s Twin Otters to serve remote Russia Moscow-based Vityaz Avia has signed an agreement with Viking Air for an additional seven DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 400s, for operations in Russia.

The turboprops are scheduled for delivery through 2015, and will support remote communities throughout the northern regions of Russia. The first aircraft is due in time for the MAKS International Air Show in Moscow in August, where it will be on static display for viewing by the Russian aviation industry.

The Twin Otters will feature a fully IFR Honeywell Primus Apex digital avionics suite, flight management system, TAWS, TCAS I, and EGPWS. In addition, the aircraft will be configured with a variety of landing gear options, including wheels, amphibious floats, skis and intermediate flotation gear.

The deal brings the Vityaz aircraft order total to 11, making the company Viking’s largest single nonmilitary customer to date.

David Curtis, Viking president and ceo, says: “We believe the series 400 aircraft is ideally suited for the harsh operating environments in Russia, and have been working with Vityaz since 2010 to develop the Russian market potential.

“We are pleased to see with this new order that the demand for the aircraft is strong and proving that our initial business case was valid.”

Viking received Russian Interstate Aviation Committee (IACAR) type certification in July 2012 in conjunction with the delivery of the first two Russian aircraft in October 2012. These aircraft marked the first Twin Otters in history to be delivered to Russia.

Seven Twin Otters are set to join Vityaz Avia’s fleet.

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The Challenger deal is sealed by president of Bombardier Business Aircraft Steve Ridolfi, VistaJet founder and chairman Thomas Flohr and senior vice president of sales for Bombardier Bob Horner.

VistaJet orders up to 40 Challenger 350s and gathers ops in Malta VistaJet has announced that it is placing 20 firm orders for Challenger 350 jets, with options for another 20, in a transaction worth $1.035 billion.

These are due to join the fleet in mid2014 and would mean that VistaJet’s current business aircraft register would double in size.

The cabin design in the new aircraft will mirror the existing fleet and feature a jump seat for the cabin hostess as well as a cabin divider door. It is equipped with the latest inflight technology, internet access via wi-fi, a modern business suite and panel speakers. The 350 has an intercontinental range of 3,199nm, giving it the capability to handle flights from London to Lagos or Moscow to Dubai.

Thomas Flohr, VistaJet’s founder and chairman, says: “VistaJet leads the industry in offering the world’s most modern fleet of large cabin jets.

We now expand this strategy by adding the newest super-midsize aircraft to our fleet of Global and Challenger aircraft. Having personally participated in the focus groups that led to the Challenger 350 jet’s con-

Komiaviatrans takes second L410 Komiaviatrans, based in the Autonomous Republic of Komi in northern Russia, has received a second Let 410 turboprop aircraft to add to its fleet.

It can accommodate up to 19 passengers, has fully digital communication systems and ample luggage space which is expandable via partitions.

The company’s ceo has confirmed that the aircraft will be used for the regional transport of passengers to towns in the locality.

Komiaviatrans currently has plans to add a third Let 410 aircraft in the upcoming months that will offer varied capabilities for passengers, freight, parachute and medical missions.

ception, I am confident that this aircraft will deliver the comfort, technology and range that our customers rely on when flying with VistaJet. “Our Think Global strategy and commitment to provide point-topoint global coverage includes providing the best aircraft option for our customers’ intercontinental and transcontinental travel needs, always with guaranteed availability.”

Elsewhere, VistaJet is celebrating the official inauguration of its Malta operations centre. The island was singled out as having the efficient infrastructure and English-speaking workforce needed to grow the aviation industry in the region.

A ceremony to mark the opening was attended by dignitaries of the Maltese government, including prime minister Dr Joseph Muscat and the minister of tourism.

Flohr says: “As we continue to grow our fleet, we expand our international footprint in parallel. In addition to being an excellent geo-strategic location for our European operations centre, Malta is backed by a very service-oriented government that is

focused on growing the aviation industry presence on the island.

“The attendance of the prime minister at the opening ceremony underlines the high level of commitment towards the success of the Malta aviation growth initiative. We are confident that this was the right move for our company,” he says.

Accountable manager for VistaJet Nick van der Meer adds: “We’ve recently completed the transition of several operations teams to Malta, gathering key functions under one roof, essentially creating a nucleus for all activity that directly touches our fleet of aircraft. The local support we’ve received throughout the critical set-up and launch phase of this move has been fantastic and key to on-time completion of this project.

“Over 75 VistaJet employees now work in the Malta office and we already have five VistaJet aircraft under Maltese registry. We will add another Global 6000 jet to that count before the end of this month.

We have no doubt that VistaJet’s significant presence in Malta will be a great success.”

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Henley puts the emphasis on utility with Bell 222s South African operator Henley has been encouraged by the performance of its latest acquisitions, two Bell 222 UT (utility) helicopters, which it is using for the transportation of gold bullion and platinum from mines in range of its base in Rand, Johannesburg. The totally refurbished aircraft can accommodate up to six passengers and have fuel capacity to fly in excess of 90 minutes.

The helicopters have skids rather than wheels, meaning there are no mechanisms in the undercarriage for landing, and this has meant that a further 400 pounds of fuel can be added to the sponsons. Despite this, the overall weight of the latest helicopters is lighter than the B and the A model formerly used by Henley.

Andre Coetzee, Henley ceo says that the UTs have been performing “exceptionally well” and cites the factors involved in the investment: “These aircraft are far cheaper and the acquisition cost was quite low. In terms of maintenance they are a historically well-supported machine in South Africa.”

Achieving a first: president and ceo of Daher-Socata Stephane Mayer, Voldirect ceo Frédéric Caussarieu, regional director of the civil aviation authority for western France Yves Garrigues and senior vice president of Daher-Socata airplane division Nicolas Chabbert.

Voldirect leads the way for single engine commercial passenger flights Continued from front page

alternates. It says it has demonstrated an ETOPS-like level of reliability, but going from one to zero engines as opposed to going from two to one.

In total the AOC process has taken over two years, with four people working on it.

Voldirect is also the first commercial operator in France approved to replace its printed aeronautical charts with iPad 3 electronic documentation.

Concludes Caussarieu: “I would not turn back to what it was before,

even if I was aware of the length of the road which we had to go through to get the private operation to the commercial and public. It’s a long road but it does really help to create a secure operation and it does really create a much more competent organisation.”

EASA has set to work on developing its rules to allow this type of SE-IFR operation. It is engaged in a consultation process and will report back later this year. The evolution of SE-IFR has already been adopted by the United States and Canada. EBAN spoke to Marc Bailey of BBGA about the reaction in Europe and within his organisation to the latest news:

“Voldirect would have had to put a robust case through, so I would have no issue with what’s being proposed through a proper regulatory process.

If you’ve got statistics to tell you what the engine shut down rate is, and do everything through your risk assessment, the risk moves down into the bottom corner. They have obviously done their homework and made a good proposal with it.

“But all of it requires a review, a safety management system and doing a risk assessment for what you do. So I think it will make people think whether there’s a market for it. It really does then stack up with the finance numbers.

“I’ve certainly not received anything which suggests that the Germans, French, Danish and Swiss are reacting unfavourably. No one is saying this is ridiculous, this is unsafe.

I’ve only ever heard the pragmatic.”

The TBM 850 aircraft type is meanwhile proving itself capable of robust service: Abalone Group, a private operator which took delivery of its TBM 850 only last month, says that the aircraft has already logged 100 flight hours and is increasing efficiency in its operations. “Our teams appreciate having more productive time and reducing stress and fatigue,” says project manager Sacha Moutel.

Andre Coetzee, ceo of Henley.

The operational benefits are another positive factor: “It has made our current operations a lot easier, it’s streamlined it and in terms of revenue, instead of having to lease these machines, we own them now.

They are really cheap to insure, have a proven track record and are pretty simple to fly as well. So we’re really chuffed with them.”

Coetzee also indicated that despite the economic problems that have plagued many operators, Henley is optimistic about the market: “For the business we are very upbeat, we have seen a change since the beginning of the year. It’s still not fantastic but we have definitely seen an upswing in business charter specifically. And we service a very specific niche with these machines, so we’re hoping to expand on that.”

Bristow Group to install TCAS II in 44 helicopters Bristow Group, which provides helicopter transport services for offshore oil and gas and government operations, is retrofitting a fleet of 44 helicopters, including Sikorsky S-76 C++ and Sikorsky S-92A, with Rockwell Collins’ TCAS II system. The system is certified for industrystandard ‘unknown vibration levels’, meaning it can be installed on any helicopter platform.

