When a company is traded in public markets, it’s obligated to comply with specific rules regarding the disclosure of financial information. Mandatory disclosures provide critical insight into specific companies and the whole of the market sector. As more private aviation companies go public, investors glean data from their disclosure filings. All signs point to 2021 as a banner year for private aviation, thanks in large part to strong market activity from newly public companies and private aviation stalwarts.
Newcomers to public markets
2021 was a big year for private aviation startups to go public — especially through special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs). These startups came to the market via acquisition by “blank-check” companies that were already public, including Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY) and Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR).
All told, six eVTOL startups found their way into public markets in 2021, which sends a clear message that urban air travel is likely coming soon. Early financial disclosures report eVTOL makers raised upwards of $2.5 billion in their push to go public, which will jumpstart the process of vehicle certification.
Charter companies are booming
Demand for private charters boomed in 2021. Direct beneficiaries of the shift to private air travel include big names like NetJets and Wheels Up. And while there are virtually no public charter companies, these two shed light on how significant the year was for private charter operators.
NetJets, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, saw a 30% jump in flight activity from 2020 to 2021. In a signal of its expectations for future growth, the company also committed $2.5 billion to fleet enhancements for 2022. Meanwhile, Wheels Up (NYSE: UP) went public via SPAC and will begin releasing earnings regularly in 2022. Previous filings show the charter company posted nearly $700 million in revenue in 2020 with increases in net profit, profit margins, and cash on hand.
If these two companies are a sign for the greater charter industry, 2022 stands to be another banner year for regional private jet travel.
Legacy airframers soldier through the pandemic
The real Wall Street winners of 2021 were private airframers. While commercial jet companies face a lagging, rocky recovery, private jet makers rode a wave of consumer demand to new heights. Here’s how the major public players fared in 2021:
General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), maker of Gulfstream jets, was up 37% last year.
Textron (NYSE: TXT) share prices shot up a staggering 60% over the course of 2021.
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ) saw enormous gains of more than 160% over the year.
Bombardier (OTC: BDRBF) saw a staggering 247% increase across 2021.
Other airframers around the world, including Dassault Aviation, saw healthy gains as well. But the market wasn’t all green in 2021. Conglomerates, including Boeing (NYSE: BA), traded sideways as other aspects of business suffered through the pandemic, but pure play private airframers were market champions.
All signs point to a strong year ahead
The momentum of the private aviation industry in 2021 was staggering and bodes well for the year ahead. With new jets expected to enter service in the second half of the year, and last year’s strong order action to facilitate deliveries through 2022, it appears we’ve entered a new era of private air travel.
Contact the experts at L & L International if you need assistance acquiring or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Bombardier’s Challenger 3500 is an upgrade of its original 350 model, and it’s designed to compete with some of the hottest new private aircraft on the market. With plenty of creature comforts, and state-of-the-art avionics, it’s a force to be reckoned with in the midsized jet class. With its updates, upgrades, and innovations this jet is a dark horse favorite to overtake the midsize market.
Keeping current with the competition
Bombardier’s Challenger 350 made its debut in 2014. Since then, Bombardier has delivered more than 350 of these aircraft to customers around the world. Its equipped price hovers around $26.7 million. But over the last decade, new midsized jets have quickly taken up market share by offering new tech and innovation at competitive price points. The Challenger 3500 seeks to meet them on a competitive front.
The Challenger 3500 is built to compete against current market leaders, such as the Embraer Praetor 500/600 series, the Citation Longitude, and Gulfstream’s G280. Each of these jets is priced just below the $30 million threshold, which is leveling the playing field and forcing airframe makers to compete on innovation.
Source: bombardier.com
An expected upgrade with a wow factor
Industry analysts have predicted an upgrade to the Challenger 350 for several years, but Bombardier’s Challenger 3500 has exceeded their expectations. It boasts a myriad of novel features that instantly propel it into the thick of the competitive midsized market. Several features stand out:
Comfort. Zero-gravity seating is the crown jewel of Bombardier’s interior upgrades. Its patented Nuage seats tilt back to reduce pressure on the lower back, and passengers can tuck their feet under their center of gravity for a natural, relaxed position.
