As we celebrate the 4th of July this week, we thought it would be appropriate to pay homage to a truly American aviation innovator: Piper Aircraft. Independence Day focuses on the freedoms all Americans enjoy and have enjoyed for 236 years, and there’s nothing more representative of individual freedom than the ability to fly.
Piper has played a major role in the history of American aviation. In 1930, William T. Piper purchased the assets of Taylor Brothers Aircraft Corporation for $761, and renamed the company Piper Aircraft Corporation in 1937. Piper’s vision was that everyone should be able to fly.
The most widely known Piper Aircraft is the J-3 Cub. Its first flight was in 1938, and the company built 19,888 of these single-engine, high wing cabin monoplanes. These aircraft were an integral tool during World War II. With a fresh coat of olive drab paint and green plexiglass skylight and rear windows, the civilian J-3 Cub became the military L-4. The L-4s were all over the newspapers and newsreels, and distinguished people like First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and General Dwight Eisenhower were seen flying in them. Additionally, during the war, the J-3 Cub was the training aircraft for the Civilian Pilot Training Program. By the end of the war, 80 percent of the U.S. military pilots had been trained in a Piper Cub.
This year, Piper celebrates 75 years. Congratulations, and thank you! Find out more about their many celebrations this year, and watch a video of the Piper Cub here.
“From the head office to the factory floor, there is an understanding that we at Piper are not just making a thing – we’re making magic. We’re making freedom.”
What did you get your dad for Father’s Day? “Kiss the cook” BBQ apron? Car detail? Heartfelt framed photo? Jay-Z, who has been a father for six months, received a private jet from his wife Beyonce Knowles.
In a more philanthropic note, actor Tom Cruise offered his Gulfstream V to a man working on the set of his new movie Oblivion. A support worker, David, was crushed by a 700-pound weight on set in May, and Cruise quickly ordered his jet to transport David to spinal specialist. David is now undergoing therapy after spending four days in intensive care in Baton Rouge, La.
After Facebook’s IPO last month, Russian investor Alisher Usmanov sold $1.4 billion in Facebook stock. While not necessarily an international celebrity, Usmanov is certainly wealthy. His personal fortune is valued at $15.8 billion; he’s the 34th richest person in the world. Usmanov is now the proud owner of an Airbus A340, the largest private jet in Russia and possibly Europe. If he decks it out in a fashion similar to his $100 million yacht, which includes a swimming pool and cabins for 20, he could end up spending about $500 million. That’s some jet.
A dry winter in the West inevitably leads to a dangerous fire season during the summer months. This fact is being borne out by wildland fires occurring earlier and more intensely than usual in the summer of 2012. Most notably, wildfires in New Mexico and Colorado are burning right now. The High Park Fire raging outside Fort Collins, Colo., has already claimed one life, 118 structures and more than 73 square miles — and it’s only 10 percent contained.
Fortunately, specialized firefighting aircraft are on hand to aid the fight against the massive blaze, especially since rain is not in the forecast.
These aircraft play a major role in fighting wildland fires, but the U.S. Forest Service has an inadequate fleet. For this reason, it relies on private aviation companies like Neptune Aviation to bolster the fleet during active fires. The Forest Service also generally uses aircraft only to fight fires that threaten homes rather than ones burning only in the wilderness.
Aircraft being used in the High Park Fire include the following:
- Five single engine air tanker (SEAT)
The heavy air tankers, or “heavies,” are in high demand during fire season. They are expensive, but their impact is great.
- Cost Forest Service an average of $10,000 per day
- Make up 5 percent of Forest Service’s annual $2 billion firefighting budget
- Hold 2,100 gallons of retardant
For more about the aircraft fighting the High Park Fire, read this report by KUNC’s Grace Hood.
SpaceX successfully launched Dragon, an unmanned capsule, Tuesday, May 22, 2012, from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. This event is being heralded as the beginning of a new era of spaceflight. No longer is space the sole playground of government agencies. It’s the dawn of the commercialization and privatization of space travel. This is exciting stuff.
Almost exactly 85 years after Charles Lindbergh, aboard the Spirit of St. Louis, completed the first non-stop transatlantic flight, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and company held their breath and watched with clenched fists as Falcon9 lifted off with Dragon on its back. So far, so good. The solar arrays and navigational sensors deployed and the GPS equipment is working. Now, Dragon just needs to make it to its $100 billion docking site, the International Space Station.
Once there, the astronauts will unload the 1,014 pounds of cargo:
- Cremated remains of 308 people (The astronauts won’t actually keep these; the canister they’re in will be released and disintegrate upon reentry, sending the remains into eternal celestial suspension.)
If this demonstration mission is successful, then SpaceX will begin fulfillment of a $1.6 billion contract with NASA to deliver goods, and eventually astronauts, to the International Space Station. The revenue sounds awesome, but I think the potential ramifications of this event are much more impressive:
“It is like the advent of the Internet in the mid-1990s when commercial companies entered what was originally a government endeavor. That move dramatically accelerated the pace of advancement and made the Internet accessible to the mass market,” said Musk, SpaceX CEO and chief designer.