Rockwell Collins has already seen its TTR-4000 TCAS II system fitted on 24 Bristow helicopters, and within the next year the TTR-4100, which adds traffic computer capability and enables Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), will be installed in a further 20.

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Pride of fleet flies again for Royal Jet following $9 million refit A BBJ owned by Royal Jet is ready to take to the skies once more, following its $9 million upgrade and refurbishment.

The jet is one of six BBJs in the Royal Jet fleet and will perform corporate and vip private charters across the globe from its base in Abu Dhabi. The upgrade is timely, as the operator is predicting the busiest summer in its 10-year history.

“This aircraft is now the pride of our fleet after her return to service,” says Shane O’Hare, president and ceo.

“This is the second such upgrade to our fleet and is part of our strategy to ensure that we continue to raise the benchmark in the private jet travel market. All our BBJs are individual and are five-star luxury flying hotels.

“The professionalism of our engineers and staff from quality assurance, installation and the

Royal Jet seeks to provide the luxury of a five-star hotels onboard its BBJs.

procurement teams was reflected in this product and we are confident that our guests will appreciate the thought that went into upgrading it.

“The reason for the ongoing refurbishment of our fleet is to keep

our fleet interiors fresh and modern,” O’Hare adds. “At this end of the market, we must always keep up with customer expectations and offer the very best in cutting-edge technology and luxury.”

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6 JULY 2013

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Titan’s IOSA accreditation marks 25th anniversary Titan Airways, based at London Stansted Airport, has passed IATA’s operational safety audit, and is now IOSA registered. The achievement coincides with Titan’s 25th year of operation.

The assessment is comprehensive and takes into account both the operational management and the control systems of an airline, covering everything from cabin operations, through engineering to on the ground and flight operations.

Paul Woodman, Titan’s technical director, says: “IOSA is a stringent safety and quality audit programme and is recognised throughout the industry. Our new registration will certainly have a positive influence on our development.

“In the lead up to the IOSA audit, we carried out a rigorous internal evaluation of all processes within the operational and commercial departments where organisational management and safety were concerned, to verify that the IOSA standards were met and that the organisation’s safety management system was fulfilling its objectives.”

According to Woodman, it was all worthwhile: “The process clearly proved its worth and we are very proud of our performance.”

DRF Luftrettung opens hangar and updates rescue aircraft DRF Luftrettung is extending its reach in rescue mission aviation by opening a new operational base at Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden airport.

Among the 400 invited guests at the opening ceremony were figures from the fields of politics, healthcare and the charity sector. The new maintenance hangar houses 11 docks with optimal repair facilities for DRF’s fleet of Eurocopters and Learjets and the base will also allow it to build on its flight training programmes Helmut Nanz, chairman of DRF, spoke at the opening ceremony: “Today, DRF Luftrettung is setting the standard in European air rescue.

More than 100 missions of the red and white helicopters every day speak for themselves.”

The company is enhancing its fleet by replacing its Bell 412 and BK 117 helicopters with the more advanced EC145 T2. The T2 is ideally suited to night missions and will be ready Monacair ceo Gilbert Schweitzer with Hublot chairman Jean-Claude Biver and Elie Zaidan, Monacair president.

Monacair teams up with Swiss watchmaker Hublot for the Grand Prix weekend To mark the visit of the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix, vip transport company Monacair unveiled helipads in the principality marked with Swiss luxury watch company Hublot’s stylised ‘H’ signature. The special ‘H’ was removed once the Grand Prix weekend was over, providing Monaco with brand new black and white helipads.

Alongside the helipad design, Monacair was offering a unique package to guests of the Grand Prix that planned to arrive by helicopter, including vips, press, residents and visitors. These were all greeted with a

red carpet and a welcome gift from Hublot and Monacair.

Formed in 1988, Monacair has been the company of choice for transporting HSH the Prince Albert II of Monaco since 1999 and prides itself on a personalised service. The Prince was present for the ‘H’ unveiling, as was Hublot chairman Jean-Claude Biver.

Monacair ceo Gilbert Schweitzer says: “We have known each other for a while and are clearly made of the same wood. Monacair and Hublot are known for their dynamism – we are both combining luxury, excellence

and conviviality. Monacair and (parent company) SkyGroup like to be as precise as a Swiss watch.

“Hublot told us that they thought in the past of personalising the heliport but did not manage to. We loved the idea and did all in our power to make it succeed.”

Schweitzer adds: “We are proud of this original and successful event, which highlights Monacair’s values and reflects our expansion, as we have a new hangar built in Monaco, upcoming hangars in Cannes, and are increasing our fleet with a new N3+ and another EC155 B1.”

DRF chairman Helmut Nanz speaks at the opening ceremony.

to commence HEMS operations in 2014. In the coming weeks a Learjet 45 will also be launched as a new air ambulance.

Reliability leads Aerowest to look at more Sovereigns

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German operator Aerowest is in talks with Cessna to bolster its fleet with two more Citation Sovereigns in December this year, and is also considering a Falcon 900 to meet an increased client demand for heavier jets. The company has taken the decision having been delighted with how its two recently-acquired Sovereigns have been performing.

Aerowest already had an XLS+ and an Encore+ and runs ambulance and freight missions in addition to its passenger offering. However, client demand for greater range and a more expansive cabin has created a need for additional investments.

Despite some early mishaps with the EFIS in the Sovereigns, chief pilot Wolfgang Karlstetter (pictured front page) reports that Aerowest is

enjoying “flawless” performance from the new additions. “They are very good and very reliable, they are both flying extremely well,” he says.

The Sovereigns are kitted out with a double DVD system, a music system and hot catering is on offer.

Flat beds are also available to passengers. Both the cockpit and the cabin have wi-fi access along with a satellite phone. “We have everything you need for safe flying,” Karlstetter promises.

He adds: “We are running the Sovereigns as passenger aircraft but sometimes we do ambulance flights.

We have a big ambulance business so sometimes we transport our medical team. We recently flew a human organ from Athens to Dusseldorf in the Sovereign.”

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Moscow-based BJET has taken delivery of a Challenger 300 jet, the 400th aircraft of this model produced

by Bombardier. Alexey Butrimov, ceo of BJET, says: “We are delighted to have this aircraft join the fleet, which includes the Global 5000, Global 6000, Challenger 605, Challenger 850 and Learjet 60. The Challenger 300 is a well-respected jet that delivers true performance. We’re excited to start flying customers in our newest jet.”

Jacopo Borghi, commercial and government sales regional manager for AgustaWestland, with Susanne Hessellund, Bel Air md.

Bel Air picks another AW139 Danish operator Bel Air has taken delivery of an additional AW139 helicopter, which will enhance its offering in offshore transport to North Sea oil and gas installations.

The aircraft is able to accommodate up to 15 passengers and will perform long range offshore flights in addition to wind turbine support. Set for EASA certification in the coming months, the AW139 will join Bel Air’s fleet as part of the company’s expansion plan to run six helicopters of this type.

So far the AW139s operated by Bel Air have been delivering exceptional availability and reliability, with more than 8,000 airborne hours flown since 2009 and more than 640 airborne hours last month. These were logged by a total of four aircraft with a maximum of 192 airborne hours on one aircraft. Since starting up offshore operations with the AW139, Bel Air has achieved 99.6 per cent ontime flight schedule and performed more than 26,000 landings.

JULY 2013 7

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Comlux completes the set with ACJ321

Amjet’s Capt Abakar Manany took delivery of a Falcon 7X in April.

Amjet Executive selects OnAir to provide full inflight connectivity Amjet Executive has installed OnAir technology in its Falcon 7X, making it the first operator of its kind to run these mobile and wi-fi products onboard its aircraft.

Amjet took delivery of the Falcon 7X in April, and connectivity services have been up and running since May. Chairman Capt Abakar Manany speaks of the benefits the technology will bring to passengers: “It is certainly a pleasure to fly on our aircraft, but it must also be productive time. Your office needs to go with you and an integral part of that is being able to stay in touch, both by phone and email, as if you were on the ground.

“We selected OnAir because it is the only company that can provide both GSM and wi-fi connectivity for business jets, everywhere in the world.”

Manany says the company is still young yet has a wealth of experience among its staff and promises to deliver “efficiency in privacy.” As a pilot, he believes he understands the needs of passengers and jet owners alike and is part of a management team with decades of business and commercial flying experience.

