Altitudes Arabia 27

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The FBO race is on DWC has ignited the market for regional operators N째27 December-January 2012/2013

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XP Pub TAG Bombardier-AA27_XP Pub TAG Bombardier-AA27 21/11/12 11:57 Page1

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CONTENTS

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78

110

93

■ Contents No.27 December/January 2012/2013

17

Editorial

19

Tarmac News – A bumper news section from around the world

68

Shopping – Luxurious gifts for every occasion

73

Timepieces – Simply Complications

78

Yachting – CRN 60m Darlings Danama

87

Art – Didier Chamizo

93

Legend – Bill Lear

100

Spotlight – Gainjet

105

Flying Options - Flying Cards

110

VNE - Falcon 2000 LSX

119

Interview – Aviation Horizons

13

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CONTENTS

14

123

Factory Tour – Gulfstream

131

Legend – Quentin Smith

137

Cover – Fixed Based Operations

142

Analysis - Middle East Traffic

147

Feature - Big Iron 2

158

Remanufacturing - Nextant

162

Pilot recruitment - ACASS

166

Design – Happy Design Studio

172

Motoring – Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel

179

City Guide – Dubai’s Hidden Treats

184

Destination – Como Shambhala Estate

194

Welcome Aboard

123

147

166

184

■ Contents No.27 December/January 2012/2013

Go Where Others Can’t.

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EDIToRIAL

A change is in the air The Middle East is gearing up for an exciting few days as MEBA 2012 swings into action at its brand new venue out at Al Maktoum International Airport within Dubai World Central.

I’ve spent the past few weeks talking to several of the future lease holders out there, particularly the major FBOs who will soon call DWC home and there is an air of anticipation and enthusiasm for not just for their new digs but what it means for the industry in general.

More than one will establish DWC as its global headquarters as it’s ideally placed to serve not only the Middle East, Africa and the sub-continent but also as a gateway from South East Asia to Europe.

We’ve seen phenomenal growth in recent years in the region’s commercial operators and airports with Dubai International Airport pouring $7.7 billlion into implementing the fourth phase of its expansion and Abu Dhabi Airports Company investing a similar amount to expand annual capacity to 40 million passengers while Sharjah plans to spend $136 million on upgrades and Fujariah has set aside $43.5 million.

Impressive figures and just as that paints a very clear picture as to the importance of our region as a global commercial hub, so too does the significant commitment shown by the emirate’s rulers out at DWC for the private aviation sector.

Sitting on 140 square kilometres of land, DWC will become the focal point of aviation in the region, not to mention the new home of the Dubai Airshow next year and MEBA which kicks off just after you receive this issue of Altitudes.

The MEBA show may only be in its fifth year but it’s already globally recognised as the biggest aviation business exhibition outside of NBAA and EBACE As MEBAA Chairman Ali Al Naqbi says in his column this month, the journey of a thousand miles which began as one step is now marching towards progress and prosperity.

See you at MEBA.

By Damien Reid

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NEWS TARMAC

AMAC AEROSPACE Delivers first BBJ 777-200LR to Middle East A Middle East client has taken delivery of the first ever BBJ 777-200LR made for a private customer from AMAC Aerospace. The aircraft was brought to AMAC by Aviation link, Saudi Arabia, who took delivery of the completed aircraft from AMAC’s facility in Basel, Switzerland following the conclusion of 19 months’ completion work, involving more than a combined 500,000 manhours. This aircraft features 29,000kgs of interior cabin weight, a total surface area of 265m2 with various spaces including private hallway, master bedroom, master lavatory, private lounges, majlis, cabanas, guest areas, staff areas and various galleys throughout the cabin. In-Flight Entertainment includes audio video on demand, monitors up to 64” size, Blu Ray players, live TV, star lighting, RGB mood lighting, external camera systems forward, aft, left, right and tail with zoom ability, a humidification system, SATCOM telephone

system, mobile phone usage via VoIP and Wi-Fi throughout the cabin. AMAC Group Chief Operating Officer, Bernd Schramm highlighted that the company’s strong relationship and regular open communication with Boeing were key in facilitating the on-time completion.

“AMAC is proud that we were able to re-deliver our first wide body completion project in time and on budget to the highest satisfaction of our customer,” he said.

AYLA AVIATION Captain Suleiman Obeidat joins team

Ayla Aviation welcomes Captain Suleiman Obeidat who brings with him 45 years of regional aviation experience

The board of Directors of Ayla Aviation Academy appointed Captain Suleiman Obeidat as a member of the board of directors and Chairman of the Board from October 1. Captain Obeidat is a renowned pilot with over 45 years experience in flying and aviation management. He has an impressive history with Jordan’s aviation industry which began with 18 years at the Royal Jordanian Air Force, 21 years with the Royal Jordanian Airlines (previously Alia), three years as the Head of The Civil Aviation Authority and three years as Chief Commissioner for the Jordan Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission. “Captain Obeidat is a tremendous asset for any organization to have on its board and we are honoured to have him as part of the Ayla team,” CEO Marwan Atalla said. “With his knowledge and experience in the industry, I have no doubt that he will support and sustain Ayla’s ongoing vision,” he added. “I am privileged to be appointed as the new Chairman. I am exceptionally proud to lead Ayla’s board into the future and I look forward to be a part of the academy’s continued accomplishments,” Captain Obeidat said.

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NEWS TARMAC

BRABUS High end customization of private jets and helicopters Brabus has made its name in tailoring high-end exotic sports and luxury cars for the past 35 years has moved into the world of aviation. Brabus Private Aviation offers exclusive interior design and manufacturing for executive jets and helicopters as well as the redesign and customization of existing aircraft. Brabus started with Bombardier and Embraer’s and has recently moved to into helicopters to fill what it says is a missing link between cars and jets. “The exclusive customization of aircraft is a logical evolution of our product portfolio,” the General Manager of Brabus Private Aviation GmbH, Constantin Buschmann said. “In the past we have been approached by a number of our customers asking us to design and customize their private jet or their helicopters because they wanted their exclusive cars and their aircraft to match,” he added. A high-tech in-flight entertainment system lets passengers communicate and enjoy all forms of modern digital media on high-end multimedia devices such as the Apple iPad or iPhone. Custom-tailored docking and charging stations ensure the perfect integration of Multimedia devices into the aircraft.

All Brabus Private Aviation services are certifiable in accordance with FAS and EASA regulations.

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NEWS TARMAC The new Execujet FBO at Dubai International Airport was the starting point before a half hour flight over the Hajar mountains and the Gulf

EXECUJET A Charity auction gave four keen bidders a taste of the high life Synching diaries is sometimes a near impossible task when you have friends who are as busy as yourself, which is why it has taken nearly 12 months for four long-term British ex-pat residents of Dubai to get together at the Execujet FBO at Dubai International Airport recently. The four gentlemen who are all long-time residents of the UAE attended the gala black tie British Business Group’s Annual Charity Ball held at the British Embassy last December. The highlight attraction of the night was a charity auction where many items including experiences that money normally cannot buy were put under the hammer for a good cause. One of those items was donated by Execujet and consisted of a luxurious flight around Dubai in Execujet’s own Falcon 900DX that’s also available for charter. The four Brits who placed the highest bid of five figures, finally got around to claiming their reward at Execujet’s newly expanded FBO. Formerly the Executive Flight Centre, Execujet has recently completed renovations on what is now the largest dedicated business aviation terminal in the Middle East.

The guests were treated to the full Execujet experience with a welcome from the staff who ushered them to their private pre-flight suite. Here, they enjoyed welcome beverages and canapés while being briefed on the technical aspects of the sleek Falcon 900DX before being whisked through security and into the awaiting fleet of BMW 750Li limousines on the apron which delivered the to the steps of the jet. Although the streamlined Falcon is capable of cruising at 48,000 ft and can top out well clear of commercial air paths at 51,000, for the experience, the captain maintained a steady 16,000 ft to maximise the stunning views over the desert city. The Falcon 900 is renowned for its speed and agility which was proven by its extremely short take off and within seconds was at cruising altitude. With the bubbly flowing and chocolate-coated strawberries the order of the afternoon, the group experienced life flying by private jet for the first time. “A truly wonderful experience and worth every dirham,” one of the four who preferred to remain anonymous said. Upon landing, the guests returned to the terminal where they could browse through the dedicated Dubai Duty Free shop and wait in their own private suite for their valeted cars to arrive. The new FBO gives Execujet an additional 12,300 square feet of terminal space which the company estimates will allow them to grow their business by up to 50 per cent.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013… Thierry Bare has joined ABS Jets as

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Technical Director. Thierry was formerly head of maintenance at Luxair…END

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NEWS TARMAC

MEBA Focus on VIP interiors, FBOs and Helicopters MEBA, which takes place from December 11 to 13 at Dubai’s Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, will focus on several hot topics this year. VIP interiors will enable companies such as Alsalam Aircraft Co, Gore Design, Sabena Technics and Delta Interior Design to showcase some of their latest evolutions in cabin design, engineering, completions and new interior systems. Rising traffic in the region has led to an increasing focus on facilities and with the spotlight on Business Airports, companies such as Royal Jet, London Biggin Hill, Rizon Jet, Jetex and Fujairah International Airport will be given the opportunity to promote their FBO services to encourage owners and operators of business jets to route through their airports. The Middle East has remained a stable and increasingly influential market in VIP Helicopters and Hawker Pacific are amongst the first to show their enthusiasm for the new Helicopters focus area. Michele Van Akelijen, Event Director at F&E Aerospace, said: “The demand for these products and services are strong, as anticipated we have generated a lot of interest in all three focus areas - enabling MEBA to become a one stop hub for an owner, operator or prospective buyer to be able to source, purchase, fit out and operate a business aircraft in the region.”

MEBAA Speakers announced for MEBAC Some of the biggest names in global business aviation have been confirmed as speakers for the 2nd Edition of the Middle East Business Aviation Conference (MEBAC) on the eve of MEBA. Organised by the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) on the eve of MEBA 2012, the conference has gathered 20 of the most prominent leaders in business aviation including the CEO of Qatar Executive Akbar Al Baker, Homaid Al Shemmari, Executive Director, Mubadala Aerospace and Rob Wilson, President of Business & General Aviation at Honeywell Aerospace to discuss regulatory issues, safety standards, illegal charter and developments affecting FBOs and OEMs in the Middle East. The conference will be opened on December 10, 2012 at The Address Dubai Marina Hotel in Dubai by MEBAA chairman, Mr Ali Ahmed Al Naqbi and is sponsored by Saudi Private Aviation (SPA). Opening proceedings will be Mr Akbar Al Baker, CEO of Qatar Executive who will deliver a keynote presentation on how business and commercial aviation can work together and independently to achieve optimal performance.

Following him will be Mr Homaid Al Shemmari, Executive Director, Mubadala Aerospace who will be delivering his keynote presentation on the integration of business aviation within the development of Abu Dhabi. Representing GCAA will be Mr Aws Al Khanjari, Executive Director, Aviation Security Affairs who will be part of a panel discussion on regulation in the industry. “As we draw closer to the end of the year, the 2nd Edition of our MEBAC Conference, as a precursor to MEBA 2012, is the perfect conclusion of a fantastic year for our industry,” the founding chairman of MEBAA, Mr. Ali Ahmed Al Naqbi, said.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013… A new Russian helicopter could put out a fire atop

24

the Burj Khalifa, a spokesman told the recent High-Rise Aerial Firefighting & Rescue conference…END

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NEWS TARMAC

RIZON JET Receives safety rating Qatari-based Rizon Jet has received the internationally respected Aviation Research Group/US (ARG/US) Platinum Safety Rating at its Doha facility. The rating is the result of independent evaluations and a weeks long audit, facilitated by NEXUS Flight Operations Services, the first facilitator of the ARGUS Platinum Safety Rating audits in the Middle East region that assesses candidate’s flight operations against industry best practices.

Rizon Jet is the first aircraft charter operator in the Middle East and North Africa to achieve ARG/US Platinum rating. “Our clients demand excellence and achieving the highest aviation safety rating has been our priority,” Chief Executive Officer of Rizon Jet, Captain Hassan Al-Mousawi, said.

“We are now one of a few Platinum rated operators outside the US and the only one in the MENA region and we are confident this will help us to stand out in what is a highly competitive marketplace,” he added. The ARG/US Platinum Rating requires a well-developed and fully implemented Safety Management System, which includes a clear and workable Emergency Response Plan, as well as effective policies, procedures, and recordkeeping for all major operational and maintenance aspects.“The rating is recognition for our consistently high flight safety standards, achieved by our dedicated and professional team in Doha.

We strive for excellence in every aspect of our business, but safety is of paramount important in this industry and we are proud to be acknowledged for our efforts,” added Captain Hassan AlMousawi. Forecasting a growth in demand for private business and leisure jet charter, Rizon Jet’s fleet comprises two Challenger 605, and a Hawker 900XP, with UK affiliate Oryx Jet providing access to additional aircraft, including two helicopters. Rizon Jet’s managed fleet includes a third Challenger 605, which is available for private charter, a Bombardier Global Express, and an Airbus A319 which is due to join on a private management contract in 2013.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013… Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Link has taken delivery

26

of the first BBJ 777-200LR to be completed for a private customer in the Middle East…END

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NEWS TARMAC

FLYING COLOURS Confirms first Saudi order

SAN MARINO AIRCRAFT REGISTRY State opening At a ceremony in San Marino on November 7, Ministers, dignitaries, officials and executives gathered to see the San Marino Secretary of State for Transport, Antonella Molaroni, officially open the San Marino Aircraft Registry. The ceremony included speeches from the Minister, the Director General of the San Marino Civil Aviation & Maritime Navigation Authority, Ing Marco Conti and the CEO of the Aviation Registry Group, Mr Jorge Colindres.

Following the speeches the San Marino Aircraft Registry was officially declared open with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Antonella Molaroni, The Secretary of State for Transport welcomed attendees to the event and explained that the official opening ceremony in San Marino was initiated so that local operators and aircraft owners are aware of the opportunities offered by the San Marino Aircraft Registry. She also advised that an “industry” launch of the Registry is to take place at the Middle East Business Aviation exhibition, MEBA, in Dubai on 11th December. The new Registry will initially focus on registering private aircraft and helicopters throughout the world. The Republic of San Marino recently passed a number of new laws regarding the registration of international aircraft and combined with the growth of Rimini/San Marino airport, and the recent increases in business aircraft movements, it was felt that the time was right to create a fully fledged aircraft registry. Under the new laws it is now possible for aircraft to be registered in San Marino under the name of the owner, ensuring that the process is completely transparent. Additionally registering an aircraft in San Marino will allow for operations throughout Europe while ensuring that all European Tax requirements are complied with.

Flying Colours has confirmed its first Saudi maintenance order ahead of this year’s Middle East Business Aviation conference. Scheduled to arrive in the first quarter of 2013 the Saudi registered Challenger 604 will undergo a variety of major inspections, service bulletins, and interior refurbishment at its Peterborough, Ontario, facility. Flying Colours Corp received the required maintenance approvals from the Riyadh-based General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in September and is now permitted to carry out continuous airworthiness and line maintenance on aircraft registered in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This first maintenance order from Saudi follows on the heels of the news that Bombardier has appointed Flying Colours Corp, and subsidiary US-based JetCorp Technical Services, as Authorized Service Facilities (ASF), for Learjet and Challenger business jets.

Combined with the GACA approval, and other existing approvals, Flying Colours Corp. is positioning itself as a leading maintenance service provider in the Middle East.

In addition it is already a key supplier of green completions, aircraft refurbishments, avionics installations and implementations of on-board connectivity solutions across the Bombardier Challenger, Global Express and Learjet families, as well as Dassault Falcon types.

GULFSTREAM Field Service appointment Gulfstream Aerospace recently named Sherman Collins to its staff of field service representatives (FSRs) in the United States. From his base in the San Francisco Bay Area, Collins provides technical and maintenance assistance to Gulfstream owners and operators in northern California. Collins, who has been involved in the maintenance of Gulfstream aircraft for more than 22 years, reports to Mike Quaid, manager, Field Service Operations, Western United States. Most recently, Collins spent 12 years as the director of aircraft maintenance for an air transportation company located in Dallas. The company operated a Gulfstream G550 during Collins’ last six years on the job and a GV during his first six years.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Avinode has predicted that business jet activity

28

will drop 3.2% in Europe and 0.1% in the US in 2013 according to their latest figures…END

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10.08.12 08:24

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NEWS TARMAC

AIRBUS NBAA debut of new interior An Airbus ACJ319 topped the cabin offerings at the NBAA show this year highlighting its extensive space exhibited within a similar external footprint to that of traditional biz jets. Operated by Comlux on VVIP charters, the Airbus ACJ319 entered service earlier this year and was shown at NBAA for the first time. It includes club seating, a conference/dining table, a lounge, two offices that convert to bedrooms, and two bathrooms – one with an ensuite shower. For night flights, most of the seats convert to beds.

Indianapolis-based Comlux America outfitted the aircraft, which seats 19 passengers “This year Airbus Corporate Jets have exhibited the widest and tallest cabin of any business jet on every continent except Australia and Antarctica, showing an even wider audience how to take even more of the comforts of home and office into the air,” Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy said.

Derived from the world’s most modern aircraft family, the Airbus ACJ319 has extra features such as additional fuel tanks in its cargo-hold, delivering intercontinental range - as well as the ability to fly nonstop throughout North America and one-stop to most of the world. More than 170 Airbus corporate jets have been sold to date to customers that comprise companies, individuals and governments.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Sikorsky and its representative in China, Avion,

30

celebrated a successful 15-year business relationship during the Zhuhai Air Show in China…END

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Al Bateen Executive Airport Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

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NEWS TARMAC

AL BATEEN Strong F1 week Al Bateen Executive Airport, the dedicated business aviation airport of Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC), witnessed a spur in traffic during the 2012 Formula 1 season. The executive airport recorded 210 total commercial aircraft movements during the F1 race period between 28th October and 5th November, with the 3rd and the 5th November being the peak days.

This growth represents a 38% increase in aircraft movements when compared with the same F1 race period in 2011. The executive airport welcomed aircraft from all over the world carrying VIPs, Formula One drivers and other prominent figures of the international community. In parallel to this traffic surge, Al Bateen registered a tangible increase in the number of visiting aircraft, which made up 63% of the total aircraft movements at its facility within the race season and recorded 42% increase compared to the period of 2011 race. In addition, the airport marked the 4th November, the day of the race, as one of the busiest days for the Al Bateen apron as it registered a 78% increase in number of aircraft on ground compared to last year’s race day, with a total of 32 aircraft either parked or on ground. At Al Bateen Executive Airport, racing VIP’s, celebrities and fans enjoyed a personalized experience from booking to touchdown by using the airport’s FBO, DhabiJet. The FBO ensures that ample staff were available to handle smooth turnarounds.

EXECUJET Middle East Award

The Execujet team with their award, taking the title in the International category for the second year running.

ExecuJet Middle East has been celebrating after the company’s Dubai MRO won the Bombardier Authorised Service Facility (ASF) Excellence Award in the International category for the second year in a row. The Bombardier ASF Excellence Awards are presented annually to Bombardier ASFs based on a set of 13 criteria including quality assurance, technical compliance and customer influence, as well as management and representative input. The ASF Excellence Awards are split into five categories comprising: Overall, North America, Europe and International Authorised Service Facilities along with a best Line Maintenance Facility. “ExecuJet Middle East is delighted to win the International category for the second year running. This accolade is further testament to the high level of service we provide at our Dubai MRO,” the Maintenance Director of ExecuJet Middle East, Nick Weber said. As a further achievement, the ExecuJet Dubai Fixed Based Operation (FBO) has enjoyed a bumper month with 560 movements at the facility – breaking the company’s previous record at the location. ExecuJet recently introduced full ground handling services at the Dubai FBO and expanded the facility by taking over the largest dedicated business aviation terminal in the Middle East. ExecuJet Aviation Group is a leading third party and independent maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) provider for business jets and supports a wide range of leading manufacturers including Bombardier and its Learjet, Challenger and Global business jets around the world.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…DhabiJet has signed an MOU with Falcon Aviation Services

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for the provision of cleaning services to all visiting aircraft at Al Bateen Executive Airport…END

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JET AVIATION Names owner of its first BBJ contract Jet Aviation St. Louis will induct its first BBJ, owned by Ty Warner, in April 2013 for scheduled maintenance and interior upgrades. The project includes the first installation of Boeing’s enhanced vision system service bulletins for an aircraft in private use. Jet Aviation St. Louis has prepared extensively to accommodate narrow body aircraft, expanding the facility over recent years and training its technicians at Boeing. “Teams of technicians have been sent to Basel to work side-by-side with their colleagues there,” notes Chuck Krugh, senior vice president and general manager, Jet Aviation St. Louis. “This hands-on knowledge means we have an experienced team to satisfy Ty Air’s high expectations. We also will utilize Basel technicians to augment our already capable maintenance, interior and avionics groups to provide the professional care and expertise our BBJ customers deserve.” Ty Air’s BBJ 700 will undergo its 12-year inspection and gear overhaul. Additionally, the main cabin interior will be removed to facilitate the inspections and be reinstalled. An Enhanced Vision System (EVS) will be installed per a series of Boeing and Rockwell service bulletins. This is the first time EVS has ever been applied to a BBJ aircraft in private service. “This project is a significant first for us. Ty Air was impressed by our partnership with Basel and by our one-stop shop capabilities in St. Louis,” added Chuck. “Now that we have the first aircraft signed, we expect this business to really take off.” Ty Warner is chairman, CEO, sole owner and founder of Ty Inc., as well as the owner of luxury hotels worldwide. Ty Inc. is the world’s largest manufacturer of plush toys, including the world-famous Beanie Babies, Beanie Boos and Beanie Ballz lines of plush toys. Mr. Warner’s philanthropic efforts are legendary, and he has donated millions of dollars to charities such as The American Red Cross, Save the Children and The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund.

QATAR AIRWAYS CEO address Washington policy makers Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker shared his insights on the airline and its unique position in global aviation during a keynote speech in Washington recently.

Addressing policymakers, students, intelligence officials and governmental leaders, the airline boss spoke of how the carrier was increasingly playing a pivotal role in the State of Qatar’s economic growth. He also spoke of the importance of Qatar’s geographical position in the prosperous GCC region, comprising of neighbouring Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Kingdom of Bahrain, Sultanate of Oman and United Arab Emirates. Al Baker was speaking at the 21st Annual Arab-US Policy Makers Conference in the US capital on the subject ‘Unprecedented Emergence of the Aviation Sector in the GCC’. Other speakers included His Excellency Mohamed bin Abdulla Al-Rumaihi, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United States; HRH Prince Turki Al Faisal Al Sa’ud of Saudi Arabia, former Saudi Ambassador to the United States; and the Honourable Jose W. Fernandez, the current United States Assistant Secretary of State for Economic, Energy, and Business Affairs. Al Baker said the GCC region stood apart as a powerful base in global aviation, spurring new alliances, international route expansion and uncompromising service standards. The GCC’s draw as a tourist destination and economic hub continued to fuel the region’s unprecedented growth on the world stage, he stressed. He spoke of how the rapid rise of Qatar’s national carrier Qatar Airways had developed an economic vehicle spreading the wings of the nation to countries around the world. “US exports to Qatar include aircraft, machinery, cars, trucks and agricultural products, as well as universities with American educational establishments in Qatar. Hundreds of Qataris study at US academic institutions every year, both in campuses in Qatar and across the United States,” Al Akbar said.

“We look forward to even more US investment in Qatar as we move forward with a National Development Strategy which is designed to improve infrastructure, real estate and medical facilities over the next decade,” he added.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Gulfstream has delivered its first super mid-sized

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G280 aircraft to a US-based manufacturer with a worldwide presence spanning 190 countries…END

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BOMBARDIER Launches new response and support units Bombardier Aerospace has announced two significant additions to its customer services network for business aircraft operators in the United States. Before the end of the year, Bombardier will deploy dedicated Mobile Response Parties (MRP) to seven regions.

Each MRP will be staffed by a crew of two, an avionics and a maintenance technician, and equipped with a customized truck carrying tooling to perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance at an operator’s location. Bombardier is also celebrating the inauguration of three Regional Support Offices (RSO)—all located with wholly owned business aircraft service centres in Tucson, Arizona, Hartford, Connecticut and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The three new offices join a worldwide network of RSOs that has now more than tripled in the last two years and includes a base in Dubai to cater for the Middle East. “We continue to grow the number of Bombardier Customer Services team members based at facilities closer to operators’ home bases, all in an effort to build local roots,” said Éric Martel, President, Bombardier Customer Services & Specialized and Amphibious Aircraft. “Our offices and Mobile Response Party teams will bring new support capabilities and will add even more flexibility to our existing network. The teams are dedicated to ensuring each operator enjoys the highest reliability and efficiency from their Bombardier aircraft,” he added.

DASSAULT Falcon 2000LXS launched Dassault Falcon has launched the Falcon 2000LXS offering improved airport performance, payload and cabin comfort compared to the Falcon 2000LX which it will replace in 2014. The 4,000 nm Falcon 2000LXS will allow operators to access more airports because of new full-length inboard slats which give the aircraft categoryleading airport performance and balanced field length.

“Customers are demanding more of their business jet and that’s what Dassault is delivering in the Falcon 2000LXS. Like all Falcons, the 2000LXS will offer the best fuel economy and the lowest operating costs in its category,” said John Rosanvallon, President and CEO of Dassault Falcon. “But, what also needs to be recognized is the continuous evolution and robustness of the Falcon 2000 platform which has set the highest of standards for comfort, reliability and efficiency in business aviation.”

With full fuel, the Falcon 2000LXS will have a payload of 2,190 pounds; a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 42,800 lbs with a balanced field length of 4,780 feet, which is over 1,000 feet better than some aircraft in its category. At M.80, the Falcon 2000LXS will offer a range of 4,000 nm (standard aircraft, full fuel, 6 pax, NBAA IFR reserves, 85% Boeing Annual Winds). It will climb directly to 41,000 feet in 19 minutes, reach a mid-cruise altitude of 45,000 feet and have a certified ceiling of 47,000 feet. With a typical end-of-flight profile, the Falcon 2000LXS will need just 2,575 feet of runway, no longer than that needed for a turboprop aircraft.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Bombardier has reached a significant milestone

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with delivery of its 200th Challenger during a special ceremony at its facility in Dorval, Québec…END

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FLYING COLOURS ASFs appointed to service Bombardier range Completions, refurbishment and maintenance specialist, Flying Colours have announced that Bombardier has appointed both its Peterborough, ON, Canada and JetCorp Technical Services, St Louis, Missouri, USA, locations as Authorized Service Facilities (ASF) for Learjet and Challenger business jets. Flying Colours works with directly with Bombardier carrying out completions work on its Challenger 850 and it is anticipated the ASF status will serve to further strengthen the relationship between the two companies beyond just completions. “We are honoured and proud to have both facilities joining the Bombardier Authorized Service Facility network. Bombardier’s confidence in the quality of work that Flying Colours Corp provides further demonstrates our continued commitment to develop quality and reliability in all our maintenance endeavours,” the President and CEO Flying Colours Corp., John Gillespie said.

