In case you haven’t noticed, the business and private jet industry is changing. It’s no longer the exclusive realm of ultra-high-net-worth individuals or corporation leaders. What is the cause of this changing landscape — and what does it mean for private jet owners or those looking to acquire jets?
New technologies, new customers
New technologies and business models are introducing a brand-new set of people to the convenience and luxury of private aviation. Technology is making it easy to charter flights online. Private jet travel is no longer just for the ultra-rich as charter providers are becoming the Ubers of private aviation. Membership clubs, charter options, and fractional aircraft ownership are making private jet flights available to a wider customer base. Today’s charter customers are typically younger, equally likely to be female as male, and probably have never flown private before. Rather than opt for a first-class seat on a commercial flight, these people want the personalized experience of a private charter and are willing to pay for it.
The jet market
With these new business models, people who otherwise might not be able to buy private jets can still achieve the luxury experiences they’re looking for. As more and more people become passengers, jet prices will likely drop as will the number of jets manufactured. In fact, the number of new jet deliveries is predicted to fall 3.7% this year. And, not surprisingly along with that drop in new deliveries, charter flight hours have increased 5% in the last three years.
Some jet manufacturers think these new business models will be good for the industry in the long term. Even though these programs aren’t converting flyers into buyers today, “they’re introducing people to the efficiency of flying privately who may become future customers,” says Scott Ernest, Cessna CEO, in the Bloomberg article.
Industry globalization
With the U.S private and business jet market in a dip, private aviation is gaining momentum in other countries, especially Brazil, Russia, India, and China. And, as what goes down must come up, the number of business jets is predicted to double over the next 10 years, with those countries doing most of the manufacturing. And China’s more than one million ultra-high-net-worth individuals are a huge potential market for both private and business aviation.
As the infrastructure needed to support increased air traffic around the world is quickly developing, international business and business travel will likely proliferate. To be competitive in today’s global market, business leaders are requiring more on-demand travel options, getting them where they need to be fast and often on short notice. Private jets may be the best — and are sometimes the only — way to reach customers quickly.
And as jet travel becomes more affordable, the jet market may flounder a bit. But with globalization bringing in new customers and jet travel becoming a business necessity rather than a luxury, the long-term outlook is looking good. And with the state of the market, it might be the perfect time for those on the fence to take the plunge into jet ownership.
Contact the experts at 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 +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Over the years, private and business jet owners have continuously stepped up to the plate to help with relief efforts after natural disasters. The latest examples are Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. In fact, one of the biggest frustrations for members of the private aviation community ready to assist victims was waiting for flood waters to recede so they could deliver much-needed supplies.
During and after the hurricanes devastated parts of Texas, Florida, and surrounding areas, the media has been filled with inspiring reports of Americans and people all over the world joining together in various volunteer efforts and donation drives. And behind the scenes — with little media coverage — members of the aviation community have been playing vital roles.
Airlift Flyers Aviation Corp., a humanitarian aviation organization based out of Miami, is encouraging jet owners and operators to donate their time and effort to relief efforts but to remain flexible in scheduling their donated flights. Richard Sante, organization founder, said he has had many requests from large-scale donor organizations wanting to get supplies into affected areas following Hurricane Harvey. Although two Houston-area airports were willing to receive this cargo, flooding on access roads impacted efforts.
Jet Support Services Inc. (JSSI), an independent financial services and maintenance support provider to the business aviation industry “is waiving hourly fees for customers who donate flight time to the Hurricane Harvey relief effort.” In the article, JSSI President and CEO Neil Book said, “When people are in need, the business aviation community never fails to step up. Business aircraft are truly unique in their ability to reach locations impacted by natural disasters.”
Several pilots volunteered their services and aircraft to fly an estimated 125,000 pounds of food, water, and supplies from the Georgetown, Texas, Municipal Airport to affected areas within three days, and efforts didn’t stop there. “Great way to use what we have to do something good,” said one of the pilots quoted in the article.
Members of recently formed Operation Airdrop (OAD), which has already grown to more than 200 pilots and planes, are delivering “relief supplies to the hardest hit and isolated areas along the Texas Gulf Coast.” Although originally formed to provide support after Harvey, the group has also “been called upon to continue its efforts to support future disaster relief incidents,” including the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in Florida and the Caribbean.
Private aviation firms worked until the last minute to help individuals who couldn’t obtain commercial airline tickets or afford to charter their own private flights evacuate Florida ahead of Hurricane Irma.