Entertainment. While sitting comfortably, passengers can access the aircraft’s complete entertainment system with voice commands linked to lights, temperature controls, and the best-in-class 24-inch 4K video display.
Stability. The Challenger 3500’s redesigned wings deliver a smoother ride through all phases of flight.
Avionics.Powered by GE Aviation’s Smart Link Plus avionics platform, the Challenger 3500 boasts a state-of-the-art cockpit that includes four display screens, synthetic vision, and a dual flight management system with localizer performance with vertical guidance (LPV) and required navigation performance (RNP) approach.
Bombardier has also provided the Challenger 3500 with several COVID-19-specific features, including easy-to-clean haptic controls, an advanced clean air delivery system, and antimicrobial furnishing materials.
Source: bombardier.com
An instant contender
The Challenger 350 is a beloved midsized model, which leaves big shoes for the 3500 to fill. And while it’s sure to attract interest from those in the market for a midsized jet, Bombardier has its eyes on a much larger market. According to business aviation analyst Rollie Vincent, “It makes a great fleet aircraft for charter and fractional: Just fill up the tanks and off you go.”
Bombardier’s Challenger 3500 is scheduled to enter service in the second half of 2022 — just in time to satisfy a growing demand for midsized charter jets. With innovations for both comfort and efficiency, the 3500 is a redesign meant to be a competition killer and a stalwart for the future.
Contact the experts at L & L International if you need assistance acquiring or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Every week, there’s a new and innovative eVTOL hitting the front page of aviation news. Designs are getting more imaginative, but it’s beginning to feel like we may never see a true rollout. Many analysts pegged 2020 as the year for trial runs and the early stages of urban air travel, but the pandemic quickly derailed their hope. Two years later, eVTOLs are still nowhere in sight. Will we ever see them in the skies?
Always the “next big thing”
In 2018, analysts at Morgan Stanley called eVTOLs the “next big market” and heralded autonomous flight as an impending disruptor of urban transportation. These same analysts pegged the market for autonomous flight at $1.5 trillion by 2040. And while value of this magnitude takes time to build, the eVTOL market feels as though it’s barely moved in the last four years.
In 2018, there were as many as 150 companies with active eVTOL projects. Today, there are more than 200, and the landscape has changed dramatically. The sector has become a proving ground for venture-backed companies, traditional aviation spinoffs, and even pet projects for billionaires. But to date, few have accomplished more than cursory test flights.
Challenges impeding the path to market
The struggle of eVTOLs to get off the ground is not for lack of trying. In fact, while most manufacturers continue to play their innovation cards close to the vest, reports claim a handful of companies are ready for viable deployment. What’s holding them back?
Regulation. By far the biggest challenge to overcome before eVTOLs fly is regulation. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration is working toward regulatory frameworks for eVTOLs, but these vehicles are unprecedented, which makes them subject to stringent requirements and intense scrutiny.
Infrastructure. Where will eVTOLs take off and land? The infrastructure for these urban air vehicles does not yet exist. Existing helipads are an option, but they’re currently too few and far between for a viable rollout. Parking garage rooftops appear to be the best answer so far.
Technology. The technology for eVTOLs is robust and impressive, but it’s not yet perfect. Many manufacturers still rely on developing tech to power their craft. And technology will continue to improve over time, which means manufacturers must ensure their craft stay current and compliant even after rollout.
Environment. There’s little-to-no understanding of the environmental impact eVTOLs might have. In this age of increasing environmental awareness, we won’t see eVTOLs in the sky until there’s a clear understanding of their environmental effect.
There’s also public sentiment to consider. Will people trust in eVTOL technology as it stands today? Manufacturers seem to think not, which is why they’re holding back deployments until some of these challenges are resolved.