GAMA GROUP Hawker Beechcraft support

ROYAL JET Strong Abu Dhabi GP week Royal Jet’s FBO and VIP Terminal facility reported its busiest weekend of the year for aircraft movements after it played host to a large number of VIPs, celebrities and motor racing enthusiasts during the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit. “For the fourth year running, the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix provided Royal Jet with an opportunity to showcase to the rest of the world our world-class and award-winning product and service,” the President and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Jet, Shane O’Hare said. “Our FBO and VIP facility complements Abu Dhabi’s acknowledged position as a superb international venue for world-class sports, arts and cultural events. “Handling such a large number of private aircraft movements so smoothly is very much a team effort, and so I want to thank Abu Dhabi Aviation, the Presidential Flight Authority, ADAC, ADNOC, Abu Dhabi International Airport Catering, Abu Dhabi Airport Security and Abu Dhabi Customs and police officials for their full support.” Royal Jet’s FBO is just three minutes by helicopter transfer or 10 minutes by limousine from the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, which is a major advantage for teams and spectators alike.

“For the large number of race team and spectator aircraft, our FBO service continues to be a unique offering,” O’Hare said. “This has helped us to enjoy an increase in business during the last three Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, and this year’s event has made it four consecutive years of success.”

Gama Group has announced an exclusive agreement with Professional Aviation Associates to hold consignment stock for European based Hawker Beechcraft aircraft.

The company held a signing ceremony at its Farnborough headquarters with US based Professional Aviation Associates (PAA) and it’s expected that the agreement will significantly expand the range of stock GSS holds for Hawker Beechcraft aircraft. “This exclusive consignment agreement ensures that GSS clients will have access to a wider range of Hawker Beechcraft spare parts, at lower cost and with much improved turnaround times,” said Neil Peters, Supply Chain Manager, Gama Support Services Ltd. Gama is already established as a Hawker Beechcraft Corporation (HBC) Service Centre, providing maintenance for King Air series, Premier jets and piston engine aircraft, enabling Gama to provide owners and operators with a complete service support package, including airframe, engine, design, modification, avionics and warranty coverage.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Abu Dhabi Airports Company has won the Frontier

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Award for Best Airport Operator of the Year 2012 at the Martinez Hotel in Cannes, France…END

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STRATAJET Open for UK charter Stratajet is now inviting select UK-based charter companies to add their aircraft to its new technology-driven marketplace.

Stratajet represents a solution to many of the inefficiencies in the private aviation industry, in particular the problem of empty legs and it claims it will be the only online brokerage platform that has the capability for real-time booking rather than simply quote generation. It is free for operators to use the service, comes with no risk and minimum upkeep is required following initial set-up. Aircraft are registered and managed in Stratafleet, an online web-application that interacts with Stratajet. Through Stratafleet, charter companies will also benefit from access to real-time airfield pricing and a number of operational tools intended to streamline workflow and make operations easier and more productive. Stratafleet’s unique technology enables charter companies to track and analyse profitability and utilisation of aircraft in real-time. Operators will be able to use this analysis to optimise their fleet and maximise their revenue potential on the Stratajet platform.

Stratajet eliminates duplicative work by integrating with operators’ existing operations software to obtain schedules automatically. In addition to its integration with Leon Software, whose clients will be able to take immediate advantage of the system, Stratajet has put tools in place to integrate with both internal and other third party operations software. According to the company up to 40 per cent of flights are empty legs.

GULFSTREAM Expansion plans at Brunswick Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. have announced plans to increase employment at its Brunswick, Ga., facility by approximately 20 percent in the next year to support growing volume in completions work. The site currently has 174 employees, including nearly 90 technicians. “Adding about 35 positions is significant growth for Gulfstream Brunswick and a boost to the community as a whole,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream Product Support. “As we grow, customers can continue to count on the personalized service Gulfstream Brunswick’s employees are known for and the outstanding interiors they produce.” Completions work includes the design, selection and installation of the cabin configuration and layout, furniture, seats, carpets and sidewall treatments, entertainment and communication systems, and galley and lavatory fixtures. Gulfstream Brunswick is home to a completions center and service center, and has approximately 55,000 square feet of hangar space. In 2011, its employees serviced more than 100 aircraft. Gulfstream Brunswick is conveniently located at the Brunswick Golden Isles Airport.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Gulfstream has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration

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to begin installing updated flight management system (FMS) software, version 6.1, on GIV series business jets…END

LEGACY 600, UN HOMMAGE AU LUXE ET AU CONFORT. Voyager à bord d'un jet Dalia Air est un pur plaisir. Notre mission est de vous faire vivre un voyage de haute qualité dans un confort absolu. Quelles que soient vos demandes, notre équipe est là pour vous accompagner 24h/24 et 365 jours par an.

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AIRBUS China order

MARSHALL AEROSPACE Business Aviation positions itself for future As part of the development strategy for Cambridge Airport and Marshall Business Aviation (MBA), it has been decided to bring together all business aviationrelated activities under the management of Steve Jones, Managing Director, MBA/MEA. For practical purposes, this will include the overall responsibility for the development of business aviation strategy, the management of business aviation, hangars and ramp facilities and the FBO which is currently franchised to ExecuJet. The Airport will continue to be responsible for the on-going supply of Airport Services, the care and maintenance of the facilities and the custodian of strategic airport development projects. Marshall Aerospace appointed Steve Jones as Managing Director of Business Aviation (MBA) and the business charter arm, Marshall Executive Aviation (MEA) in May this year.

Prior to joining Marshalls Steve was General Manager of Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi and prior to that served as Managing Director at Oxford Airport where he oversaw the launch of the Oxfordjet FBO. “This change is designed with our customers in mind and supports the plan to grow our overall business aviation traffic and create an important and successful business aviation hub,” Mr Jones said. “Through dedicated management focus, our existing activities will be combined and optimised, allowing for new products to be developed and launched within a high quality, ‘one stop shop’ concept. Marshall Aerospace, one of the country’s longest established aerospace firms, established in 1937, has an extensive array of type approvals recognised by national and international authorities, airlines, airframe manufacturers and defence agencies, enabling the organisation to design and certify modifications and perform maintenance on a number of civil and military platforms.

An Airbus ACJ319 with the fuel-saving Sharklet option has been ordered by a Chinese customer in the first deal for this version from the country. The order builds on the strong Airbus corporate jet presence in greater China where there are around 25 orders to date. Airbus corporate jets such as the ACJ318 and ACJ319 are already in widespread service in China, with operators such as BAA Jet Management, Beijing Airlines, China Eastern Executive Aviation, Comlux Asia, Deer Jet, Hong Kong Jet and TAG Aviation. “China is a relatively new market for corporate jets, as well as having one of the highest economic growth rates, making it a bright spot in today’s business jet market, especially at the top end where Airbus corporate jets serve with distinction,” Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy, said. “The Chinese business jet market also favours the ability to carry larger groups, for which Airbus corporate jets are especially well suited.” Airbus’ ACJ318, ACJ319, ACJ320 and ACJ321 share a similar length and wingspan with competing large business jets, but have the widest and tallest cabin, delivering unequalled comfort, space and freedom of movement. The wider cabin of Airbus corporate jets allows unique features such as a large circular table that converts to a square one, which is popular in cultures such as China’s because it allows the ideal arrangements for both socialising and playing games such as Mah Jong.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…The Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) and Maintenance,

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Repair and Overhaul (MRO ME) will take place on Jan 22-23, 2013 at the Dubai World Trade Centre…END

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BOEING Kuwaiti MAX order Boeing and Kuwait airplane leasing company ALAFCO finalized an order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX 8s valued at $2.0 billion at current list price. The order was first announced as a commitment at the Farnborough Airshow in July. “This is the first order for the 737 MAX from the Middle East, which is one of the aviation industry’s highest growth regions,” said Ray Conner, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are proud of the confidence that ALAFCO has placed in the 737 MAX, and hope to continue this partnership well into the future.” The 737 MAX is the new-engine variant of the world’s best-selling airplane and builds on the strengths of today’s Next-Generation 737. The airplane will be powered by new CFM International LEAP-1B engines.

Along with the engines, aerodynamic improvements to the tail and the new Advanced Technology winglet, the 737 MAX will reduce fuel burn and CO2 emissions by 13 percent over today’s most fuel-efficient singleaisle airplane, the Next-Generation 737. The 737 MAX will have the lowest operating costs in the single-aisle segment with an 8 percent advantage per seat over tomorrow’s competition. “Today, with rising fuel costs, the 737 MAX will provide operational cost savings to airlines in addition to being more environmentally friendly due to its latest quiet engine technology,” stated ALAFCO’s chairman and CEO Ahmad Alzabin during the Farnborough Airshow. “These are the advantages that airlines are looking for in the current competitive and demanding environment.” The order brings the total number of 737 MAX orders to date to 878.

EMBRAER Legacy 600 and EC155 feature in ‘Diana’ film An Embraer Legacy 600, operated and managed by LEA, together with a Eurocopter EC-155, arranged by Oxford resident Eurocopter UK, are to feature in a new film titled ‘Diana’, starring Australian actress Naomi Watts. Cast and crew from Ecosse Films, directed by award-winning director Oliver Hirschbiegel, took over the airport for an entire day on August 6 to shoot scenes covering the final two years of the life of Diana, Princess of Wales. The film, due for release later next year, will chart how finding true personal happiness allowed her to achieve her defining successes, as she evolved into a major international campaigner and humanitarian. This will be the second showing of an Embraer aircraft, filmed at Oxford Airport, to feature in an international film. Last year a FlairJet Phenom 300 was used by Oxfordshire-based film director Vicky Jewson for her latest action thriller Born of War, also due to premiere in 2013.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) and AVTECH Middle East have signed

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an agreement to offer aviation training modules for the first time in the region focused on key operational areas…END

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BOEING UAE Chief Risk Officer Aviation Summit Investing in aircrafts was a key topic of discussion at the recent Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Aviation Summit at the Shangri-La hotel in Abu Dhabi. Senior finance executives from Boeing joined a panel which included its customer and UAE carrier, Etihad as well as the National Bank of Abu Dhabi to discuss ways in which Middle East investors could take advantage of growing commercial aircraft financing opportunities. “We sought a diverse group that could talk authoritatively on behalf of the investment attractiveness of all large commercial aircraft, and not just those we produce,” the senior director for the Middle East, African and South Asia region of Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC), Rich Hammond said. Panelists included John Vitale, president of the international aviation consultancy, Avitas; Will Coleman, an aviation financing lawyer with Freshfields Inc.; aircraft leasing company executive, Christophe MillionRousseau, of Jackson Square Aviation and Mark Brady, a sales finance executive at aircraft engine manufacturer, Rolls Royce. “The region continues to witness prolific growth in the commercial aviation space. The regulatory challenges on capital and liquidity faced by a number of global financial institutions and hence their withdrawal from aviation and term project financing, provides an ideal opportunity for well-capitalised regional financial institutions to diversify their book,” the Group Chief Risk Officer of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Abhijit Choudhury said.

BOMBARDIER 200th Challenger 605 Bombardier’s Challenger program has reached a significant milestone with the entry-into-service of the 200th Challenger 605 business jet. The aircraft was handed over to its new owner during a special ceremony at the Challenger facility in Dorval, Québec, in October with hundreds of employees in attendance. “We are delighted to be celebrating the delivery of the 200th Challenger 605 aircraft,” said Steve Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft. “The Challenger 600 aircraft series was a trailblazer in business aviation and is now the largest fleet in the category worldwide with over 850 aircraft in service. The Challenger 605 jet continues this legacy, delivering the quality, reliability and comfort that our customers expect.” He added. The Challenger program first took flight on November 8, 1978, when the Challenger 600 aircraft lifted off from Canadair’s plant in Saint-Laurent, Québec. The Challenger 601 and Challenger 604 aircraft variants followed, and in the 34 years since, continuous development and innovation have ensured that the Challenger 605 business jet remains a market leader and a customer favorite. The Challenger 605 jet can take 12 passengers and three crew from New York City to London non-stop in the widest standup cabin of any large category business jet available. There are over 850 Challenger 600 jets in service worldwide including 200 Challenger 605 jets, accounting for over 50 per cent market share worldwide for its segment category.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…DAE subsidiary StandardAero is introducing “CompleteCare”

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as a holistic records, maintenance and finance care package for business aviation…END

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Abdul Khaliq Saeed, President Middle East & North Africa of the Mubadala Aerospace MRO (left)

ADAT Service Provider of the Year Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies declared the region’s best provider of MRO services for third year in a row at the 6th Aviation Business Awards in Dubai. Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT), the Middle East’s largest independent maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services provider and part of the Mubadala Aerospace MRO network, was named ‘MRO Service Provider of the Year’ for the third consecutive year at the 6th Aviation Business Awards (ABA) in Dubai.

Winners of the award are chosen every year through a democratic process, with the nominations and final voting done by senior members of the regional aviation industry. The aim is to recognize individuals and companies that have made a significant contribution to the development of the region’s growing aviation sector. “We are pleased to be recognised by our industry for the consistent quality and reliability of our services at ADAT,” Abdul Khaliq Saeed, President Middle East & North Africa of the Mubadala Aerospace MRO network, said after receiving the award on behalf of the company. “It’s our team’s relentless dedication to meeting and exceeding customer expectations with excellence that has made this possible for the third year in a row.”

Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies (ADAT) offers a comprehensive set of airframe, engine and component MRO capabilities as well as technical services to the commercial aviation industry, serving over 200 customers worldwide including Etihad Airways, Flydubai, Onur Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Transaero Airlines, Thomas Cook, Condor, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Gulf Air, Air Berlin and Midex Airlines.

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AFRICAN BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION New membership categories announced The business aviation community’s latest member, The African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) launched four new membership categories and detailed its founding members list during its debut at this year’s National Business Aviation Association Convention, (NBAA) in Orlando, Florida. The new membership categorization has been initiated following the significant interest AfBAA has received from the international business aviation community and will complement the founding membership category which is near its fulfillment. AfBAA already has fully funded commitment from 18 founding members, including international and African businesses and is now working through a selection process to finalize the last two founding members. As the realisation of the 20 founding member places reaches completion, AfBAA will now encourage applications for the new prestigious launch member category from North American and international businesses. “We noted that a number of companies we would have welcomed as founding members were unable to apply originally for a variety of reasons,” the founder and chairman of AfBAA, Tarek Ragheb said. “As we value their input and the potential support they can offer, AfBAA will now encourage them to apply for this unique Launch Member status,” he added. Additionally, interested parties will be able to apply for the newly formed normal and affiliate membership types at NBAA.

Chairman and founder of the AfBAA, Tarek Ragheb is looking forward to representing the Pan-African aviation interests

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GAINJET European business award

P.T. Dimitri Utama Abadi’s CEO Soetikno Soedarjo (left) shakes on the deal with ExecuJet Asia's MD Graeme Duckworth

EXECUJET Indonesian joint venture go ahead with P.T Dimitri Utama Abadi ExecuJet Aviation Group and P.T. Dimitri Utama Abadi announced their signing of a joint venture agreement to manage General Aviation Terminals (GAT) at up to 13 Airports in Indonesia. P.T. Dimitri Utama Abadi is a new private company, formed to serve as the Indonesian partner for the joint venture P.T. ExecuJet Indonesia. The agreement was signed by ExecuJet Asia’s Managing Director Graeme Duckworth and P.T. Dimitri Utama Abadi’s CEO Soetikno Soedarjo. The joint venture follows the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between ExecuJet and Angkasa Pura 1 in May 2012, to design, construct and manage the GATs. “The signing of this joint venture agreement is the next step in ExecuJet establishing operations in Indonesia, which we view as an important strategic location for ExecuJet’s South East Asia expansion,” says Duckworth. “P.T ExecuJet Indonesia will manage the GA Terminals in East Indonesia to the same standards and service levels delivered at our 16 other FBOs around the world. Partnering with Soedarjo, a successful and well-respected entrepreneur in Indonesia, positions the joint venture for many more opportunities in the near future, some of which are already under review.” “I am pleased that we have partnered with a prestigious company such as ExecuJet and look forward to expanding our presence beyond the GA Terminal business, in line with what ExecuJet has achieved in many other parts of the world,” comments Soedarjo. “I believe that with ExecuJet’s professional reputation, know-how and high standards, the entire business aviation community in Indonesia will grow to match the aviation industries in more developed countries, and we sincerely look forward to being part of this expansion,” Soedarjo adds.

The European Business Awards (EBAs) has awarded private jet charter company GainJet Aviation S.A National Champion of the EBAs 2012/2013 Awards Programme. The awards event was held at the British Embassy in Athens, hosted by H.E Ambassador Dr. David Landsman and EBAs sponsor RSM International, with special guest speaker Greek Deputy Minister of Development, H.E Mr. Notis Mitarakis. Amongst the night’s winners were some of the most elite businesses in Greece and GainJet beat stiff competition in order to win this prestigious award - displaying business excellence, hard work, innovation, and superior customer focus.

GainJet operates a wide selection of executive aircraft available for private charter based throughout Europe, ranging from corporate airliners like their VIP Boeing 757 and VIP Boeing 737s to heavy business jets like their Gulfstream G550, G450, and Global Express XRS. The company is also expecting delivery of a VIP B737 with stateroom and a Gulfstream G650 in 2013. The European Business Awards’ esteemed panel of judges thoroughly examined every company competing in the awards competition in order to identify those organizations that exhibited innovation, business excellence, and sustainability in order to award them National Champion. GainJet has the honour of being recognized as such an organization. GainJet CEO Captain James McBride says, “We’re proud to be selected to represent Greece and the BizAv industry as a National Champion at the EBAs. The European Business Awards is widely recognized as the showcase for Europe’s most dynamic companies and to be officially identified as one of these companies is an honour for us. We are pleased to highlight the vibrant industry that we are a part of and look forward to the next round of the judging process where we can explain in more depth the dynamics behind our industry and how we are achieving business success in these tough trading conditions.”

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Nairobi-based Phoenix Aviation has appointed Fritz Strahammer

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as chief operations officer. He brings with him almost four decades of aviation experience…END

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XP News Tarmac-AA27_XP News Tarmac-AA27 30/11/12 11:21 Page52

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TASTEFULLY YOURS Dedicated nutritionist appointed Atlanta-based inflight catering company, Tastefully Yours, has appointed a full time nutritionist to support and develop new menus for its extensive aviation client base. Heather Hibbin, who comes from a long line of aviators and holds a PPL herself, has taken up this unique role of dedicated aviation nutritionist which will focus on enhancing the client offering.

Heather’s new position starts with immediate effect and will complement the existing 15 strong catering team. The new position has been created in response to a growing demand from executive passengers who are becoming increasingly aware of their inflight diet including wanting to know where food is sourced, which types of ingredients are being used and how it will affect their body with respect to energy, health, sleep patterns, mood levels, fatigue and weight.

Furthermore Hibbin will also be creating menus that will support crew activity to ensure they can perform at optimum levels during flights so reducing the risk of fatigue and potential risk. A dietician working in aviation understands the differences a person’s body encounters at altitude and can therefore provide specifically chosen menus that will support not only the passengers comfort but also support crew’s operating capability,” company president Paula Kraft said. A well fed crew is less likely to become sick so down time for owners and operator is also reduced,” she added.

ORYX JET Adds helicopters to fleet London Biggin Hill based aircraft management and first class air charter company Oryx Jet has announced that it is offering helicopter charter as an additional method of transportation and onward carriage to complement its existing fleet of executive jets. Offering more choice to private business and leisure charter services both locally and internationally, the privately chartered helicopters can replace long waits in traffic hence increasing productivity, whilst covering a great distance in a fraction of the time. “We are excited to include Helicopters within our growing fleet,” Oryx Jet CEO Mike Russell said. “Trips can be completely customisable to our clients’ specific requirements allowing us to continue to provide an unparalleled VIP service. This may well include free helicopter transfers for our charter customers from many London airports to and from Biggin Hill. Oryx Jet’s existing Hawker, Falcon 50, and Challenger 604 fleet is complemented by the addition of single and twin turbine engine helicopters. The AS 355 Twin Squirrel fleet consists of a F2 and the N model which are night capable IFR helicopters. The EC 120 B fleet is a singleengine helicopter which features a wide bodied cabin, a state-of-the-art ergonomic cockpit and a sizeable hold. “All our aircraft have a reputation for excellence. Being able to offer the comfort of private helicopter travel to our customers ensures we can offer what our clients want the most - safety, security, speed, reliability and privacy. We are confident the latest additions to our fleet will prove popular with air charter customers old and new and be chosen by clients for both business and leisure trips,” Mr Russell said.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Hong Kong-based Metrojet and India’s Taj Air have signed

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a joint venture agreement to provide maintenance and management services in India…END

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EXECUJET Appointed as Bombardier Authorized Service Facility in China ExecuJet Haite Aviation Services China celebrated its recognition as a Line Maintenance Facility within Bombardier’s Authorized Service Facility (ASF) network after the companies’ signed an agreement at the NBAA in, Florida. ExecuJet Haite, a subsidiary of the ExecuJet Aviation Group, can now provide maintenance support for Bombardier Learjet 60, Learjet 60 XR, Challenger 300, Challenger 604, Challenger 605, Global Express and Global Express XRS aircraft. The company also anticipates introducing support for the Challenger 850 business jet in the near future. “With our substantial investment in ground support equipment and having our engineers trained by Bombardier in the United States and Canada, ExecuJet Haite offers superb maintenance support for the Bombardier product line across Asia,” ExecuJet Asia’s Managing Director, Graeme Duckworth said. “Bombardier is rapidly expanding its support network in mainland China and the Asia-Pacific region to better serve the current and future operators that make up the region’s growing fleet,” the President, Bombardier Customer Services & Specialized and Amphibious Aircraft, Éric Martel said. “ExecuJet Haite is supporting us to meet this requirement and we look forward to further expanding our worldwide relationship with ExecuJet.” Duckworth adds: “The business relationship between ExecuJet and Bombardier is long-standing, with ExecuJet already holding Bombardier Authorized status at all its other maintenance facilities. We therefore saw a great opportunity in extending this winning formula into China. ExecuJet Haite offers Asia-based Bombardier owners and operators the convenience and cost-savings of having authorized maintenance services available on their doorstep.”

SEDDIQI AND SONS A Top Gun experience for IWC Schaffhausen clients Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen in collaboration with Seddiqi and Sons, launched the IWC Schaffhausen Top Gun flight simulator exhibition in the Grand Atrium at The Dubai Mall in the UAE. Maxime Ferté, regional director of IWC Middle East along with Abdul Hamied Seddiqi, vice chairman at Seddiqi and Sons celebrated the official unveiling of the simulator. «The purpose was to offer our guests a unique 360 degree emotional experience in IWC Pilot’s universe based on the story of our Pilot’s Watches which started in 1936,” he said. “That was the Special Pilot’s Watch which has been a part of IWC Schaffhausen’s DNA ever since. We are happy that IWC has chosen Dubai, as one of the cities to host the Top Gun exhibition as we believe our clientèle will appreciate and enjoy the Top Gun experience with the flight simulator and the collection on display,” added Abdul Hamied Seddiqi. The grand opening of the exhibition in the mall consisted of a model rocket fighter with integrated flight simulator which guests had to fly and land on a boat. The simulation gave guests the feeling of taking control of a fighter jet at more than 1800 kmh almost as real as Top Gun pilots for the famous military base in Miramar, California.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Saudi-based operator NasJet has recorded a six per cent

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increase in revenue exceeding SR500 but said it expects a 20 per cent growth in 2013…END

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BOMBARDIER Netjets continue to buy up big from Bombardier

JET AVIATION 20 new aircraft added to fleet Jet Aviation has grown its global aircraft management and charter fleet by 20 aircraft since May, with 11 new aircraft added to the managed fleet in the U.S. and nine in EMEA and Asia. All aircraft in the fleet include the latest safety enhancements, navigation devices, communication tools, business amenities and entertainment systems to provide comfort and efficiency. Fleet expansion in the U.S. includes two Global Express aircraft, two Falcon 900s, two Gulfstream 550s, a Gulfstream 450, one Falcon 7X, a Falcon 50, a Challenger 604 and a 601.

In EMEA and Asia, the company added two G550s, two G450s, a Challenger 300, a Hawker 800XP, a Falcon 7X. The company is also bringing a G650 into its fleet in early spring 2013, as well as a Moscowbased Global 5000, with delivery expected in December 2012. The two charter aircraft include a G550 in West Palm Beach, Fla., and the Global 5000 in Moscow. Capable of flying 13.5 hours nonstop, the G550 features leather seating in its beautifully appointed cabin and is well equipped with cabin amenities and entertainment systems. The aircraft sleeps five to six comfortably and can accommodate up to 10 passengers. The luxurious Bombardier Global 5000 has a range of up to 9000 km and comfortably accommodates 10 passengers.

“Expanding the fleet helps ensure that our range of aircraft will meet the varying jet transportation needs of our customers,” the vice president of sales for aircraft management and charter in EMEA & Asia, Claudio Peer said. “Our team of professionals uphold the highest service standards to assure a positive customer experience,” he added.

The first Global 6000 from a near record order by Netjets was unveiled recently at Orlando Executive Airport. The Global 6000 is part of an order which includes 30 Bombardier Global 5000 and 6000 aircraft as well as 20 firm orders for Bombardier’s newly launched Global 7000 and Global 8000 jets making the Netjets $6.7billion order the second largest aircraft purchase agreement in the history of private aviation.

The only order that’s been larger was a $9.6billion purchase of 275 Challenger jets from Bombardier in June 2012 which was also for Netjets with deliveries due to begin in 2017. “We pride ourselves on crafting perfection and our Global family of jets are best in class,” the President, Bombardier Business Aircraft, Steve Ridolfi said. “We know that this aircraft will impress Netjets’ customers and we are proud that we are able to introduce this magnificent jet to the world.” The Netjets’ Signature Series Global 6000 is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and features a full-service galley located in the forward section creating a private cabin environment for up to 13 passengers as well as a crew rest area for extended flight segments.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…DWC has continued to register strong growth in

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cargo volumes with a triple digit increase in traffic during the third quarter of 2012…END

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ABU DHABI AIRPORTS COMPANY ADAC to Host Second Abu Dhabi Air Expo in March 2013 Following the success of this year’s Abu Dhabi Air Expo in March, ADAC will again be hosting the show for a second year from March 5 to 7, 2013 at Al Bateen Executive Airport. Air Expo 2012 was the first time this show was held in the Middle East and it drew more than 100 exhibitors and sponsors, displayed 70 aircraft from light jets to helicopters and attracted more than 10,000 international and local visitors. The show also hosted a series of conferences focusing on various general civil aviation topics including training, licensing, safety and aircraft technology.

«Abu Dhabi is witnessing significant growth in the commercial aviation industry across all sectors including general aviation which in turn supports the Emirate’s air transport strategy in building a strong and sustainable aviation environment,” the Chairman of the Organizing Committee for Abu Dhabi Air Expo, Deputy General Manager, Al Bateen Executive Airport, Yousif Hassan Al Hammadi said.

“ADAC is proud to contribute to this growth through its leading initiatives in the areas of infrastructure development, quality of service and marketing,» he added. Al Bateen Executive Airport is the region’s first and only dedicated private airport and it is a ‘one-stop shop’ business jet facility for VIP passengers. The airport’s recently opened fixed-base operations (FBO), DhabiJet, was awarded first place for best FBO in the Middle East and the fourth in Asia, Africa and Europe in the prestigious European Business Air News FBO Survey 2012. «Abu Dhabi Air Expo is the region’s first exhibition dedicated to general civil aviation and ADAC commits to hosting the show again in Abu Dhabi. This commitment is part of ADAC’s strategy to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s credentials as the region’s premier venue for the commercial aviation and aerospace industry,» Mr Al Hammadi said.