Many in the private and business aviation industries step up to provide their services and will continue to do so. Because they have a greater ability to reach areas impacted by disasters such as Harvey and Irma when airliners and ground transportation cannot, the services they provide are invaluable. Those interested in learning more about the many organizations dedicated to first response can visit the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Humanitarian Emergency Response Operator (HERO) Database, a list of people in the business aviation community who are part of disaster-response mobilization efforts.
Contact the experts at 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 +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.
One of the biggest events of the year for private and business jet owners and those involved in the business aviation industry is almost here. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) 2017 Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (BACE) will take place Oct. 10-12 in Las Vegas.
Venue
Las Vegas is always an exciting and interesting conference location, offering many opportunities to mix in a little pleasure when you’re not attending one of the dozens of educational sessions or visiting with some 27,000 business aviation professionals expected to attend this year’s NBAA-BACE. The conference and exposition will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center and will feature more than 1,100 exhibitors. In addition, Henderson Executive Airport will display nearly 100 business aircraft, offering attendees the ability to check out some of the hottest new jets available on the market today — and some that aren’t yet available for purchase.
Reasons to attend
In addition to the tremendous networking opportunities, this year’s NBAA-BACE conference will offer greater interactivity during its many educational sessions. A mobile app will allow presenters to gauge attendees’ prior subject knowledge and tailor their presentations accordingly in real time. It will also allow attendees ask questions during presentations rather than Q&As following the sessions.
This year’s sessions will address topics of interest to those in business and private aviation, including current jet owners and those looking to purchase. Presentations include: safety strategies and risk-management tactics for single-pilot operators, the ever-changing technological landscape in business aviation, mitigating the risk of onboard lithium-battery devices, FAA compliance philosophies, and upcoming avionics mandates — to name just a few. According to the NBAA-BACE Report, one of last year’s attendees summed up the BACE experience with “Being able to see each other and feed on each other’s enthusiasm is a great charge in the battery once a year.”
Another reason to attend is the opportunity to hear the out-of-this-world stories from American Astronauts Mark and Scott Kelly. According to NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen in an Aviation Pros article, the twin brothers will share “the lessons they’ve taken from their distinguished military service, participation in the space program and their experiences in leadership and overcoming obstacles.”
Giving back
In addition to all the learning and networking opportunities, private and business aviation professionals will have an opportunity to give back to an important humanitarian cause. The Corporate Angel Network (CAN) will sponsor the “Fund an Angel” cocktail reception in conjunction with NBAA-BACE. CAN uses donated seats on business aviation flights to fly individuals suffering from cancer to treatment centers. The event will feature silent and live auctions as well as sponsorship packages to help fund the cause.
Don’t miss out on this important opportunity to see the latest business and private aircraft and learn about the latest products, technology, and services the industry offers.
Contact the experts at 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 +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Private and business jet owners and travelers in the U.S. are fortunate to have one of the greatest systems in the world for ensuring their airspace is safe. Operated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aviation branch of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), our air traffic control (ATC) system guides tens of thousands of flights per day safely to their destinations. However, as we outlined in “What ATC Reform Means for Private Air Travel,” the future of FAA oversight is uncertain as efforts to privatize ATC continue. What does that mean for private jet and business aviation stakeholders?
FAA history
To understand today’s reform push, it’s important to understand how the present system evolved. Ever since the Wright brothers introduced aviation to the world in 1903 — including its quick spread into commercial, postal, military, and private sectors — safety has been a prime concern. In 1930, technology advancements allowed early air traffic control to advance from visual signals to the first radio-control tower. After decades of government agency and various organization oversight, government leaders created the FAA in 1959 to consolidate all essential management functions necessary to provide safe and efficient use of national airspace, including the ATC system.
Although, in the ensuing decades, FAA leaders have ably managed the ATC system, many believe their oversight has led to an antiquated system in need of an overhaul. And, although there have been several unsuccessful attempts at reform and privatization, supporters now have a champion leading the new administration. Both the White House and Republican Congress would like to see the ATC system separated from the FAA into a private not-for-profit corporation. Supporters believe privatization is the first step in system modernization. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster introduced legislation that would employ user fees to finance the new governing body.
Those against privatization argue that the system is not broken and does not need fixing. They say FAA personnel are working steadily to improve the system and supporters should not confuse privatization with modernization. They are also afraid that the board of directors would cater largely to the needs of commercial airline executives.
Ramifications for private jet owners
Members of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), business organizations, a bipartisan congressional group, and a majority of the American public oppose privatization. They believe a private organization would not have congressional oversight of the budget and programs of the FAA, which is “necessary to ensure the transparency and integrity of the public’s investment in the air traffic control system.” Furthermore, they believe the reorganization would favor airline leaders, directing resources to hub airports most beneficial to them, thereby restricting aviation-system access for private and business aviation operators. They are also concerned that high user fees would severely restrict private jet aircraft operations and the smaller airports that serve them.
