Sheltair proudly serves business and private aviation with 16 FBOs and 19 properties in Florida, Georgia, Texas, and Colorado. Our newest location, Sheltair Sarasota (KSRQ), delivers unmatched convenience on the Gulf Coast. From spacious hangars to exceptional hospitality and service, every detail is crafted for your mission.
Nasim Raja CHAIR
Max Raja PUBLISHER & CEO
Ashley Rose Legrand
CORRESPONDENT Noel Barton CREATIVE DIRECTOR Roger Baker BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Elle Smith SALES EXECUTIVE
Zayn Raja SALES EXECUTIVE Jane Stanbury GLOBAL LUXURY CORRESPONDENT
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Powered by People, Driven by Passion
New beginnings are always exciting, and this issue marks an important step forward for BizAv Media as we welcome Ashley Rose Legrand to the team as our new Editorial Correspondent.
I first met Ashley at a Mix & Mingle event in Las Vegas a few years ago, hosted by Young Park, Founder and Executive Chef at First Chime. From the moment we were introduced, Ashley stood out. Her energy was infectious, her enthusiasm unmistakable, and her passion for storytelling clear. When the Editorial position became available, there was no hesitation Ashley was the natural choice.
It didn’t take long for that decision to be validated. The feedback has been outstanding, with Scott Lawson, our latest Front Cover feature, describing Ashley as a “breath of fresh air” following his interview alongside Wendy Lawson. Moments like that reinforce the importance of trusting your instincts and investing in talented people who bring something new to the table.
As with any transition, growth takes time, and I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all our readers, partners, and contributors for your continued support and patience as Ashley settles into her role. Your encouragement means a great deal to us.
This issue, as always, is packed with insightful interviews, industry perspectives, and strong support from our valued advertisers. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has stood by BizAv over the years. Your loyalty and belief in what we do have been instrumental in our journey, and we simply wouldn’t be where we are today without you.
It has already been a busy and productive year. BizAv has been proud to attend key industry events including CJI London and S&D, with an exciting calendar still ahead. We are looking forward to AERO Friedrichshafen. And yes, Las Vegas is calling once more, as we return for what promises to be the BizAv party of the year during NBAA BACE.
Looking further ahead, the BizAv Maintenance Conference returns on 3rd September at the London Heathrow Hilton T5. It is already shaping up to be another exceptional gathering and remains Europe’s only dedicated Business Aviation Maintenance Conference. We are excited to once again bring together the maintenance community for what promises to be an engaging and valuable event.
As we continue to grow, evolve, and connect with the global business aviation community, one thing remains constant, our commitment to delivering quality content and meaningful industry engagement.
Scott Lawson, Owner and President of HJS, along with Wendy Lawson, Strategic Advisor, discusses what drives the company with Ashley Rose Legrand
Clay Healey, owner of AIC Title Service, with straight talk on why AIC just can’t be
Interview with Andy Trinchero, Chairman of Academy Aviation Group and Managing Director of Academy 147, on building a nimble alternative in
Leading Aviation
and Engineer, Sarah Mespelt Larranaga, talks with Ashley Rose Legrand on
Jamie Lambert, managing director of Lamberts London, discusses decorative
makes Lamberts so
Legacy in Motion
Thilo von Hahn, owner of Sky Selections, discusses the wide range of premium aircraft materials his company supplies, including leather, carpets, tableware, and wall panels
Jean-Francois Guitard, Director BU General Aviation and Business Development for Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur and Sky Valet
Roger Bunter, CEO, on the inner workings of Aersolution Interior
Jay Mesinger, CEO & Founder of Mesinger Jet Sales, discusses the current state of the Aviation Market
70 Partnership in Action
Emily Mavros, Director, Skylink Services Ltd, and Nick Kikessis, Director/ CEO, Legendaire, on the companies joining forces
78 Guardian Jet Delivers Mo ore in Florida
Mike Moore discusses his appointment as Regional Sales Manager at Guardian Jet in Florida
Skylink Services Ltd is part of the Skylink Group of Companies. The company is well-established and provides ground handling services for General Aviation Aircraft in Cyprus. We began operations in 1992, filling the gap in the Executive Aircraft ground handling market, at both international airports of Cyprus, Larnaca and Pafos.
LARNACA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
P.O.Box 43012, CY 6650 Larnaca - Cyprus
T: +(357) 24 84 09 00 • F: +(357) 24 66 58 05
E: flightops@skylink.com.cy
24HR OPERATIONS
T: +(357) 24 64 33 34
F: +(357) 24 64 35 99
Growing Company, BIG PASSION
Scott Lawson, Owner and President of HJS, along with Wendy Lawson, Strategic Advisor, discusses what drives the company with Ashley Rose Legrand.