VISTAJET $7.8b order is largest in aviation history Bombardier announced today the largest business aircraft sale in its history for 56 Global jets with an option to purchase a further 86 from VistaJet. VistaJet is an exclusive operator of Bombardier business aircraft and has placed a firm order valued at $3.1 billion that will blow out to $7.8 billion in U.S. list price should the options be taken. The firm order comprises 25 Global 5000, 25 Global 6000 and six Global 8000 jets. Deliveries of these aircraft will begin in 2014. The agreement also includes options for 40 Global 5000, 40 Global 6000 and six Global 8000 jets. «By any standard, this is a historic order for Bombardier. It goes without saying that we are thrilled VistaJet has again chosen to grow its fleet with the industry-leading Global family,» said Steve Ridolfi, President, Bombardier Business Aircraft.

For VistaJet, the order signifies a key part of its expansion plans to make business aviation more accessible to emerging markets. «This order is the most significant milestone for VistaJet and is a testimony to our successful strategy that focuses on global coverage,” Founder and Chairman, VistaJet explained, Thomas Flohr explained. “Our customers need to fly point-to-point across the globe and in many instances at short notice. Whether it’s a direct flight from Los Angeles to Shanghai, from London to Luanda or from Kinshasa to Ulan Bator, we are seamlessly connecting our customers to every corner of the world in unrivalled levels of style and safety. …TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Execujet has opened a new FBO at Mohammed

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Murtula Airport in Lagos in response to a growing demand for aviation service sin West Africa…END

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HONDA AIRCRAFT COMPANY Production begins for HondaJet Honda Aircraft Company has commenced production on the much-anticipated HondaJet following an announcement at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention in Florida. “An assembly line for HondaJet production is in place, major aircraft components including the fuselage and wing have been produced and we have started assembly of the first customer aircraft,” said Honda Aircraft President and CEO Michimasa Fujino. “Commencing production is the most important milestone in the program to date with only the future Federal Aviation Administration Type Certification and first customer delivery ranking greater in significance,” he added. Over the past 12 months, Honda Aircraft has completed flight, systems and structural tests including crew seat crash tests, speedbrake testing, ultimate load tests, EASA windshield bird strike testing, wind tunnel icing tests and night lighting testing. Work on a new 90,000 square foot Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) recently began which will provide a 24/7 support centre and simultaneously service up to 12 aircraft by the second half of 2013. In September, Mr Fujino was recognised by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) for pioneering the Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration that reduces wave drag and increases drag divergence Mach number. This configuration also maximises cabin space, increases cruise fuel efficiency and reduces interior sound and exterior noise.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) and AVTECH Middle East have

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signed an agreement to offer aviation training modules for the first time in the region focused on key operational areas…END

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AIROPS SOFTWARE Success at BACA Awards

FLAIRJET Celebrates milestone of 20th Embraer aircraft acceptance London Oxford Airport-based business charter and management company, FlairJet has completed its 20th Embraer aircraft acceptance and/or delivery. Since 2009, FlairJet has taken the responsibility for delivery flights or acceptances of eight Phenom 100s, 10 Phenom 300s, a Legacy 600 and an Embraer Lineage for themselves and third party customers. This year has been the busiest year with FlairJet personnel carrying out the technical acceptance of seven new aircraft. The most recent was Phenom 300 Serial No. 117. Technical acceptance was completed on September, 27 and the aircraft arrived in the UK on October 1 after a four day, 8,000 nm delivery from Embraer’s Sao Jose dos Campos facilities to London Oxford Airport. The routing took in Belem, Barbados, Fort Lauderdale, Bangor and Goose Bay prior to the transatlantic crossing to Keflavik and the final legs to the UK. The acceptance and delivery process was carried out by Captain Mike Chamberlain, FlairJet’s Ground Operations Director and Safety Manager, and First Officer David Taylor, one of the company’s Duty Operations Managers. “This was a textbook acceptance and delivery. The acceptance process was completed in two and a half days and the delivery ran exactly to schedule,” Captain Chamberlain said. “We were blessed with generally good weather throughout the delivery and the aircraft behaved impeccably. We even managed to tweet our progress throughout,” he added. “This was a very special occasion for us being our 20th Embraer aircraft acceptance,” said FlairJet CEO and Founder, David Fletcher. “Over the last three years we have built up a fantastic relationship with Embraer and we are proud to have been there at the outset with the Phenom programme and watch with pride how it has matured and developed over the last three years. “FlairJet is a good ambassador for Embraer Executive Jets’ aircraft and we are pleased to celebrate with them this important milestone and market acceptance of our products here in the region,” stated Colin Steven, Vice President Marketing and Sales – Europe, Middle-East and Africa, Embraer Executive Jets.

Airops Software which is part of Gama Group has celebrated a seventh consecutive year of its clients being nominated and winning the coveted Baltic Air Charter Association (BACA) Excellence Awards. All nominees and the winner of the Best General Aviation Operator, London Executive Aviation as well as the winner of the Best Passenger Charter Airline, Titan Airways, use Airops Software’s AIROPS 5 aviation management system. AIROPS 5 supports Aircraft Operators and Brokers in all aspects of Commercial, Operations, Technical, Finance, Marketing and Management. Airops Software systems are the preferred aviation management system for over 40 leading aviation operators and service providers around the world, including TAG, Dassault Aviation, Airbus, Gama Aviation, BAE Systems, Antonov Design Bureau and Jet Aviation. “I am extremely proud that all nominees in the Best General Aviation Operator’s category, power their operations with our software,” said Daniel Tee, Managing Director, Airops Software Ltd. “My congratulations to this year’s winner in this category, London Executive Aviation and winner of the Best Passenger Charter Airline, Titan Airways,” he added. “Airops Software has supported our operation for almost 20 years, providing us with the means to rapidly and accurately provide our clients with competitive pricing,” said Graham Baguley, Operations Director, Titan Airways. “Airops Software is clearly a significant partner in the ongoing success of Titan Airways, demonstrated by our winning of the 2012 BACA Best Passenger Airline Award,” he said.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Gulfstream has established a satellite flight department

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in Hong Kong to support its operators in Asia and is staffed with five pilots…END

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BOEING BUSINESS JETS BBJ proves range with record-setting flight Boeing Business Jets have set a world record for «Speed Over a Recognized Course» when a BBJ flew non-stop from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand for installation of its VIP interior. The modified 737-700 made the 5,658 nautical mile (10,479 km) trip in 13 hours, 7 minutes and 54 seconds. The record-setting trip was monitored by the National Aeronautic Association based in Washington, D.C. and BBJ president, captain Steve Taylor said the trip demonstrates the incredible range capability of the BBJ. «When we left Los Angeles with full fuel, we were 21,000 pounds below our Maximum Takeoff Weight. This means that the customer can add a full VIP interior, fill all the seats and still carry full fuel and have remarkable range which is something our competitor with the same class business jet simply cannot do non-stop,» Taylor said. The airplane had 7,800 pounds of fuel remaining when it landed in Auckland. The BBJ, owned by Samsung Electronics, is equipped with seven auxiliary fuel tanks which helped give it its extended range capability. Another point that differentiates it from its competitor is that it also features lower cabin altitude which provides a 6,500-foot cabin altitude instead of the standard 8,000-foot cabin and allowing passengers to travel in greater comfort. The plane was flown to New Zealand for the first interior completion of a new BBJ by Auckland-based Altitude Aerospace Interiors.

Boeing delivers the BBJ to the customer «green» with no interior or paint so it can be customized to suit the specific needs and taste of the customer. The completion center of the customer’s choosing installs the VIP interiors, which typically takes nine months to a year. The BBJ is the best selling model of Boeing’s business jet line with 157 sold to date.

LONDON OXFORD AIRPORT Longer runway and increased strength London Oxford airport’s runways licensed take-off lengths have been increased by up to 21 per cent. Additionally, runway strength was reassessed at a PCN of 38 making it suitable for use by a number of heavier business jets and airliners such as the Embraer Lineage and Avro RJ. The enhanced runway length also enables longer range private jets such as the Globals, Falcon 7X and G550 family to undertake transatlantic flights on a commercial basis. In addition, the airport also boasts a new 17,800m2 (4.4 acres – equivalent to three football pitches) high strength apron and has resurfaced 5,000m2 of established surfaces, representing a $3.6m project providing a considerable enhancement in ramp capacity and infrastructure. This has doubled the parking capacity at the airport, bringing it to a total of 35,000m (8.65 acres). The airport is now able to park up to 40 business jets.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Fly Aviation Services is moving into larger premises

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inside the Swiss Tower Office in Jumeirah Lake Towers by the end of the year…END

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NEXTANT AEROSPACE First Euro delivery of 400XT

ORYX JET Managed fleet expands London-based aircraft management and charter company Oryx Jet has added to its managed fleet of executive jets bringing more choice to its private business and leisure charter services both locally and internationally. A pristine Bombardier Challenger 604, one of the world’s best-selling large corporate jets, began operation in September and is managed from Oryx Jet’s HQ within affiliated partner Rizon Jet’s state-of-the-art FBO/MRO facility at Biggin Hill Airport. This latest addition to Oryx Jet’s growing fleet boasts one of the widest and quietest cabins in its class and provides an ideal environment for in-flight business meetings or relaxation. “We are excited to welcome the Challenger to our growing fleet, as it further expands our long-range capabilities and allows us to continue to offer our clients unparalleled VIP service,” Oryx Jet chief executive officer Mike Russell said. The Challenger 604 is renowned for its comfortable wide-bodied cabin, providing stand up room of over six feet that allows superior cabin comfort for all its passengers.

The aircraft can accommodate up to 10 people and is equipped with on-board entertainment and a satellite phone. It has transcontinental range and is capable of jetting non-stop from London to New York. Oryx Jet’s existing Hawker and Falcon 50 fleet is also complemented by single and twin turbine engine helicopters. It is one of an elite group of UK aircraft operators that can fly with a paperless cockpit, and its charter aviation service was this year recognised as Best Charter in Europe in The Business Destinations 2012 awards. “Our business is gaining a reputation for excellence and we are constantly striving to improve our service levels and our customer experience. The aircraft management arm of our business is going from strength to strength, and we are confident this latest addition to our fleet will prove a popular choice for both business and leisure travellers.” Russell added.

Nextant Aerospace, maker of the world’s only FAA-certified remanufactured business jet, has delivered its 16th 400XT to a private buyer in the Czech Republic. The business jet will be managed by the Czech Republic-based provider of charter and aircraft acquisition and management services, Time Air. It will also be the first 400XT that will be accepted for European registration, so the private purchaser and Time Air will provide demonstration flights for prospective European buyers on behalf of Nextant in Europe. Beechcraft Sales and Service GmbH serves as Nextant’s maintenance hub in Europe and will offer a full range of factory-approved services for future owners and operators. “The 400XT has a 2,003-nautical mile (3,709 km) range enabling travellers to reach destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East and North Africa with nonstop flights,” the vice president, sales and marketing for Nextant Aerospace, Jay Heublein said.

NEXTANT AEROSPACE 10-aircraft order secured for remanufactured 400XT Nextant Aerospace has secured an order for 10 of its remanufactured 400XT jets from Singaporebased, Asia Pacific Jets. The 10 aircraft will be delivered over three years, with the first two due to be handed over by the end of the year. A number will be outfitted as air ambulances with the remainder configured as regular business jets.

Additionally, Asia Pacific Jets will partner with Hong Kong-based air ambulance specialist AirMed Asia to open a new Singapore base to co-ordinate maintenance and warranty support for Nextant Aerospace in the region. AirMed International is an operator of Beechcraft 400A and 400XP air ambulance aircraft. «The Nextant 400XT will offer AirMed Asia and our partners at Asia Pacific Jets everything we like about the Beechjet and everything you would expect from a new, light jet but at a fraction of the cost,» the chief executive if AirMed International, Jeffry Tolbert said.

…TELEX…ALTITUDES…DEC/JAN-2013…Satcom has opened a Dubai office as the latest in a series

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of openings beside London, Montreal and Sao Paolo for sales and technical support…END

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■ World’s most expensive coffee

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TIMEPIECES

Haute Horology

Simply Complications

In an age of Spartan minimalism, the top horology houses have proven there’s merit in hedonistic excess.

Multiple complications push the envelope of design, so with our selection of intricately crafted pieces from recent years, we celebrate the beauty of haute engineering.

These are the watches that should grace every serious collectors cabinet.

By Jonathon Savill

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TIMEPIECES

Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon Men’s Model 5002P Allow us to present the rarest continuously produced wristwatch in the world, the Patek Phillippe Platinum Sky-Moon Tourbillon. Patek made their first watch in 1868 and by now they are very good at it. This watch sells for approximately $1,450,000 (USD), but this will be no impulse buy as there is a considerable waiting list. There is little doubt that Patek Phillippe make the most desirable volume watches in the world, although the 40,000 pieces they do produce is nowhere near enough to satisfy the monumental demand that exists for their work. The company pioneered the perpetual calendar, splitseconds hand, chronograph, and minute repeater in watches.

The company also added tourbillon production top their skill set and this watch has every complication that can be squeezed into a case. The downside is that is not waterproof and is manual wind, but the upside is that it’s magnificent and you could sell it off your wrist for $200,000 more than you paid for it. Patek Philippe is notable for manufacturing its own watch components, their timepieces have recorded some of the highest prices in worldwide auctions. Watches produced as recently as the 1950s and 1960s routinely sell for over a million dollars at auction. On the reverse is the celestial sky dial, with white skeleton hands indicating the sidereal hour as it occurs every 23 hours, 56 minutes and 4.1 seconds. The elliptical sky vault displays the present orientation of the visible celestial sky.

The lunar cycle of 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 2.82 seconds is also indicated on the rear dial. This watch would be the crown jewel in any aficionado’s collection.

Audemars Piguet Jules Audemars Grande Complication Chrono Audemars Piguet was formed in 1875 when Audemars started producing component parts for movements and Piguet got the job of ‘repasseur’ – one who makes the final regulation of watches. Since 1882, members of the Audemars and Piguet families have always been on the board of directors, thus directly or indirectly running the company. Battling with the other great houses for technical supremacy over the last century, in 1925 Audemars Piguet introduced the world’s thinnest pocket watch, at 1.32mm and just three years later they created the first skeleton watch.

Out of the 26,000 watches Audemars Piget produce each year, a tiny proportion is the Classic Collection Jules Audemars Grande Complication Watch. This piece has a reasonably large titanium case (42x42x14mm), sapphire back, skeleton dial, and features an automatic-winding Audemars Piguet Calibre 2885 movement with perpetual calendar. This drives a minute repeater, split-second chronograph, and small seconds. It has approximately 50 hours of power reserve and leather strap with folding buckle. The watch indicates the day, date, week, moon phases, the month and the leap years, minute repeater, split-seconds chronograph and small seconds at 9 o’clock. It has a 950 platinum case, white classic dial. The blue leather strap is hand stitched. The list price is $996,000.

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TIMEPIECES

IWC Portugese Siderale Scafusia This brilliant piece takes a year to build and costs around $750,000, but despite being the most complicated piece ever attempted

by IWC, and taking ten years to develop, it remains eminently wearable‌ being shockproof and water resistant to three bars. Its case size of 46mm makes sense considering the complications it houses, and each piece is customisable by the client in terms of case material (red gold or platinum), dial color, strap color / material and of course, the horizon on the back face. Over 200 combinations are available, making each piece a truly unique. The reverse features a celestial map displaying the section of the sky visible from a precise location on Earth, together with the apparent orbit of the Sun throughout the course of the year, and the celestial equator. So the map can reflect the precise location the owner chooses, their home for example. The dial of the Portuguese SidÊrale Scafusia features the solar time, the sidereal time (both can be set independently), power reserve and a very large tourbillon as seconds display. The sidereal time (a true 24 hour scale) is immensely accurate - deviating by just 11.5 seconds per year. The true constant force tourbillon, which compensates for the continuous depletion of energy in the barrels, transmits a steady trickle of energy to the balance wheel. Two barrels aligned in parallel guarantee a minimum of two days’ constant power. All this time, the hand mounted on the titanium cage of the tourbillon advances in one-second intervals. IWC have made a beautiful and sophisticated timepiece that can take its place amongst the top complications in the world.

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TIMEPIECES

Jaeger LeCoultre Grande Tradition Grand Complication One could argue all of these watches are limited editions, courtesy of their price tag – this one is approximately $365,000 – but this piece is actually limited to just 75 pieces. Incredibly, on this Grande Complication the tourbillon moves around the face during a 24-hour cycle. Even thinking about the mechanism that enables this remarkable feat can bring on a bout of dizziness. The Master Grande Tradition Grande Complication incorporates three complications: a minute repeater, a flying tourbillon and a zodiac calendar – each a highly regarded complication in its own right. The brand new JaegerleCoultre Calibre 945 movement is a highly complex mechanism with 527 parts, all of which require a single watchmaker to assemble and adjust each piece. It relies on the latest technology: a flying tourbillon sets the beat with an advanced silicium-escapement, specially developed for use within an ultra-light titanium cage. Another amazing feature is the clarity of the sound from the trebuchet hammer, each strike is strong, powerful, and clean. The tone as it rings out is loud and clear, the decay of the initial strike tone reverberates through the case, allowing the sound to develop rich overtones that enhance the aural experience. It has a special ‘high audio’ minute repeater exclusive to JLC, which also gives the watch 50m of water resistance (most minute repeater watches have little to no water resistance). This is the first time that Jaeger-LeCoultre has presented a Grande Complication within the Master Grande Tradition line and it is a magnificent start. If you are lucky enough to own one of these examples you should treasure it, but also wear it daily so others may appreciate it.

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Traditionelle World Time This differs from the others in that it is a world time clock and not a grand complication, but is very beautiful and at $39,900 is a relative steal. The piece is capable of telling the time in cities all over the world. In fact it gives times not only for the 24 time zones, but also cities that have opted for quarter or half hour differences, making a total of 37 time zones. You will never be late for a meeting in Caracas again. The movement is a 2460WT made in-house by Vacheron. It vibrates 28,800 times an hour and has a power reserve of 40-hours. And if you are likely to be pondering the time in Karachi while diving, you can do so safely uo to a depth of 30m. The case is made in 18K pink gold and measures 42.5mm. The movement is 8.1mm thick and the 22K gold rotor spins on ceramic ball bearings. To read the time the wearer chooses the reference time and places it opposite the black triangle at 6 o’clock. The time in the reference location can then be read off either the hour hand, or by the 24-hour disc, while the time in the other 36 time zones is also simultaneously readable. Amazingly it also tells you whether it is day or night in these cities. This is a very beautiful watch and stands out from the crowd for its ease of use and sheer beauty.

World time is a very popular complication amongst collectors and testimony to this is the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction was a world time. Though it is not a limited edition, Vacheron can produce relatively few, so the prize will go to those who act quickly. ■

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XP Yachting CRN 60 m Darlings Danama-AA27-3_XP Yachting CRN 60 m Darlings Danama-AA27 30/11/12 11:36 Page78

YACHTING Length: 59.50m • Beam: 10.20m • Draft: 3m • Gross tonnage: 998 GT • Material: Steel hull/aluminum superstructure Fuel capacity: 107,000 l • Water: 20,000 l • Engine: 2 x Caterpillar 3512 B • Rated power: 1,575 hp (1,174 kW) Cylinders: 12 V • Range: 4,500-miles @ 12-knots • Naval Architecture: CRN• Exterior Design: Studio Zuccon Intl Project Interior Design: SZIP and Cristina and Alexandre Negoescu Design • Builder: Ferretti Group-CRN (Ancona - Italy)

By Alain Brousse Images D.R

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YACHTING

Timelessness for charter

CRN 60m Darlings Danama A tour of Darlings Danama, the new 60m from the CRN shipyard, is like a visit to a museum of modern art. Her interior may be adorned with priceless items of decoration, but she possesses the soul of a true passage maker.

Darlings’ full displacement hull and ocean-crossing range of 4,500-miles at 12-knots will make her popular on the charter market, and she is sure to be cherished by both her owner and guests.

Darlings Danama is the CRN shipyard’s sixth 60m superyacht. Built on the same naval platform as her sister ships Blue Eyes and Mimtee, she has a steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Ordered by a European owner, her interior and exterior design are the work of Studio Zuccon International Project, directed by Gianni Zuccon, who has worked with CRN for more than a decade.

Aboard Darlings Danama we instantly recognise his unmistakable style, which is a delicate mix of classic and contemporary. Zuccon’s work also blends seamlessly with the exterior spaces designed by architects Alexandre and Cris-

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YACHTING

The interior is the work of Gianni Zuccon who has worked with CRN for more than a decade.

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YACHTING

The yacht features a vast beach club thanks to the space freed up by the lateral launching capabilities of the tender garage.

tina Negoescu. The yacht’s overall external appearance is elegant and timeless, a sleek forepeak and vertical bow windows give her a distinct ship-like profile, reminding one that beneath her cream hull and white superstructure she is a pedigree superyacht.

Although we’re growing used to the obligatory forward navigation mast, made mandatory by international regulations on yachts of more than 50m, we still feel it spoils the overall aesthetics slightly. It looms over the yacht’s foredeck, where her two jet skis are stowed.

Darlings Danama’s two 7.50m Castoldi jet tenders are stowed in the aft garage, which opens at water level to starboard. Also on the starboard side is a retractable ladder amidships for easy

boarding at the dock, while an electric gangway serves the stern. Here, the yacht features a vast beach club, thanks to the space freed up by the lateral launching capabilities of the tender garage. Although the owner and guests will no doubt appreciate the potential for watersports fun, it is also an increasingly important amenity in the charter market.

Darlings Danama’s transom plate drops to form a large swimming platform, where free standing chairs and tables can be arranged to create a comfortable sitting area. The beach club is complete with its own head and shower and is flanked by staircases that lead up to the over-sized cockpit, made so at the owner’s request. The owner requested

a large cockpit reception area in order to accommodate a large number of guests comfortably for outdoor living, but with the upper deck overhang providing shelter from the sun. Directly above, on the bridge deck, an alfresco dining table for twelve is a great location for outdoor entertaining. Continuing the great use of outdoor space, we also noticed that the Portuguese bridge around the pilothouse leads forward to a double solarium overlooking the foredeck. However, the perfect place to capture the sun remains the sundeck, which features an area of 200sqm and comes complete with sunpads, a shaded lounge area, bar and Jacuzzi. Our tour of the yacht’s exterior therefore confirmed the integrity of her

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YACHTING

Studio Zuccon's love of white is evident throughout and tones in natural colours

award-winning outdoor spaces and we headed eagerly indoors to explore the equally impressive Gianni Zuccon-designed interior.

Studio Zuccon were given fairly wide leeway by the owner, though the studio was instructed to indulge their almostimmoderate love of the colour white and any derivatives of it. This is immediately apparent as one enters the salon on the upper deck. Emphasising its superb volume, a white ceiling with geometric shapes resembling concentric circular ripples in water spreads out above curved Fendi-upholstered sofas.

The atmosphere here is imminently Zen-like, but descending to the main salon below, we found a room that etches itself into the memory. Through the use of space, colours and shapes a truly relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere is created in the main salon. Delicate touches of contemporary art, such as the coffee table in the centre, and more subtle finishing touches, left us particularly impressed.

Of note in the salon is the bar, which is located aft between the salon itself and the cockpit. Covered in straw marquetry, an art practiced by the workshop Lison de Caunes (Paris) with rye Burgundy, its counter is black marble with veins of Portoro gold. The bar’s cabinet doors meanwhile are decorated with shagreen.

Previously made from leather obtained from a horse or onager, but now more commonly ray skin or sharkskin, shagreen was very popular in the thirties.

Elsewhere, Darlings Danama has many other Art Deco touches. The tables are modern French works by Hervé Van der Straeten, well known for her jewelry collection and a recipient of the Ordre des Arts et Métiers, one of France’s most prestigious national honours for the arts.

Carved and polished glass doors were also made by French artisans.

While white is certainly the omnipresent colour throughout the yacht, it is not over-powering. Zuccon has skillfully worked in neutralising palettes to create a balance. Following the owner’s

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Bombardier Pre-Owned New Jet Smell Altitudes Europe Bleed: 238 mm x 280 mm h Trim: 228 mm x 270 mm h

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All yours. All Bombardier original, with a program full of warranties, training, factory re-delivery and support that makes buying from the OEM the only way to fly. (Things a broker can’t provide.) Take a look at the full line of pre-owned aircraft on our website. Then call us for a closer look at just how much more than a jet you get with our pre-owned program.

Put the Bombardier back in your business plan. www.bombardierpre-ownedaircraft.com • 972-960-3810 WARRANTY • TRAINING • FACTORY RE-DELIVERY • SMART PARTS • FIELD SUPPORT • CARBON OFFSET OPTION

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YACHTING

The sundeck features an area of 200 sqm and come complete with sunpads, a shaded lounge area, bar and Jacuzzi

wishes, the master stateroom and guest cabins are designed with the same theme, but moving forward into the master stateroom, we found a suite dominated by a massive king-sized bed and a large television stand dressed in pearls. Behind this unit is the en-suite bathroom, complete with a bathtub that doubles as a Jacuzzi and a set of his and hers washbasins. Green glass doors partition the head and shower. A huge walk-in closet to starboard is adjacent to a terrace, which is not retractable, but has a glass screen that can be closed to maintain the yacht’s exterior appearance, or protect the owner from prying eyes. We can’t imagine a more pleasant place to have a morning coffee while anchored in a sheltered bay on the far side of the world.

On a worthy side note, the headboard of the owner’s bed has built-in microphones to absorb unwanted sound, a technology developed by Videoworks and the Polytechnic University of Marche. Acting as the ante-chamber to the stateroom, an art deco ship’s office

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to starboard provides the owner with a quiet space in which to coordinate his affairs in the outside world. On the upper deck, a VIP stateroom with sweeping ocean views is finished to the same high level as the master, while four guest cabins on the lower deck provide accommodation for eight.

Back on the upper deck, we finally accessed the nerve-centre of this impressive vessel – the pilothouse. Dominated by six monitors, lined in black leather and arranged in a light honey wood console, the wheelhouse also features vertical windows to reduce glare and provide an admiral’s view over the bow.

A raised banquette against the bulkhead provides guests with a great view and it is an unobtrusive vantage point from which to watch the operating of the yacht. Behind the bridge, the captain’s cabin, with its own en-suite, stands adjacent to a day head and storage area.

Darlings Danama has no pretentions when it comes to her speed. Her full displacement hull is designed for comfort and long-distance cruising at a leisurely

top speed of 15-knots and a cruising speed of 12-knots. The latter produces a range in excess of 4,500-miles, thanks to massive 100,000-litre fuel tanks. Her twin Caterpillar 3512 B engines, producing 1,575hp, can therefore easily take Darlings Danama from the Mediterranean to the furthest reaches of the Caribbean without having to stop for refueling.