Where are we now?
In June, Representative Shuster introduced H.R. 2997, a bill that would privatize ATC. So far, the bill has not received enough support to go to a vote. Meanwhile, the Senate has introduced legislation to increase the FAA budget but bans the use of those funds to plan, design, or implement the privatization of air traffic organization functions. Efforts for and against both pieces of legislation will likely increase in September as FAA authorization expires Sept. 30.
Although the true effects of ATC privatization on private jet owners are unclear, most private and business aviation organizations are urging members to oppose it. There will likely be a short-term FAA reauthorization and further efforts aimed at privatization, so it’s important stakeholders stay informed.
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 +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Across the United States, people are gearing up for one of the rarest of celestial events: a solar eclipse. This isn’t just any solar eclipse but, rather, a total eclipse — if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time. And judging by the number of scheduled private flights, hotel bookings, and filled campgrounds in and near those areas, there are many people who want a good viewpoint for the event.
Are you going to be flying into one of the sites where you can view the total eclipse? If you haven’t yet made plans, you’ll want to check with your destination to make sure you’ll be able to get there and have a place to stay once you arrive.
What’s the big deal?
A solar eclipse is rare because it requires the sun, moon, and Earth to line up so the moon, as it passes between Earth and the sun, blocks part of the sun from viewers on Earth. If you are in the right location on Earth during the eclipse, the moon will, for a short period of time, completely occlude the sun, which is called a total eclipse. Total eclipses are visible only in certain parts of the world at any given time. In fact, it takes about 1,000 years for those in every location in the contiguous United States to be able to view a total eclipse.
The eclipse coming up on August 21 has been nicknamed the “Great American Eclipse” because it is the first total solar eclipse visible only in the U.S. since the country was founded in 1776. Even so, not everyone in the U.S. will get to experience the total eclipse. Only locations along the “path of totality” will get to see a full eclipse, which is why locations along that path are bracing for an influx of people wanting to get the best experience for this rare opportunity. For this eclipse, areas in the path of totality include parts of Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Impact on aviation
Intense demand for airport services at locations in the path of totality may affect those traveling via both private and business aircraft. Operators within these areas should expect delays to ground support, parking, and approach sequencing. Many airports will be hosting special events for eclipse viewing, and the National Business Aviation Association “will monitor the situation and relay any traffic management initiatives put in place to members.”
Many small airports along the path of totality already are reporting they are booked for August 21 and can’t accept any more landings. Some airports, such as the Greenville, South Carolina airport, don’t take landing requests ahead of time, and personnel aren’t sure what to expect. Business and private aircraft travelers can ask for special routing to better view the eclipse, but if airspace is too congested it may not be possible. Some charter providers are offering special eclipse-viewing flights, and NASA is coordinating the launch of more than 50 hot-air balloons to observe and live-stream the event. All in all, air space within the path of totality is expected to be extremely crowded.
Tips and precautions
If you have not yet made plans to travel via private jet to an area within the total eclipse path, you’re likely out of luck. Flight landing bookings are full, hotels and campgrounds have been booked for months, and rental cars are expensive if you can find one. If you are lucky enough to have planned your flight in advance, weather will be key, but the advantage of air travel is that you can fly above the clouds to get a clear view.
Don’t forget, you still need to use special eclipse glasses to avoid damaging your retinas. Although there are few pilots who have actual experience flying during an eclipse, it should be no different than flying at dusk. Other than the additional air traffic, there should be little cause for concern for private jet pilots or passengers. It’s just one benefit of owning your own private jet — or knowing someone who does.
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 +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
The North American market accounts for two-thirds of private jet ownership — and business aviation is on the rise! In fact, American, Canadian, and Caribbean business aircraft operations increased by over 4% in the last year. Midsize jets accounted for most of this activity, and projections show the sector can look forward to similar growth in the future.
Gains were also seen in charter jet activity: Charter flights on midsize and large cabin jets showed significant growth, climbing 14.3% and 12.6%, respectively.
Changes from past periods
Some industry observers compare the existing market with the “Lost Decade” from 1986 to 1996. During this period, new business jet deliveries remained flat at around 350 units each year.
But even if new private jet deliveries remain stagnant over the next few years, industry insiders expect 650 to 750 deliveries annually — about double the output of the so-called Lost Decade. Meanwhile, fewer existing jet owners have found it necessary to try to sell their aircraft since the downturn.
The residual value of jet aircraft has also fallen somewhat with private jets no longer being in short supply. Alternatives to outright full ownership — such as fractional arrangements or membership clubs that allow business owners to charter jets — have supplanted aircraft purchases for some.
