Lots to consider for the next year.
Let this issue of BCA serve as a checklist for the new year. You will find predictions and wisdom from 17 people in the “Business Aviation Predictions” article on pg. 14. Do you agree with their opinions of what the biggest challenges will be?
In the Fast 5 on pg. 4, VistaJet U.S. President Leoni Qi says she convened a group in January to examine ways to overcome disruptions such as fuel rationing at certain airports. “For example, if we know Cabo San Lucas and Turks and Caicos are going to have fuel issues, do we include a fuel stop as part of the flight path. Normally we would want to fly someone directly from Cabo to San Francisco, for instance, but we need to look back at the percentage of flights that were impacted and schedule accordingly,” she said. To ensure the best possible on-time performance, what measures is your flight department or charter operation examining?
Kent Jackson’s Point of Law column on pg. 6 looks at ESG considerations, including sustainable fuel and book-and-claim programs. Private aviation is a target for people who want to paint it as an excess: ESG efforts can be one point in a broader fact sheet about the utility of private aircraft—as well as simply good business and stewardship.
Rene Banglesdorf’s Viewpoint on pg. 52 provides tips for recruiting and retaining maintenance technicians. As you think about your workforce, it could prompt some new ideas to foster your workforce.
Our cover story on Safety Management Systems (SMS) is very timely. In the U.S., the FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on Jan. 11 to extend SMS requirements to Part 91, Part 135 and some Part 21 design manufacturing companies. The comment period ends on March 13. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/01/11/2022-28583/safety-management-systems Before submitting your feedback, read James Albright’s article on pg. 18 to see why he switched to fully embracing SMS. Have you had similar experiences to his? If so, would you let me know about them?
Speaking of involvement and making a difference, I’d like to flag two other timely things in this issue. Have you flown into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (KASE)? If so, see Rob Mark’s article on pg. 30 about a task force that is looking into how to make flying into and out of that airport safer. If you have suggestions for the group, contact Barry Vaughan at bcvaughan@gmail.com.
For those who fly helicopters, Patrick Veillette is very enthusiastic about new training that could help operators avoid Vortex Ring State. He really thinks the approach could be life changing (see page 26). Being aware of it could change how you approach parts of your training this year.
And lastly, I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out the checklist on appraisals. Whether you are an aircraft buyer or seller, the list on pg. 36 should be helpful.
I’d love to hear your feedback on any of these topics or ideas for what you’d like to see in the next issue. I can be reached at leeann.shay@aviationweek.com.Enjoy this issue!
P.S. BCA Podcast: Don’t miss our biweekly podcast! https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/podcast Matthew Orloff talks with Verijet CEO Richard Kane in the Jan. 23 episode.
Best wishes,Lee Ann ShayEditor In Chief, BCAleeann.shay@aviationweek.com