Comlux has acquired an ACJ321, making it the first company to have operated every model in the corporate Airbus A320 family. Currently in Indianapolis being fitted with a vvip cabin, the ACJ321 is due for completion in 2014, when it will be added to Comlux’s fleet of five Airbus corporate jets. Engine efficiency, reliability and spacious cabins are just some of the reasons behind the decision to opt for this model, and Comlux has sufficient ramp space for the aircraft.

Richard Gaona, president and ceo, says of the acquisition: “Comlux has established a reputation that is synonymous with comfort and luxury, and the Airbus ACJ321 will enable us to offer our customers even more of that in the air.”

Gaona also indicates why Comlux has stayed loyal to Airbus: “We have operated the Airbus ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320, so the ACJ321 brings a new dimension to our fleet while also being an easy addition, because of its cockpit and maintenance commonality.

“This is an important year for Comlux because we are celebrating our 10th anniversary. We started to

Comlux ceo Richard Gaona speaks at the ACJ321 unveiling.

operate the ACJ family in 2006 and to date we have flown more than 15,000 charter hours on our Airbus fleet. This record is a great

achievement for a private jet operator and shows the sustainability of Comlux in the large-cabin business aviation market.”

Gama adopts Web Manuals for paperless documentation Gama Aviation’s Middle East division has signed a contract with Swedish company Web Manuals which will enable it to use Web Manuals’ iPad application and electronic flight bag systems.

The systems will control Gama’s documentation, legal compliance and operational agility and Gama crew will have instant cockpit access to all relevant manuals. Going

paperless will also save on cost and reduce environmental impact.

Dave Edwards, managing director for Middle East and Asia of Gama Aviation, comments: “Paperwork is a double-edged sword for business aviation companies.

“As we introduce improved and evolving systems, whether it’s on safety management or on customer service, the volume of information we

carry on board increases.”

Edwards adds: “We have been looking for a way of streamlining this process to improve the access to information for our crew which benefits our aircraft owners and the regulatory authorities we work with.

Web Manuals understands our business and responds quickly – it is a really simple and straightforward system to use.”

Expansion plans swing in to motion for Elitaliana Elitaliana has signed a preliminary sales contract with AgustaWestland to purchase three new generation AW169 helicopters. The Italian firm ordered three such aircraft in 2011 and will now be able to follow through on its expansion plans, with additional bases due in Italy and abroad.

Elitaliana currently operates from the Lazio and Calabria regions and runs 24-hour emergency medical service missions alongside SAR, utility and passenger transport.

The AW169 is well suited to such missions as it is able to accommodate two stretchers either longitudinally or transversely.

The cabin can also hold wheeled stretchers. The specification of the aircraft lends itself well to Elitaliana’s operations as it delivers high performance and is equipped with the latest in rotor and avionics technology.

Giampiero Pedone, md of Elitaliana, says: “We believe the allnew AW169 helicopter, with its modern design, safety standards and mission capabilities, is the ideal solution for the future of our aeromedical transport and rescue operations.

The partnership established with AgustaWestland is now even stronger and will provide a major contribution to a further growth.”

All four AW169 prototypes are now flying and the model is set to achieve EASA certification by the summer of 2014.

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8 JULY 2013

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

DEA completes TCAS upgrade programme

Henry Beckwith (left), director of Pacific Helicopters, with his team in front of the B3e Squirrel.

Pacific puts ‘unique’ and sturdy Squirrel to work for cost-conscious passengers Pacific Helicopters has acquired a Eurocopter AS350 B3e, using UKbased Aerospace Design in Denham to perform a contemporary interior fit on the aircraft. The Squirrel is an improvement on the EC120 formerly used by Pacific, and offers a wider array of safety features as well as delivering more power. The company specialises in moving vip customers around, under the AOC of UK-based operator Elite Helicopters. Previous clients have included notable personnel from Formula One. The Squirrel will also be used to fly banners over major cities in conjunction with HOBS Banners.

Director Henry Beckwith explains the investment: “We had our EC120

for six years and decided that our clients would probably prefer to have something a bit sturdier, a lot more powerful and faster. The Squirrel is safer too, because the extra power gives that much more flexibility in terms of taking off much quicker and gaining altitude faster. With the extra power we’ve been able to install a lot more on the aircraft in terms of safety.

“The new aircraft will be able to pull the banners along, whereas the 120 was slightly underpowered. The B3e has obviously got extra safety features and we liked the Eurocopter product, so it’s a natural stepping stone up.” Beckwith also points out the rise in the number of customers who are willing to travel in single-

Demand drives Rizon to enhance commercial access to the US Rizon Jet, which has headquarters in Doha, Qatar, has announced that it has achieved certification as a FAR Part 129 foreign air carrier in the US. The news comes after the company underwent a lengthy application process and was approved by a handful of governing bodies including the US Department of Transportation and finally the Federal Aviation Administration. As a result, Rizon will now be able to run less restricted transatlantic operations.

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Al-Mousawi comments: “An increasing demand from our client base for transatlantic flights deemed it essential to invest in fulfilling the strict operational requirements demanded of FAA Part 129 certification. Our success in achieving this means that we can now offer our customers hassle-free travel arrangements, consistently high standards, privacy and discretion, not only for flights within the Middle East, to Asia and Europe, but also to the US.”

MHS Aviation appoints Otto as managing director MHS Aviation, a subsidiary of Munich-based Aviation Investment, has appointed Andreas Otto as its md.

The move comes in response to an increase in aircraft sales transactions over the last 18 months which has prompted former md Steffen Fries to concentrate on the financial and brokerage side of the business. Owner and founder Gerd Brandecker says: “We have completed 11 transactions over this period and see an increasing demand for one-stop solutions from purchase via finance to the operation of the aircraft,” he says.

Control of MHS as an operator will now pass to Otto, who says: “I am proud to continue the growth of MHS with a team of highly motivated experts. There are always challenges but with our flexibility, customer oriented organisation and financial strength I am convinced we shall build on the success achieved so far.”

engine aircraft: “We’re picking up new clients, maybe people who would rather travel in a Squirrel than an EC120. I think a lot of people make that decision and if they are happy to fly in a single then this is an ideal aircraft, because there is a market for those that don’t have to have a twin.

“They get the cost-saving of travelling in a single, and they are usually quite educated passengers in terms of knowing that a single won’t get in too much trouble. The new engine in the B3e is that much more reliable, it’s not stuck in the past in terms of needing a second engine.”

Pacific has created a unique aircraft by teaming up with Aerospace Design, which has fitted it with the

Garmin G500H and Cobham HeliSAS 2 axis autopilot, and believes it is the first helicopter in the UK to have these two technologies installed. The Squirrel has a fully glass cockpit with traffic collision, 3D topography and a full night kit and auxiliary fuel tanks have been added in light of the extra power output. As to the future, Beckwith predicts a steady growth: “We want to take on a wider range of clients and to be able to perform the Heliban operation ourselves down the line.

“In the economic downturn people will be wanting to tighten their purse strings and going down the single engine route would obviously help achieve that aim.”

Diamond-Executive Aviation has completed the fitment of the final Avidyne TAS615 traffic collision avoidance system to its Diamond DA42 fleet. The programme, carried out by RGV Aviation, means that all 10 of DEA’s DA42s, and the Cobham/OSRL Islander are now fitted with TCAS 1 functionality.

Head of flight operations John Dundon says: “TCAS 1 capability adds a significant enhancement to DEA’s safety systems. Although the probability of two aircraft colliding is statistically remote, it has happened, especially in procedural airspace where aircraft are flying very precise tracks only separated in time, and sadly it has happened even in airspace where radar services existed.

“Given that we are often flying in relatively close co-operation with other DEA aircraft on the same mission and also flying on special operations where our intent and purpose is not necessarily understood or appreciated by other aircraft, TCAS functionality is a major enhancement to safety and situational awareness.”

The TCAS upgrade follows DEA’s WX500 Stormscope upgrade programme that enables all of its aircraft to see and avoid thunderstorm related activity.

Peter Bondar, DEA’s ceo, adds: “Since our inception we have preemptively pioneered new technologies. Regulatory authorities have acknowledged this strategy by readily granting increased operation privileges and operational coverage.

In addition we will be adding ADSB (Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast) support to all our aircraft as soon as the new hardware is available.”