Where will the trajectory of aviation innovation point to in another 85 years? Perhaps individual flying pods here on Earth, or new aircraft called “planet-jumpers?”
February’s Singapore Air Show set a new record of more than $31 billion in expected sales, a tripling of estimated contracts from the 2010 event. What was the big takeaway? Aircraft manufacturers are focused on meeting demands of their customers in the expanding Asian markets.
Showing off in a big way
Large jet manufacturers Boeing and Airbus, in spite of recent production and repair problems in both companies’ fleets, arrived in Singapore to unveil their latest product offerings. Boeing showed off the 787 Dreamliner that, due to its ultra-lightweight carbon composition, uses 20 percent less fuel and boasts cabin appointments designed to increase passenger comfort. Japan’s ANA was the first carrier to take ownership of the new plane.
Airbus, appealing to its ultra-wealthy client base, brought its ACJ318 business-class jet, which features sophisticated interiors, including a separate bedroom and dining area.
Small jets appeal to a new class of buyers
Plenty of smaller, private jets were on display as well. Embraer displayed the Phenom 100, a five-seat plane with an attractive sticker price of just $4 million. In a well-publicized move, Embraer also unveiled Jackie Chan’s new plane, a Legacy 650, which features an eye-popping red and yellow dragon on the livery. The Brazilian-owned company has focused its energies on landing customers from the emerging BRIC countries.
Small jet manufacturer, Bombardier partnered with Garuda, Indonesia’s top carrier, to supply 18 new CRJ 1000 jets intended for short, regional hops. Bombardier also listed the Global Express aircraft for sale — a 14-seater business class jet for $26 million.
Italy’s Piaggo brought its sleek-bodied Aero Avanti II to Singapore, asserting that the aircraft is the fastest turboprop in production. There’s good reason to believe the claim — the company is backed by auto performance leader, Ferrari.
An event that’s grabbing attention
The contracts announced at the event are further evidence of the dramatic rise in demand for new aircraft within Asia, which now makes the Singapore Air Show one of the most important events in the global aviation community. We can’t wait to see what’s in store in 2014!
The average private aircraft found in North America is a relatively modest affair, with neutral, somewhat predictable interiors. It’s not surprising that the elite aircraft owners in Asia expect their private jets to reflect their own unique cultures. Manufacturers are geared up to meet the needs of the growing and diverse Asian clientele.
Asian cultures, sophisticated interiors
Asian buyers overwhelmingly prefer to purchase brand new aircraft. Customization of the aircraft interior is popular in Asia with unusual appointments such a red walls and large, communal tables for family-style meals or mid-flight games of Mah Jong.
One glance at Jackie Chan’s private jet, made by Embraer, and you’ll know you’re not in Kansas anymore — or anywhere near North America, for that matter. The exterior of the customized aircraft sports a red and yellow motif, with a dramatic dragon design.
When it comes to selection of materials, no detail is too small. Aircraft manufacturer, Bombardier, prefers to source leather for their aircraft interiors from free-range cows grazed at high altitudes. In Switzerland, for example, free range cows are less likely to be bitten by mosquitos or encounter barbed-wire fences, ensuring a flaw-free leather product.
The smart and practical amenities
The Asian buyer is not only preoccupied with design. Some of the customization of Asian-owned aircraft is focused on safety. Many of the new planes feature high-tech controls and leading-edge equipment designed to make navigating Asia’s smoggier environmental conditions safer.
These new, customized jets may be available for sale in a few years, so don’t be surprised if the next pre-owned jet that catches your eye features an interior that adheres to the design principles of Feng Shui. You may even experience some unexpected balance, harmony and luck.
No one enjoys the helplessness of feeling sick, but when traveling — particularly overseas — sudden illness can be problematic and potentially dangerous. Fortunately, Private Jet MD offers comprehensive services to keep you safe when a variety of troubles occur.
Ensuring your health and safety 24/7
For a low monthly membership fee, Private Jet MD provides emergency medical evaluation and case-management from western-trained doctors and nurses. They arrange and oversee transfer and evacuation of patients to pre-screened medical facilities for continuous care anywhere in the world. When it’s time to return home, Private Jet MD handles the arrangements for transport to a U.S. hospital and, if needed, companion care during the return flight.
The staff at Private Jet MD also monitors global health and personal security risks, and delivers up-to-the-minute reports and safety information. Before trip departure, they assist travelers with understanding on-the-ground health risks and warnings about destination countries.
From minor mishaps to major events
Private Jet MD’s plans provide up to $1 million in medical expenses for any travel destination in excess of 150 miles from the patient’s home. They also assist with less critical medical concerns such as eyeglass and prescription drug replacement.