For HJS, it’s more than fl ying, it’s more than airplanes—it’s personal
ARL: Scott, can you tell us how HJS got started on the path it’s on today?
SL: Well, the company has been around for a long time, but when we really got started with what we’re currently doing, it was pre-COVID. We bought a Global Express aircraft, parted it out, and at the time there were maybe only a handful of people doing that kind of work in the business jet world, so it kind of caught people off guard—this little no-name place in Texas pulling that off. And it really caught the manufacturer off guard. They turned around and bought many of the parts back that we had taken off the airplane. Then they came to us and asked if we’d like to do more, pointed us toward some sources of funding and it just grew from there.
ARL: What exactly does HJS do, and how would you characterise your core operation?
SL: We source airplanes that are good candidates for parts the market needs. We buy the whole airplane, disassemble it, restore the parts, and put them back into the market individually.
ARL: Is there a particular type of aircraft that has become your main focus, and why Bombardier models in particular?
SL: We do most of our work with Bombardier models because we have real world experience with them. We’re a little more creative in how we come up with solutions to
“ We buy the whole airplane, disassemble it, restore the parts, and put them back into the market individually.”
From left to right: CHRIS STUBBS - Sales Manager
ARIANA MACDONALD - AP/AR Coordinator
GRANT CORNETT - MRO/Logistics Manager
SCOTT LAWSON - President
MARK GIBSON - Warehouse Associate
CARLA PAULE - Warehouse Associate
BRANDON GRIFFIS - Sales Representative
(Not pictured as someone had to be working! - EUGENE DEAN - Technical Sales)
ARL: Scott, do you see this diversification into other models giving HJS a stronger position in the market long-term?
supply chain issues, so we fill a gap. It’s not a big-box gap—it’s a very boutique, niche gap. We’re big on the Global Express; that’s been our bread and butter. The Challenger 300 is right behind it. Lear 45s are now becoming a thing for us too. We’re trying to branch out and spread our wings by looking for other airplanes that have particular issues or underserved demand where our type of parts would work well. We just bought a KingAir 350ER, Falcon 50 and a Hawker 4000. We’re always hunting for specific pieces that have a specific underserved market.
SL: That’s what we’re hoping. Seven years after we created this market, you find many others trying to copy our model and disassemble Global Express aircraft. You can only take apart so many Global Expresses in a year because there are only a few parts on that airplane that people really want. This increased amount of material in the market, along with some questionable aircraft histories from other teardowns, has oversaturated the market. I’m trying to fill in the highs and lows with other brands and models. Our aircraft evaluation and selection process is focused on only selecting aircraft with premium pedigrees and strong return on investment. This model is just as effective on other models outside our historical core.
ARL: What are some of the parts that see the strongest and most consistent demand right now?
SL: Windshields, wheels, brakes—those are huge hit items right from the start on all aircraft models. Engines are another huge hit. There’s a massive backlog on engine support. The lingering supply chain delays make any critical component a potential issue in today’s market.
ARL: You run a notably small, tight-knit team—can you tell us a bit about the size of the operation and what that dynamic brings to the way you work?
SL: We are small. We’re a whopping eight people. Operationally, it’s a group of technical folks—mostly mechanics and pilots. We have a different perspective on the airplane and the part when we look at it compared to someone just looking at numbers on a sheet. As a small group, we’re very familial. We take care of each other. It’s work hard, play hard. If we’re not successful as a company, I’ve got people who are my friends—whose wives, husbands, and kids will be affected by that. So we try to look at it more holistically than just numbers on a spreadsheet.
ARL: I love that family-oriented approach, Scott. Would you say taking care of your people is one of the biggest personal drivers for you in running the business?
SL: It is. It’s a huge motivator. We try to pay very well. We cover all our employees’ healthcare premiums. We have a liberal vacation policy. We spend more time with a lot of these people than with our own families, so we’ve got to take care of each other. It gives us a different perspective on things because it is personal.
ARL: What is it that makes HJS truly stand out in this niche—what’s the unique edge you’ve built?
SL: What we’ve started to do is cultivate unique repairs. We go out, find vendors, and develop repairs for parts. For example, we repair Challenger brake pipes. The manufacturer sells replacements, but we have our own dedicated repair station that does it. We have exchange material on it, and it sells
BARRY FINE
for about 50% of what a new part costs from the manufacturer. So if you want a new one, you can get it—that’s fine, that’s your choice. But if you want another option, we’re there. It’s a unique little thing, and we still find people who don’t know we can do it. We’re about coming up with a solution. It isn’t just part sales. We just love airplanes and we want to fix them. We want people to keep flying them, and it pains us to take them apart. We’ve taken apart some real beauty queens. I’ve seen people cry when they deliver the airplane and realize what’s going to happen to it. It’s too bad but it’s what we do to save them.