Vienna operators opt for fully integrated Swiss maintenance service Art Aviation and International Jet Management, both based in Vienna, have signed deals with Jet Aviation for maintenance provision.

Art has being flying since 2012 and it already has a notable fleet of long-range aircraft, including two Bombardier Global XRS, two Global 6000, a Boeing BBJ1 and a Dassault Falcon 900EX and Falcon 7X. All of these aircraft will now be routinely maintained by Jet Aviation in Geneva and Basel, and line maintenance has also been offered at Moscow Vnukovo.

“It is important that we have been able to affiliate ourselves with Jet Aviation, which has the experience and capability to serve all of our aircraft types,” says Art md Tim Hurworth. “Art Aviation’s goal is to offer a fully integrated service that is focused on the quality and safety of its flight operations with the preservation of asset value under management. With the established line maintenance support offered in Moscow, Jet Aviation has the proven ability to ensure Art Aviation keeps its aircraft operational.”

An inventory of critical spare parts for the Bombardier aircraft will be kept at the Moscow base in order to minimise flight hours lost.

International Jet Management is to have its managed aircraft fleet maintained by Jet Aviation in Basel.

The agreement between the two companies means that the aircraft management and charter firm, celebrating its 10th anniversary this

Signing an amicable agreement are Jet Aviation’s MRO sales director EMEA Oliver Bergsch and Art Aviation’s Tim Hurworth.

year, will be provided with line and base maintenance.

IJM’s fleet comprises two Bombardier Globals, one Challenger 850, two Challenger 605, one 604, two 300, one Learjet 40, one Citation Excel, seven Falcon 900, one Falcon 2000 and a Gulfstream V. The bases it operates from are Vienna, Moscow, Riga, Nice, Milan, Paris, Zurich, Geneva, Dortmund, Almaty, Manila and Dubai.

“We wanted an MRO provider that offered a wide scope of services and solutions to support our fleet’s range of aircraft types,” says md Robert Schmoelzer.

“As a factory-authorised service centre for Bombardier, Dassault and Gulfstream, Jet Aviation Basel provides warranty support for all of our aircraft under one roof, optimising aircraft operation and maintenance efficiency.”

JULY 2013 9

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

thanks to the loyal client base of corporate and leisure travellers whose continuing support of our business has aided this achievement.”

PrivateFly.com expands French operation

Julie Black, Chapman Freeborn vip and executive charters manager, aboard a GIV.

AgustaWestland ceo Daniele Romiti and sales manager John Parnell, Starspeed chairman David Voy and AgustaWestland sales manager Andrea Mirteto.

Starspeed signs up for second AW169 Starspeed, which has its headquarters at Fairoaks airport in the UK, has signed a preliminary sales contract to obtain an additional AW169 helicopter after previously placing an order for one last November.

“The AW169 is just the product to meet our demands,” says chairman

David Voy. “Corporate customers first and foremost look for speed and supreme levels of comfort; they need operations to be available at short notice, potentially anywhere in the world, with a minimum of additional support. They demand the highest standards of safety and reliability and

expect justifiable purchase costs.

“Our own early faith in the potential of the AW169 has been further endorsed with the confirmation of this order.”

The aircraft will perform vip missions in the UK and is scheduled for certification in 2014.

Global Jet believes 50EX with ProLine is a first Tim de Meijer is helping clients access remote airfields.

NextGen is first to fly P2006T in Benelux NextGen Aviation Group, of Antwerp, has brought its Tecnam P2006T twin into service, making it the first aircraft of this model to be flown in the Benelux region.

The aircraft is part of NextGen’s fractional ownership system, and will be put into the rental market. It is also available for multi engine recurrent training, being pitched at clients who are looking for an affordable multi-engine aircraft.

NextGen supports aircraft owners wishing to rent out their machines, offering logistical aid and the P2600T is the latest recruit in this initiative.

NextGen ceo Tim de Meijer believes the twin prop is a new generation of aircraft: “The P2006T is a great aircraft because it can operate at every airfield within Belgium. It’s also equipped with the Garmin G950, which is a great experience for the pilots who nowadays prefer to fly with a glass cockpit.”

As for the fractional ownership system, de Meijer adds: “We want to help clients access cheaper private aircraft that can operate to almost every airfield. We are going to perform some recurrent checks on it and place the aircraft on the aerial survey market as a rental aircraft, because we have equipped the aircraft with two camera holes. Because of its low speeds we can also do some high tension pipeline inspections.”

Global Jet has taken delivery of a Falcon 50EX that has been repainted and refurbished following a major technical overhaul in May. Global Jet believes the aircraft to be the only one of its kind kitted out with ProLine 21 avionics.

It has a nine-seat cabin with entertainment system and is capable of landing on some of the shorter runways, including St Tropez and London City. It also has the potential for transatlantic travel with a range of up to seven-and-a-half hours.

Global Jet’s marketing department comments: “This new addition to the fleet follows the expansion strategy we have been working on. Since the beginning of the year 10 new aircraft joined our fleet, eight of them available for charter. Our fleet now counts more than 65 aircraft which confirms the major role we play in the private aviation market.”

Aircraft recently added to the roster include two G550s, able to accommodate up to 14 passengers and based at Moscow Sheremetyevo, a Falcon 2000Ex EASy and a Hawker 900XP. The number of Global Jet’s flying hours has remained stable

compared to last year. The operator’s office in China has been intent on developing the business in Asia while its presence in the Middle East, Russia and Europe is also on the up.

Its sales department comments: “Being able to offer the two jets [G550s] to our clients is an additional selling strength. Added to our current fleet, they will allow us to answer more requests, and to reach further destinations non-stop. Our clients trust us and we are always looking for new ways of pleasing them.”

Chapman Freeborn is partnering with luxury property agent ONE Authentic Properties, which is responsible for some of the most exclusive properties in France. The two companies plan to offer a vip package encompassing flights and accommodation, so providing an all-inclusive travel service.

Vip and executive charters manager for Chapman Freeborn Julie Black says: “I was totally enchanted by each ONE villa and their surroundings. They are all in incredible locations and each has its own unique style and feel. I immediately realised that these offer perfect retreats for our clients.”

UAE leads the way Broker Private Jet Charter has released figures showing that UAE is responsible for 20 per cent of its air charter business in the Middle East. PJC’s founder Hugh Courtenay comments: “We have created a dedicated portal for the UAE market.

“We are proud to say that we are the only private jet company in the region with an online system that gives instant and accurate price quotations in several languages, including Arabic.”

Football fixtures bring in the bookings Air Charter Service reports that its booking team is busier than usual for this time of year, after the fixtures for next season’s English domestic football leagues were released.

Manager of ACS’s commercial jets department Alex Sadat-Shafai comments: “With coach driving times anywhere up to eight or nine hours each way for some trips, a chartered flight of around an hour makes a lot more sense. There are certain teams in the extremities of the country that regularly use aircraft charters for their matches, especially when there are midweek games involved.”

Hunt & Palmer makes Times top 200

Léonard Bertholet, charter sales director of Global Jet.

BBGA and BACA join forces to deliver seminars at BGAD The British Business and General Aviation Association and the Baltic Air Charter Association will collaborate to deliver a set of seminars at this year’s Business and General Aviation Day (BGAD), which is being held at Cambridge Airport’s newest hangar on Tuesday 17th September.

The seminars will cover a broad range of topics, including: ‘The changing buying habits of the business aviation customer,’ ‘Border Force,’ ‘Business aviation training and apprenticeships,’ ‘Illegal chartering,’ ‘Changing perspectives in the UK and European markets,’

Chapman Freeborn allies with ONE

PrivateFly.com, which recently announced its 100th French customer, has added four dedicated French-speaking staff to its team, as part of its continuing initiative to offer a multilingual service. The appointments include operations assistants Julien Molinel, previously of Air France, and private banking and aviation specialist Davide Paladino. In addition PrivateFly.com has recruited Astrid Arminjon, who previously worked in marketing for football club Olympique Lyonnais, and Mehdi Dialmy, who has a master’s degree in aerospace management.

Ceo Adam Twidell comments: “France is one of Europe’s top three private aviation markets and we have ambitious growth plans for customers and partners there.”

and ‘CAA – flight data monitoring and the significant seven.’ The partnership between BBGA and BACA is notable because between them the associations represent operators and charter brokers.