Will we see eVTOLs in 2022?
It’s not likely; 2025 looks to be a more realistic date. Indications from leading manufacturers, such as Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Volocopter, and Vertical Aerospace are that commercial flight tests could begin in earnest by 2025.
While eVTOLs continue to be “the next big thing,” the timeline for their arrival is shrinking. With the major players defining themselves and known obstacles receiving due attention from industry problem-solvers, we may be just a few years away from a meaningful launch that could change the trajectory of private aviation forever.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
Of the many sporting events around the world every year, the NFL Super Bowl takes the popularity cake. Super Bowl Sunday is almost a national holiday, and it draws spectators and fans no matter which teams are on the field. For those lucky enough to score tickets, the trip to the big game is one to remember, and for many, the journey involves chartering a private jet. Super Bowl Sunday isn’t just big for the teams involved; it’s also a major event for private aviation.
Los Angeles airports brace for traffic
The Super Bowl is expected to create a week-long tourism boom. Among those arriving are celebrities, business executives, and other high-net-worth individuals whose preferred mode of transportation is a private jet. Los Angeles area airports are already issuing reservation programs for ground crews.
According to the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), LA area airports are bracing for a significant uptick in arrivals and departures between Wednesday, February 9 and Tuesday, February 15 — enough time to arrive before the big game and plenty of time to enjoy post-game festivities. This surge of traffic could result in drop-and-go service as vacancies are quickly occupied by early arrivals.
Coping with congestion
As LA braces for the biggest sporting event of the year, the NBAA and local airports are cooperating in their plans for the inevitable congestion. The NBAA is hosting a comprehensive resource on its website to help charter companies and private jet owners plan their arrivals and departures and expedite their drop-and-go operations.
Private aviation owners can also expect Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) on the day of — and in the days leading up to — the event. Operators must stay abreast of NOTAM and adapt flight plans to changing circumstances as LA airports brace for congestion.
A look back at past Super Bowls
The impending surge of private air traffic to LA area airports isn’t unprecedented, but it remains problematic. Super Bowl LIV in Miami brought 1,946 private jet fly-ins. On the other hand, 2021’s Super Bowl LV drew a meager 679 fly-ins, primarily due to COVID-19 restrictions.
This year’s Super Bowl promises a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels, and analysts believe it will prove a record-setting event for private aviation charters. Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium has a total capacity of 100,240 and expects to host a sold-out crowd on February 13. But figures predict the event will bring as many as 150,000 visitors and $477 million to Los Angeles.
Private aviation’s biggest event of the year
Few events attract such numbers of private and charter jets to a single destination like the Super Bowl. This year’s game is likely to bring even more attention as dedicated fans and casual spectators alike use private aviation to descend on Los Angeles for a full week of festivities.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
Climate change is the struggle of our time, and private aviation has emerged as an unlikely steward in the quest for sustainable flight. With a slew of early-stage initiatives already in progress, the industry is on a sharp trajectory to meet its aggressive environmental goals.
As an industry, private aviation’s major airframers, professional organizations, and other contributing players have collectively named 2050 as the year by which they’ll reach a goal of net-zero carbon emissions. To accomplish this, there are several high-profile projects, initiatives, and technologies currently in the works:
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). Focused on direct-impact carbon emission reductions, SAF is quickly gaining momentum in private aviation. While still difficult to obtain, and more expensive than traditional jet fuels, SAF is nevertheless in high demand. And it’s a proven move toward sustainability with the potential to leap from private aviation to commercial fleets. Rolls-Royce recently flew a Boeing 747 Jumbo using only SAF — with an 80% reduction in emissions.
Book-and-claim programs. The limited availability of SAF has paved the way for book-and-claim programs in which operators can reserve SAF at refueling destinations by pre-paying for it. As SAF rollout expands to more destinations, book-and-claim has the potential to make it more ubiquitous and help lower the price.