ARL: And you back that up with very generous support after the sale—can you tell us about your warranty approach and ongoing commitment to customers?
SL: We continue to offer support on the product afterward
“ We try to pay very well. We cover all our employees’ healthcare premiums. We have a liberal vacation policy. We spend more time with a lot of these people than with our own families, so we’ve got to take care of each other.”
if something goes wrong. We’re offering two-year warranties on repaired and overhauled parts and six month warranties on inspected parts. We even offer 30-day warranties on as-removed parts. We also have a technician that can travel anywhere in the world to help with troubleshooting as well as be available for online consulting. Our goal is to ensure that each customer gets all the support we can possibly provide to keep their aircraft flying.
ARL: Scott, your passion for the work, the airplanes, and the people is so clear and inspiring. Where does that deep drive come from?
SL: I’ve been an airplane nut since I can first remember. My dad was a Flying Tiger in World War II in China. I was always fascinated by the stories and things I saw about that. I got my pilot’s license when I was still in high school—I didn’t even have my driver’s license yet, but I got that afterward. I had terrible eyes and really wanted to be a military pilot. It wasn’t going to happen, and my flight instructor said, “You know what you should do? Get into maintenance—you’ll always have a job.” So that’s what I did. I went into the Army as a helicopter mechanic, and I enjoyed the heck out of it. Those early inspirations have led to 41 continuous years of aviation work as a mechanic, flight instructor, FAA repair station Accountable Manager and now owner and operator of a hugely successful part sales company.
ARL: And we’re joined today by your wife, Wendy. Wendy, can you tell us a bit about your role and the perspective you bring to the company?
WL: I think sometimes as women, we have an intuition, so I can give him that perspective on things he doesn’t necessarily pick up on.
SL: Wendy travels with me and attends trade shows and business meetings. She provides a point of view that is often overlooked or ignored in the typical aviation interaction.
“ Women see things from a different point of view, and I am able to share my thoughts and observations with Scott, which allows for more comprehensive solutions from HJS.”
Her ability to get to the heart of an issue helps develop faster and stronger business decisions. I won’t ask questions about certain things, and she’ll pry them open and find out the answers. Together we’re building a successful company along with a good life for our current employees and the workforce of the future.
WL: If you attend any aviation tradeshows or business meetings, you’ll notice that they are mostly men. Women see things from a different point of view, and I am able to share my thoughts and observations with Scott, which allows for more comprehensive solutions from HJS.
SL: We’re a dynamic team. I’m the technical one but I would not be able to perform at this high level without Wendy’s input. All things in aviation are ultimately about trust. Parts, pricing, logistics- those matter. But what sustains relationships is how you think through a problem. Having a trusted advisor at home challenges me to step back and see the broader picture and that perspective ultimately benefits our customers.
ARL: Beyond the passion for aviation and people, what other core values or elements drive the business forward for you both?
SL: Faith. The faith you must have in order to be successful at things. Faith has become a really big thing for us, especially when you see the successes that come because of it. We support the Agape Women’s Center and the local Young Life group here in Texas—both by serving on committees and financially. There’s something to be said about giving back. Some of these kids are going to grow up and need a place in the world. We’re hoping to help set an example and provide a little bit of an opportunity for them.
ARL: Scott, looking at everything you’ve built, what are you most proud of when it comes to HJS?
SL: We present what we are for who we are. We just give solid service. We answer the phone no matter if it’s a difficult call or not. We don’t shirk anything, and we take care of our people along the way. We’re trying to build something that’s never going to be a monstrous thousand-person company. We’re just building a solid foundation that our people can count on tomorrow—that they’re going to have a job and still have a place to go that they like being. We’re going to keep that motivation. I’m happy that we have a place people can call home. |BAM
“ We move very swiftly. We’ve designed software and everything else for our company that helps our clients be more efficient and get it done. We have our own IT department with 5 code writers. We also use AI. We did it way before it was popular.”
Eyes on the Sky
Clay Healey, owner of AIC Title Service, with straight talk on why AIC just can’t be beat
Clay Healey exemplifies a standard of unparalleled leadership and confidence. Two things that have allowed him to be a trailblazer in aviation. “Quite simply, no company can do it better.” He makes that promise.
“ We’re up significantly over last year and last year we were up 22%, it was the biggest year we’ve had yet and we’re already surpassing that this year. In 2025 we had 7 billion in closings and did over 7,000 closings. That was big.”
ARL: Clay, how is this year going for you?