BGAD itself will display 60 booths manned by a wide array of business aviation organisations. Visitors will have the chance to experience the cabins of the business aircraft on display such as the King Air 200 and Phenom 300, and can also take part in PrivateFly’s BGAD ten-pin bowling challenge. For full details of the day please visit www.bgad.aero.

Hunt & Palmer is to feature in The Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 league table, after reporting robust international sales of $42.1 million in its last financial year, end 2011. This figure is more than double the $20 million international sales figure reported in 2009.

Sales for the last reporting year were boosted by the recent acquisition of Premier Aviation (UK), which specialises in providing air charter flights to major rock acts such as Sting and Eric Clapton.

Jeremy Palmer, chairman of Hunt & Palmer, comments: “We are delighted to be included in The Sunday Times HSBC International Track 200 and we offer our sincere

Air Partner’s ceo Mark Briffa.

Air Partner partners with Imagination Air charter broker Air Partner and global creative business Imagination have pledged a formal relationship to each other. Air Partner will provide bespoke private aviation services to Imagination Aviation’s 18 international offices, from which it services clients such as BlackBerry, Shell, Samsung and Prada.

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Xclusive selects Leon while SaxonAir invests in AeroTrac

AIRCRAFT NEWS...

Nextant pairs with FortAero for sales Nextant Aerospace is appointing FortAero Baltic Business Aviation Alliance as the exclusive sales agent for Russia and the CIS. The company has placed an initial order for two 400XTs valued at $11.4 million. FortAero has more than 16 years of experience with the Russian and CIS business aviation market.

Piper fits Seminoles with G1000 Piper Aircraft has received type certificate approval from the FAA to incorporate the Garmin G1000 avionics suite into new twin-engine Seminole aircraft models for delivery beginning this year.

“The G1000’s design brings enhanced levels of pilot situational awareness and simplicity to the Seminole cockpit,” says Piper president and ceo Simon Caldecott.

Dassault stays connected with Gore W L Gore & Associates’ leaky feeder antenna has been selected by Dassault Aviation for its Falcon 7X jet, enabling OnAir’s in-flight system to deliver GSM connectivity.

Bell plans ‘short light single’ Bell Helicopter is returning to the ‘short light single’ engine helicopter market with a five-seat entry-level aircraft expected to complete its first flight in 2014 and with certification to follow.

“Bell Helicopter is no stranger to the SLS market,” says John Garrison, president and ceo.

“However, we needed to create a new, modernised aircraft to meet

the requirements of five-seat utility, training, private, and law enforcement operators.”

Beechcraft offers G58 with ISR Beechcraft Corporation is offering the Baron G58 with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The first such aircraft was recently delivered to the Fuerzas Unidas de Rápida Acción (FURA), a Puerto Rican police agency that will use the aircraft for law enforcement surveillance.

Gulfstream opens in London Gulfstream Aerospace has opened a sales and design centre in Mayfair, London. The 510 sq m facility is the first of its kind outside the US and will give international customers access to Gulfstream’s sales and design staff. Customers can also use its visualisation software DesignBook, which displays a cabin in real time on a touch-screen monitor or tablet computer screen.

SyberJet selects Utah SyberJet Aircraft has chosen Cedar City, Utah, as the location for its headquarters and SJ30 assembly plant. Chuck Taylor, president, comments: “Our expansion in Utah, coupled with our existing San Antonio operations, will allow us to fly new SJ30s off the runway at the Cedar City Municipal Airport.”

David J Grant, chairman of SyberJet’s parent company MSC Aerospace, says: “Our decision to locate the SJ30 assembly facility and headquarters in Utah is a result of the incentive package offered and the pro-business climate that exists in the state.”

AW189 enters production AgustaWestland’s new generation AW189 eight-tonne class helicopter has entered full scale production, with two offshore-configured aircraft now on the final assembly line. With EASA certification expected this summer, the first two offshore AW189s will be delivered by the end of the year.

The AW189 flight test programme has amassed more than 1,500 flight hours so far using four prototypes and two pre-production airframes.

AgustaWestland has already received orders for over 70 units.

Akbar Al Baker, ceo of Qatar Executive.

Qatar Executive granted AOC in its own right Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has awarded Qatar Executive, a branch of Qatar Airways, its own Air Operator Certificate, independent of its parent company.

The move will offer the Dohabased firm greater flexibility, along with the scope to expand its global reach and fleet of jets.

Qatar Executive had used Qatar Airways’ AOC for its first four years of operations. This latest development will still allow it to have the support of the five star group, while also further developing its corporate division.

Furthermore, it is an indication of its robust safety provision and high operating standards.

Qatar Airways ceo Akbar Al Baker, responsible for the company’s private jet division, says: “The accreditation of Qatar Executive’s own AOC by Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority is a testament to our group’s high

standards of safety, security and attention to detail in all operational aspects. This accomplishment is a proud moment in Qatar Executive’s relatively short history and will open up extensive business opportunities for our growing business aviation service portfolio on a global scale.”

The Qatar Executive fleet currently boasts three Challenger 605, two Global 5000 and one Global XRS, all of which will enjoy greater operational flexibility under the new certificate thanks to the security offered by the QCAA. Next on the radar for Qatar Executive is to seek international audits in line with the International Operational Safety Audit standards, in addition to the regular audits carried out to the specifications of Qatar Airways and the QCAA. Such developments will provide a firm basis for expanding the fleet and the business at large.

UK-based Xclusive Jet Charter is investing in Leon Aviation Operations Control software to support its aircraft operations functions.

Plans are afoot to expand Xclusive’s business and md Steve Loveridge believes that the installation of this software will smooth the process: “We are delighted to be working with Leon. The implementation will help us meet our objectives by replacing existing systems with a fully integrated solution offering even greater efficiency, enhanced control and a reduction in data duplication.

The software will provide the capability to accelerate processes and allow for future growth.”

The package will streamline Xclusive’s operational, commercial and financial business processes, integrating all transactions. This means data can be shared across screens in multiple areas of the business and it is expected to lend the company’s functions a more disciplined and consistent touch.

Now that it has secured a contract with Leon, Xclusive is entering talks with CAMP, which is recognised for its maintenance tracking platform. With the Leon system linking to the flight planning systems in use (ARINC and PPS), it is hoped that CAMP will synchronise with Leon. This would further streamline operations and provide the necessary infrastructure and efficiency to achieve growth.

Meanwhile, SaxonAir Charter is investing in TracWare’s AeroTrac Aviation MRO process control software in order to streamline its business processes and save on cost.

The software package integrates transactions and lends a more disciplined approach to day to day tasks, something that Alex Durand, SaxonAir ceo, is keen to praise: “We are delighted to be working with TracWare. AeroTrac will help us meet our objectives by replacing existing systems with a solution offering greater efficiency, enhanced control and a reduction in data duplication.

The software is EASA compliant and will provide the capability to accelerate processes, allowing for future growth.”

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

Farnair operates dedicated passenger and freight aircraft. The company reports that demand for transport of automotive parts has dipped.

Freight – combining passengers with parcels makes business sense Many charter operators are not onedimensional in their approach and combine their passenger ops with carrying cargo. Passenger charter operators can use freight as a useful additional source of income and this approach has become increasingly important as passenger numbers have declined.

While for many operators freight is never going to be a realistic major source of income – as seen with German operator AirGO and its mono-fleet of executive Avantis – a number of operators, such as Switzerland’s Farnair, run separate passenger aircraft as well as dedicated freight carriers. Added to this, there is a whole mass of companies that can supply an efficient service for fast transport of time-critical cargo.

One aircraft type that is particularly useful for mixed missions is the Beech King Air series. EBAN spoke to Andrew Lee, formerly of UKbased Jota and now with Oryx Jet, who indicates that the demand for freight is very much driven by timecritical events, as opposed to there being upwards or downwards trends in recent years: “Sometimes if a manufacturer is bringing out a new car, there may be a sudden spike in demand for aircraft charter bringing items from Spain or elsewhere in Europe to the UK plants. Or, at the end of production they may have run out of some items so again there’s another spike. I know that Jota were busy last year during the harvesting of crops, providing spares for the farm machinery. So that’s seasonal. But I don’t know that there’s a trend as such,” he says.

With cargo, it’s all about achieving the quickest turnaround Lee also points out the profitability of freight: “If you have a situation where you are flying passengers from the UK into Europe one way, then rather than your aircraft coming back empty, you then as operators can send out availability reports to the charter brokers, and you might get a freight enquiry from a broker in Germany if that’s where your aircraft has stopped. You can pick up a freight flight, perhaps back to the UK. So that’s all about making good use of the aircraft.