Carbon offset technologies. Carbon offset technologies are a key development in private aviation right now. From fuselage design to cleaner propulsion systems, airframers are working hard to streamline jet efficiency to offset carbon output. EVs and hybrid propulsion systems stand to gain traction on the way to the industry’s 2050 sustainability goals.
Carbon offset programs (i.e., carbon credits). Beyond airframers, industry operators and organizations are offsetting their carbon footprints through established carbon credit programs. These programs channel funds to clean energy initiatives around the globe and realize a lower carbon record for private aviation. Credits also makes sustainability a global effort.
“Boomless” supersonics. The second era of supersonic jets is just over the horizon and could be here well before 2050. Emerging tech is already subject to the industry’s sustainability initiatives. Boomless supersonics are the new standard, and enterprising startups are already seeking to make SAF a cornerstone of supersonic travel.
EVs and eVTOLs. Electric aircraft are quickly becoming the darlings of private aviation potential. From self-piloting intracity transports to regional electric jets, there’s a growing field of clean energy craft on their way to market. As their technologies improve, so do the prospects for future fleets capable of zero-emission travel.
Measuring and reporting. The backbone of all these initiatives is a hard-nosed approach to compliance. The industry is already self-governing — implementing measuring and reporting practices to quantify its progress toward a sustainable future. And they’re painting a clear picture of the path to net-zero emissions.
Private aviation’s goals are aggressive and aspirational — and they need to be. The climate crisis isn’t going away anytime soon — it’s growing worse with each passing year. As demand for its services grows, private aviation is stepping in as a steward for sustainability and looking to serve more travelers with less environmental impact. Zero emissions by 2050 — if industry leaders make good on their goals.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
Even five years ago, private aviation was a walled garden of travel opportunity. Reserved for corporate travelers and high-net-worth individuals, private jets were a niche market. But post-pandemic, the industry finds itself at center stage — an object of attention from new and seasoned travelers alike. The result is booming, unprecedented demand, and measured by all prior industry standards and metrics, it’s forcing private aviation into a sink or swim situation.
The pandemic state of private aviation
Prior to 2019, the cost of chartering a private jet was anything but cheap, but rates have risen astronomically since COVID-19 pushed a new audience into the industry. According to some reports, clients are paying $5,000 to $25,000 per hour for private jet travel, and the average deposit for some charter company jet cards is encroaching on a quarter of a million dollars.
What’s the reason for these mind-boggling rates? As Michael Silvestro — CEO of Flexjet — said in a recent webinar on the state of chartered aviation in 2021, “We’re seeing 25 to 40 percent more volume than previous years.” Flexjet, Netjets, and other industry leaders simply aren’t equipped to handle this rapid influx of demand.
Earlier this year, Netjets suspended new jet card sales in an effort to cap demand. According to company president Patrick Gallagher, “The vast number of flights is taxing the air-travel infrastructure in ways we haven’t seen in years.”
Compounding problems for BizAV
An influx of general demand isn’t the only struggle for private aviation. Low inventory of quality used aircraft is driving up demand for charters and pushing orders for new aircraft higher than they’ve been in years. “We have buyers with funds to purchase, but demand for late model aircraft with attractive configurations exceeds supply,” said Wayne Starling, Executive Director of the International Aircraft Dealers Association.
There’s also a persistent shortage of pilots on staff. BizAV customers with their own jets can afford to retain private staff, but charter companies are struggling to find qualified pilots. And the short notice and sporadic nature of many chartered flights only makes coordinating schedules among available pilots more difficult.
Finally, there’s an educational component to this growing industry. New customers have unrealistic expectations about private aviation, and they’ve introduced an unprecedented level of inefficiency into charter operations. Major providers are working hard to adjust to demand, but in the meantime, private aviation is subject to disruption, cancellation, and higher costs.