And although large cabin aircraft delivery has been low, flights on these models have increased. New Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Dassault models soon to be introduced in this class are expected to boost the market considerably.
In-flight connectivity growth
What else is growing in the business aviation world? At the end of 2016, there were over 19,000 in-flight connectivity (IFC) systems on business and VIP planes. Estimates indicate that this number may double within a 10-year period.
L-band, 4G, and satellite technologies used for connectivity will likely remain popular, and the demand for these technologies is projected to grow. Companies that produce these technologies are expected to keep pace with demand for their products as they deploy more satellites and continue to refine their hardware.
Enhanced connectivity on flights allows for much easier communication, making access to one of these IFC systems a key point for those interested in buying jets, especially for business purposes. Companies that continue to grow on a global scale should help fuel the demand for increasingly sophisticated IFC systems.
Business aviation is set to grow with good tools available to enhance flight experience. These tools help add to the appeal of today’s top private aircraft options.
If you need help buying or selling a jet, contact our sales team at L & L International at sales@L-Lint.com. You can also visit our website anytime or call +1 (305) 754-3313.
Miami is becoming the center of the nation’s private aircraft industry, marrying an exceptional location with extensive aviation infrastructure. Smaller airports, pilot training centers, jet engine parts and service centers, and even a thriving aviation law sector offer private jet owners everything they need for fast, efficient, and luxurious travel in one convenient, beautiful place.
After a century of being a commercial and military aviation hub, Miami is rapidly gaining ground as the center of American private and business air travel, too. Since 2012, Miami-Dade County professionals have been building out the city’s private aviation infrastructure, adding hundreds of aviation-related jobs. The Miami Herald article states, “In the past five years, local aviation-sector jobs have grown from a total of $1.2 billion in payroll to $2 billion, now accounting for one of every four local jobs.” While South Florida is an ideal central hub for international travel in all directions, those in the business community work hard to shine a spotlight on all factors that make Miami-Dade County an ideal location for all things aeronautical.
One Community One Goal program
In 2012, the Miami-Dade Beacon Council partnered with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to launch an initiative to grow private aviation in the region by leveraging existing services and filling in gaps with new industry and opportunities. At the time, the field was ripe for development and, in the intervening years, local leaders have taken full advantage of the aviation assets Miami offers.
Building out existing flight-related overhaul and maintenance, parts distribution, as well as aviation and aerospace training industries has resulted in an economic expansion of more than 20% since the project launched. And for business leaders who rely on private jets for corporate travel, the enhanced services and servicing capacities eliminate the need to travel to more than one site to achieve comprehensive maintenance management.
Location, location, location
Along with exceptional services and private jet sales opportunities, Miami’s existing airport facilities also provide a strong foundation for the flourishing industry. Miami International Airport and the city’s smaller public airports offer as much landing space as necessary for the ever-increasing number of public and private planes in need of runways. Consequently, getting in and out of Miami-Dade County is as easy as it is enjoyable.
Miami has emerged as one of the premier hubs for private aviation, and it’s a great time to take advantage of available services. If you’re considering buying or selling a private jet for personal or corporate use, contact the professionals at L & L International in Miami at sales@L-Lint.com, or call us anytime at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Earlier this month, President Donald Trump announced plans to reform the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, aiming to shift operational control from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to a private organization. We talked about this back in March, and it appears President Trump will move forward with plans to implement this change.
While it is uncertain exactly how this nonprofit organization would function, there could be widespread ramifications for private jet owners and business jet travelers as well as large airlines.
The argument for reform
In a June 5 speech, Mr. Trump stated his belief that the current ATC system is “antiquated” and “broken.” Reform proponents agree with him. As more countries move toward satellite-based GPS and electronic recordkeeping, there is a general sentiment that the FAA is not structured to keep pace. U.S. general aviation now serves over 1 billion passengers annually, and reform supporters argue that ATC efficiency and reliability are not keeping pace with demand.
The opposition
On the other hand, many groups within aviation oppose the privatization. Many of them arguing that the United States has more aviation activity than any other nation, and air travel remains safe and reliable. Detractors also point out that the FAA has been moving toward modern GPS systems at a reasonable rate — only constrained by budget, they say — and is on schedule to have fully transitioned by 2020.
Additionally, critics worry about the fees a private organization would be able to levy. Private jet owners and business jet travelers, specifically, are concerned that these kinds of fees will affect them disproportionately. Commercial airlines would have an easier time absorbing extra fees and could raise prices to do so. Beyond that, several aviation industry leaders have voiced concern that the board for such an organization could be stacked with representatives more favorable to commercial airlines.