“Freight can avoid empty legs. If there is an opportunity to bring back a box of rubber washers for the automotive industry, then that’s

Minutes count in cargo transport, according to Andreas Wald.

Andrew Lee sees time critical events driving demand for freight services.

making good utilisation and it’s cost effective as well.

“I think freight is profitable.

There’s definitely a market in Europe for the automotive industry, and medical isotopes is big business in Europe as well. There’s also things that have a shelf life and have to be moved quickly so there is definitely a market there for those situations. Having that ‘go now’ response of one hour for freight is still very much needed.”

In many cases operators will have dedicated freight aircraft to call on for these missions. Lee does, however, explain that when these freight carriers are busy, it can be time to put to work an aircraft usually dedicated to passengers: “It’s a case of maximising what you can do on your aircraft.”

EBAN also spoke to a selection of operators who combine their passenger operations with freight, in order to find out the factors involved in running mixed missions. A point that frequently emerged was that a significant number of operators run freight as well as passenger operations and do not reconfigure seating between the two types of mission: “All of our passenger fleet has decent interiors and we have no wish to degrade their condition and effect our passenger service levels,” explains Jota md Andy Green. Green does, however, emphasise the important role played by cargo in running a financially efficient operation, because it is usually oneway only and allows Jota to link flights together.

Avanti operator AirGO only accepts cargo which fits in luggage compartments or can be secured in

the cabin without damaging the interior of its Piaggio fleet, while Spanish operator Flightline no longer reconfigures its aircraft since obtaining its EMB120; this is exclusively used for passengers, leaving a Metroliner to handle the freight. There are some exceptions though – ProAir of Germany removes seats to make space for its

automobile cargo, and likewise African operator Tanzanair has easily removable seats, cargo nets and straps available for freight. More unusually, Walt Air, operating from Sweden, is prone to reconfiguring its King Air 300 and Citation XLS aircraft if the need arises. Both of these aircraft ordinarily have luxury interiors but depending on the size of the load – provided it can fit through the aircraft door – Walt Air will transport it, saying that taking out seats “has not presented any big problem” and that it will fly back to home base before carrying passengers once more.

In order to facilitate a profitable mixture of freight and passenger services, operators place great emphasis on the training of their staff, with specific qualities required for cargo pilots. “The main challenge is mind set, especially that of the crew,” says Jota’s Andy Green. “A typical passenger flight will involve hanging around for at least four hours at an FBO. With cargo, it’s all about

achieving the quickest turnaround. It can be a bit stressful and requires a certain type of pilot. One pilot told me he was waiting as fast as he could.

That’s us in a nutshell.”

ProAir also highlights the increased flexibility required in a pilot who is operating urgent freight charter when it comes to ground handling. “Minutes count and ProAir is aware of it,” says general manager Andreas Wald.

Freight forwarders and charter brokers are the principal sources of cargo missions, because they understand the job at hand. “It’s much easier dealing with brokers, as they understand the interface between ground transport and air transport and the paperwork required,” remarks Green. Tanzanair finds that much of its business comes through mining clients but also cites UK and US brokerage houses as sources of work.

Operators also point out the importance of having a large cabin door through which they can load awkwardly sized packages. Jota’s dedicated King Air freighter has a 1.6m door and another King Air model, used as a ‘passenger’ aircraft in the fleet, can carry cargo in the rear hold, nose locker and wing lockers, allowing it to merge passenger and cargo in a single aircraft.

There has traditionally been a big market for freight in the automotive industry as previously mentioned, and Jota lists this as a significant part of its operations, along with organ transport, as they “basically carry spare parts.” Automotive activities used to occupy around 80 per cent of Farnair’s work but nowadays this has been reduced to around 35 per cent. ProAir likewise names the automotive industry as a key element, combined with other time-critical cargo like humanitarian and AOG parts. Flightline still maintains a healthy 60 per cent of its business in cargo missions, with the rest coming from passengers.

It seems that, despite the occasional preconception that passenger travel generates the most profit, there are financial gains to be made by the prudent incorporation of freight missions into an operator’s flight schedule. ■

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12 JULY 2013

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

SWITZERLAND REGIONAL REVIEW

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

Sion becomes Aircelle ceo Aircelle has named Martin Sion as its new chairman and ceo, following his confirmation at a meeting of the company’s board of directors. Sion, 44, has pursued his entire professional career within Safran companies, with substantial time spent at the Société Européenne de Propulsion, now part of Snecma.

Lawrie to lead Jet-Care ops Jet-Care has promoted Jim Lawrie, former engine programmes manager, to a newly established position as operations manager for the UK. Lawrie will be responsible for the provision of the engine performance monitoring by Gas Path Analysis (GPA) service to aircraft owners and operators around the world, and will also manage the Jet-Care staff involved in the delivery of this service.

Air BP signs with Grupa Lotos Air BP, the aviation fuel services division of BP, has signed an agreement with Grupa Lotos to form a new joint venture to manage the supply, logistics and marketing of aviation fuel in Poland. Air BP will buy 50 per cent of Lotos Tank, the wholly owned aviation subsidiary of Grupa Lotos, making Air BP and Lotos equal shareholders in the company.

ASB welcomes the art world Air Service Basel’s FBO at the Euroairport in Basel-Mulhouse

reported an extremely busy period during this year’s Art Basel fair from 10-16 June. It supported visiting jets and their vip passengers during this international art world gathering, and handled more than 230 private and business aviation movements, peaking at 50 arriving and departing flights a day.

South African centre to expand Oboronprom and Denel Aviation have signed an agreement to increase the range of services offered by the service centre, opened in South Africa in March this year, that provides maintenance and upgrade of Mi-8/17 helicopters. Located at Denel Aviation’s facilities in Johannesburg, the centre will provide comprehensive maintenance services. It will also become a leading regional hub, providing after sales care and maintenance services for all Russian-built helicopters in the sub-Sahara region.

P2006T simulator enters service SoftekSim has achieved EASA certification for its Tecnam P2006T flight simulator. The simulator meets JAR-FSTD A requirements for FNPT II certification and is now in service with Lithuanian-based Baltic Aviation Academy.

The simulator is an exact replica of the P2006T cabin and instrument panel, enabling training organisations to practise flight procedures and navigation flights, along with VMC and IMC training.

African Air Expo launched at Cannes Airshow.

Adone launches African Air Expo Adone Events is launching a new African aviation exhibition, African Air Expo, to be held in the Ghanaian capital Accra at Kotaka International Airport from 9-11 October 2014.

The event is expected to draw exhibitors and delegates from across the sub-Saharan region, with a mix of general, business and commercial aviation exhibitors on its 150 booths. The show will be modelled on the Abu Dhabi Air Expo, also organised by Adone.

TAG executives welcomed EBACE with a display of contemporary art. Pictured are president of TAG Aviation maintenance and FBO/handling services Franck Madignier, president of TAG Aviation Europe aircraft management and charter services Graham Williamson, TAG Farnborough airport ceo Brandon O’Reilly and ceo of TAG Aviation Holding and TAG Aviation Europe Rob Wells.

Charter retains its appeal to customers as Switzerland turns the economic corner The strong banking sector, international government and business conferences and scenic resorts for the rich and famous in Switzerland have always ensured that business aviation has flourished. Indeed it could be said that the country provided the seedbed for the whole continent’s business aviation development, spawning some of the first chain FBOs and multinational operators.

That market dominance has recently been put under pressure by unfavourable currency exchange rates and the rise of the industry in other corners of Europe, but Switzerland retains its central role.

EBAN’s Swiss readers are responsible for well over 500 aircraft – jets, turboprops and turbine helicopters – and the airports there are among the busiest for business movements.

Data from WingXAdvance.com shows that Switzerland has seen a small decline in private aviation flight volumes over the past year. Flight departures from the country fell by 5.5 per cent in May 2013 versus May the previous year, compared with a

Rainer Schurr and md Claude Neumeyer of Nomad.

2.7 per cent decline across Europe as a whole.

The picture year-to-date in 2013 is similar, although it appears the decline may be slowing a little.

Switzerland as a whole has seen 19,940 flight departures so far in 2013 – the fourth largest number in Europe behind France, Germany and the UK. This represents a four per cent drop year-to-date, equating to a loss of 165 flights per month.

Germany and Italy are leaking faster

however, with falls of 4.9 per cent and 8.9 per cent respectively.