Growing pains are part of getting bigger
Industry reports for private aviation’s growth put the figure as high as 30% in 2020-2021. Forward-looking projections cite a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.4% by 2025. All signs point to a sector growing at an explosive rate. Will charter providers and jet brokers be able to keep up?
While the market is currently rife with struggle, many believe relief is on the horizon. Charter CEOs are in apparent agreement: There’s a demand plateau on the horizon. Combined with increasing deliveries from airframers, and new service models from operators, and at least some congestion relief is in sight.
While it looks like private aviation will continue to as the de-facto mode of travel for many jetsetters, it’s only a matter of time before the sector adapts to meet this new demand.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
As the private aviation industry moves in a more sustainable direction, airframe makers are exploring concepts that defy traditional models. Embraer is embracing a scattershot approach to their “jet of the future” design.
Unveiled in late November, its Energia series of concept jets reveals bold new designs for four sustainable propulsion technologies. The airframe maker is thinking outside the box with disruptive designs that harness emerging energy sources for high degrees of efficiency. And while they’re still concepts, the Energia series already has the industry buzzing.
A sustainable perspective
Virtually every airframe maker is planning for a future in which fuel efficiency is a defining feature of jet design. Some are experimenting with more efficient fuselage design, and others are incorporating next-gen avionics to optimize flight efficiency. Embraer is one of the few legacy airframers focused primarily on sustainable propulsion.
Each of the four jets unveiled as part of its Energia series features a concept propulsion system designed specifically to reduce or eliminate emissions — either by itself or with the help of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF).
Arjan Meijer, president and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation, says, “Embraer has been working diligently over the last couple of years on new concepts, and over the last 12 months, we’ve really defined how new technologies can be translated into concepts that we can see on the horizon. We want to show the world the vision that Embraer has of the future.”
Embraer has hinted that most, if not all, of its Energia prototypes will begin testing within the next few years. Here’s a preview of eachEnergia concept:
Energia Hybrid (E9-HE). This nine-seat jet features hybrid-electric propulsion that decreases CO2 emissions by up to 90%. It’s propelled by two rear-mounted turboprop engines.
Energia Electric (E9-FE). A full-electric nine-seater, this unique design features aft contra-rotating propellers. Embraer sees this as a net-zero carbon jet pending technology advancements in electric propulsion.
Energia H2 Fuel Cell (E19-H2FC). Another zero-emission jet, this 19-seater features rear-mounted electric engines and hydrogen-electric propulsion.
Energia H2 Gas Turbine (E50-H2GT). The largest of the Energia series, this 30-50-seater, dual-turbine jet relies on hydrogen or SAF for its fuel source. Its carbon neutrality depends on pending advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
According to Embraer, each jet presents new opportunities for its own specific niche of private air travel. Those with dual or hybrid propulsion systems also offer enticing possibilities for fuel-adapted routes — depending on distance and speed demands.
Waiting on the tech to catch up
According to Arjan Meijer, Embraer’s scattershot approach to propulsion prototyping is largely due to the pending availability of necessary technologies. Advancements in hybrid-electric, electric, hydrogen, and dual-fuel gas turbines are forthcoming. When they do come to market, Embraer stands ready to expediently incorporate them into its concept designs.
Given the current development trajectory, Embraer’s Energia concept jets are likely to take flight over the next 3-5 years. Embraer has already demonstrated a strong commitment to the future of sustainable flight. Its entire fleet is on track for SAF compatibility by 2030. The Energia line reinforces the company’s dedication with its diverse approach to sustainable aviation.
Contact the experts at L & L International if you need assistance acquiring or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
In private aviation, the ability to set records distinguishes an aircraft from its competition. But with Rolls-Royce’s new Spirit of Innovation electric craft, records are less about beating the competition and more about charting the course toward an EV future. The famed engine maker’s latest record-setting feat spotlights the potential for light electric aircraft and their ability to zip from city to city. It’s an exciting prospect for an emerging industry — one garnering a lot of attention in recent years.