Private Jet MD’s expertise extends beyond the practice of medicine. They help manage lost or stolen passports and provide referrals to language translation services and legal experts. In extremely dangerous security situations where the local U.S. Embassy cannot be reached, they connect travelers with private security firms for protection and transport.
Advance planning is critical
Doing a little homework before your trip makes coping with travel emergencies far less frightening. At a minimum, take these precautions:
- Leave copies of itineraries and passports with family or friends
- Review your insurance policies to understand your coverage in the event of an overseas illness
- Visit the state department’s website for tips and warnings about health and security risks and customs information
Your next business or pleasure trip will be more productive and enjoyable when you know you’re ready for the unexpected. And if unpleasant emergencies do arise, having Private Jet MD at your side means never having to face your worst case travel scenario alone.
I don’t know any Jackie Chan jokes, but I’m sure they are out there, much like the popular Chuck Norris jokes. For instance, Chuck Norris doesn’t hunt, he waits. Chuck Norris’ calendar goes straight from March 31 to April 2 because nobody makes a fool out of Chuck Norris.
Anyway, I digress. Today we’re talking about Jackie Chan.
Did you know all of these facts about Jackie Chan?
- He is an operatically trained vocalist.
- He won the Favorite Buttkicker award for Karate Kid.
- He speaks three languages fluently.
Jackie Chan, native of Hong Kong, China, brought his brand new executive jet to the air show in Singapore this week. Due to his talents as an actor, martial artist, stuntman, choreographer and all-around buttkicker, Jackie Chan enjoys immense popularity in China. This makes him the perfect person to represent the Embraer brand in this quickly expanding market.
China has one of the fastest growing markets for business aviation and private jets. According to Bombardier, the number of jets in China is expected to increase from 150 in 2010 to 2,470 in 2030. Embraer is in negotiations with Aviation Industry Corp. of China to set up a production line in China.
Jackie Chan’s jet is cool. It has a dragon motif painted on it. He says it will help him get around to promotional functions for his charities. I think it helps him look like a badass.
There are numerous ways to compare commercial versus private air travel. When mealtime rolls around, there’s really no question about which option is going to taste better. Thanks to the rise in demand for private air travel, the availability of on-board catering options has exploded. Expanded menu selections and higher quality food provide dining experiences that range from the everyday to the gourmet — and anywhere in between.
Here are a few key considerations before ordering your next in-flight meal:
Meals that match the accommodations
Smaller jets intended for shorter flights aren’t usually equipped with a galley, so cold food such as sandwiches, salads, cheeses and non-perishable deserts like cookies are the best choices. Remember to request utensils, plates, glassware and trash bags for cleanup. You may also need a beer or wine opener for that special in-flight toast to a successful partnership.
With larger jets come food warmers and refrigeration units, so the catering options are almost unlimited. A wide variety of hot foods prepared by experienced and highly trained chefs can satisfy virtually any culinary craving. For overseas flights, remember to plan ahead for multiple meals and inquire about staffing to help with meal preparation and setup.
Fly far and dine local
Another option is to order from a caterer or restaurant that specializes in the local cuisine. Hankering for a hot dog in Chicago? Craving blue crab in Baltimore? Call a local caterer or restaurant and find out if they can deliver to the airport for a fee.
Find a catering company that comes recommended by private jet charter outfits or other corporate jet owners. Then ask the catering outfit if they accommodate special diets, how and when the food will be delivered, and if any special delivery or set-up fees apply.
Most importantly, remember that private air travel provides a unique opportunity to celebrate accomplishments, cement new relationships or just quietly cap the end of a long day. It’s time for private air travelers to take back the dubious reputation of airplane food by sampling and savoring new flavors in the air.
Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at 877-453-8276 (+1.305.754.3313) or visit us online.
Some say that baseball is America’s favorite pastime, but if you ask me, no sport is more American than football. There are so many more traditions built around the Super Bowl than the World Series. The parties. The commercials. The half-time show (I thought Bruce Springsteen was the best!). The tail-gating. The beer. The wings.
The private jets.
Serious fans obviously can’t miss the big game, and they won’t risk flight delays or tarmac waits to get to Indianapolis this year. When the Patriots take on the Giants on Feb. 5, Gisele Bündchen won’t be the only one who arrives in style.
Private jet companies expect to break the record of 611 private flights to the Super Bowl set in Dallas, Texas, in 2011 when the Steelers lost to the Packers. Considering that many fans will be traveling from Boston and New York City, two of the wealthiest cities in the U.S., the record seems reachable.
Indiana airports are feeling the pressure. The FAA has set up temporary towers to accommodate the extra traffic at three airports. Indianapolis Regional Airport is already near capacity and has a wait list for larger aircraft.
Here’s a look at the New York Giants’ flight to San Francisco to win the NFC championship game. The Patriots have enjoyed home field advantage, so their first flight of the playoffs will be on Jan. 29.
Who are you cheering for in the Super Bowl? And more importantly, how are you getting there?