CRN have reason to be proud of this latest 60m. The yard shares this success with its favorite designer Gianni Zuccon, but also a newcomer to CRN, the studio of Negoescu Cristina and Alexander, and of course its internal design office Centro Stile. Darlings Danama will be followed by the launch of an 80m and, in 2013, CRN plan to launch another 60m. The shipyard therefore also have reason to be confident in their future. Darlings Danama is available for charter through Camper & Nicholsons International at a cost of 345,000 euros per week in the Mediterranean and $420,000 USD in the Carib■ bean in winter.

Ef f o r t l es s a v i a t io n i s o pen i n g u p t o y o u .

The epitome of FBO excellence arrives soon.

Be among the first to know more by registering at www.fayair.com

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23/11/2012 16:43

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XP Art Chamizo-AA27_XP Art Chamizo-AA27 29/11/12 17:45 Page87

ART

The Perpetual Painter a man who can’t stop creating

Didier Chamizo He only wants freedom. He feels nourished by the world and paints the most contemporary work which is haunted by only one desire – the absolute need for freedom.

Didier Chamizo never stops. Never stops painting, speaking, or enjoying!

And he speaks without stopping, about his life, his painting, the retorts he gives in a film by Isabelle Huppert, the label for the new Taittinger bottle… Chamizo is a character. Absolutely generous, sharp, attentive.

“If I could, I would paint all day”, he says revealing his paintings. One by one. Explaining their subject. Nourishing their mythology, of religion, showbiz and of

all the violence which surrounds us.

That which was part of the freedom of the brothers Di Rosa, Combas and the others, lead to the graphic style of his work and he had already started to paint at 17 years old. “At the college of Saint-Etienne while following evening classes”, he explains.

His whole life is devoted to art. Even during his imprisonment he was painting the entirety of the underground corridor which connects the Saint- Joseph

and Saint-Paul prisons. Nothing ever stops Chamizo creating. And nothing ever stops his revolt. This desire for freedom he paints by overlapping the figures and the letters to symbolise the declaration of human rights, so close to his heart: “Every individual is entitled to freedom, freedom and personal safety”.

And Didier Chamizo states this in many ways. In his paintings and his appearances on television. And the artist is finding that support for this is growing

By Anne Kerner

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ART

all the time. In 1992, he created, for the Ministry of Culture and the Cartier Foundation, a monumental painting of eight hundred square meters on a concrete wall at the edge of the river Batch. Eight thousand years of wine history are shown there! Definitely, nothing stops Chamizo! And awareness of his work is mutliplying. In Paris. In the galleries. In the museums. In New York and soon in Russia.

Today, the artist continues his musings on the happinesses and misfortunes of our time. And he still has fun denouncing everything just as easily! He takes as his starting point the subject - which he swallows, regurgitates and spits out onto his canvas.

Here, it shows a parody of “Kate Moss in Chanel, with a ticket price of 500 euros and her nose dripping ”. There is a corrosive homage to Andre Serrano where Chamizo shows him “making” his shit which will help him to create his works! Furthermore , “a very dead” “Nature with the Golden delicious Servant boys”. Softer, a “Homage to Van Gogh” reveals yellow sunflowers in which faces hide.

Everywhere in his workshop paintings with heavy weapons symbolize modern war like a video game. “They enable me to create ideas ad infinitum”, explains Chamizo. “My old paintings help me to rebound on other subjects, other colours. I also like to work in series where I assert myself with constraints: even form, even topic, even technique… to try and exceed them”. But the artist also adores juggling with cultural references like “Saint-Georges and the dragon”, also the likes of Grunewald, Ulysses, Picasso or Tex Avery. And also many religious subjects inspire him : “I talk about religion a lot. But you do not find that religion, weighs one down a little? ”, he says.

He documents history with passion and frenzy. Then, he tries to look at it, demolish it, remake it? How to put it in painting? Didier Chamizo has his own recipe. With the tools of today. He adores “the vibrations of digital images,

Everywhere in his workshop paintings with heavy weapons symbolize modern war like a video game

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art

“Each sign, symbol, object that appeared on my canvasses is use-ful”, he says. “I draw, I shade, I indicate movements of light. I return time and time again with my brush.”

the chromatic range of video games, television, images of synthesis” which nourish the technique and the colour of its works.

He combines great angles, saturated colours, supersaturated so that it manipulates all your senses, that it creates with brilliance, formidably carves the senses, juggles with the madness and the prospects. Each canvas becomes an unimaginable construction where every detail counts. “Each sign, symbol, object that appeared on my canvasses is useful”, he says. “I draw, I shade, I indicate movements of light. I return time and time again with my brush. And it is on the large sizes that I express myself more….”. For Didier Chamizo, only drawing and painting matters. Above all painting is everything not just “acting ■ as a painter”.

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Projet2_XP Pub GainJet Artwork-AA27 19/11/12 09:43 Page1

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XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27_XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27 30/11/12 10:23 Page93

LEGEND

Who Wants to Stand in a Cadillac?

Bill Lear He often had to go against the grain, but had no doubt of his gift. And if anyone was sceptical, he would say: “If you want to take a walk, you don’t need an airplane. Go to Central Park!” The names of the sceptics are long forgotten, but the legacy of William Powell ‘Bill’ Lear lives on in aviation. His name adorns the aircraft of one of the biggest manufacturers in the world.

By Alexey Korolev and Ivan Veretennikov

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LEGEND

Bill lear amassed 7500 flying hours on different aircraft including jet fighters and bombers

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TWO STEPS AHEAD “This is what businessmen need,” – a stout, middle-aged man in a formal suit, greying hair combed back, is nodding with decision. The sun is reflected in his horn-rimmed spectacles. It’s spring 1960 on the West Coast of the USA. “The airlines have let them try speed.

Now they know for certain: A business aircraft must give them this, and even more.”

Famous inventor, engineer, and businessman Bill Lear has been telling Don Dwiggins, reporter of Flying magazine, just what exactly this “more” is for a good 45 minutes. He is promising a new era in business aviation. An era of new, small, fast, jet-engined aircraft equipped with cutting-edge electronics. Lear knows exactly when this era is coming: Around 1965, when his own brainchild hits the market. He expects to sell 500 of them per year at $100,000 per aircraft.

As we know from history, he was correct about the time and substance of the new era. He did get carried away in numbers, though – as all true enthusiasts are wont to do.

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LEGEND

QUICK RESPONSE Sometimes a customer would look at the Lear Jet mockup with a sceptical frown, then got in (it was back when the name was still written in two words).

“People say you have midgets working on the insides of this thing. Well, I can see it’s true. You can’t even stand up here!” “You can’t stand up in your Cadillac either,” Bill Lear was never slow to answer. “If you want to be able to stand up, walk around, and fly three times slower, then buy yourself a DC-3.”

At least in one case such a rebuke ended in the customer signing a contract. Lear thought that having too spacious a cabin is a big mistake, preferring sheer functionality.

“Why would you need a toilet on a plane?” he would ask. “A lavatory proves that you are spending too much time on your flight. Personally, I don’t have too many friends who want to go up a few thousand feet just to use it.”

Expenses should be cut everywhere possible, he professed, and even beyond that. It was the only way to reach his goal: Create an aircraft that would cost just 10% of any jet aircraft

out on the market. Lear wouldn’t quite hit the mark, but he would still achieve what’s most important: the Lear Jet would become the most accessible business aircraft of the time.

OLD BIRD William Powell Lear was born in 1902, just like aviation itself. A year later, Orville Wright became the first person to achieve powered flight.

One wouldn’t call Lear’s childhood carefree. He had to live through the divorce of his parents, frequent moving from place to place, modest family incomes, and his mother’s explosive character. Such were the surroundings of a self-made inventor and adventurous entrepreneur.

In eighth grade, the young Lear dropped out of school and went on his solo flight through life. He worked as a mechanic on US Air Mail aircraft for small pay or even for flying lessons. Served in the Air Force, but not for long. He had a big interest in electronics since childhood, and it was radio engineering that first brought him big money and huge success.

In the early 20s the future creator of the Lear Jet already owned some radio repair workshops. His sense of purpose, keen mind, self-confidence, indifference to mistakes and failures helped him persevere through hard times, including those his creditors gave him: There were always some at his heels, all his life.

Lear never strayed away from aviation.

He was a great pilot, amassing 7500 hours on different aircraft, including fighter jets and bombers, and always working to make the life of pilots easier and safer. By the time when he decided to start a new page in business aviation history with his own airplane, he was well in his fifties, with a good hundred patents and inventions behind his back.

These included very lucrative ones, among them one of the first successful car radios that led to the birth of Motorola, a compact aeronautical radio compass, and the Learmatic Navigator autopilot, for which he received the prestigious Frank M. Hawks Memorial Award. Besides, Lear owned a major company at the time. But then he sold it to start work on a business jet.

"If you want to be able to stand up, walk around and fly three times slower, then buy yourself a DC-3"

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XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27_XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27 30/11/12 10:23 Page96

LEGEND

Early prototypes were based on the Swiss P-16 fighter jet which were hard to handle

BLESSING IN DISGUISE “Listen Barry,” Bill Lear was saying angrily over the phone, “these idiots from the FAA sent me a pilot who just went and wrecked my plane!”

Lear was well-connected right at the top and would use such contacts whenever he needed them, like in this instance when he called Senator Barry Goldwater after the first Lear Jet prototype crashed. Bill quickly blamed it all on the FAA. The aircraft crashed on 31 July 1964, and thanks to pulling the right strings he got his certificate just seven weeks later, within ten months of the first flight. Based on the Swiss P-16 fighter jet, the plane was quite hard to handle despite its great climb rate and top speed.

The creator of the Lear Jet also got a lot of insurance money at a time when the whole project was about to go bankrupt. This was indeed a blessing in disguise! Mass production of the aircraft started, and in 10 years the total output hit 500 units. Lear himself planned to make as many each year, but that’s another story.

TWO IN THE BUSH Bill Lear remained an aviation enthusiast until his very death. In the 1970s he sold his LearStar 600 business jet concept to Canadian manufacturer Canadair. The project was far from complete: Lear just had an idea and consulted several people about its possible design. Even the name wasn’t very innovative – Bill had used it before when he converted Lockheed Lodestar airplanes into business aircraft. Canadair, however, seemed to want Lear’s name and charisma, which went with all of his projects, more than detailed plans. It managed to raise government money to fund this product, and in 1978 a reinvented machine took to the skies – the Challenger 600. This was the birth of yet another extremely successful business and regional jet family.

Lear had another project, much more innovative and risky, that he saw

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XP Pub Donald H. Bunker AA20_Pub Donald H. Bunker AA20 06/10/11 09:32 Page1

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XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27_XP Aviation Legend Bill Lear-AA27 30/11/12 10:23 Page98

LEGEND

"I don't think there's a single thing I did where I didn't first recognise a need for it. Just thinking up something out of nothing is an exercise in futility"

through to the end. The end of his own life that came when the unusual LearFan turboprop with two engines and a single pusher propeller was going through certification testing. Work on the program stopped with the heart of its creator.

ALL OR NOTHING “William Powell Lear, you are under arrest for violating the Mann Act,” a policeman was reciting the rights to 24-year-old Lear who was caught ta-

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king 17-year-old Madeline Murphy across the state border. Love only fuelled his relentless steamroller of a sense of purpose. He hadn’t even divorced his first wife at that point. In the end it all worked out fine, and he married Madeline in the same year of 1926.

His great love for women and the many relationships illustrate his passionate and indomitable character. Married four times, with a total of six children. Yet Lear had no lack of love for himself, too, and he would not let false modesty get

in the way when he wanted to praise his own talent. In 1967 he filmed an autobiography that is still kept by his descendants.

«I don’t care how much money or time it takes,” says the inventor and entrepreneur on the screen. “I’ll attack it on the basis of ‘it can be’ done. I don’t think there has been a single thing I ever did, where I didn’t first recognize there was a need for it. Just thinking up something great out of nothing is an ■ exercise in futility.»

‫تخدم بفخر املسافر الدويل‬ 1849 ‫منذ عام‬

Harrods’ Green Man helping a departing customer to a taxi, Brompton Road, London, 1949.

XP Gainjet-AA27_XP Gainjet-AA27 29/11/12 17:43 Page100

Spotlight

Gainjet Aviation Keeping the top end flying high

GainJet Aviation, the Greek VIP Private aircraft charter operator has grown steadily since its inception six years ago. Developing a niche market, it specializes in carrying the movers and shakers of the political and business world throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Altitudes met the team at the company’s headquarters in Athens on 31st May as GainJet celebrated the latest addition to its fleet, a VIP Boeing 737 uniquely registered SX-VIP.

It’s always exciting to hear a success story and more so when it’s happening against a world economic crisis. On November 12, GainJet won the prestigious National Champion title at the European Business Awards (EBAs) displaying business excellence, innovation, hard work and superior customer focus.

“Since 2006 when we opened, we have strived to ensure the highest safety, security, and passenger care standards in the sky,” commented GainJet CEO Captain James McBride. “We are pleased to represent business aviation at these awards and have the opportunity to highlight this vibrant industry.”

By Sylvie Peron

While the company has worked with VLJs previously, it prefers dealing with the larger, more lucrative aircraft

DEMANDING CLIENTELE “Our main target markets are the Middle East, Europe and Africa, which essentially means we serve people with different cultural backgrounds who all have different requirements,” Captain McBride added.

“So we have to take the experience we adapt our service accordingly and ensure a customized experience. We fly Royalty, Heads of State, celebrities and some of the world’s major rock bands.

Some of their demands are quite difficult and others are easy. For example, one of our rock band clients’ main concerns was to have mugs for their tea

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Spotlight

“Whereas the market for light aircraft has been quiet for the past couple of years due to the economic crisis, we have managed to keep going because whenever we fly a President, Head of State or a government, they still have to fly.”

and it had to be a special tea from Ireland. So we had to bring onboard additional water heaters.

“Whereas in the old days we’d be thinking about the misbehaving, these days, the rock bands we carry are successful, middle-aged gentlemen whose main concern is their golf handicap. They are booking the aircraft to go out to a gig and come back home again to their families. They have to be home every night while on tour. This is the modern rock band and they’re drinking tea!

They are some of the easiest clients to deal with. “Customers may request catering so exclusive that only a few or even one vendor may have it in stock and it’s again up to us to make sure we have it onboard.

Another example was a client who requested a very exclusive wine to be served during his trip. It turned out that this specific wine could only be found in one shop in Paris and the aircraft was operating to the Middle East. So prior to the trip, we sent our people to Paris specifically to buy this exclusive wine. We also had a special request that wasn’t as ex-

clusive yet still required quick and swift action on our part. During a technical stop to the U.S from the Gulf, one of our prominent passengers decided he wanted Big Mac burgers. So we had to run to the closest McDonald’s in order get the burgers hot prior to departure.”

PILOTS’ EXPERIENCE Both President and founder Captain Ramsey and CEO James McBride are pilots. Captain Ramsey Shaban is a former fighter pilot with years of experience as a commercial pilot. He later became vice president of flight operations for a major airline before moving on to corporate aviation in 1990. In the early 2000s he was working for a Gulf Group which had signed a partnership with a major European business aviation company. He helped set up the company and then became the President of GainJet in Athens. “I think the location is good and at a time when a lot of other companies are suffering we have managed to carry on. We are collaborating with major Middle-Eastern and European companies and we are

moving ahead.” Captain McBride was brought into the company at the end of 2009 when the company’s executive airliner business saw major growth. “I have been employed as the accountable manager and CEO but I also get a chance to do some flying as well as some training and examining of pilots on the 757. It is great to have the ability to be with the crew on the front line at the point of delivery of the product to the customer. It is very important for somebody from management to be involved and then to be able to bring that knowledge back to the head office.”

STRONG BACKBONE The company is financed by a group of investors, including major investors from the Middle East, giving GainJet a solid backing and comfort. “Aviation opens a lot of other opportunities and leads to other businesses too” says Captain Ramsey. “It has opened avenues for us. We are an aviation company, but our investors do use GainJet as a platform to enhance and also expand in other directions.”

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Spotlight

A VIP Boeing 757-200 with a stateroom and 62 VIP seats has proven to be very popular with its Middle Eastern customers.

EXPANDING THE FLEET Currently 10 large cabin aircraft based in Europe and the Middle East are in operation under GainJet’s AOC, including three large VIP Boeings. Three of them are company owned while the others are privately owned.

“We have experience with VLJs in the past,” says Captain McBride. “But for all the effort and the expertise we put into making one Phenom movement, we may as well have moved a Boeing and it would have been much more lucrative for us as a company. “We’ve focused on expanding our fleet around what we’re good at, what’s been successful and where we have refined our service which is in large cabin aircraft. There are many pure VLJ operators who have packed up and gone home whereas the market for light aircraft such as Citations and Learjets has been quiet for the past couple of years due to the economic crisis. We have managed to keep going, because whenever we fly a President, Head of State or a government, they still have to fly.” GainJet is expecting delivery in mid-2013 of a VIP Boeing 737-400, which has been redesigned into VIP configuration. The aircraft is fitted with a stateroom with en-suite and accommodates 58 passengers all in VIP seating. The aircraft will

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also be fitted with auxiliary fuel tanks to increase its range to nine hours and is expected to be in service by mid next year. The aircraft compliments GainJet ‘s VIP Boeing fleet which includes a 757200 with a stateroom and 62 VIP seats that has frequently operated in the Middle East. In addition to corporate airliners, GainJet is focused on adding more Gulfstreams to its fleet after a new G550 was added six months ago is expected to be joined by a G650 towards the end of 2013.

FROM SMALL ACORNS GROW BIG OAK TREES At EBACE 2012 GainJet helped launch the African Business Aviation Association (AfBAA) of which they are a founding member. “Africa is a virgin continent as far as Business aviation is concerned,” says Captain McBride.

“There are some incredible challenges and some fantastic work to be done.

We have a couple of aircraft that are dedicated to African governments full time and we are delighted to be able to advance the work that they are doing.”

To put a corporate jet airliner into service for a long period of time is quite an undertaking. “The short period VIP adhoc charter is something we specialize in,” explains Captain McBride. “The

niche work which other people would have second thoughts about doing, we look at every opportunity and see what we can do. It is a forte of the company because of the very positive attitude of the people that we have and the broad depth of experience of the crews. Our pilots are very experienced professionals in the commercial aviation world.

The same goes for cabin crews. We never employ anybody without years of experience. Normally they have worked for at least five years for an airline or various operators before they come to us.

We have all these experienced people who can help us do the specialized charters. Each one is a bespoke mission.”

NO SMALL ACHIEVEMENT “Our business really has not faltered,” says Captain McBride. “We have managed to grow. Against the backdrop of the economic downturn it is a major achievement especially in Greece. Our team of specialists has worked hard to provide a company that is growing! It is a great matter of pride both for myself and the president of the company to watch them grow, and to grow so fast.

You can see them literally blossom.

They work well as a team together. They ■ are great communicators.”

Turning aircraft management into an art form

Rizon Jet is pleased to announce the launch of its unique consultancy service, founded with the belief that our clients deserve honest and impartial advice regarding aircraft selection, acquisition and management. When selecting a new or used aircraft for a client, Rizon Jet advises the prospective owner on the interior specifications and full range of options to be considered. This ensures a good match with the client’s budget and mission requirements.

As well as sourcing the most suitable aircraft, we use our extensive network of contacts with the leading manufacturers to negotiate the best possible prices. We also acquire additional benefits such as discounted spares, preferential

heavy maintenance rates, extended warranties, legal advice and specialist advice from the relevant department heads about the support and maintenance packages offered with the aircraft.

We are also able to facilitate the sale of an aircraft using ‘off market’ contacts, by placement on the open market, through advertising with select companies, or indeed by using any of the international brokers.

For more information contact Doha on +974 4419 9400 or email enquiries@rizonjet.com www.rizonjet.com

A SUBSIDIARY OF

XP Flying cards-AA27_XP Flying cards-AA27 30/11/12 13:18 Page105

Flying Options

Is it a risk or a sure thing?

Aces High

Flying privately is all about the flexibility and freedom to choose where you go and how you get there. An increasingly larger number of flyers are taking this concept a step further by investing in Jet Cards to open up a whole new world of VVIP service.

By Damien Reid

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Flying Options

Jet Cards offer the flexibility of choosing your style of aircraft depending on the flight and even the impression you need to make on your clients

Not long ago if you had a coupe of million dollars you could be one of the lucky few to fly around in a private jet whereas today the price to get your own ride high above the clouds is more like a couple of hundred thousand dollars – or the price of a nice sports car.

Thanks largely to the advent of jet cards, businessmen who spend most of their time waiting in commercial airline lounges or immigration queues can now look at the possibility of leaving it all behind in exchange for buying flying hours in any number of different aircraft classes.Companies such as Air Partner, ConnectJets, Air Charter Services, Avolus and NetJets among others can offer services which provide a cost effective and time efficient alternative to standing in line at ticket counter queues.

Add to this the flexibility to choose your

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style of aircraft depending on the type of flight, the number of passengers and even the impression you need to make on your clients and there’s a lot to be said for using jet cards over owning, chartering or even purchasing a fractional share in private aircraft.

The Middle East is getting in on the action with several options appearing on the radar with the most recent being the regional debut of the Lindbergh Card by the new jet card division of Air Charter Services, Empyrean.

The Lindbergh Card is a prepaid card which allows customers to book any type of private aircraft, whether it is a private jet or helicopter anywhere in the world by simply sending an email.

“The Lindbergh Card offers worldwide access to any type of aircraft from a helicopter or a very light jet, to a large

luxury private jet or even an airliner for larger groups,” the chairman and founder of Air Charter Services, Chris Leach said.

“It’s better than owning your own jet.

“Our aim has been to create a product that offers total travel freedom and in the Lindbergh Card we have done so.”

Essentially owning a jet card boils down to convenience and time saving while the hooks of being associated with partner programs offering rewards such as resort holidays, flash cars and exclusive entertainment programs are considered to be nice but still come second to its core function of providing flexibility in the air.

The Lindbergh card has no peak day restrictions, expiry date, acquisition costs or monthly management fees.

“Air Charter Service offers Lindbergh

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Flying Options

Card holders access to more than 150 different aircraft types, suitable to journeys of varying lengths and routes.

“Whether you’re a corporate executive traveling to a series of meetings in the Far East or you want a vacation in the south of France, we provide a personal account manager to assist in putting together the perfect flight at a moment’s notice,” Mr Leach said. With a minimum deposit of $US100,000, cardholders’ funds are held in individual trust accounts allowing the full amount to be refunded at any time Potential clients also need to factor into the equation that owning an aircraft means it needs to be registered and can be subject to heavy taxes and VAT depending on where it is located.

In the UK and other parts of the world for instance, spending on a jet must be considered 100 per cent as a business expense to be able to claim it back as a tax deduction.

A jet card on the other hand means there is no ownership commitment required which can be a major selling point for some like one anonymous client who sold his Gulfstream and bought a jet card because of the added flexibility it offered in addition to the extra liquidity he gained.

Avolus services areas mostly out of Europe with offices in London, Monaco and Moscow but also includes Dubai and Abu Dhabi as special destinations.

It has recently introduced a 10 hour jet card which allows clients to experience using a jet card before purchasing the more accepted 25 and 50 hour cards.

Avolus’ private jet service offers a full range of aircraft worldwide including turboprops, light jets, mid-size jets, heavy jets and airliners with an emphasis on maximum flexibility, efficiency, privacy and luxury.

Since the company was formed in 2005 it has seen its jet card component grow

and presently takes 35 per cent of its business while 25 per cent is for sales and acquisitions and 40 per cent remains in the charter operation.

“Our business has never been stronger,” founder and chief executive officer, Alexis Grabar said.

“The investments we made over the past two years diversifying our product base and expanding our geographic footprint are yielding strong returns.

We’ve shown that, even in a very depressed economy, if you have the right product in the right place, there is plenty of room to grow,” he added.

The standard Jet Card offers 25 or more hours of flight time for a single, up-front payment and clients can use the hours across 1000 airports in Europe as well as 5000 airports in the US and on to the Middle East under special arrangement as part of its bespoke program.

The program provides fixed prices and guaranteed availability on an extended

“With a minimum deposit of $US100,000, cardholders’ funds are held in individual trust accounts allowing the full amount to be refunded at any time”

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Flying Options

fleet of new, modern aircraft. In addition, Jet Card Europe has no fuel or airport surcharges, no expiration dates and is refundable at any time and according to Mr Grabar, its client base is heavily tilted towards entrepreneurs who typically fly between 25 and 400 hours per year. Jet cards came to prominence in 2002 when NetJets introduced the first card that tempted clients with private travel without the ownership hassle and with just under 5000 cardholders is now the company’s most successful innovation since it entered the fractional ownership market in 1986.

While most remain guarded when it comes to rates, a typical price for a wheels up to wheels down 25-hour card ranges from around $135,000 across the US to $195,000 not including taxes and fees in Europe.

By comparison ConnectJets which launched its own 25-hour flying card earlier this year can get you in the air from around $5800 per hour for a very light jet in Europe.

Earlier in the year ConnectJets launched its own scheme which is a program aimed at clients who are able to commit to 25 or more flight hours per year. Cardholders also earn Jet Miles which brings the traditional benefits of commercial airline travel into the business aviation world such as a 12 per cent discount on bespoke tailored suits.

“ConnectJets is committed to extending the enormous benefits of corporate aviation to a wider audience by simplifying the process and adding

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One client sold his Gulfstream and bought a jet card because of the added flexibility it offered in addition to the extra liquidity he gained

value to the client experience,” ConnectJets Managing Director, Gabriella Somerville said.

“We didn’t want to create another jet card per se but we were keen to create a three dimensional product and with this in mind we developed the Jet loyalty card which allows us to present the first Jet Miles and Privilege program with access to a host of offers, discounts, upgrades and sporting events,” Ms Somerville said.

“Professional sportsmen and women at the highest international levels know only too well the stresses of constant travel,” former All Black New Zealand rugby international captain, Sean Fitzpatrick, who is a client of ConnectJets, said. “Private aviation is invaluable as a tool to help maximize performance and the Jet Card is a smart way of taking the hassle out of organizing trips,” he added. The benefits are varied but the financial freedom of not having to worry about management fees as well as occupied hourly fees that cover things like insurance, fuel, catering, pilot salaries, hanger time and overfly fees makes jet cards an increasingly popular alternative.

Not to mention the very good chance of having access to a young fleet as most operators provide aircraft that are less than three years old, plus the ability to pick and choose between the widest variety including helicopters and you can’t help but start weighing up the pros and cons of only paying for the ■ time you’re in the air.

XP Pub FAI-AA27_XP Pub FAI-AA27 26/11/12 10:38 Page1

There is no higher Level of Travel ...

XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2_XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2 30/11/12 11:33 Page110

VNE

By Ivan Veretennikov

XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2_XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2 30/11/12 11:33 Page111

VNE

Falcon 2000LXS Twin New World

Today’s ultimate twin from the Dassault nest is up against tough competition, but the neat touches that turned an LX into an LXS give this Falcon 2000 a head start.

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VNE

Essentially, the new Falcon 2000LXS is still considered the 2000EX as far as its type rating is concerned.