Meet the Spirit of Innovation
The aptly named Spirit of Innovation represents Rolls-Royce’s commitment to the third age of aviation: net-zero electric aircraft. The craft was designed to showcase the phenomenal potential of an all-electric craft — and to mark it as a contender in the emerging sustainable fuels market.
Armed with an astounding 550 horsepower, the Spirit of Innovation shattered the existing speed record for an all-electric aircraft. In fact, the craft set three unique records in a single test flight. Its 387.4 mph speed beats the previous record of 213 mph, held by a Siemens-powered Extra 330LE. The craft also set a record for fastest time to a 3,000-meter (9,843 feet) altitude at 202 seconds and another for fastest average speed at 345.5 mph.
And the Spirit of Innovation did it all with zero emissions.
Designed to showcase the future
The Spirit of Innovation is a collaborative effort to establish the framework for an all-electric fleet of light jets in the future. The current iteration is breaking records because of its innovative fuselage, powerful motor, and a cutting-edge battery design.
The craft’s 550 horsepower comes from its 400 kW, 750-volt motor — now a certified proof of concept for effective battery-powered propulsion. According to Rolls-Royce, it’s backed by the most power-dense propulsion battery pack ever assembled in the aviation sector — featuring some 6,480 cells.
Satisfying future demand for speedy EVs
EVs aren’t novel in aviation, but speed has not traditionally been their strong suit. While many airframe makers and aviation startups are banking on EV potential for regional or intercity trips, the Spirit of Innovation is the first to illustrate their potential for displacing regional jets as a form of rapid transportation.
Rolls-Royce’s Accelerating the Electrification of Flight (ACCEL) program has been exploring this niche for several years in collaboration with the UK government and the Aerospace Technology Institute. The goal isn’t just to make EVs a viable solution for regional flight — it’s to eliminate the harmful emissions associated with these trips. The Spirit of Innovation’s speed records demonstrate the possibility of zero-emission, regional runs at speed.
More innovation to come
The Spirit of Innovation may not look like the future of regional EVs, but this “tail-dragger” has proven speed and net-zero emissions can exist in a single craft. It’s data Rolls-Royce’s ACCEL program will take back to the drawing board as it seeks to design crafts to rival today’s regional jets. Make no mistake: The third age of aviation is here, and these records won’t be the last ones broken by a carbon-neutral EV.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
Announced in 2018, Dassault’s once highly anticipated Falcon 6X has faded into the background with the company’s announcement of even more ambitious projects. But as its release date draws closer, the Falcon 6X is back on the industry’s radar. The 6X remains on track for a full release in 2022, and Dassault is expected to put a fourth test plane in the air before the end of this year. There’s still much to do before the Falcon 6X is fully certified, but Dassault is committed to its timeline for its latest luxurious twinjet.
A big addition to the private aviation sector
The path to market for larger aircraft can take significantly longer than their light and medium airframe counterparts. This slow progression is even more pronounced in a behemoth craft like the Falcon 6X, which simultaneously falls into the large, long-range, and ultra-widebody categories. In fact, Dassault is on record claiming the Falcon 6X is in a new heavy jet category all its own.
Measuring 84.3 feet long and 24.5 feet tall, and boasting an impressive 85.1-foot wingspan, there’s no mistaking the tremendous size of this jet. And, at 77,460 pounds of maximum takeoff weight, it’s one that requires significant power to get up in the air. Speaking of which, the Falcon 6X can get off the ground with less than 3,000 feet of runway — truly an amazing achievement for a craft of its size.
Source dassaultfalcon.com
The slow path to market
Nearing four years since its initial showcase, Dassault’s Falcon 6X has faced rigorous testing on its way to market. A jet of this size requires significant airtime, and Dassault is well-known for exacting standards in refining and perfecting its aircraft. Speaking at the NBAA-BACE conference in Las Vegas in October, Chairman and CEO Eric Trappier shed light on just how far the jet has come.