Proposed benefits
Despite the criticism, ATC reform could improve air traffic technology at a faster rate while leaving business jet owners and private aviation groups largely unscathed. Instead of being one of many FAA responsibilities, air traffic control could become less expensive and more effective. Private jet owners and business fliers could have more flexibility in planning flights and use modern technology for better safety and efficiency. Business aviation organizations, however, remain skeptical.
“No one should confuse ATC modernization with ATC privatization — the two are very different concepts,” National Business Aviation Association CEO Ed Bolen said in a Flying magazine interview.
The specifics of the potential reform remain to be seen. While there is a sense of uncertainty surrounding the proposed system, business aviation and private jet ownership will remain viable modes of comfortable, luxurious transportation.
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 +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
Business and private jet owners and enthusiasts are always looking for the latest in luxury — and the hottest new technology money can buy. What’s new in the industry? From 3-D printing to biofuel and moving maps, aircraft tech is changing — bringing with it new and exciting updates.
3-D printing
Sure, you’ve heard about 3-D printed aircraft parts before, but, thanks to advances in additive manufacturing, new turboprop aircraft engines could soon be burning less fuel. Instead of printing parts, GE engineers designed a titanium and steel 3-D printed engine that eliminates the need for hundreds of individual parts. As the number of business and private jet travelers increases, they’ll soon be able to expect 3-D printed jet-engine technologies in their rides, enhancing their flight experiences. With many eyes on the industry in terms of carbon emissions, cleaner and more powerful jets that cause less pollution could be a big draw — and reduced production waste is an added benefit.
Biofuel
In another advanced approach to reducing carbon and pollution, Bombardier Business Aircraft professionals introduced jets that can fly using renewable resources. Four Bombardier aircraft, including a Challenger 350 and 650, a Global 6000, and a Learjet 75, flew to the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in May without using fossil fuels. As the private aviation industry moves toward a more sustainable future — on environmentally friendly fuel that can reduce emissions upward of 70% — could you be flying on biofuel soon?
Moving maps
Love the moving map in your private jet? Many travelers enjoy seeing where they’re at in the air in relation to their destinations, and estimated arrival times help many plan business meetings or outings with friends. But what if you could take your maps to the next level — without the need for more hardware? Gogo and Rockwell Collins teamed up to offer Airshow moving maps, which fliers can view on their personal devices in 3-D, and those already using Gogo’s air-to-ground services can simply download the app on their smart devices.
Want to download the new app or switch to sustainable fuel? Have your sights set on the first turboprop with jet engine technology? No matter which tech you decide to get into first, you can be sure you’ll be among those at the forefront of the industry’s available options. What’ll be next in jet tech? At this rate of evolution, your guess might just be right.
Looking for something new? The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you find the perfect jet. Need to sell your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
Industry experts predict the Chinese business aviation market is about to explode in terms of growth. China’s private jet sector has taken a long time to catch up to other players — like the U.S. — because of stifled demand and deficient infrastructure. But now, robust opportunities are available to business jet owners there, as the government builds new airports to accommodate growth vital to the Chinese economy.
Growth in China
The Asian Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition was a growth indicator for China, and there is a strong international focus on business aviation in Asia as a result. This could impact business jet travel to and from the U.S., opening channels for better business, easier flying, and increased exchange. Moreover, it will likely drive demand for private and corporate jets alike.
Many management and charter companies operate in China, but not as many individuals fly corporate planes for business. With an enhanced airline-oriented operating environment under development, Chinese aviation leaders hope this will change. Such change would be possible with a pipeline of pilots and maintenance technicians who work solely in business aviation.
Up, up, and away
The number of business jets in China is increasing, and experts predict this will continue well into the future. In fact, in 2015, business jets increased by 3% in China while owners in the country also added 112 new aircraft. Dramatic increases in pre-owned aircraft took place in 2016, with numbers nearly doubling from 71 to 127.
Opportunity for smaller business aviation airports in China exists now, especially since U.S. corporate and private jets presently face challenges accessing busier airports in China, such as in Shanghai and Beijing. This insufficient infrastructure is scheduled to change, however, with 260 airports projected to be in operation by the end of 2020 up from the 220 currently operating. This bodes well for private and corporate jet owners who have access to over 5,000 U.S. facilities but well fewer than 400 Chinese-based facilities.
Increasing airport numbers coupled with high demand for private jets means opportunity for those in the aviation market who are forward thinking enough to focus on the Chinese horizon.
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you find the perfect jet and navigate the changing world of aviation. Selling your jet? We can assist with that, too. Contact the private aviation professionals online or at +1 (305) 754-3313.