Some enhancements such as blended winglets, up-dated avionics and various cabin improvements effectively turn the 2000 into the 2000LXS

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There’s no debate that Dassault Aviation has perfected the trijet, but it also never abandoned its roots. Ever since its first aircraft, the Mystère 20, took to the skies in 1962, it has been mating two engines to a state-of-the-art airframe, adding the best available avionics, equipment, and safety features of the time, to build a new Falcon Jet: 20, 200, 10, 100, 2000... The current flagship, Falcon 7X, is the most advanced trijet ever. Although it is an exceptional plane, it also owes to the fact that there are no other trijets, except the 900LX by the same company, in production today. The new 2000LXS is surely not alone out there, with contenders as diverse as the Challenger 605, Challenger 850, and Embraer Legacy 650 fighting for customers in the same price segment. Surely there’s more than just the letter «S» in the name (makes it more of a car name, really). The Falcon 2000LXS is the ultimate upgrade – one that makes you wonder: «why didn’t they do it before?»

XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2_XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2 30/11/12 11:33 Page113

VNE

A big development is the inboard slats from the 900LX. Although it wasn’t substantial enough to grant a new type certificate, the upgrade opens up many more airfields by reducing takeoff by 300 metres.

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COMPLETE REFURBISHMENTS INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR DETAILING

WWW.OHS-AVIATIONSERVICES.DE

XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2_XP VNE Falcon 2000LXS-AA27-2 04/12/12 11:58 Page115

VNE

In recent years Dassault Aviation has been reinventing its lineup, cutting out the lower-priced and less-performing DX versions of both the 2000 and 900, and turning the EX into LX via some enhancements, such as blended winglets, updated avionics, and various cabin improvements. Essentially, the new Falcon 2000LXS is still considered the 2000EX as far as its type rating is concerned. The above changes are put down as modifications to the basic structure and do not affect the initial certificate, so don’t expect it to have fly-bywire or new engines. However, it’s not possible to retrofit an older plane to make it an LXS, so if you ever wanted to put your money into a Dassault twin, make sure it’s this one.

To understand the aircraft better, let’s take a step back in time. Not right into the carefree 60s and the dawn of the business jet era - just a small one, to see the Falcon 2000LX

The Falcon 2000LX can be compared to the much smaller Challenger 300 in terms operating costs, while offering true large-cabin comfort.

enter service in 2009. It was (and in fact, still is, because it’s in production) a substantial boost to the 2000 series in terms of performance and looks. Its blended winglets, which required certain changes to the wing structure, added a whole 5% to max range while also giving the aircraft a much more attractive, trendy exterior look. It's interesting to note that Dassault engineers had been reluctant to use winglets for some time. When they did resort to them,however, they made the most of it: apart from giving a range increase, Hi Mach blended winglets improved the rate of climb, takeoff and landing distance, as well as fuel efficiency. Speaking of the latter, the Falcon 2000LX can be compared to the much smaller Challenger 300 in terms operating costs, while offering true large-cabin comfort and 25% more range.

While the aircraft, with its 7400 km range, 10-12 passenger stand-up cabin, great handling characteristics, sound insulation, impressive field and climb performance turned out good enough for Dassault to sell over a hundred of them, arguably some details separated it from perfection.

One thing that many operators and owners of the Falcon 2000 wanted was an upgrade of the EASy cockpit, although already state-of-the-art. The time has come for additional capability, and the Falcon 2000LXS features the EASy II flight deck with optional sythetic vision and other improvements that will allow a wider range of operations, especially in low visibility. Otherwise, the trademark cockpit devised by Dassault is a piece of art: ergonomic, intuitive,

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VNE

DASSAULT FALCON 2000LXS External dimensions Length 20.2 m Height 7.1 m Wing span 21.4 m Internal dimensions Cabin length 7.98 m Cabin width 2.34 m Cabin height 1.88 m Cabin volume 29 m3 Weights Maximum take off weight 19,414 kg Maximum landing weight 17,827 kg Maximum zero fuel weight 13,472 kg Engines Manufacturer P& W Canada

Nbr/Type 2 x PW308C with new TALON II™ combustor Thrust 31.14 kN Performance Range with 6 passengers, M.80, NBAA IFR reserves 7,408 km Climb time to FL410 (MTOW) 20 min Maximum speed 907 kph Maximum operating altitude 14,325 m Takeoff distance (MTOW, SL, ISA) 1,425 m Landing distance (SL, 6 passengers, Adopting blended winglets has NBAA IFR Reserves) 689 m Price $32,300,000

easy to use. The big flight displays can be configured to the liking of the pilots, and their functions are easily accessible through well-placed trackballs. The cockpit windows that give the Falcons their unmistakable appearance also offer pilots good visibility.

A significant development of the 2000LXS are the inboard slats that found their way to this series from the 900LX. An upgrade that is not viewed substantial enough by the FAA or EASA to grant a new type certificate is nevertheless rather complex. It will not be possible to install such slats onto previous versions of the Falcon 2000, although winglets and EASy II cockpit were available for the 2000LX. In practice this gives the new 2000 much better field performance - a whole 300 metres better on takeoff than the previous model - opening many more airfields around the world. While this may not be a big deal in Russia, for example, where there are only that many fully-equipped airports (about 70, in fact), all with very long runways, in the U.S. and Europe such an advance will give the aircraft additional flexibility. Landing as close as possible to the place you need to be - this is what business aviation is all about. It will be certified for London City operations just like all other Falcon jets.

Another hugely important improvement from the passenger standpoint is the quieter cabin. Dassault jets are known for being whisper-quiet, yet the engineers have managed to bring noise levels down a further 2 dB, making the 2000LXS a benchmark for others. As for other comfort criteria, let’s just say that the cabin is of ideal proportions for an aircraft that’s actually about the size of a midsize Challenger 300 on the outside: 29 cubic metres of space (almost 5 more than on the CL300, but 4 less than on the CL605) with 9.5 x 2.34 x 1.88 dimensions. The pressurization system will keep a sealevel cabin at a higher altitude than competing aircraft. Another called-for addition should make the ride more fun: the

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increased its range by five percent to its range taking it up to 7400km

cabin management system has been upgraded to the Falcon Cabin HD+, meaning more convenience and functionality.

You can now control cabin features such as audio, video, window shades, lights, air conditioning using an iPhone or iPod Touch. The Rockwell Collins Skybox system contains one terabyte of media that can be streamed to Apple iOS devices on board – basically, you connect your iPad to a huge library of films and music and enjoy your flight. Plus, when you want some 21st Century recreation, switch on the augmented reality map that will move as you turn the iPad – or as the aircraft turns.

Let’s be straight: all these modifications don’t really make the Falcon 2000LXS a new aircraft, but they do make an existing one a whole lot better. Consider this as a whole bunch of game-changing options thrown in at no extra cost, and you will see that this is the perfect Falcon 2000. It has all the advantages of the series – up to 40% less fuel burn than competitors, spectacular performance, quiet and spacious cabin, beautiful interior design. Additionally, the new TALON II™ combustor reduces the PW308C’s NOx emissions by an additional 20%, outdistancing margins set by current Committee on Aviation Environment Protection (CAEP/6) regulations by 40%. It also has what the others don’t: improved field performance, remarkable new cockpit, improved cabin management system, and an even quieter interior.

With certification in the first half of 2013, it is just around the corner. If you were looking for the perfect twin to fly 7000+ km with 6 passengers at M.80 – this is it. Paying more on acquisition than for competing aircraft, chances are you will win the difference on operations and slower depreciation rates. Not many rely on mathematics alone, however. And with MEBA coming up very soon in Dubai, there’s a good opportunity to see the Falcon 2000 on the tarmac. Just keep in mind that whichever version you see, the 2000LXS ■ will still be a little better.

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XP Aviation Horizon-AA27_XP Aviation Horizon-AA27 04/12/12 14:26 Page119

Interview

Saudi Arabia’s boom time

Aviation Horizons

Saudi Arabia is one of the biggest markets for private aviation not just in the region but globally and it’s yet to tap its full potential. The recent granting of a Part 135 licence from GACA has given Aviation Horizons a firm hold of this market.

It’s sometimes considered the sleeping giant of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has a healthy private jet industry with a growing number of jets in the Kingdom as well as a high number of traffic movements in relation to its neighbours in the Gulf each year. Yet according to one senior industry analysist, the boom hasn’t even started yet.

Mohammed D. Bokhari is the Chief Executive Officer of Aviation Horizons which was formed in 2007 in Jeddah and specialises in private jet operations, charter, sales, acquisitions and more. “There is a huge demand in the Saudi market especially for private jets that can accommodate more than 12 passengers and has a

reasonable luggage capacity,” Mr Bokhari said. “We have plans to attract more aircraft under our management and we are seriously considering an expansion through a partnership with other aircraft operators because in my opinion, Riyadh and Jeddah have been, and still are, major hubs in the region,” Mr Bokhari added. With a business that caters for aircraft management, charter, purchase, leasing, finance consultation, crew training and aviation support services, Aviation Horizons has most of the bases covered when it comes to the private aviation industry in the region. “Our business model is designed to support aircraft owners by offering tailored air-

By Damien Reid

XP Aviation Horizon-AA27_XP Aviation Horizon-AA27 29/11/12 17:45 Page120

Interview

The GACA licence was signed at a press conference in Jeddah with Saudi Private Aviation MD Wajdi A. Alidrissi and Aviation Horizon's CEO Mohammed D. Bokhari

craft management programs, moreover, aircraft owners will gain the benefit of the high charter demand that exists in Saudi Arabia.

“Although we were established in 2007 in Jeddah, our team has more than 30 years experience in the aviation industry and in particular, the private aviation industry.” Most notably, the company recently obtained Part 135 licence from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia.

“The GACA license positions Aviation Horizons as one of the very few licensed operators in a large market such as Saudi Arabia. “Aviation Horizons is now eligible to operate private aircrafts which in turn supports the GACA’s direction of eliminating the grey market.”

The company has taken delivery of a Bombardier Learjet LR-60XR and having the licence now allows it the credibility and leverage it needs to highlight the dangers of illegal charter flights which cannot be insured and could cost an unassuming client millions of dollars if anything went wrong.

The GACA license is considered to be the first after the royal decree of separating the General Authority of Civil Aviation from the Ministry of Defense.

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“With an increasing demand in the Kingdom, our goal is to uplift the private aviation service and provide our clients with the optimum services they deserve to have.

“We look forward to co operating with GACA and the private aviation companies to assist in increasing the efficiency of the private aviation market in Saudi Arabia. “The Saudi Arabian private aviation market is growing rapidly and the largest share of the market is still found within the Kingdom.”

The company has also stated previously that it would like to acquire possibly three more planes in the immediate future, most likely Learjets and then follow that order up with two Challengers later, adding that the firm is also interested in becoming a Bombardier distributor in Saudi. The announcement of the GACA licence was made at a press conference in Jeddah in the presence of Saudia Private Aviation (SPA) which was represented by Managing Director Wajdi A. Alidrissi who signed the co-operation agreement with Mr Bokhari.

SPA and Aviation Horizons have formed a relationship that also includes ground handling services after signing a letter of intent earlier this year in the presence

of Nabil Al-Saleh the General Consular of Saudi Arabia in Geneva, at the SPA stand in EBASE. “We look forward to co operate with SPA in different fields of private aviation sectors, to reach our goal in uplifting and increasing the efficiency of private aviation industry in Saudi Arabia,” Mr Bokhari said at the signing.

Mr Bokhari claims the major competitors to Aviation Horizons aren’t so much the big players but other private operators within the region due to the stability of the Saudi economy.

“The Saudi market is considered the largest in the Middle East in private jet charter because of the continuous growth and stability in the Saudi economy, yet we have also noticed an increasing demand in aircraft acquisitions as opposed to just chartering.”

Given the vast size of Saudi Arabia, the strongest demand for private aircraft remains the mid to large size units with generous luggage allowances.

“At the moment the existing aircraft in Saudi isn’t enough to cover the demand. There is a huge demand for private jets that can accommodate more passengers and has reasonable luggage ■ capacity,” he said.

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XP Pub Flying Colours Corp-AA27_XP Pub Flying Colours Corp-AA27 26/11/12 17:04 Page1

XP Gulfstream G280 Savannah-AA27_XP Gulfstream G280 Savannah-AA27 30/11/12 13:50 Page123

Factory Tour

G-Base Visiting the Gulfstream Headquarters

There is a lot going on at Gulfstream, with two new models recently certified and many jets ready to go to lucky customers. Company headquarters in Savannah, Georgia, are a good place to appreciate the heritage, dedication, and scale of this famous manufacturer.

THE FLIGHT It was just three days before Hurricane Sandy hit New York. The clouds were low and of a particularly gloomy grey that leaves no hope for a ray of sunlight.

We were to assemble at the Jet Aviation FBO, Teterboro airport, 9 o’clock sharp.

N280GD, a beautiful G280 in trademark livery, was to take us up and above the awful weather and to Savannah, Georgia. This was my first flight in a Gulfstream, so I was naturally excited. And although this particular model is technically a successor of the Israeli IAI Ga-

By Ivan Veretennikov

XP Gulfstream G280 Savannah-AA27_XP Gulfstream G280 Savannah-AA27 30/11/12 13:50 Page124

Factory Tour Masses of headroom in the G280. With a cabin height of 191cm, the "trench" down the middle is an additional bonus that makes walking around, even for the tallest people, easy.

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Factory Tour

I had time to pull out the divan to test its dimensions first hand. This will definitely be the place for longer legs with enough range to go from New York to London or London to Dubai nonstop laxy, and green aircraft are manufactured in Israel, it is unmistakably a G-jet inside and out after all the changes made

by Gulfstream to the wing, fuselage, tail, cockpit, and cabin.

There were ten of us: three crew, two company representatives, and five journalists. Quite a number for a midsize business jet it would seem, but we all settled down very comfortably. This says more about cabin size and comfort than abstract photographs or crosssections. The “trench” running down the middle is not a desperate effort to raise the ceiling as in some other jets – there would have been enough headroom without it. Thrown in as an additional bonus, it makes walking around much easier even for tall people, giving the cabin a height of 191 cm.

Until we went racing down the runway and swiftly took off, gaining altitude like a rocket, there was no saying if first impressions would prove correct. After all, I’ve seen a spacious interior, comfortable chairs, fold-out divans, great leathers, fabrics, and veneers on a Tupolev 134. Once the engines revved up and we were squeezed into our seats, however, I saw that the G280 is a different bird to all I’ve flown before. It is literally whis-

It is literally whisper quiet even on high thrust and cabin pressure changes are unnoticeable

per-quiet even on high thrust, and cabin pressure changes are unnoticeable. And while any business jet has its “performance takeoff”, the climb rate and speed here are very sporty in comparison. It could have gone straight up to 13100 metres in just 22 minutes, but we didn’t get clearance for that and had to stay quite low, in and out of thick clouds. The outdoor camera installed high in the tail offers plenty of entertainment when gaining altitude and manoeuvring – this airplane is so agile it could easily fit into a fanciful computer game.

Very soon we were served breakfast and could appreciate the broad and steady tables that, if necessary, cater just as well to flying office needs. Onboard Wi-Fi was another nice addition and worked perfectly at an altitude of about 12 km. Engaged in pleasant conversation, we barely noticed when it was time to land. I did, however, have time to pull out the divan and test its dimensions first-hand. This will definitely be a place of choice on longer legs. The aircraft has enough range to go from New York to London and from London to Dubai nonstop, offering more than others in its class, as one would expect

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Factory Tour

"Gulfstream builds its top end here, the G450, G550 and G650. There must have been a few dozen ready, some as green aircraft, others ready to go to lucky customers"

of a Gulfstream. Surprisingly, it costs about the same to acquire and operate as the competition.

Soon enough we were on the ground and saw the Gulfstream Savannah customer reception centre on our screens, broadcast by the tail cam. It was time for the factory tour.

THE FACTORY The factory in Savannah is a lot more than just the production facilities – this is the global Gulfstream headquarters.

On the technical side, there’s a state-ofthe-art service centre and an R&D centre. The much-praised 24-hour Technical Support team that will be mentioned later is also located here. For the customer, there is a very nice reception centre with meeting rooms and a dining room where we were served a wholesome lunch, and a history corner with lots of interesting facts about Gulfstream aircraft, old magazine adverts, model airplanes, etc. Even the studio of Gulfstream’s own TV channel, broadcast to customers worldwide with the latest news, is also here.

Then there are the production facilities.

Gulfstream builds its top end here: the G450, G550, and G650. The latter has its own building with an area of 29000 sq m, and the output is fantastic. There must have been a few dozen ready,

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Factory Tour

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Factory Tour

"Tools can only be taken in exchange for cards that each employee has. This serves as a reminder and allows Gulfstream to double check that nothing has been left aboard the aircraft." some as green aircraft, others ready to go to lucky customers. I presume that “first delivery” will quickly turn into “first batch”, and at least several units of the new flagship will fly out to various corners of the world before year-end.

While every manufacturer claims attention to detail, Gulfstream production facilities take it to a new level. The factory is very busy, a lot is going on at any single moment, yet it is exceptionally tidy and well-organized. Some very advanced methods are in place to keep it so.

Tools, for example, can only be taken in exchange for corresponding cards that each employee has a set of. This serves as an extra reminder and allows Gulfstream to double-check that nothing has been left aboard the aircraft. When you are there, it is easy to see where the famed production quality is coming from: there’s so much running in the background to make sure processes are well-executed and controlled, and all results tested.

THE SUPPORT Gulfstream proudly announces that it has consistently been ranked number one in product support in the annual

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survey conducted by Professional Pilot magazine and in the AIN Product Support Survey. Operators of these aircraft seem very happy with the support they get, and once you see the 24-hour Technical Support team at work, it shows why. There’s always someone on duty among the mock-ups of various Gulfstream cockpits, where any sorts of failures can be simulated to get to the root of the problem. A big screen in the middle of the room shows the status of Gulfstream aircraft operated around the world, and any one in service (and a very significant share of even the oldest ones still are) can be brought up with a detailed history.

Some responses can be handled by phone, while others may require a visit to the nearest service centre or even delivery of a certain spare part to wherever the aircraft was grounded (Gulfstream mentions dispatch reliability rates in excess of 99.5 percent, so it doesn’t happen often). This is where FAST, or Field and Airborne Support Teams, kick in. Travelling by land or plane (there are two G100, eight pilots, and one supervising manager always on duty), FAST team members can bring the required

parts and get the aircraft fixed. They are part of the company-owned product support network staffed by more than 3700 professionals.

THE FAREWELL The short but eventful flight, a comprehensive tour, and a lovely evening spent in warm Savannah – unaffected by the troublesome weather arriving from the East – all rounded up with yet another ride in the G280, this time using half Jet A and half biofuel. Taking off for Orlando we ripped straight up through the sky, unrestricted by the traffic controller, and reached our flight level within minutes. Obviously, the biofuel had not affected the outstanding performance of the new super-midsize aircraft. Gulfstream headquarters are a good place to understand how the company manages to consistently push the boundaries in quality, performance, comfort, and support. There is a great deal of well-structured work performed by highly skilled people surrounding each Gulfstream jet from start to finish, and beyond. They do a lot to make sure these aircraft deserve ■ the praise they get.

XP Pub SPA-AA27_XP Pub SPA-AA27 03/12/12 08:59 Page1

XP Helicopter Legend Quentin Smith-AA27_XP Helicopter Legend Quentin Smith-AA27 04/12/12 11:59 Page131

LEGEND

Helicopter pilot extraordinaire

©reportage.co.uk

Quentin ‘Q’ Smith

Helicopter pilots and enthusiasts around the world know this stylish Englishman with a great sense of humour simply as ‘Q’. You’d never believe a Robinson R44 was such an exciting machine until you see him fly, but he says he doesn’t take risks. Touring around the world, he inspires new helicopter enthusiasts, confident that it’s time for cars to give way to personal flying transport.

By Ivan Veretennikov Photos HQ, Larisa Repina, www.reportageby.co.uk

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LEGEND

The son of a pilot on the Royal Navy, Quentin was used to living life in a suitcase and grew up around helicopters

Quentin started helping his parents at the flight controls around the age of five, but real flying came later

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“Ok, settled down? Now buckle up, then pull this handle and off we go.”

Quentin Smith, the legendary helicopter pilot who is well-known for his daring (if not even crazy) adventures, was absolutely serious. We were looking out of the bubble windows of his Robinson R44, waving its rotor blades lazily on the grass of Denham, an airfield about an hour’s drive from London. The weather was surprisingly wonderful after all the rain and cold of Farnborough Airshow. The time – about 8 p.m. Just to make sure everyone knew what they were in for, I decided to confirm: “Did I tell you I’ve never flown before?”

“Well, you have to start somewhere, don’t you? Come on, bring this thing up and let’s see how it goes.”

It was hard to argue, and harder still to resist. I had to convince myself that the fate of two passengers, as well as us two in the front, was in the hands of the legendary ‘Q’, and then I pulled that handle.

Spins and turns, up and down, going sideways, then back, then forward and turning around. Hovering over the tranquil English countryside, then diving down to the fields, skimming the surface, then over trees and back...

XP Helicopter Legend Quentin Smith-AA27_XP Helicopter Legend Quentin Smith-AA27 30/11/12 12:18 Page133

LEGEND

I have no idea how long we were up there. My memory is a little better when it comes to who did what. What I did understand perfectly well is why there is so much talk about this ‘Q’.

Helicopters were in his life from the start. His father was a pilot in the Royal Navy, so the family moved around quite a bit. His mother was “living on a packed suitcase”, ready for a bit of travel whenever the chance came. Little Quentin started helping his parents at the flight controls around the age of five, but real flying came later. As a youth, he went through his deal of indecision and pursuit of different careers.

He declined an offer to join the RAF when he was 16 – a thing he regrets – earned a degree in physics, became a racing driver, and even looked at becoming a futures broker in the City. By that time he was an experienced pilot, flying a lot with his dad. And still he wasn’t sure if he wanted to spend his life around helicopters: “When you have been flying since you were a little child, you don’t really feel that it’s something special. You think there are lots of other things out there.”

Nevertheless, in 1986 he became the best private pilot in the UK, winning this trophy in the British Helicopter Cham-

pionships, then went to work as a commercial pilot in the USA and came back home with a clear idea of his future. By 1993, with the help of his father Mike, he opened his own operations at that very Denham Airfield – although they were admittedly much less impressive back then: “I had a school desk, broken phone that I repaired myself, and a Robinson R22 borrowed from a friend.”

It may not seem logical, but the person who is known for breaking the boundaries and performing breathtaking stunts on light Robinsons actually doesn’t take risks. At least he says so:

Q declined an offer to join the RAF and earned a degree in physics before becoming a racing driver and futures broker

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LEGEND

“After some years of teaching ‘Q’ got a chance to make the headlines.

His pupil Jennifer Murray had bought a Robinson R44 and after some discussion they decided to go all the way around the world.”

“I was always a very slow learner and made sure I understood what the machine will do before trying anything new.

It took me very long to learn all the different manoeuvres, to make sure I was comfortable about performing them. I look at others and it surprises me how brave they are to be in such a hurry!”

After some years of teaching ‘Q’ got a chance to make the headlines. His pupil Jennifer Murray had bought a Robinson R44, and after some discussion they decided to go all the way around the world. Allegedly, even the inventor of the helicopter, Frank Robinson, had doubts whether this feat could be achieved. ‘Q’ and Jennifer managed, and there was a spectacular story behind the scenes. It is so funny that it probably couldn’t have happened in the life of anyone else: “Flying around the world in a helicopter was exciting in itself, but what my father did made it ever more fun. When he found out that we intended to circumnavigate the globe, he decided to do it as well, but setting a speed record in the process. He and a friend of his prepared

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his good old Hughes 500 for the race.

We agreed that he would give me a head start, to make sure I come back to England before he does. After all, we thought of this first! So Jennifer and I are going along the route, taking our time, meeting people on the way. Enjoying ourselves tremendously. And suddenly I catch my dad at Niagara Falls, already speeding towards his record! Well, I wasn’t going to lose this one. We were supposed to keep touring for another two weeks, but we headed straight back to Denham, arriving a week earlier. There we got some press together, took pictures, and headed back to the Faroe Islands as if we hadn’t steered from our course. When we stood on English soil for the second time, we were greeted by my father, very happy with his clever trick. Imagine his face when I showed him a newspaper with our picture, published a week ago!” Adventures are not everything though. ‘Q’ is an avid proponent of helicopters, confident that flying machines must take over from cars in the future. We were hovering above Denham when he said to me:

“Look down there. Do you see these people crawling along, tied to the ground? For them to move around, we have to build roads, create all these complex cars, and then they don’t even get anywhere! They spend most of their time stuck in traffic! While the helicopter... you can see for yourself. There is a freedom that you cannot get anywhere else. And it’s a very simple machine. My mission is to show this to people, to convince them that they can fly and teach them how to do it.”

The same night I was invited to a meeting of his club members – those who work at HQ Aviation or were taught to fly by Quentin Smith. About 15 helicopter pilots were gathered together in a lively pub, some very experienced, others had barely started flying. They had all taken a ride with ‘Q’ in his R44 one day, and instantly became converts.

Magic, charisma, or just talent – I really don’t know. But he brings out something in the little Robinson, something you would never expect of a single-engine piston helicopter. It makes you ■ think: “I want to fly like him too!”

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XP Dubai World Central-AA27_XP Dubai World Central-AA27 04/12/12 14:27 Page137

Fixed based operators

The new dawn of the Middle East's

FIXED

BASED OPERATORS

The United Arab Emirates is on the verge of a boom in Fixed Based Operators with the advent of Dubai World Central set to open with five of the biggest names in the industry calling it home. But that hasn’t stopped growth at Dubai International Airport while Fujairah has also tapped into a lucrative market on the east coast.

By Damien Reid

XP Dubai World Central-AA27_XP Dubai World Central-AA27 29/11/12 17:43 Page138

Fixed based operators

Xjet's president and CEO Josh Stewart plans to make Dubai its global headquarters

For operators of private jets in the Middle East, 2013 is going to be a watershed year as the UAE becomes the focal point for the world’s biggest players in Fixed Based Operations. It’s no surprise given the geographical location of the UAE that it has become a major global hub for commercial air travel but increasing demand from the private sector combined with strong sales has resulted in the region becoming the preferred choice for the private sector as well. Nowhere is this trend more visible than in the construction of the gigantic Aviation District facility which forms part of the new Dubai World Central (DWC) just outside of Jebel Ali between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

When complete, DWC, which sits on 140 sq km, will include the 6.7 sq km

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Aviation District and will also house Logistics District and Al Maktoum International Airport.

“DWC is set to be the aviation and logistics hub for Dubai as well as the wider region including the Middle East, the Indian sub-continent, Africa and the CIS,” His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation, Government of Dubai said.

“Historically, it is one of the most important and significant urban city developments and will truly transform the region into an economic super power,” Sheikh Ahmed added. FBOs including XJet, Execujet, DC Aviation Al Futtaim, Magestic Wings and Jet Aviation have all decided to call DWC their new home and yet Dubai International Airport

continues to flourish with Execujet recently opening an expanded facility which they claim to be the largest in the Middle East while Fujairah also has some exciting developments on the way following its partnership with Aurora Aviation.

One of the first operators scheduled to be running at DWC is Denver-based XJet and according to its President and CEO, Josh Stewart, the facility is destined to have a positive impact on the industry. “I think Dubai will become the biggest private jet hub in the world,” Mr Stewart said.