Switzerland has a higher proportion of charter flights than Europe as a whole, with 45 per cent of its May 2013 unscheduled departures being on chartered aircraft, (versus 40 per cent across Europe). A further 45 per cent were privately-owned or fractionally-owned aircraft, again higher than average.

One reason for this is because just 10 per cent of departing flights from Switzerland were for other noncommercial purposes such as medical, government, military, or training flights, compared to 22 per cent in Europe as a whole.

However when you directly compare charter versus private (owned or fractional) flights, charter is proving more resilient to market decline. May 2013 saw just a 2.3 per cent reduction in volumes for the charter segment against May the previous year, whereas a much bigger drop of 8.5 per cent was seen for private or fractional flights.

So charter’s share is increasing, albeit within a smaller pool of

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

JULY 2013 13

Business aviation in Switzerland by the numbers

SWITZERLAND REGIONAL REVIEW

18

business aviation airports

Major business aviation airports* 1. Geneva 2. Zurich 3. Bern Belp 4. Sion 5. St Gallen-Altenrhein

LSGG LSZH LSZB LSGS LSZR

GVA ZRH BRN SIR ACH

Rega’s air ambulance missions rose by 21 per cent in 2012.

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

88

business charter operators

Leading fixed-wing charter operators** 1. TAG Aviation 2. Global Jet Concept 3. Nomad Aviation AG 4. ExecuJet Europe 5. ZEPTAIR

Leading helicopter charter operators** 1. Karen SA 2. Heli-Alpes 3. Heli Bernina 4. BB Heli AG Zurich 5. swiss skyways services ** ranked by number of aircraft for charter

53

business aircraft maintenance organisations

Leading maintenance companies*** 1. Jet Aviation Basel 2. Cessna Zurich Citation Service Center 3. Jet Aviation Geneva 4. AMAC Aerospace 5. RUAG Aviation Lugano

Leading TRTO training companies*** 1. Karen SA 2. Air Espace 3. Fly 7 Executive Aviation 4. Sky Unlimited 5. Gribair *** ranked by number of aircraft types covered

520 business aircraft on HB the Swiss register Data extracted from the Handbook of Business Aviation, and the EBAN reader roster.

flights overall. This underlines the Europe-wide trend from fractional users towards charter. The flexibility and cost-effectiveness of charter have grown in appeal since the recession and new business models within charter now make it more attractive and accessible, as the WingXAdvance.com data implies.

In Switzerland, domestic flights and connections with France, Germany, UK and Italy are the most important. Geneva to Le Bourget is consistently Europe’s most frequented route for business aviation. Switzerland has an increasingly high emphasis on business jets. Turboprops and piston aircraft are suffering more from market decline, with departure

PrivatAir’s senior vp of business aviation Christian Hatje, director of charter sales Nathalie Beuchard and director of aircraft management and aircraft sales Yann Nado.

volumes down by 13.6 per cent and 14.8 per cent respectively in May. Flight volumes in business jets fell just 1.9 per cent.

Adam Twidell, ceo of PrivateFly.com, says: “We see with PrivateFly’s clients that they choose larger aircraft when flying in or out of Geneva. Sometimes this is due to higher passenger numbers, but there are also those looking to raise their game with a more impressive aircraft.

“Despite most of its routes being just a one to two hour flight time, it’s the larger business jets that are growing in flight departure volumes for charter from Switzerland, despite the overall decline. It’s clear that when it comes to choosing a business jet in Switzerland, size matters.”

Twidell adds: “The biggest yearon-year growth has come in the ‘bizliner’ category with 22+ seats, which experienced particularly high demand in May 2013. Year-to-date it’s also apparent that there is a growth in demand for bigger aircraft, with ultra long range, heavy jets and super midsize all increasing in flight volumes so far in 2013, while smaller aircraft are seeing decreasing volumes.”

The exception is the entry level category, which includes Cessna’s popular CJ1. As is the case across Europe as a whole, it is the middle of the market that is suffering most.

In addition to the CJ1, the other aircraft types seeing year-on-year growth in May were Dassault’s Falcon 7X and Falcon 2000 and Bombardier’s Global Express.

For EBAN’s report we took soundings from a few of Switzerland’s

business air charter operators. A round up of the activities of a selection of operators in the last 12 months runs as follows: Nine new aircraft have joined TAG Aviation’s 53-strong global charter fleet this year, including the Nextant 400XT. It has extended its programme of ultra long range flights in addition to its charter business jets. “Our charter and managed fleets have continued to grow despite the challenging economic climate,” says Graham Williamson, president of TAG Aviation Europe aircraft management and charter services. “Our strategy has been focused on delivering quality flexible and innovative products and services. This has helped to develop strong and lasting relationships with our customers.”

Eckl is in “high demand and producing a nice number of hours.”

Eckl does not single out any team member from SkyWork’s small team of seven people, but instead says: “Everybody is the most important.

Without 100 per cent commitment from every team member it is not possible to be successful.”

It has been an impressive year for Comlux as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2013. Having started its business in Switzerland, the brand is now branching out across the globe (its latest bases are at Hong Kong and Shanghai) and provides a comprehensive range of services to high net worth individuals, governments and corporations.

This year, Comlux has bolstered its fleet with a Boeing BBJ available for charter, and it has also added one

Global 5000 and one Global 6000 to increase the Global fleet to six.

Richard Gaona, president and ceo, summed up his company’s achievements: “With 650 employees, five commercial offices, four operational centres, 21 aircraft in service and a brand new completion and maintenance facility in Indianapolis, Comlux the Aviation Group is one of the few organisations able to serve its customers from acquisition, to cabin completion, to operations, up to maintenance support, and does all of this with a fully customised approach.

“Our growth during the last 10 years could not have taken place without the loyalty of our customers, the motivation and dedication of the employees demonstrating the highest levels of safety and operations, and the vision and determination of the shareholders.”

Nomad’s fleet is 14-strong and includes five Challenger 604s plus its newest acquisition, a Gulfstream G-450 which, according to md Claude Neumeyer is “performing fine.”

Nomad has increased its flight hours in the last 12 months and plans to consolidate the fleet in the year Continued on next page

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Turboprops and piston aircraft are suffering more from market decline TAG’s full-service offering in integrated aircraft management, charter services, FBO and handling as well as maintenance continues.

Each year, 4,000 aviation professionals are trained by TAG Global Training, which has now been running for over five years.

SkyWork’s fleet comprises three aircraft: a Citation Ultra, a King Air 350i and a King Air 90GTx. The 350i is the most recent addition and according to sales manager Marco

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GlobeAir sponsors Bol d’Or Mirabaud GlobeAir AG co-sponsored the 75th edition of the prestigious sailing regatta Bol d’Or Mirabaud, which has been held on Lake Geneva since 1938. The event ran from 14-16 June and is reputed as a laboratory for advanced sailing.

GlobeAir’s cmo Mauro de Rosa says: “We were proud to be part of the Bol d’Or Mirabaud regatta, a historic event for all passionate sailors, particularly during this 75th year. For us, passion is one of the most important ingredients in what we do and this is where we see a good synergy with the sailors and the event: you need a lot of passion

GlobeAir’s cmo Mauro de Rosa.

to sail at such a high level and we had the chance to meet with 3,000 passionate people at Geneva.

“They are passionate about sailing, passionate about speed, and in addition they hold many of the same values as we do. The Bol d’Or Mirabaud was a unique event, where GlobeAir had the possibility to meet prospective customers, while simultaneously offering competitive rates for all those flying in and out of Geneva to attend the regatta.

“For us, Geneva represents one of the most important hubs in Europe, with more than 500 flights a year. The event has been a fantastic opportunity for us to develop our business and continue to grow in this market.”

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EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

SWITZERLAND REGIONAL REVIEW Continued from previous page

ahead. It also has plans under way in Malta to establish and certify its sister company Nomad Aviation (Europe) for continuing freight and passenger operations.

PremiumJet operates heavy, medium and light jets from bases including Bern, Zurich and Basel, as well as Stansted and Turin. This year it has embarked on unusual flights to the Andes and the south west Pacific Ocean and has also taken on a number of privately operated aircraft, exclusively flying the owners. Its philosophy is to grow with caution and not to over-expand and compromise on quality; it cites the importance of its team pulling together and operating as a unit as a crucial factor in its success.