According to Trappier, the company has three Falcon 6X airframes flying and a fourth expected to begin logging hours before the close of 2021. Its current jets are flying two to three times a week, and have collectively logged more than 300 hours over more than 100 flights. And there’s still more to come. “There is still considerable test activity to be completed, as in any test campaign,” said Trappier. “But we can report at this point that we are achieving milestones at a pace that our test engineers are really happy with.”
On-track for a 2022 entry-into-service date
The fourth test jet from Dassault is a significant milestone on the Falcon 6X’s march to market. It will be the first production jet to leave the runway, and with its takeoff, Dassault begins the countdown to an anticipated 2022 entry-into-service date. Barring setbacks, this fourth test jet will be the one jet-setting around the globe on a world tour.
What’s left to finalize before the Falcon 6X makes its mark on customers? Its Pratt & Whitney Canada PW812D engines are in the final stages of certification. Dassault is also checking the final boxes on acoustic and thermal testing for the jet’s cabin and conducting final testing on cabin pressurization and airflow. As these finishing touches fall into place, the Falcon 6X looks more and more like the jet Dassault promised four years ago.
Contact the experts at L & L International if you need assistance acquiring or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
In 2020, the failed partnership between Boeing and Embraer was headline news. It started as an ambitious joint venture to dominate both commercial and private aviation markets, and then it mysteriously fell apart. Boeing lost its stake in the private market, and Embraer lost billions in investment capital. Embraer was expected to falter in the wake of the deal’s collapse, but to everyone’s surprise, it’s proven more than resilient. Today, Embraer’s sales are skyrocketing.
The collaboration that never was
In late 2019 and early 2020, news broke of a tentative agreement between commercial aviation leader Boeing and private airframe manufacturer Embraer. Details emerged about a synergistic partnership that would net Boeing an 80% stake in Embraer’s commercial aircraft operations, while bringing $4.2 billion into Embraer to help it compete against its rival, Bombardier.
But in April 2020, the deal abruptly fell apart. Boeing walked away from the table, and the two companies traded veiled blows over the defunct deal — hinting at different reasons for the collapse. While the reason for the deal’s end has yet to come to light, many assumed Embraer would walk away from the deal worse for wear. Roughly 18 months later, that speculation couldn’t be further from reality.
Embraer is thriving as market demand skyrockets
A simple look at the stock charts of both public companies tells the true post-collapse tale. Both companies have ticked up, but Embraer is thriving. 2021 YTD figures show Boeing (NYSE: BA) up approximately 42%, while Embraer (NYSE: ERJ) surged approximately 252% over the same period.
Embraer’s success is largely tied to the historic demand for private aviation. In the wake of its failed deal with Boeing, Embraer has had no trouble prospecting new opportunities and forging ahead with deals to expand its share of the private aviation sector. Examples include its recent $1.2 billion deal with NetJets to supply up to 100 Embraer Phenom 300E jets for its growing fleet.
To date, Embraer has seen a staggering 25% uptick in bizjet deliveries. According to AINonline, “Year-to-date, business jet deliveries totaled 54, including 36 light jets (two Phenom 100s and 34 Phenom 300s) and 18 large jets (six Praetor 500s and 12 Praetor 600s).” Safe to say, Embraer isn’t struggling as many suspected it would be this time last year.
Rising to overcome the fallout
On pace to deliver 150 jets by the end of 2021, Embraer has proven itself resilient beyond its failed partnership with Boeing. More importantly, this year has marked a return to positive cash flow for the company. According to an evaluation of the company’s financials by Reuters, “Improved working capital efficiency helped Embraer generate $21 million of free cash flow, the first positive third-quarter cash flow in over a decade.”
While many in aviation will continue to lament what might have come from a partnership between Boeing and Embraer, the latter is defying the assumption that it would falter. As post-pandemic demand for private aviation continues to trend higher, Embraer will continue to soar.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online, at sales@L-Lint.com, or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