“We have enjoyed a 100 per cent growth in our business over the past five years and as I believe our model is perfectly suited to the Middle East, I’m confident this will only improve,” he

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Fixed based operators

“We have enjoyed a 100 per cent growth in our business over the past five years and as I believe our model is perfectly suited to the Middle East, I'm confident this will only improve” added. The model he talks about is an FBO which is more like a country club for jet owners than a servicing and refueling facility.

“We are planning to open in Paris but Dubai will be our global headquarters and will provide stunning hanger facilities, lounges and concierge service much like we do in Denver. “The difference between the US and Dubai is that while Centennial Airport can cater for jets like the Global Express and Gulfstream G650, DWC will be able to handle BBJs and ACJs.” XJet was launched six years ago and remains exclusive in that it only has 14 members who have managed to in-

clude a lot of networking opportunities among themselves in the lounge. He admits that XJet doesn’t make a profit on fuel sales but is purely service driven by providing asset protection in the form of hangers and five-star service that includes a dedicated corner of the hanger, jet valet services and concierge.

“If you look at the Middle East, there is little hanger space for private aircraft.

We were the first to sign with DWC four years back and we are delighted that it’s back on the map,” he added.

Away from the glamour of DWC, Fujairah is also quietly kicking some goals by catering for a new oil boom that’s expected to double the size of the city wi-

thin three years. A new pipeline diverting oil under the UAE from Habsham in Abu Dhabi to Fujairah is expected to be an economic boon for the emirate according to the acting general manager of Fujairah International Airport, Mr Charles Hadju. “The airport, freezone and the port make up the three main parts of Fujairah and the oil pipeline is huge news for the city.

“As a consequence we needed to ramp up our FBO to cater for the expected demand and have outsourced the business aviation side to Aurora Aviation,” Mr Hadju said.

“Cargo remains our mainstay and commercial flights are increasing with twice

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Fixed based operators

Execujet's new FBO at Dubai International Airport includes 12,300square feet of terminal space and duty-free shopping

daily flights to Abu Dhabi with RotanaJet because of the pipeline. “Since we agreed to terms with Aurora we have probably seen a 100 per cent increase in movements and we’re hopeful that will grow further once we hand over to Aurora soon.”

Presently no aircraft will be based in Fujairah as all movements are expected to be visitors making use of its MRO, however the FBO apron which was initially designed to cater for Gulfstream and Citation sized craft may be expanded after recent bookings were taken for 767s and 757s.

“Last week we had a quote for a 747 for a technical stopover so while we currently plan to use the existing passenger terminal facility, we have a dedicated 200m x 2300m apron which already has engineering approval to be expanded if necessary as we are running at 60 per cent capacity,” he said.

Despite the strong growth at both Fujairah and DWC, demand for quality FBOs remains steady at Dubai International Airport which recently opened the largest dedicated business aviation terminal in the Middle East.

Execujet took over the old EFS facility to provide an additional 12,300 sq ft of terminal space offering additional lounge space, expanded customs and immigration services, including e-gate

140

services and duty-free shopping. “The additional terminal space will allow us to grow our business by up to 50 per cent,” the managing director of Execujet Middle East, Mike Berry said.

“We have also invested in airside vehicles including limousines and baggage vehicles as well as extra ramp-side equipment,” The newly acquired terminal includes eight lounges with a large arrivals area and dedicated VIP parking with a limousine drop-off zone.

“Our introduction of full ground handling services in Dubai is another important development that gives us an enhanced level of control over aircraft arrivals and departures,” Mr Berry said.

However with an airport that is already almost at capacity, slots will only become harder to find which is why DWC is becoming the venue of choice for many.

Majestic Wings which is owned by Sheikh Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan and Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Nahyan will occupy a 7,360 sqm plot which includes a dedicated 4738 sqm apron in front of the hangar on one of the most premium locations in the district.

“The addition of Majestic Wings to DWC’s aviation district is a positive step towards bolstering our long-term stra-

tegy and the aviation industry in general,” the executive chairman of Dubai Aviation City, Khalifa Al Zaffin said.

Majestic Wings will build its own facilities to offer a full range of FBO services.

The company’s two Gulfstream G200 aircraft will be based there, available for sub-lease.

The final piece in the jigsaw will be DC Aviation’s new UAE operations which it shares with the Al Futtaim Group for air charter and line maintenance operations.

The joint venture formally agreed by the vice chairman of the Al Futtaim Group, Omar Al Futtaim and the CEO of DC Aviation, Michael Kuhn.

The facility will hold the joint venture’s UAE air operator certificate (AOC) as well as be able to perform aircraft line maintenance while it will also have VIP lounges, offices and an in-house aircraft charter operation.

It’s expected that the hanger facilities will be able to accommodate larger private jets of the BBJ and ACJ size as well as small to mid-size jets.

Despite the global economic turmoil and the Arab Spring, the business aviation sector has bounced back stronger than ever in the Middle East with a choice of facilities that has not only attracted the world’s best operators but will take the industry to new heights ■

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ANALYSIS

Figures point to a resilient market well set for growth

Is the Middle East bouncing back?

The number of departures from the Middle East to Europe shows a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) growth of five percent from 2006 to 2012.

Source WINGX Advance.

As a business aviation gateway between mature markets in the west and fast emerging Asia, the Middle East is a perfect snapshot of how the global market is developing. Our in-depth look into traffic movements to and from the region also highlights some interesting trends that have been emerging internally.

Until a decade ago the business aviation market in the Middle East had barely emerged. Then from 2005 until 2009 the market grew at double-digit rates. The credit crunch and the ensuing global economic crisis put only a temporary halt on the development of business aviation in the region. Activity bounced back in 2010, only to be derailed by the unrest of the Arab Spring which has upset the region´s macroeconomic context since 2011.

Certainly the big ambitions of the Middle East to be a leading global business aviation market are yet to materialize.

Five years ago the region was forecast to grow at 20 per cent per annum and

By Richard Koe

take up to 25 per cent of 10-year deliveries. Latest projections forecast the Middle East with a more modest high single digit share of global business jet deliveries in the next decade. As yet, we have not seen the region’s business aviation industry imitate the success of its commercial airline peers.

All the same, this month´s Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) show in Dubai should attract a record attendance and an optimistic outlook. A review of the principal traffic flows from the Middle East shows that activity is down 1.4 per cent in 2012 year on year (YOY). This marks a major slowdown in the decline precipitated by the Arab

Spring in 2011. That year´s business aviation movements were more than 10 per cent down on 2010. So it looks like the sector may have turned the corner so long as further regional instability can be contained.

The business aviation fleet in the Middle East is larger than ever and as of November 2012 there were 369 registered executive jets with 13 new jet deliveries year to date (YTD) in 2012 compared to 18 deliveries in 2011. As in previous years, the fleet is dominated in numbers by the larger aircraft manufacturers such as Boeing, Gulfstream and Bombardier.

The average age of the fleet is 11 years although this is skewed by a relatively

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ANALYSIS

ageing Boeing fleet. Industry surveys have consistently shown that Middle Eastern customers value younger aircraft more than in mature European or US markets.

More than 65 per cent of 2012´s jet departures from the Middle East´s top 15 airports have been to European destinations and three quarters of these are to southern Europe. Athens, Milan, Rome, Geneva, Zurich, London and Paris feature in the top 10 destinations from Cairo, Riyadh, Jeddah, Beirut, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Luxury leisure destinations such as Cote d’Azur and Nice show up frequently while trips to Istanbul as well as leisure destinations like Trabzon and Bodrum in Turkey are also on the rise.

To the Middle East´s primary European destinations, most departures originate from Israel, Saudi, Lebanon, Egypt and the UAE. But whilst Israel and Egypt have lost more than 10 per cent of the comparable YTD departures flown in 2011, movements from Saudi Arabia have increased 20 per cent and from Bahrain, more than 30 per cent. Off a very low base, departures have predictably fallen far and fast from Syria. At the airport level, Beirut’s departures have increased sharply compared to 2011 but the largest increases in movements in 2012 have come from Jeddah where the King Abdulaziz international airport development is clearly paying

off in terms of activity.

Another 25 per cent of overall departures from the Middle East, year to date 2012, have been to destinations within the region. Airport pairs such as King Abdul Aziz and Rafic Hariri, Cairo are regularly connected.

Apart from Europe, Russia is the most regular non-Middle Eastern regional destination with Vnukovo getting most of the traffic. Several routes operate around 100 flights per week, most notably Beirut-Cairo and Jeddah-Le Bourget. The fastest growing routes are to destinations in China and India and in particular, the Shanghai-Dubai city pair.

The popularity of Middle Eastern to European flights indicates the need and preference for larger and longer range aircraft. At 5246 km, for example, a Dubai-Paris liaison requires at least a super mid-size aircraft like a Challenger 300. This is borne out by the evidence that year to date 2012, super mid-size and larger aircraft accounted for more than 88 per cent of IFR jet departures from airports in the Middle East. The corresponding share of super mid size flights in Europe is only 53 per cent.

The Middle East´s 2012´s flight data by aircraft segment shows a cementing of these preferences, with ultra-long range and heavy aircraft usage up by 3 per cent whilst very light jet usage is down by 60 per cent compared to 2011. Ho-

wever this may be misleading as the VLJ fleet is tiny and in fact light jet flights are up by nine per cent whilst super mid-size flights have dropped by a significant 15 per cent. Overall, the mid-size sectors seem to have lost customers to both the higher performance big jets and the more economical lighter aircraft classes. There are further varieties in the specific aircraft preferred by customers flying from the Middle East. With reference to European departures, the two most flown large executive jet models are the Gulfstream G400 and Challenger 600 series with more than 1,000 flights each to Europe YTD 2012. Falcon 900, Challenger 300 and Lear Jet 60s are also in positive territory in 2012 YOY, compared to declines in usage for the likes of the Global Express and Hawker 850.

Focusing on Middle East to European departures, 55 per cent of trips YTD have been registered as private, 45 per cent as charter. This is the inverse of the European market, but it would be unwise to read too much into the significance as the region is still well known to have a sizeable ´grey´ charter market that may be over representing private flight activity What is clear from the recorded mission purpose of these departures is that the recorded number of regional charter movements has fallen even in the largest jet classes (offset by increase in

Breakdown of destinations of business jet flights departing from the Middle East region.

Breakdown of usage by OEM of the 349 business jets registered in the Middle East.

Source WINGX Advance.

Source WINGX Advance.

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ANALYSIS

BREAKDOWN OF FLIGHTS (DEPARTURES) IN THE REGION IN 2012 BY AIRCRAFT SIZE SEGMENT AND USAGE (PRIVATE/CHARTER) Source WINGX Advance.

Private

Aircraft segment performance is shown by YTD departures and market share of all departures

flights filed as private). Evidently this pattern is not uniform as regional charter operator NasJet (previously allied with Net Jets in the Middle East) reported a six per cent charter revenue improvement in 2012.

Gulfstream and Bombardier are this year’s most popular aircraft ‘brands’ in the Middle East, accounting respectively for 22 per cent and 24 per cent market share of departures. Dassault has 15 per cent of this market and Embraer sits in fourth position with its 12 per cent share representing close to 1,000 departures YTD. Embraer is a relative newcomer to the executive jet market in the Middle East but has invested significant resources in promoting its Legacy and Lineage large cabin aircraft, well suited to this region. Less well suited, so far, is the lighter jet portfolio of Cessna, which has less than 10 per cent of this market compared to over 30 per cent in Europe.

All the major aircraft OEMs are jostling for space at this year’s MEBA, demonstrating their continued strong interest in the region’s growth prospects. They will be applauding MEBA 2012´s emphasis on the need for a more practical approach to addressing barriers to the industry’s re-

144

Charter

The higher share of private flights over charter flights does not take account of the region’s substantial grey market.

gional development, including improved airspace management, broader infrastructure support and more trained personnel..

Over the last 12 months the MEBAA has inaugurated a number of regional forums to support the main show. Progress reports and further debate will take centre stage at the MEBA venue, held for the first time at Dubai World Central. The venue itself will be an important showcase for the region’s investment in world-class aeronautical hubs and such investments appear to be paying off. Next door neighbour Abu Dhabi’s new Al Bateen Executive Airport for example, has seen more than a 30 per cent increase in flight movements in 2012.

Looking ahead, the MEBAA will point to the great potential for the Middle East to be a business aviation gateway between mature markets in the west and fast emerging markets across Asia. 2013 should be the start of the up-cycle, particularly if the industry can start to shift its value proposition away from being a luxury service for the very few. Business aviation could be a much needed connectivity tool to support trade within the Middle East and with its fast ■ growing neighbours.

Richard Koe is MD of WINGX Advance, which provides actionable market intelligence and consulting to the business aviation industry. Customers include aircraft owners, corporate flight departments, operators, airports, OEMs, FBOs, consultants, maintenance providers, banks, funds, law firms, and insurance companies.

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08/11/2012 15:14

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Big Iron 2

Choosing a business jet is never easy, even when you know what segment and price range to look at. Imagine picking one out of many when each is fit to become a flying palace, the variety of cabin sizes and cross-sections is overwhelming, the selection of fabrics, leathers, and veneers comes in entire walls of samples, and the costs have no boundaries whatsoever. Welcome to the world of business liners – the ultimate flying property.

The cost no object comparison of business liners

By Ivan Veretennikov

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The term 'Business Liner' is only useful when you distinguish these big boys from traditional business jets

A business liner (be one taken from airline service and refurbished, a standard factory model meant to compete with traditional business jets, or an awe-inspiring custom-built giant) can be considered the pinnacle of luxury living, an extremely useful business tool, or both.

Depending on its interior and performance, it can either serve as a transport for governments, official delegations, and top corporations, or provide a means of safe, comfortable, and highly confidential travel for wealthy individuals and families.

There are so many to choose from, however, that the generic term “business liner” is only useful when we distinguish them from “traditional business jets”.

The sizes and shapes, brands, prices, and performances vary greatly, and it

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would be impossible to give a very detailed account of what options are out there: Each deserves a separate article.

We will therefore break them down into categories, and consider the key features of each. One thing is for certain though: Even when analysis shows that you can do your business with a much smaller plane, it’s still very hard not to want at least one from the list below.

Flying in a business liner is different experience altogether.

THE JUMBOS Let’s start with the “most wanted” – the biggest and most powerful aircraft with an extremely long flight range and enough floor space to turn them into real flying palaces, office blocks, or government institutions, as the case may be.

These are the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 747-8. The Airbus is a cleansheet design in service since 2008. So much has been written about this magnificient aircraft that we will mention just the basics: It has a two-storey fuselage with a total of about 550 sq. m. of floor area, weighs 560 tons and is powered by 4 Rolls-Royce Trent 970 engines of 311 KN thrust each (compare

that to the 71.6 KN of a G650 engine!).

It is fully fly-by-wire, and pilots seamlessly transition from any modern Airbus aircraft into another thanks to identical cockpits and controls.

The 747-8 is a thoroughly revised version of the classic Jumbo Jet, which entered service in 2012. Its fuselage is stretched by 5.6 metres compared to the 747-400 to a total of 76.4 m, making it the longest aircraft in production worldwide. It features partial fly-bywire, a redesigned wing with Dreamliner-styled wingtips to help to improve fuel consumption, and four GEnx-2B engines with 296 KN thrust each. The floor space is 445 sq. m., noticeably less than on an A380, but still 14 times that of a Global Express. Its max takeoff weight is 448 tonnes.

Both aircraft have a tremendous flight range (over 17000 km), capable of reaching virtually anywhere from anywhere nonstop. Cabin measurements sound surreal if you are accustomed to business jet standards. Main decks are 63.2 x 6.1 x 2.4 m for the Boeing and 44.9 x 6.54 x 2.33 m for the Airbus. Note that the Airbus has two similar-sized decks running the entire length of the fuse-

lage, while the Boeing only has its trademark “hump” – hence the difference in floor area.

That is certainly a lot to outfit, but the space comes with its drawbacks, most importantly, lower flexibility, long waiting times, and huge costs. With either aircraft the owner is tied to the largest international airports, somewhat defeating the point of business aviation that should be able to take you closer to the final destination. Governments, individuals, and corporations tend to keep smaller aircraft to augment a jumbo.

Another consideration is time: from the moment a green aircraft is released by the manufacturer it takes 2-3 years until customer delivery after completion – and you have to wait for the green airplane too.

The first VIP Airbus A380 was announced in 2007, ordered by Prince Al Waleed Bin Talal during Dubai Air Show, but is yet to become reality. The Boeing 747, on the other hand, is a proven and popular platform for government and VIP conversions, the most famous being Air Force One, the flying office of the US President. One new 747-8 has already been delivered to a completions

A green 747-8 costs $300m and an A380 $345m.

Estimates of an extra $100-$150m for fit outs though that's limited only by the imagination

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centre, destined for Qatar, but the customer is undisclosed. Orders for a few more have been announced. Boeing claims the 747-8 to be much more economical than the A380, but the fact that it has been around for so long (as a VIP plane too), is much more significant.

Completion centres seem to be reluctant to perform a one-off conversion of a huge airliner like the A380: the tooling alone would cost a fortune, and unless there are follow-up orders, it would be rendered useless after the job is done.

Airbus representatives believe that once the first one is complete and others see it, new orders will start coming.

Whatever the case, one thing is for certain: a VIP jumbo is the most expensive flying property out there. A green 7478 costs around $300 m, and the A380 about $345 m, while the price of outfitting is limited by imagination only. Estimates say $100-150 million extra, or enough to buy 2-3 Embraer Lineages.

THE CONVERTS The entry ticket to the world of business liners does not have to cost as much as a small country, however. Aircraft taken out of airline service and converted to similar standards as factory-made business liners, and by the same completion centres, retain their popularity among certain categories of buyers. Due to a lower price even with complete refurbishing (a Boeing 727 can be bought for under $1 m, although this is definitely not a modern plane, and it will have very high total time), those who don’t mind that their aircraft had been flying for a while and opt for a big cabin above all else, study offers on the market for Airbus A310, BAe-146, Boeing 737, 757, Fokker 100, MD83, Avro and the like.

Generally such aircraft are acquired by business jet operators for charter in a VIP + entourage configuration, or by sports teams, music bands (notably, the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden toured the world in a branded Boeing 757 with a special baggage hold, piloted by their own lead singer Bruce Dickinson). There are private owners too, the most public being John

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Travolta with his Boeing 707 and Donald Trump with a Boeing 757. With the advent of Airbus Corporate Jets and Boeing Business Jets as separate departments delivering brand-new aircraft to private customers, the introduction of the Embraer Lineage, and the abundance of offers for preowned VIP liners or better-performing but smaller ultra-long-range business jets, converting a venerable airliner or buying a converted one only makes sense when cabin size is the only consideration, while range, operating costs, and flexibility are not as important.

Mainly this means buyers for whom flying aircraft is a business in itself, i.e. operators. Private owners should consider this option very carefully.

THE FUTURE Before we describe the “dedicated bizliners”, it’s worth saying a few words about two new platforms: the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, which have both received significant attention from customers due to their immense flight range (over 18000 km) and extremely spacious cabins, bettered only by the jumbo jets: 52.43 x 5.61 x 2.43 m for the Airbus and 48.4 x 5.4 x 2.3 m for the Boeing. What makes them special isn’t

152

the sheer space, although there’s 275 sq. m. of it in the A350 and 256.6 in the bigger and longer-range 787-9, but the technology.

The Airbus A350 XWB (standing for Extra Wide Body) is scheduled to enter airline service in 2014. It is a clean-sheet design, taking advantage of new materials, advances in aerodynamics, and next-generation engines. Its compositerich fuselage and all-composite wing will allow weight savings and ease of maintenance, while the two efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines with 334 KN of thrust each help to hit the target of 25% lower operating costs compared to existing aircraft of this size.

The Boeing 787 has received much attention from the press over the years as the “first composite airliner” and is already in service. Its combination of lightweight structure, two advanced GEnx engines at 287 KN each, and full fly-by-wire controls, as well as a completely reinvented cabin with much bigger windows for plenty of natural light, will make it a benchmark for future airliners and a desirable business liner.

Prices vary greatly depending on modification and subsequent interior, but $200 million can be used as a starting

point for a green aircraft. If you are looking for a truly personal business liner, however – spacious, brand-new, fitted with a designer interior and costing considerably less – Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer have special models for that.

ACJ Airbus Corporate Jets are praised for their very spacious cabin, 3.7 m wide and 2.25 m tall. Operators and owners have been heard to comment that “standard” interiors are of the best quality and have a great design. Up front, there is one of the most advanced cockpits in aviation, with fly-by-wire, sidestick controls, LCD screens, and a wide range of navigation and awareness aids.

This translates into smoother flights (fly-by-wire helps reduce the effects of turbulence) and greater safety.

Any ACJ, starting from the smallest ACJ318, has enough room to accommodate its 19 passengers in great comfort.

The VIP area can feature a shower, a proper king-size bed, and its own cinema, while the rest of the aircraft may be turned into a lounge with a separate dining room or a flying office. The only general drawback of the series as voiced by several operators we spoke to was the flight range: the ACJ318 is limi-

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ted to 7800 km, and while the bigger models, notably the ACJ319, can do a lot more, this requires fuel tanks in place of baggage holds, making it hard to fit in a lot of belongings. For customers in Europe and especially the Middle East, however, this is not a big issue. A flight to the USA, Latin America, or Australia would require a fuel stop on anything but a ULR business jet, while destinations within these regions can be reached nonstop.

Airbus recently announced the Enhanced option, including new winglets branded as Sharklets that help improve range and payload. This is a step toward

Airbus

Boeing

the next generation neo platform that is set to enter service in 2016 with new engines boosting fuel economy by 15%, reducing cabin noise, and adding about 1000 km to the flight range. Prices currently range from $60 m for the ACJ318 to $90 m for the ACJ320.

BBJ Boeing Business Jets are the classic business liners, launched in 1996 when Boeing recognized the opportunity for VIP aircraft based on the immensely popular 737 platform (there had been plenty of one-off conversions by that time). There are three variants: the BBJ,

BBJ2, and BBJ3, each subsequent one having a longer cabin than the previous, but the BBJ having most flight range at about 11500 km with 8 passengers.

They are priced between $70 and $91 million.

Operators like this aircraft for its extreme durability and reliability, ease of maintenance, abundance of experienced pilots, service centres, and spare parts. Owners praise its flexibility, large 24.13 x 3.53 x 2.16 m cabin, and flight range that is best in class even with full payload and available fuel. Opponents say that this comes at a price of a venerable platform, which hasn’t changed

Model

Advantages

Price

Range (km)

Cabin Area (m2)

MTOW* (kg)

Cruise Speed (km/h)

Takeoff Distance (m)

A380

Huge double-deck cabin, global range

$350 000 000**

17 300

551

560 000

1 090

2 880

A350X WB

Advanced technology, global range, extra wide cabin

$250 000 000**

18 600

275

268 000

1 090

2 730

ACJ318

Big, wide cabin in a relativel small aircraft

$60 000 000

7 800

75

68 000

876

1 790

ACJ319

Optimal cabin/range/price ratio for this size

$80 000 000

11 100

83

76 500

898

1 880

ACJ320

All the ACJ benefits in a stretched cabin

$90 000 000

7 800

96

77 000

898

2 025

747-8

Huge cabin, part double-deck, global range

$300 000 000**

17 400

445

448 000

911

3 260

787-9

Advanced technology, global range, already in operation

$250 000 000**

18 500

223

250 836

902

2 600

BBJ

The classic business liner: optimal range, cabin, flexibility

$70 000 000

11 362

75

77 565

885

1 855

BBJ2

Stretched BBJ with stretched cabin and more baggage

$83 000 000

10 334

93

79 016

885

2 135

BBJ3

Bigger cabin than BBJ2

$91 000 000

10 178

104

85 140

885

2 609

True business liner cabin for the price of a long-range jet

$53 000 000

8 149

70

54 500

885

1 870

Embraer Lineage

*MTOW is maximum takeoff weight - **Green aircraft

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much since the 1960s, traditional controls with less automation and more for the pilots to do, as well as in-house interior designs and finishes that aren’t quite as sophisticated as those of the competition.

Nevertheless, these aircraft are selling at the same pace as Airbus corporate jets, about 10 delivered per year from each stable, highlighting both the limited size of this market and the fact that public opinion is more or less equally divided.

The new BBJ MAX 8 and 9 may help attract new customers. The aircraft, announced this year at NBAA, are based on the 737 MAX with new CFM International LEAP-1B engines and the Boeing Advanced Technology winglet, will offer better range compared to BBJ2 and BBJ3. Boeing is also considering a BBJ MAX 7, based on the original BBJ cabin, but with 7000 nm range – almost 13000 km – and able to compete directly with ultra-long-range business jets.

EMBRAER A newcomer from the Brazilian side is set to disrupt the equilibrium and also steal some customers from the top end of traditional business jets. Priced at around $53 million, or about the same as a long range bizjet, it offers more than double their cabin size, while being significantly cheaper than business liners – both to acquire and operate. It is based on the Embraer ERJ platform, which has become very widespread with airlines around the world, ensuring field support, pilots, and spare parts are not a problem. It is a modern aircraft with full fly-by-wire controls, two GE CF34 engines with 82.3 KN thrust each, and a range of 8200 km.

With a cabin measuring 25.7 x 2.67 x 2 m it offers 70 sq m of floor space, divided into 5 distinct zones, it is a true business liner with a level of comfort far above what you get in traditional business jets. 19 passengers are treated to a dining area, a mini bar in a spacious lounge that also features a 42” plasma screen, as well as a master suite with stand-up shower, queen-size bed, and its own entertainment system. The baggage compartment, accessible in flight, deserves a special mention: it is a whop-

Airbus has the widest interiors, Embraers the most versatile but Boeing's interiors are the quickest to fit out.

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Chances are there will be a wide variety to inspect at MEBA in Dubai

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ping 9.2 cu m in volume – enough for a Mini Cooper if there was a way to get it in there. Together with well thought-out and executed completions (Embraer now has a very creative in-house design team) and outstanding flexibility (access to London City airport, operations into and out of high-altitude Aspen, Colorado), the Lineage 1000 has attracted attention especially among buyers in the Middle East. Its flight range is perfect for nonstop Dubai-London or Dubai-Cape Town flights, while the spacious cabin, ample baggage, and relatively low acquisition and operation costs form a winning combination.

DIFFICULT CHOICE Depending on the profile and needs of the buyer – be it an individual, aircraft operator, corporation, or government – the choices are out there, and they all seem quite popular.

The jumbos are the ultimate flying property: Immense size, truly global flight range, fit only for international airports, and worth almost half a billion dollars.

The next generation widebody airliners are also very big, but more flexible and economical, with better cabin noise levels and pressurization, and also cost an awful lot – around $300 million at least.

If that seems too much for an aircraft, there are plenty of airliners waiting to be converted, and they come in diffe-

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The Embraer Linage 1000 has attracted Middle East buyers with non-stop DubaiLondon and Dubai-Cape Town ranges

rent shapes and sizes. Chances are, you can find a relatively attractive price/quality ratio, especially if you are in the business of operating business jets, but don’t expect the older planes to have flight ranges, operating costs, or equipment comparable to brandnew business liners offered by three manufacturers.