Rega, which operates as Swiss AirAmbulance, enjoyed a busy 2012, with its missions rising by 21 per cent to 847. Along with its headquarters in Zurich it has 13 helicopter bases throughout Switzerland and its fleet is considerable in size: 11 AW109SP Da Vincis plus six EC145s and three Challenger CL604s. Medical missions are its sole domain, with its remit encompassing EMS, HEMS and medevac services. The Challengers are well suited to emergency functions and are fitted out as intensive care units. Rega did embark on an unusual flight recently when it flew one of its Challengers on an ‘around the world’ mission. This took a week to complete and spanned 23,323nm and 56.5 flight hours.

Another significant development

Comprehensive data for Switzerland online free-of-charge The 2013/14 Handbook of Business Aviation, Europe, Russia, Middle East and Africa Edition, was published in May, and gives details of many more Swiss 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

PremiumJet’s sales director Marcel Wepfer, ceo Peter Hartmann, cfo Fabio Hausammann and maintenance director Heiner Bernhard.

this year has been the installation of a GrandNew full flight simulator with full Swiss aviation authority (FOCA) approval. The simulator was installed

by AgustaWestland.

PrivatAir has several facets to its business, including scheduled

services, business aviation and PrivatTraining. From its Geneva headquarters it runs passenger flights and its charter fleet comprises Boeing and Dassault jets, including its latest acquisition, the BBJ2.

In the past 12 months it has announced collaborations with FL3XX technology and iSportconnect.

The iSportconnect deal will link PrivatAir with sporting executives.

Nathalie Beuchard, director of

charter sales, comments: “PrivatAir has a long history of providing charter services to sports teams around the world. Our partnership with iSportconnect will give us access to high-level sports events and the opportunity to network with the top sports business executives. This is an excellent way to explore this market even further.” The FL3XX Charter & OPS System has streamlined the process of booking,

and according to senior vp Christian Hatje: “It unloads our sales team from the most trivial work.”

PrivatAir has recently flown an unusual mission to the Troll Research Station on Antarctica, landing a Boeing 737 on the continent for the first time. The aircraft touched down on a 3km runway of glacial ice, 235km from the coast.

Plans are under way to grow its aircraft sales team and PrivatAir is also looking to launch its own concierge service which will offer logistical support to passengers and enhance its flight services. Special mention has been given to Hatje for the way he has revitalised the business during his two-and-a-half year tenure. ■

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EBAN spoke to Derek Hanlon, an aviation veteran with 40 years flying experience, about his time with ExecuJet and his experiences in the industry: Where and when was your first job in business aviation?

At the Dubai Airshow in 1989 I was part of a manufacturer’s sales presentation. I was told not to say anything to potential buyers as the sales people were the experts at sales talk – however one of the customers recognised me from my days in the RAF and greeted me like a long-lost friend! He was a sheikh high up in government, and the sales staff asked me to help them out!

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aircraft. So I was very lucky. Today people have to remortgage houses to pay training fees of $100,000, with no guarantee of success at the end.

Repeated training just gets you more into debt.

What aviation role have you enjoyed the most over the years?

Going to so many different airports for the very first time without embarrassing myself – well not too often anyway.

In what ways has business aviation changed over the years?

There are two main ways. The first is

Are there any anecdotes you wish to share?

Derek Hanlon

mobile phones. It used to be that once you were in the hotel bar, you were safe from ops and owner, but that is no longer the case. It’s not just 24/7, but every 60 minutes in 24/7 as well! The other would be GPS. It has made route flying so much easier and more accurate. Gone are the days of tracking a non-directional radio beacon on a relative bearing indicator. To the unenlightened it is a black art involving mental arithmetic, while the coastline, night-time and thunderstorms try to kid you that you are somewhere else!

What advice would you give to youngsters starting out in business aviation?

Don’t do it! Training for my first Airline Transport Pilot license cost me about $250, due to military flying, some of it in civilian type

There are a few. After one flight a regular passenger remarked that it was a very good flight: “because nothing happened.” Maybe he has a point!

On another occasion a very wellknown pop star arrived at the aircraft in a gorgeous red Bentley, then hopped on board for his twohour flight. When we arrived at his destination, his driver was not there to collect him. We waited for some time for the car to arrive, and he was getting a little concerned. Finally the car arrived – a gorgeous red Bentley.

I said: “But sir, you could have saved a lot of money if you had just stayed in the car!” The pop star gave me a pitying look and replied: “Derek, I’ve got two.”

Finally, back in my military days, we were tasked to find radioactive dust. We did and then landed back at base. The ground engineer had been asked to assess how radioactive the aircraft was, so stood there with his meter. As we taxied in, he backed away slowly, then ran away! As we shut down the engines, we looked at each other and contemplated what fate lay in store for us…

EUROPEAN BUSINESS AIR NEWS

JULY 2013 15

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

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Coming up in EBAN August - Regional review of business charter: the Adriatic east coast.

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You can now place job advertisements free of charge on the EBAN web site – part of our extensive web portal which receives around 25,000 unique visitors every month.

These text adverts are cross referenced to information on your company from the Handbook of Business

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To find out more about this new service, or to book a position to appear in EBAN magazine, please contact Tricia Rotheram on +44 (0) 1279 714516 email tricia@ebanmagazine.com

ROYAL AIR FORCE NORTHOLT

ROYAL AIR FORCE NORTHOLT

RAF Northolt – HANGAR TO LET

LEASE OF LAND FOR THE PROVISION OF REFUELLING SERVICE FOR CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT

Requirement for the Provision of PASSENGER HANDLING SERVICES

By order of the Secretary of State for Defence

By order of the Secretary of State for Defence

Churchill Hangar at Royal Air Force Northolt is available to let by way of Formal Tender for a 5 year period from 1 April 2014 by way of Lease including up to a maximum of 1000 aircraft movement slots per year dependant on requirement.

By order of the Secretary of State for Defence

Royal Air Force Northolt is seeking a commercial solution for the provision of a Refuelling Operation for Civilian Aircraft flying in/out of RAF Northolt. The service will be provided only to those who request the service.

The successful bidder will also provide a PORTABLE FUEL FARM on land for which a lease will be granted for the period of 5 Years from 1 April 2014.

Royal Air Force Northolt is seeking a commercial solution for the provision of a Passenger Handling Service for executive passengers flying in/out of RAF Northolt.

The successful bidder will also provide a security team to process all civilian flights in accordance with the National Air Security Programme and RAF Northolt Security Regulations.

The requirement is for the period of 5 Years

A closed Tender is to be held by Defence Infrastructure Organisation on 9 December 2013. Tender documents will be sent out from week commencing 16 September 2013 to parties declaring an interest by 13 September 2013.

1 April 2014 to 31 March 2019.

There will be one open day for viewing on 3 October 2013. Proof of status and financial viability of proposed lessees is required.

13 September 2013.

Interested parties should write to: Mr George Kernaghan Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Ground Floor Zone F, MOD, Horse Guards Avenue, London, SW1A 2HB

A closed Tender is to be held by Defence Infrastructure Organisation on 28 November 2013. Tender documents will be sent out from week commencing 16 September 2013 to parties declaring an interest by There will be one open day for viewing 1 October 2013 Proof of status and financial viability of proposed provider is required.

Interested parties should write in the first instance to Mr George Kernaghan, Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Ground Floor Zone F, MOD, Horse Guards Avenue, London, SW1A 2HB

The Hangar totals approximately 3178 sq m (34210 sq ft) with a door height of 10.5 m and door width of 46 m.

There is, in addition, approximately 416.5 sq m (4485 sq ft) of ancillary storage and office accommodation. Only aircraft requiring a PCN of no greater than 20/R/C/WT can be accommodated in Churchill Hangar.

Applications from Corporate Aircraft Operators, Aircraft Aviation Companies, Aviation Maintenance Companies, individual owner operators or Consortiums of such will be considered.

Air Charter Services and Scheduled Services are NOT permitted at RAF Northolt.

Airfield Operating Hours: 0800 – 2000 hrs (Local) Subject to existing MoD limitations on civil aviation usage.

A closed tender is to be held by Defence Infrastructure Organisation on 21 November 2013. Tender documents will be sent out from week commencing 9 September 2013 to parties declaring an interest by 4 September 2013. Proof of status and financial viability of proposed lessees is required. There will be one open day for all viewings on 25 September 2013.

Interested parties should write in the first instance to Mr George Kernaghan, Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Ground Floor Zone F, MOD, Horse Guards Avenue, London, SW1A 2HB

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