Of which Airbus Corporate Jets are the most spacious, have advanced fly-bywire controls, but don’t offer so much in terms of flight range, unless you are travelling light. Boeing Business Jets are the classic business liners – proven, extremely reliable, loved by their owners and pilots, but possibly lacking the elegance, smoothness, and sophistication of their French counterparts.

Embraer Lineage is in a class of its own.

Big enough to be considered a true business liner and offering a corresponding level of comfort, it competes with long-range business jets such as the G550 or Global 6000 in price. Its clever “Home Away From Home” interior philosophy is finding more and more supporters among the top-end clientele.

And whatever the considerations, there is always an emotion that influences the decision. It can only be evoked through direct contact with the aircraft in question, and chances are, enough of them will be at MEBA in Dubai to add real ■ feelings to rational thinking.

SPACE IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN. This is the future of midsize jets. It’s the first in its class with an unbelievable 6ft tall cabin and flat floor. With its advanced fly-by-wire technology, you’re guaranteed a smoother flight to enjoy the space that takes this jet experience out of this world. See what makes this jet so remarkable at EmbraerExecutiveJets.com Latin America +55 12 3927 3399, U.S., Canada and Caribbean +1 954 359 5387, Europe, Middle East and Africa +44 1252 379 270, China +86 10 6598 9988, Asia Pacific +65 6734 4321

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Remanufacturing

Turning old into new

Going the XTra Mile

There must be a secret side to a light jet offered at the price of a VLJ. Sometimes it’s a shady history. Sometimes it’s age, covered up with some cosmetics – and no big secret at all. In the case of the Nextant 400XT, however, age becomes a very valuable advantage, saving the buyer about $4 million. And for all practical purposes, you’re still getting a new aeroplane.

They started life as Mitsubishi aircraft, then carried on as Beechjet and Hawker models. And now some – the luckier ones, judging by the result – become the Nextant 400XT, a completely remanufactured light jet, with a longer flight range, better fuel economy, modern avionics, and a whole number of other significant changes. The amount of work Nextant puts into this neat aircraft justifies the claim that it can be considered a new type. Let’s take a closer look.

THE IDEA Kenneth Ricci, the founder of Nextant and major fractional ownership operator Flight Options, comments why the Beechjet/Hawker 400 was chosen as

By Ivan Veretennikov

the remanufacturing platform:“The considerations are quite simple, and there are just three of them: 1. It has to be a good aircraft with some sort of deficiency that needs to be addressed. 2.

There have to be enough of the aircraft on the market for such an effort to make sense – it has to be a popular model in the first place. 3. There has to be a sufficient resale market. In terms of cabin comfort and flight range the 400XT is aimed squarely at the Citation CJ4 and Phenom 300, but costs much less. There is a very good market for this aircraft.”

Good indeed. Kenn doesn’t mention that his own company, Flight Options, acquired 40 of these aircraft worth $150

million, but does say that the total backlog will be $175 million after 25 planes are delivered by the end of 2012. This is very impressive for a light jet in current market conditions, so we really have to see what makes it so special.

THE PROCESS Taking a Beechjet 400 and turning into the Nextant 400XT is referred to by the company as “remanufacturing”, and this is exactly what it is. It is not a refurbishment or overhaul, where the customer brings in his own plane and says what he wants. This is a new model, with its own type certificate, and it comes with a range of options. The essence, however, is predetermined: Modern Williams

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Remanufacturing

FJ44-3AP engines, several aerodynamic changes, a Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 glass cockpit, completely new wiring harness, and a choice of standard interiors. Everything that has age limitations is either changed for new equipment and parts or is overhauled to “zerotime” status. Since the airframe originally has no limit, it is the only major component left unchanged. While this is not a brand-new airplane, for all practical purposes it will be: It even comes with a factory warranty. 6000 manhours and about as many parts are put into the Nextant 400XT, in a brand-new production facility based in Cleveland, Ohio, recently expanded by 11500 sq. m. to accommodate a planned output of 48 aircraft per year – a very formidable figure in these challenging times.

THE PLANE The Nextant 400XT does not compete with the Beechjet or Hawker – it goes a whole level up. A repositioning of engine nacelles, an aerodynamically-improved cowling and pylon, optional winglets all result in less drag, by themselves increasing the flight range by 4-5%. The big deal, however, are the engines. The compact Williams FJ44 made a revolution when it was offered in the early 90s, and

"6000 hours go into each aircraft.

It takes 14 weeks to roll out a Nextent 400XT'" Kenn Ricci

became the single most important factor behind the variety of VLJ projects in the past decade. The fact that it was chosen for the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, on which adventurer Steve Fossett circumnavigated the world in just 2 days 19 hours and 1 minute without a single fuel stop (smashing the previous record of 9 days and 3 minutes) speaks for itself. It is a small, powerful, reliable FADEC engine that needs only about 2/3 of the fuel consumed by older engines in its category – the Pratt & Whitney JT15D installed on the Beechjet, to be more specific. With the FJ44, the Nextant can do trips of 2000 nm (3700 km) with 4 passengers – an outstanding achievement. The original aircraft would only go about 2800 km, barely enough to reach Moscow from London, and no good for a flight from the UAE to Kazakhstan, for example.

Improved range, climb performance, and cabin noise (aided by new soundproofing) come with the Williams engine. The 400XT is more than just a re-engined plane, however. Its modern avionics suite has options such as synthetic vision, integrated flight information system (IFIS), and wide area augmentation system (WAAS) that will keep pilots well-informed. The comple-

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With its $4m price it's roughly the same as a Phenom 100 and cheaper than a Honda Jet but offers much better performance

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tely re-done cabin, including HD video, coloured LED lighting, onboard Wi-Fi, satellite phone, iPad/iPod docks, and all the other niceties you would expect to find on a recently-produced aircraft, will make the flight more enjoyable. Most options come at a price, however, so the total price of the aircraft may go up $300-400 thousand and more, depending what choices are made.

“We include the acquisition of a preowned aircraft and its total remanufacture in the price. Our brand-new facility mainly employs trained technicians as opposed to just mechanics, which means that the complex jobs are handled with greater precision, and the resulting quality is top-notch. 6000 hours go into each aircraft: We take everything out, and then put new systems, equipment, engines etc. in place. We even custom-build the wire harnesses – that’s a huge undertaking. It takes us 14 weeks to roll out a Nextant 400XT,” says Kenn Ricci.

THE COMPETITION Sitting low on the ground, with a sharp long nose that subtly transforms into the fuselage, the latter continuing in a straight line to the T-tail, the Nextant 400XT looks sporty, compact, and wellproportioned. It can actually fit as many as 9 people (1 on the toilet seat) plus 2 crew, although 4 passengers would be most comfortable in this size of aircraft, and 6 would be just about enough. With its $4 million price tag, it’s roughly the same price as a Phenom 100 and cheaper than a HondaJet, but offers much better performance and cabin – at the level of the Cessna Citation CJ4 (almost $9 m) and Embraer Phenom 300 ($8.8 m). We could even compare it to the new Learjet 70, worth $11.5 m, offering about the same range and a longer cabin of greater volume, but Nextant seem to be content with the Citation and Phenom as primary competitors.

A maximum range of 3700 km with 4 passengers, a 22-minute climb to 13100

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Remanufacturing

m, and a high-speed cruise speed of 850 km/h are all figures one expects of a light jet made in 2012 and onwards, sold at over $8.5 million… which is exactly where the Nextant 400XT leaves its competition far behind. Sure, there are enough people on the market who won’t be satisfied with the “good as new” philosophy – just as there is a bunch who can see the direct benefits straight away. This not only goes for the acquisition price, but also the operating and fixed costs, which should be on par with the competition, taking into account the factory warranty and relatively low depreciation (Nextant officials expect it to be less than that of new aircraft).

The 400XT can cover all of Europe (Moscow-London for example) nonstop. With one fuel stop, it can reach any destination in North and South America or get to China and Russia from Dubai.

The flat floor and “squared” cross-section make the cabin more comfortable than a standard “tube”: There is enough shoulder room, and plenty of space below so that your feet are not tangled

with another passenger’s. A proper bulkhead separates the lavatory from the rest of the cabin. The baggage compartment is not as spacious as that on the Phenom 300 (and Embraer is very hard to beat in any class), but it’s still enough for suitcases and golf clubs, although some have been heard to complain that this plane doesn’t like overpacked passengers.

Aftersale support in the USA should be no problem, with seven maintenance and overhaul facilities. Maintenance in the rest of the world is through factoryapproved centres, building on the vast experience with Beechjet and Hawker operations. For now this sounds like a weak area, however, and as the global fleet grows we would expect Nextant to address the issue with own service centres around the world.

THE FUTURE With a full 2-year warranty on the airframe, 3 years provided for engines by Williams, and another 2 on avionics, the Nextant 400XT comes with a number of benefits characteristic of a brand-

The completely re-done cabin includes HD video, coloured LED lighting, onboard wifi, satellite phone, iPad and iPod docks.

new aircraft. Even pilot training is included, though re-training from a Beechjet (which is probably what most pilots will be in for) is very simple. With the future of Hawker now very uncertain, the 400XPR, a manufacturer take at improving the Hawker 400, is out of the way, and the battle will be against advanced new aircraft, such as the Cessna Citation CJ4 and Embraer Phenom 300. In regions such as the USA and Europe, where the 3700 km flight range allows the owner to get virtually anywhere, and given the $4 million benefit on acquisition compared to the abovementioned, the 400XT will definitely get its share of the market. Another good place may be South America, where Embraer is very successful in selling its light jets.

When speaking of regions where “buying big” is still the trend – such as the Middle East, Russia, China, and India, massive sales are doubtful. There is a way out for Nextant, however.

Asked about the vague prospects of the Hawker lineup, the seemingly attractive – and significantly larger – Hawker 900, and the possibility of adding this model to the remanufacturing roster, Kenn Ricci commented: “We didn’t see it [Hawker Beechcraft ceasing the production of Hawker] coming. The Hawker 900 does meet our criteria that I mentioned before – it has some deficiencies that can be improved, it exists in great numbers, and there is a resale market for a new version. However, we already have an announcement coming in January. We’ve looked at 4 different models and narrowed the choice down to 1. Now we’re just waiting for one final supplier agreement, and will tell the world what it is.

In about three years from now, we’ll have another model coming off our production lines.”

January is just around the corner. It’s easier to wait for the announcement than to start guessing. Whatever it is, it’s sure to be a bigger aircraft with greater range. And when it comes, the formula of “(almost) brand-new aircraft for half the money” will attract a new audience: Those who want to fly big, but not ■ spend big.

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Pilot recruitment

Short and long term crew assignments

Pilot Placement Montreal-based ACASS has been in the game of placing pilots on short and long-term assignment for many years but with emerging markets like the Middle East and China buying up new aircraft with their new technologies at a rapid rate, the focus is quickly shifting from the traditional heartland of Europe and North America.

By Damien Reid

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Pilot recruitment

Probably one of the best indicators as to the overall health of an economy is in the market of private aviation pilot recruitment and training.

Healthy jet sales is a good sign but the real indicator is whether they are sitting dormant on the tarmac or up in the air.

A Corporate Aviation Support Service (ACASS) based in Montreal has been in the business of recruiting, training and supplying pilots and crew for just under 20 years and opened an office in Dubai three years ago.

With a struggling economy in Europe and the UK, the emerging markets are leading the way according to ACASS vice president of business development, Kevin Harris.

“Places like the Middle East, Africa, India, China and Eastern Europe are all growing,” he said. While the European economy has slowed business and North America provides a steady platform, the Middle East is proving to be of great potential so long as operators are aware of details that are involved with flying in the region.

The Arab Spring had a short term impact as it stopped some people from flying completely, however ACASS claims demand is again on the rise as many are buying new jets but don’t yet have the staff to fly them.

“The Arab Spring presented different

challenges which we have successfully adapted to and we have been able to continue supporting our clients in countries such as Egypt and Bahrain.

“ACASS is very mindful of the varied cultures of the different regions. We understand our clients and their requirements and we match those values with our pilots. “A good understanding of the various Middle East Civil Aviation Authorities requirements is a must and we have established a deep understanding of how they operate. This knowledge helps us obtain the required documentation such as visas, license validations, and more that can otherwise be challenging to obtain. “Pilots simply can’t show up and fly while the administrative and regulatory components are often underestimated which can lead to lengthy delays. We are often hired by North American or European clients specifically because of our experience and our relations in the Middle East. “For example, we were called upon by one of our North American clients to help them expand their operations into the Middle East. We were able to efficiently address the need for a sizable pilot dispatch who had Middle Eastern experience and were familiar flying within the region. The Middle East is also home to one of the youngest, most advanced fleets of aircraft currently avai-

lable and at pr sent there is also a wave of new technologies hitting the market which changes the way aircraft are operated from the cockpit.

Fly-by-wire technologies used in the latest Embraer Legacy 500 or Bombardier’s revolutionary Global Vision Flight Deck used are two examples of features which pilots need to be familiar with if they want to work on the latest aircraft.

“Our business cannot afford to be a reactive operation, we have to plan ahead and that is especially true with training for new technologies like the Vision Flight Deck,” Mr Harris said.

“We reserve a lot of slots for pilot training so they know us well, but we can’t do that on a reaction after the plane’s been launched otherwise it sits on the tarmac waiting for the crew to be trained.”

Obtaining training slots is always a challenge with newly launched aircraft but that’s an area where ACASS has always been extremely proactive.

“We train many pilots on an annual basis which puts us in a favorable position with the various training centres.

“We offer proficiency training services whereby we supply certified training instructors to an existing operation to help them reach new levels of certification or safety compliance. Specifically CFI certified flight instructor, CFII certi-

ACASS President, Andre Khury (left) and Kevin Harris, Vice President of Business Development (right).

"We have become like the Switzerland of the industry" Khury

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Pilot recruitment

ACASS has over 6000 crew including pilots, engineers and flight attendants who are based around the globe and hold a wide variety of licences

fied flight instructor and instrumentation, TRE type rating examiner, TRI type rating instructor, check airman, ground instructors and simulator instructors,” he added.

Additionally, owners of these new style aircraft need back up plans for the occasions when their own pilot is on sick leave, in training or maybe at the last minute doesn’t have the necessary paperwork, in which case ACASS can supply a replacement in a matter of hours.

Recently the company received a call from a client advising that their aircraft was over the Atlantic heading for the US from Europe and needed immediate support as one of the crew members couldn’t enter the US due to visa issues.

The solution not only included securing a qualified and available pilot on extreme short notice but also provided recommendation that the aircraft land in Canada to enable a crew swap and continue on to the US to their final destination. On the return flight to Europe, the reverse occurred as the ACASSsourced pilot flew the aircraft to Canada enabling the client’s crew to continue on back to Europe.

The McLaren formula one team’s CEO and Chairman, Ron Dennis said the ability to provide trained staff at short notice was one of the main attractions for

164

him using ACASS. «ACASS has demonstrated determination in its problem-solving attitude and has always satisfied my specific aircraft requirements. Their attention to detail and unique experience is what sets them apart,” Mr Dennis said.

When placing short term staff to operate private aircraft, the question of security is never far away and in the Middle East where ACASS can be called on to supply crew for members of a Royal family, it needs to be a clearly run operation.

The company initially performs a strict internal screening of pilots including background checks, criminal records checks and past employer references.

It’s second phase uses the Voyageur software which is a proprietary crew management platform that was built in– house specifically to gather and store all intelligence amassed over the years.

ACASS has previously provided crews for Royal families and prominent political individuals throughout the Middle East without incident. For each supplied crew, they conduct their own set of security checks which are specific to their clearance criteria.

“We have become like the Switzerland of the industry,” ACASS President Andre Khury said. “We are in a unique

position to serve all the OEMS, flight operators and everyone from the Hawkers to the Bombardiers as well as the likes of TAG, Execujets and all the major players in the industry. We are in a fairly unique position and are totally unbiased,” he added.

ACASS currently has over 6000 crew including pilots, engineers and flight attendants who are based around the globe and hold a wide variety of licenses such as FAA, JAA, Indian, Transport Canada and Bermuda as well as licences to operate all over the Middle East. “The flight crews ACASS have provided for my aircraft have exceeded the high standards we require and the entire team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure safety remains the number one priority,» the vice president of Tag Group S.A., Aziz Ojjeh said.

As the company also supplies pilots and crew to commercial aviation clients, it has a unique perspective on the specific needs and skills required for a pilot to be successful in business aviation. “Business jet pilots typically have a more hands on role within the operation. They not only fly the aircraft but are involved in the logistics such as flight planning and fuel coordination and are often called upon to communicate directly with ■ the owner,” Mr Harris said.

XP Pub Epicurean RDV 2012 Altitudes Arabia-AA27_XP Pub Epicurean RDV 2012 Altitudes Arabia-AA27 30/11/12 14:39 Page1

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XP Design Happy Design Studio-AA27_XP Design Happy Design Studio-AA27 30/11/12 15:22 Page166

DESIGN

By Sylvie Peron

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DESIGN

Taylor made liveries

Happy Design Studio

Founded by Didier Wolff in 2010 in Strasbourg, France, Happy Design Studio has become a reference in original taylor made liveries on any type of aircraft.

The small, dedicated team shares the same passion for a job well done. Ultimately, their aim is to be as proud of the livery as the aircraft’s owner.

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DESIGN

"A design is like a musical instrument, it must be tuned and sound perfect. Likewise, a design must be harmonious to the eye."

Happy Design Studio manages the entire design project and supervises the painting of the aircraft on behalf of its worldwide client-base, by relying on a large and very qualified network of technical partners. Because each and every design is created on an accurate 3D model, all technical constraints associated with the final painting of the aircraft are taken into consideration from the start, in order to ensure that the result will perfectly match the initial project.

HARMONY The five-people team may grow in number whenever needed with one or more additional technicians, according to the number of projects to be delivered in a

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given timeframe. “We are a small structure and we move to any location, worldwide,” says Didier Wolff. “It would be inconceivable for me to let a customer take a project we developed together and have the aircraft painted without our supervision.” Each individual has his/her own interpretation.

“Inevitably”, he adds, “a painting technician will translate a line in his own way.

A design is like a musical instrument, it must be tuned and sound perfect. Likewise, a design must be harmonious to the eye.” Sometimes straying away for only a few millimiters can upset the line of a design. “An error happens fast, and this is too important to even conceive taking such a risk!”

AESTHETICS AND BALANCE Didier Wolff is an artist. His enthusiasm is perceptible over the phone, as he explains the intricacies of his craft. “The design applied to the fuselage of an aircraft is like a skin that would be delicately laid over the body. It can be dynamic, discrete and light or strong and colored; multiple combinations are possible. Only aesthetics and balance count. Consequently, present owners or future buyers as well as airlines wishing to acquire a new visual identity in order to distinguish themselves from their competitors can be assured that we implement customized exclusive and unique creations.”

Wolff previously worked with image,

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DESIGN

creation and design. In fact, he has been writing, acting, sculpting, photo shooting since the earlier stages of his life.

Design counts strongly among the various fields of his sensitivity. Getting his pilot license brought him closer to the aviation world, leading him naturally to associate design and aviation. The common denominator of his past experiences is a continuous search for beauty. “Through the creation of posters, the gallery and the streets were the open public areas. Now, with the design of aircraft liveries, the gallery is the open sky.”

Happy Design Studio is a logical continuation of this rich experience. “It has already gotten a fantastically encouraging response from all parties involved in the aeronautical industry,” exclaims Wolff.

Founder Didier Wolff's background stems from writing, acting, sculpting and photography. The aviation bug bit when he got his pilot's licence and his passions merged.

CUSTOM MADE LIVERIES Unique and personal projects reveal the personality of their customers. “I give the same attention to an aircraft exterior design as any other designers or studio would give to the interior,” says Wolff. “As such, it requires a strong technical knowledge and a very specific design approach to reveal a new field of creations. I work from the start on 3D models, extremely detailed, in order to take in the livery design from all possible angles. Then it must be checked with aeronautical engineers in order to make sure it can be done. Finally, I supervise the painting process with the selected paint shop from our qualified network or in agreement with the owner’s choice.

Selecting a paint shop is crucial. In order to reduce downtime, painting a livery usually happens when the aircraft is undergoing a major check, like a C check, with all of its parts taken apart, and/or when its cabin is being refurbished. Organizations offering both cabin interior refurbishment and paint shop facilities obviously are the better choice. Painting usually comes last, to avoid damaging the exterior while the aircraft is being worked upon. However, there is a human touch not to be disregarded.

“Each paint shop is under the supervision of a manager. His personality and

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DESIGN

"I work from 3D models, extremely detailed, in order to take in the livery design from all angles.

Then it must be checked with aeronautical engineers in order to make sure it can be done."

personal approach to the job is a determining factor,” explains Wolff. “Some people are highly professional, and others are less so. Not necessarily within the biggest organizations will you find someone on the floor able to manage his team so that the result is exactly what we were looking for. There is a great motivation that needs to be transmitted to everyone involved. Some smaller organizations might believe in this approach, even if they are not the best equipped, while larger ones may simply not have it.” And Didier adds: “It’s just like cooking, if you prepare a meal without loving doing it, it will never taste as good!”

According to the aircraft’s location and the timeframe during which the painting is scheduled, Happy Design Studio will assist the customer in selecting the most appropriate paint shop among its handpicked network of professionals.

The Studio will also help getting the best prices and slots.

COMMERCIAL AND MILITARY VERSUS PRIVATE AVIATION Around 50% of the activity has been dedicated to private jet projects, the rest is balanced between military and airlines.

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50 per cent of the business comes from private clients with the remainder split between military and commercial airlines, though Wolff expects more private clients to come on board.

“From now on, the private aviation sector is expected to grow more significantly as the response from this segment of the market to the Studio’s designs is highly encouraging,” says Wolff.

Dealing with aircraft manufacturers’ marketing departments is often more frustrating than creating a custom design for a private owner, according to the designer. Business aviation is more accessible with direct contact with the owner or the owner’s representative.

This makes for more enriching relationships. However, adds Wolff, “in either case, often our customers have only a faint idea of what it is exactly that they want. Often they have not been properly informed that the original livery can be altered, and what benefits they would get from envisioning a specific design for the exterior of their aircraft”.

This is starting to change. The aircraft itself is an artwork. “It is such a wonderful object to personalize, from extremely discreet though intense details, to a beautiful expression of its owner’s personality,” concludes Wolff. “A design approach for the aircraft’s exterior can reveal so much more of the owner’s identity. It brings soul and feelings to ■ the graceful ballet in the sky.”

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CARS

Infiniti gives you wings

Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel When Infiniti and Red Bull Racing Formula One signed an alliance in 2011, for World Champion Sebastian Vettel it was a partnership made in heaven. Designing his own road vehicle had been a longterm ambition for the flying German, and in Shiro Nakamura, Nissan’s Chief Creative Officer, he found a kindred spirit. The result? The Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Limited Edition. We sat down with the happy couple at the Goodwood Festival of Speed to discuss the conception and delivery of their very first unit.

By Craig Barnett Images Courtesy of Infiniti Motors

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cars

‘‘I asked Sebastian Vettel what he’d like to see in his ideal car design. We took a sheet of white paper and the car and the idea was born there and then’’

“First time!” comes the rather unsettling answer, “but I did walk it yesterday.”

Sitting on the start line, helmeted up and strapped into Sebastian Vettel’s very own Limited Edition Infiniti FX, we face a disturbingly thin strip of wet tarmac snaking through tens of thousands of eager fans. Ahead lies Goodwood’s famous hill climb. As the on-course commentator introduces the German racing driver, and a somewhat anonymous journalist, he flips down his visor and gives me a quick ‘thumbs up’. I know there’s a slight smirk his helmet.

Me? Not so much. My grin is on full beam. This is the very first drive of the Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel… and life isn’t going to get much better.

Flooring the throttle on the G of Green, the FX shimmies momentarily on the wet surface before finding its footing and tearing towards the first corner. Its first movement says two things; the traction control is off and four-wheel drive is engaged. Are we really planning to do much off-roading? The beepbeep of the rev counter hitting the limiter tells me everything else I need to know. He’s not holding back! Flicking through the first complex of bends it’s obvious he’s testing the handling and response for the first time; judging by the vigorously nodding helmet, he likes it. Emerging from beneath the trees and onto the wider flatter section of the track, the pearlescent paintjob shimmers in the sunlight and for the first time since we started my head returns to vertical.

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CARS

Purple stitching accents the graphite grey Alcantra and leather upholstery that extends throughout the cockpit

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Punching the ‘Loud’ button next to the ashtray, while simultaneously changing gear and negotiating another chicanelike complex of corners, my chauffeur whoops to the crowd as they blur past.

They probably couldn’t hear, drowned by the FX’s accent change from guttural to baritone. The serious hill climb starts after a sweeping left and now the gearbox gets a serious workout. The 420 horses under the bonnet respond instantly to unceremonious persuasion by the German’s right foot, and as we brush past the high stone walls, flicking left and right, the lowered profile of Seb’s FX ensures the sculpted carbon

wing mirrors and pearlescent paintjob stay as he intended. All too quickly the finish line approaches and the brakes are tested with a final ‘emergency stop’.

Bouncing back into the grip of the brushed suede racing-style seats there’s only one thing to do: flip up the visor and beg to go around again. Unfortunately, a drive like that is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

FX SEBASTIAN VETTEL LTD. EDITION So what was Sebastian Vettel’s immediate reaction to his first drive of his Limited Edition? “I’m really happy,” he enthuses. “This is the first road car that

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CARS

Vettel’s signature interior demonstrates another significant departure for a production car company

‘‘I’m really happy. This is the first road car that I have helped develop... I’m so excited to take delivery of my own.’’

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I have helped develop. The power is good and it handles really well. Driving up the Goodwood Hill was great fun and it is fantastic for me to have contributed to the design of this car. I’m so excited to take delivery of my own, I’ve checked and look there’s even space for my mountain bike in the boot!” So what exactly gets a double F1 World Champion excited, and what does he include in his ‘dream design’?

First up it is worth pointing out that Sebastian’s input was genuine and the changes extend significantly deeper than the shiny SV badge it wears above the lateral air duct. The first thing to note is the lowering of the performance enhanced suspension by 20mm and profusion of dry-carbon additions to the body kit. It hunkers down on the road like a predatory feline. Each component is carefully crafted to reduce drag and increase down force, where they’ve achieve a five percent and 30 percent gain respectively. The combination of the front lower bumper, front grille, side sills, wheel arches, door mouldings, roof spoiler and even the curvy wing mirrors, all contribute to this increased efficiency.

Resting over its exclusive 21” BBS alloy wheels, the single rear fog lamp will strike an obvious chord with F1 fans, while the deletion of the roof rails is a subtler nuance that indicates the sport’s fastidious approach to ‘marginal gains’. Mechanically Sebastian demanded more power from Infiniti, and they duly obliged by remapping the V8 engine, reworking the exhaust and pushing the output up to 420hp to produce 520Nm of torque. Infiniti report a sub-five second 0-60mph for this model. Sebastian also commented on how Infiniti’s ability to produce the first production car, just one year after conception, reflected how flexible the manufacturer was and how quickly they could react to his input. It is something he obviously also enjoys with the Red Bull Racing team.

While the exclusive moonlight white

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cars

paintjob glows outside, Vettel’s signature interior demonstrates another significant departure for a production car company.

Purple stitching accents the graphite grey Alcantra upholstery that extends throughout the cockpit. From the steering wheel to gearshift, sun visor, door pillars, centre arm rests and door handles, everything is covered in this tactile material. Elsewhere shiny carbon inserts provide contrast with the predominantly matt interior. And of course the Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel is equipped with one of our favourite automotive features: the ‘Go Loud’ exhaust tone button! As Sebastian bade goodbye, he signed off with a statement we had to concur with: “I think we gave the FX a little bit of edge here and there. I gave my input and when you look at the result, I think you can see a difference. I’m happy.”

COLLABORATING WITH GENIUS When Vettel headed of to sign autographs, meet his adoring fans and do whatever it is 20-something God-like multi-millionaire sportsmen do of an afternoon, we sat down with another legend: Shiro Nakamura. Of similar stature, both physically and in the eyes of true petrol heads, Shiro Nakamura is Nissan’s Chief Creative Officer and the genius behind the mother company’s GT-R and 350Z models. Quietly spoken, thoroughly engaging and gracious, he agrees to complete a sketch of the FX Sebastian Vettel as we chat. Recalling his first meeting with Sebastian in a back room at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show (where Infiniti and Red Bull Racing F1 announced their partnership), he explains to us the genesis of the FX SV. “We got on immediately and our meeting was very informal. It’s obvious that Sebastian is a very talented and intelligent young man, and his enthusiasm is infectious. We started talking about design and I asked what he’d like to see in his ideal car design. We took a sheet of white paper and the car and the idea was born there and then. The process was very quick from there, we first met

The Infiniti FX hunkers down on the road like a predatory feline. Each component is carefully crafted to reduce drag and increase down force

in March 2011 and now in June 2012 we’re presenting the first production model. That’s remarkable in the automotive industry. Within that time we had to test and tune the aerodynamic pack too.” Given the time, production and safety approval constraints, Shiro confesses they did have to compromise on not being able to Sebastian’s request for “a more F1-style steering wheel with switches and inputs,” but confirms they are both delighted with the rest of the package.

In fact, interaction between Infiniti and F1 did not stop at Sebastian’s input, but members of both the Infiniti and Red Bull Racing F1 team worked at each other’s facilities during various stages of the project. “We learnt a lot from Red Bull F1 Racing,” Shiro comments. “Not necessarily only in the technical aspects, but also simply by being inspired by the whole team. To me Red Bull Racing is a very special team. They have

some huge characters like Christian Horner, Adrian Newey and the drivers, Sebastian and Mark, but they work together so closely as one unit. The team spirit is most inspirational; it’s a true strength for them. It’s not about the individual, it’s a combined strength.”

The partnership between Infiniti and Red Bull Formula One Racing team is certainly one that benefits both parties and is bringing together some true geniuses of the automotive sector. Mutual contribution to each other’s causes has already paid off for fans too with this unique model… but only the lucky few. The Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel will be limited to just 150 units, though the great news is one third, or a full 50 of those will be heading the Middle East! The order books opened in August for a 2013 delivery, so interested parties need to get their foot in the door early. We did, and enjoyed ■ every moment of it!

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CITY GUIDE

Dubai’s hidden treats Looking for somewhere to dine, stay or unwind?

If there’s one thing about Dubai, it’s that there’s a never ending choice when it comes to hotels, restaurants and relaxation. Five star hotels are seemingly on every corner catering for the business traveller and holiday maker alike. Whether it be where to find a place to eat, a nice cigar bar or a spa, the options are endless so here’s a few tips.

By Damien Reid

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CITY GUIDE

THE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN DUBAI A Hotel for Everyone Both business and leisure travellers are well catered for at The Address Downtown with its positioning at the heart of a vibrant business district alongside an abundance of bars and night spots and on the doorstep of the world’s largest shopping mall. It is comfortably sophisticated with elegant décor and surroundings. The Address offers a welcoming, relaxing sanctuary including an infinity pool and a relaxing spa that’s perfect for escaping the buzz of the Downtown precinct for the holiday-maker while providing full conference facilities for the business traveller. The Address Downtown offers 196 rooms including 25 suites between the 7th and 12th floors.

The Address Downtown Dubai call +971 4 436 8888 www.theaddress.com

■ Hotels THE RITZ-CARLTON, DIFC Express service for busy executives This 14-storey property opened in January and is the only hotel connected to the Dubai International Financial Centre making it the ideal location for busy executives on the go.

As the financial world is awake 24/7, so to is the service provided by the Ritz-Carlton from express dining menus to spa options, it understands that someone is trading or working from several of its 750 registered businesses at any point of any given day. A 10-storey waterfall dominates the large entry foyer where diners can enjoy express 45-minute lunches or all-day dining from the French brasserie overlooking the inner courtyard The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC - +971 4 372 2222 - www.ritzcarlton.com

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CITY GUIDE

■ Restaurants ROBERTO’S Talking Italian Roberto’s is a restaurant that takes its art seriously but the food is hearty, the atmosphere is great on any night and the location is perfect for a weekday evening out. Located in DIFC, there’s plenty of competition yet it hasn’t stopped rave reviews in recent months and it’s easy to see why with a great location, comfortable seating, angular, wooden floors, modern lighting and wallto-ceiling windows which offer great views of the Burj Khalifa. It’s hearty Italian food offering massive portions of seafood and a breaded veal that not only covered the entire plate but also melted in the mouth. Trust us when we say a large appetite is required.

Roberto’s for reservations call: +971 4 386 0066 www.robertos.ae

KITCHEN 45 Storming the embassy No trip should be complete without a meal at Kitchen 45. It’s an unusual venue, that’s for sure and it offers fine dining and a great club experience as one of the cooler places to eat in Dubai.

After taking the lift in Grosvenor House’s Tower 2 to the 45th floor, you’re expecting something special, and it doesn’t disappoint. Coming as part of the Embassy club, this haunt of the rich and famous in London has translated well to Dubai and the restaurant is an excellent reason to go. Again, portions are large with some great options including the addictive aubergine dip served whilst you’re choosing and the 11hour cooked lamb shoulder.

Kitchen 45 a reservation call: +971 4 317 6000 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com

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CITY GUIDE

■ Cigar Lounge

THE CIGAR LOUNGE ADDRESS DOWNTOWN A heavenly smoke Comedian George Burns once said, “Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, and a good woman.” He would have loved The Cigar Lounge at The Address in downtown Dubai – Rachid Korchyou, the manager, is a perfect host who shows you to your seat and suggests the signature cocktail which involves brandy, fruit and fire. This is presented after some low key alchemy and understated pouring of fire between one glass and another. The result is delicious. Cigar connoisseurs will find a portfolio of 40 renowned cigar brands, from the medium- bodied Cohiba Siglo VI to the Davidoff Limited Edition Toro 2009. There is also a selection of interesting wooden humidors which complement the premium selection of limited edition cigars, including the Ashton Petite Corona, Robusto and Churchill that are exclusive to The Cigar Lounge.

The Cigar Lounge, Address Downtown call +971 4 436 8888 www.theaddress.com

■ SPA ADDRESS DUBAI MARINA Detox and revitalise A grey stone wall lines the entrance to The Spa at The Address Dubai Marina. Small pillars dictate its pathway with large glass vases and candles at their base matching the walkway inch by inch. Inside you’ll discover a curved path lined once more by candles and dotted around the arc, you’ll find four, tall wooden doors each with a different sign; Enrich, Relax, Balance and Revive.

The only problem is that you can’t try them all on the same visit. This is for the businessman who travels regularly offering a body scrub, massage and facial. ■ Address Dubai Marina - Spa call +971 4 423 8888 www.theaddress.com

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destination

Sharing the same high season as the Mediterranean, Bali makes a splendid alternative to summering in Europe.

By Craig Barnett Photos Courtesy of Como Shambhala

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Sense and Sensibility

Como Shambhala Estate Since the 16th century the lush tropical paradise of Bali has enchanted travellers, explorers and adventurers with its sensual charm. Retreating to the Como Groups stunning Shambhala Estate, we discovered half a millennia has done nothing to diminish the powerful allure...

One of two properties operated by the international Como Group in Bali, a stay at the Shambhala Estate is a truly unique experience. Through its stunning location, wonderful staff, cuisine, facilities and accommodation it ticks all the boxes of a luxury hotel – but it also offers so much more. As a retreat Shambhala Estate gently encourages guests to reflect, re-examine and rejuvenate their wellbeing, health and lifestyle in an environment that proves this can be achieved without undergoing austere regimes. This may sound like something of a paradox, but as we discovered it is the most realistic way to take good habits as well as some fantastic memories home with you…

On arrival a personal assistant greets guests and remains on-hand throughout their stay, ministering to every conceivable need. Their first task being to whisk you off to one of the Estate’s 30 residences or suites, five Retreat Villas or four Private Villas where check-in procedures are efficiently completed in the comfort of your own room. The larger villas, suitable for families, feature up to three bedrooms with assorted living spaces and private pools, while our

charming rustic 80sqm Garden Villa featured its own carp-pond and a decked terrace with daybed and garden furniture. The simplistic thatched limestone villa contained a bright airy space, lit by big picture windows that afforded wonderful views over the jungle and clearings with terraced rice-fields.

The interior décor showcased Bali’s celebrated craftsmanship in wood with the plentiful material being used for almost everything between the high vaulted ceilings to the teak flooring. The furniture follows suit, with the Dutch colonial fourposter bed taking pride of place. For those of us who usually conduct our ablutions in within an enclosed space, the traditional Balinese open air bathroom is truly liberating. Standing under the powerful deluge of soft mineral water as it cascades over your body, raising steam at your feet and staring up at the crystal constellations in the night sky is a truly heavenly experience. Alternately one (or two!) can repose in candlelit comfort in the deep Victorian sunken bath, which also features an antique brass rainforest showerhead. In fact, the vintage fixtures and fittings, especially the carved alcoves, thick mahogany of the outdoors

toilet seat and details like the enameltrimmed taps and towel hooks, are a salvage savant’s dream. After settling-in guests enjoy a private consultation to arrange their dietary, wellness and activity preferences. The consultant suggests a uniquely tailored programme and books classes, activities, treatments and even a personalised menu according to the individual’s needs and goals.

SIGHT: A VISION Arriving from the beige palette of a desert region, the vividly verdant Shambhala Estate is positively psychedelic. Morning mist twists lazily in shafts of bright sunlight that pierce the dense jungle canopy, highlighting twisted trunks and accenting the kaleidoscope of foliage and fauna that glows Technicolor green. One can’t but help appreciate the organic shapes and shapes of Bali’s botanic bounty, which contrasts so starkly with the geometric lines of modern architecture we’d left behind.

To aid guest’s appreciation of the property’s unique geography, paths and stepping-stones plunge down into the deep gorge to the Ayung River at its base. The accommodation and main fa-

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The Como Shambhala Estate’s fusion of contemporary design and traditional materials is simply exquisite.

cilities enjoy commanding views at the top of the hill, but it is by taking the trails that encircle the estate like a necklace one discovers the innumerable charms and treasures strung along its slopes. Gurgling streams cut deep into the earth, waterfalls thunder through the trees, secluded cabanas sit beside natural mineral pools, a shrine marks the source of a sacred spring, and a number of isolated yoga bales and treatment rooms provide havens to retreat to for reflection, meditation or massage while perched on promontories with breathtaking vistas.

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SOUND: AURAL PLEASURE Water plays a prominent role in the composition of the Como Shambhala Estate and its soporific sound promotes a soothing atmosphere. Whether the fountain that fed our villa’s carp pool, or rapids that rage in the valley below, booming waterfalls or the gentle trickle of the numerous streams, water is everywhere. Whether sitting in the gently bubbling hydrotherapy pool, or listening to the pounding of the waterfall near the mineral pools, the sound of water is the subtle soundscape that supplements the pervasive peace and

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quiet of the Shambhala Estate during daylight hours.

As the sun slips below the horizon for its daily slumber however, so the surrounding jungle city bursts into life as its billions of inhabitants commencing their daily quest for survival and furtherance of their species. Some creep, crawl or slither silently, but the majority contribute to a cacophonous wall of sound. The all-enveloping symphony of chirps, clicks and croaks an audible reminder of Bali’s rich biodiversity. Reclining on the candlelit decking, soaking in the insects’ orchestra, one feels a million miles from the human humdrum of the Middle East’s metropolis.

TASTE: FAVOURED FLAVOURS In epicurean terms, Shambhala’s resident chefs are a testament to the fact that asceticism is not a prerequisite for a well-balanced and wholesome diet.

The estate features two restaurants; Kudus House, a 155-year old former Javanese residence that concentrates on regional influences, spices and dishes, and Glow a covered terrace that serves healthy yet sumptuous dishes from around the world. All ingredients are locally sourced where possible, always organic, and delivered from the field to table with the minimum of delay.

During our stay we found the variety of the menu and quality of the food exemplary. Ordering from a ‘fruit and vegetable extract menu’ rather than a wine list engenders a warm glow of self-satisfaction, the delivery of a personalised menu is touchingly thoughtful, and the quality of the meat, fish and vegetables is immediately evident in the taste, with the flavour being emphasised by freshness rather than salt.

The vivid green colours and kaleidoscope of natural shapes contrasts deliciously with our region’s modern cities...

SMELL: HEAVEN SCENT The fresh air mountain of the Shambhala Estate, delicately fragranced by whatever flora or fauna you happen to be passing, is certainly an invigorating

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Fusing simplicity with luxurious comfort, each accommodation option possesses a unique character.

alternative to city smog, Of course richest aromas spill from the treatment areas, where the perfumed air is scented by the oils and candles used by the Estate’s twelve resident therapists.

These specialists cater for all manner of hands-on healing, with the comprehensive treatment menu including; Thai, Indonesian, Shiatsu and Ayurvedic massage (Abhyanga, Pizhychil and Shirodhara) all feature and are supplemented by Reflexology, Warm Muscle Wraps and Hot Stone treatments.

A retreat rather than a resort, the Como Shambhala Estate provides opportunity to rejuvenate mind, body and soul.

TOUCH: REACHING WITHIN While undoubtedly boasting fine accommodation and facilities, the Shambhala Estate studiously avoids falling into the ‘resort’ category, primarily by offering guests a ‘retreat’ experience. They achieve this by catering to one’s spiritual wellbeing, as well as physical. To this end resident teachers are on hand to lead a wide and varied activities programme for guests to dip in and out of as they choose. A Fitness Instructor can tailor programmes for the well-equipped gym and takes classes in the Hydropool, the charismatic Yoga Instructor leads sessions in a number of traditionally constructed bales throughout the grounds, a Pilates Instructor does likewise and there are a number of martial arts classes to try too. A dedicated Activity Guide is available for pursuits like tennis, hiking, rock climbing and outdoor circuit training; we tried the mountain biking and whitewater rafting.

CHECKING OUT Approximately eight hours flying time from the Middle East and with a high season also matching that of the Mediterranean, Bali should be a serious consideration for those looking to escape the summer temperatures. Vividly green, mountainous and with superb beaches and islands to explore, the contrast with our region couldn’t be more pronounced… making it an ideal ■ getaway. www.cse.come.bz

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12:10 PM

10th December 2012 8:30am - 4pm The Address, Dubai Marina

Discussing the issues that matter; The Middle East Business Aviation Conference presents: M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Opening remarks: Ali Ahmed Al Naqbi, Chairman, MEBAA Chaired by: Alan Peaford, Editor-in-Chief, Arabian Aerospace Keynote Speakers: Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Executive Homaid Al Shemmari, Executive Director, Mubadala Aerospace Rob Wilson, President Business & General Aviation, Honeywell Aerospace Speakers: Adel Mardini, CEO, Jetex Ahmed Nemat Ali, Asst. Under Secretary, Aviation Services, Kingdom of Bahrain Aoife O’ Sullivan, Gates and Partners Aws Al Khanjari, Executive Director, Aviation Security Affairs, GCAA Colin Steven, VP, Sales & Marketing Europe, ME and Africa, Embraer Executive Jets Dave Edwards, Managing Director, Gama Aviation James Weigall, Chartis Insurance Louis Sorrentino III, Sr. VP / MD, Safety Security & Ops, ICF SH&E Dr Mark J Pierotti, COO, Al Jaber Patrick Margetson-Rushmore, CEO, London Executive Aviation Renaud Cloatre, Regional Sales & Marketing Director, Dassault Aviation Capt. Stephen R. Taylor, President - Boeing Business Jets Trevor Esling, Regional Senior, Vice President, International Sales, Europe, Middle East and Africa - Gulfstream

For more info go to mebac.mebaa.com Hosted by

Official Sponsor

Official Media Partner

Media Partner ARABIA

C

DISTRIBUTION

List of Altitudes Arabia partners for distribution in the Middle East (lounges and private jets): If you are a supplier in the business aviation industry or an operator, or if your company has direct or indirect links with the industry (like hotels, restaurants, etc.) and you are keen on partnering with us to extend Altitudes Arabia’s distribution to passengers or clients, please contact Sam Richomme at: s.richomme@luxmedia-me.com We take into consideration any request.

TURKEY SAUDI ARABIA

Istanbul

Jeddah Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

Dubai

LEBANON

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Beirut

Dubai

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

LEBANON

Dubai

Beirut

MORROCCO

LEBANON

Casablanca

Beirut

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

SAUDI ARABIA

Jeddah EGYPT

Cairo UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

EGYPT

Cairo

SAUDI ARABIA UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Jeddah (Represented by Arras.aero)

Dubai

SAUDI ARABIA

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

Jeddah Madinah Riyadh Yanbu

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Ras Al Khaimah

GERMANY

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

EGYPT

Abu Dhabi

Cairo MOROCCO

UK

Nurenberg

Farnborough Kemble Humberside

UAE

Dubai

Agadir UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Abu Dhabi

Dubai

Abu Dhabi

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai SYRIA UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

Damascus

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UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

JORDAN

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

Amman

Dubai

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

QATAR

Dubai

Doha

Dubai

EGYPT

Cairo JORDAN

Aqaba BAHRAIN

UAE SAUDI ARABIA

Dubai

JORDAN

Manama

Amman

Jeddah Madinah

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai KUWAIT

BAHRAIN

EGYPT

Manama

Cairo

QATAR

Kuwait

Doha (Headquarters) UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Sharjah LEBANON

KUWAIT

Beirut

Kuwait City

SYRIA

Damas UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Abu Dhabi

Dubai

SAUDI ARABIA EGYPT

Jeddah

Cairo

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai SAUDI ARABIA

JORDAN

Amman (Arab Wings) UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Sharjah (Gulf Wings)

EGYPT

Jeddah Riyadh Dammam Madinah

Cairo

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

SAUDI ARABIA

Jeddah Riyadh

QATAR JORDAN

Doha

Amman

SYRIA

EGYPT

Damascus

Cairo

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Sharjah

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Dubai

LEBANON

Beirut

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ADDRESS BOOK

TARMAC MEBA www.meba.aero RizonJet www.rizonjet.com San Marino Aircraft Registry www.caa-mna.sm/index_en.php Flying Colours Corp www.flyingcolourscorp.com Al Bateen Executive Airport www.albateenairport.com Bombardier www.aerospace.bombardier.com Royal Jet Abu Dhabi www.royaljetgroup.com StrataJet www.stratajet.com Ayla Aviation Academy www.aylaaviation.com Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technology www.adat.ae African Business Aviation Association www.afbaa.org Tastefully Yours Catering www.tastefullyours.com AMAC Aerospace www.amacaerospace.com Brabus Private Aviation www.brabus-aviation.com Airbus www.airbus.com Gulfstream Aerospace www.gulfstream.com Rizon Jet www.rizonjet.copm ABS Jets www.absjets.com Nextant Aerospace www.nextentantaerospace.com Marshall Executive Aviation www.marshallaerospace.com Gainjet Aviation www.gainjet.com Jet Aviation www.jetaviation.com The Boeing Company www.boeing.com Execujet Middle East www.execujet.com Flairjet Limited www.flair-jet.com Oryx Jet www.oryxjet.com Gama Aviation www.gamagroup.com Qatar Airways www.qatarairways.com ADAC www.adac.ae VistaJet www.vistajet.com Honda Aircraft www.hondajet.honda.com Seddiqi and Sons www.seddiqi.com Airops www.airops.co.uk Embraer www.embraer.com SHOPPING Bentley Motors www.shop.bentleymotors.com Harrods www.harrods.com Puma www.puma.com Guess www.guess.com/worldofguess

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TIME PIECES Patek Philippe www.patek.com Audemars Piguet www.audemarspiguet.com IWC Schaffhausen Watches www.iwc.com Jaeger-LeCoultre www.jaeger-lecoultre.com Vacheron Constantin www.vacheron-constantin.com

CEO & group publisher: Michel Karsenti - m.karsenti@luxmediagroup.com

YACHTING CRN Shipyard www.crn-yacht.com

Associate publisher: Sam Richomme - s.richomme@luxmedia-me.com

SPOTLIGHT GainJet Aviation www.gainjet.com FLYING OPTIONS Avlous www.avolus.com ConnectJets www.connectjets.com Air Charter Services www.aircharter-services.com NetJets www.netjets.com VNE Dassault www.dassaultfalcon.com INTERVIEW Aviation Horizons www.aviation-horizons.com GULFSTREAM Gulfstream Aerospace www.gulfstream.com COVER STORY Dubai World Central www.dwc.ae X Jet www.xjetworld.com Fujairah International Airport www.fujairah-airport.com Execujet Aviation Group www.execujet.net DC Aviation www.dc-aviation.com PILOT RECRUITMENT ACASS www.acass.com CARS Infiniti Middle East www.infinit-me.com CITY GUIDE The Address Downtown Dubai www.theaddress.com The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC www.ritzcarlton.com Roberto’s www.robertos.ae Kitchen 45 www.grosvenorhouse-dubai.com The Cigar Lounge, Address Downtown www.theaddress.com Address Dubai Marina www.theaddress.com DESTINATION Como Shambhala Estate, Bali www.comohotels.com

is published by: LuxMedia Middle East FZ-LLC Business Center, Office 108, Dubai Media City PO Box 502837 - Dubai - U.A.E. Phone: +971 44 220 970 - Fax: +971 44 290 946 Email: info@luxmediagroup.com

Editor-in-Chief: Damien Reid - d.reid@luxmedia-me.com Senior Editor: Sylvie Péron - s.peron@luxmediagroup.com Graphic Designer: Laurent Haoua - l.haoua@luxmediagroup.com Ad materials: ads@luxmediagroup.com Color separation: Elena Fomkina Contributed to this issue : Ali Al Naqbi, , Ivan Verentennikov, Sylvie Peron, Jane Stanbury, Shaun Ebelthite Photography : Thierry Ameller, Paul Emous Marketing : Antonella Salembier - info@luxmediagroup.com ADVERTISING SALES: Middle East Advertising Director: Sam Richomme - s.richomme@luxmedia-me.com Phone: +971 50 953 2180 Middle East Sales Director: Grant Rodwell - g.rodwell@luxmedia-me.com Phone: +971 50 884 1374 Sales & Marketing Director Sudhish Chandran - s.chandran@luxmedia-me.com Phone: +971 50 341 6907 European Luxury Accounts Advertising Manager: Jean-Marc Dahan - jm.dahan@luxmediagroup.com Phone: +33 (0)1 46 40 66 71 Yachting Advertising Manager: Carole Pastor - c.pastor@luxmediagroup.com Phone.: +33 (0)4 97 06 97 12 - Fax.: +(0)33 493 99 98 75 Printing: Printed in the U.A.E. by Emirates Printing Press Newsstands Distribution: Dar Al Hikma Printing, Publishing & Distribution - Dubai, UAE FBO and Airport lounges targeted circulation: U.A.E, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, KSA, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria.

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ALTITUDES ARABIA is published six times a year by LuxMedia ME. Reproduction in whole or in part of any article without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. ALTITUDES ARABIA/LuxMedia ME/K-One-Capital, cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions that might occur. ALTITUDES ARABIA/ LuxMedia Group/K-One-Capital accepts no liability for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs that may be lost or damaged.

228x270_Mise en page 1 26/11/12 15:26 Page1

Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2013 March 5, 6, 7 Save the date !

The only General Aviation Exhibition in the Middle East

Hosted by

www.adairexpo.com

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WELCOME ABOARD

A Time to reflect and take stock

MEBA Show 2012 On behalf of Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), I am privileged to extend you all a hearty welcome to MEBA Show 2012, the fifth edition of this mega event. This year’s event is all the more significant as we will be having it at an entirely brand new location at Al Maktoum International Airport, that would be a path breaking step in the Aviation history of Dubai. Al Maktoum International, Dubai will be hosting the Dubai Air show 2013 at the same location next year and our show would be a precursor to it.

MEBAA is in its seventh year and there cannot be a more appropriate time to reflect on its performance in relation to the road map mentioned in its Vision and Mission Statements. The idea of MEBAA was conceived after a lot of thought and consultations within the industry at regional and global level.

Being actively associated with Private Aviation in the region, I am a regular visitor to NBAA and EBACE and also the major Air Shows like Farnborough and Le Bourget. NBAA made a deep impact with its concept, strong professional base and the services it provides especially projecting their concerns to the right quarters that matter. It made me think around 2005 « Is there a need for such a strong institution for Business Aviation here, especially when the industry was in its infancy?».

We started with six members that’s grown to 190 and is indicative of the performance of MEBAA towards fulfilling its stated vision and mission. “To be the principal forum for gathering, understanding and communicating the needs of business aviation within the Middle East and North Africa worldwide to business, governments and the media» is our vision. “To serve the needs of our members by enhancing safety,

security, efficiency and acceptance of business aviation, throughout the region,” is our mission. In pursuit of realizing them, our first step was to make contact with peer associations like NBAA and EBAA and maximise our membership to International Business Aviation Council (IBAC). We are represented on international forums like the Committee on Aviation Environmental Protection (CAEP) set up by ICAO and the MEBAA Chairman is a part of this working group.

We strongly advocated the needs and imperatives of having dedicated Airports for Business Aviation due to its exclusive product characteristics that resulted in the Abu Dhabi Executive at Bateen. The success of this initiative and the impact it made on the overall aviation scenario is a forerunner for many more such ventures. I sincerely hope the Western Region of Abu Dhabi is the next to take on from here and for others to follow. MEBAA in collaboration with Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company, Willis and Chartis had launched an Aviation Insurance Policy framework tailor made to needs of business aircraft operators titled MAIS and is actively considered by many of our members.

MEBAA has created a platform for dis-

By Ali Al Naqbi, Founding Chairman, Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA)

cussion with Aviation regulators as well addressed some irksome issues like airport access and flight permits to the satisfaction of our members. Issues of importance to all our members and the industry like the «Grey Market» operation has been addressed through workshops and seminars. MEBAA has been associated with humanitarian efforts too like World Food Program by being a sponsor for the fourth global humanitarian summit in Jordon recently.

The past four MEBA Shows were a great success and it is acclaimed as the third largest Business Aviation Shows behind NBAA and EBACE. We are confident MEBA 2012 will continue this trend despite some political and economic macro indicators like the Arab Spring and a global recession. We all would agree that a long road is ahead and at this time I wish to recall a quote I made in one of the early MEBAA publications namely « A journey of thousand miles begins with a single step». I am sure you would join me if I say that first single step has been taken and we are deep into our march towards progress and prosperity to our dear industry. Have a great and fruitful experience during the Show and enjoy ■ your stay in Dubai and the UAE.

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