CH: It’s going very well. We’re up significantly over last year and last year we were up 22%, it was the biggest year we’ve had yet and we’re already surpassing that this year. In 2025 we had 7 billion in closings and did over 7,000 closings. That was big.
ARL: What makes AIC the best?
CH: We move very swiftly. We’ve designed software and everything else for our company that helps our clients be more efficient and get it done. We have our own IT department with 5 code writers. We also use AI. We did it way before it was popular. I designed an AI program three years ago to help with the title searches, to be able to put those together and pull all the information and do all the things that we do. We place every document on a blockchain once you complete a transaction. So it’s held there. From a standpoint of getting things done, we’re so far ahead of everyone else in the industry.
ARL: What’s most important to you regarding your business?
CH: Growing it. That’s the most important thing that any business should have in mind, making it bigger, more efficient. Making the people that work with you understand that you’re there for them. And that’s what I try to do every day.
HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE
REGISTRATION MADE SIMPLE. WITHIN 24-48 HOURS
PERSONALIZED SOLUTIONS
ARL: And how are you doing that?
CH: Basically, by providing people with something that they can get nowhere else. The services and the techniques and the ability for us to grow what we’ve grown is really what separates us from all the other competitors that we have. Our vision is what separates us more than anything else. The vision of what things could be and how to make them more efficient.
I can promise you, you will love my services and you will love the staff that you deal with because they’re the best people in the industry. You’re never going to find anything better than what we designed and developed. Nowhere.
ARL: Is there anything new you’re developing?
CH: We are designing our own AI platform here, in house, to help with the title searches and some other things. For example, each of our staff will have their own AI agent that will help them be more efficient in what they’re doing and how they do it. By the end of the year we’ll have a platform up and running. By the end of next year, it will be doing what it needs to do.
ARL: What’s most important for you in hiring your people? What do you look for?
CH: Don’t lie to me. And be happy. And I mean to your core, be happy. You can fake it, but I’m going to figure it out pretty soon. And if you’re not, you’re out of here. Those are the two main things that I look for in people.
Your staff makes you as good as you can be. You can make them as good as they can be though, too and that’s my job. My job is to make them as good as they can be. Their job is to do the best they can every day and be happy.
If you make a mistake just come and tell me and we can fix 90% of them. Everybody makes mistakes, just come talk to me and we’ll fix it.
You have to be a boss but you also have to give them the nurturing support that anybody would give you. There’s no one here that won’t tell you, I’ll go to war for them. |BAM
Interview
Director
with Andy
Trinchero,
QGlobal yet Nimble
Chairman of Academy Aviation Group and Managing
of Academy 147, on building a nimble alternative in global aviation training
: Andy, now Academy Aviation Group is a global force, can you give us some background on the origins of Academy 147?
AT: Academy 147 was founded in 2014 by myself and one partner. We started small, with just a handful of airplanes. The company is headquartered in Malta, but we now have instructors operating across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the United States.
The core idea was to create a different kind of training school, one that comes to the customer rather than asking them to come to us. By sending a single instructor to the client’s site, we deliver highly efficient, cost-effective training directly where it’s needed most.
Q: Academy 147 holds approvals in many countries, is that correct?
AT: Yes. We’re approved under EASA in Europe, as well
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as in the UK, UAE, India, Singapore, and Australia. Our sister company, Academy Aviation Maintenance Training (AAMT), based in Melbourne, Florida, offers FAA-accepted training courses.
“ As a nimble, medium-sized organisation, we offer a more personalised, boutique approach. Our instructors are not just trainers, they’re experienced mechanics who have worked hands-on with the very aircraft they teach.”
Q: What sets your company apart from the competition?
AT: We do face competition; many providers now offer on-site training, and some incorporate online elements. But we were among the pioneers of this model. What truly distinguishes us is our broad regulatory approvals for a
company of our size. We serve a wide geographic area and a diverse range of customers in an industry often dominated by large players.
As a nimble, medium-sized organisation, we offer a more personalised, boutique approach. Our instructors are not just trainers, they’re experienced mechanics who have worked hands-on with the very aircraft they teach. They bring real-world practical knowledge, helping students focus on the critical details that matter most in the field.
Q: What are the key values you focus on?
AT: Flexibility is central to both scheduling and our c ustomer-centric mindset. One of our recent taglines captures it well: “Global reach, local insights”. We can deploy training to to the US, Europe, Singapore, Australia, Mexico, Canada, or anywhere else it’s needed and with our Global pool of instructors. We can run over a dozen courses at any given time. While we do cover a lot of ground, we’re not so large that clients feel like just another number. We maintain local presence and understanding in key regions, allowing us to respond with genuine insight into local dynamics.
Q: What challenges does the industry present?
AT: The biggest hurdle today is the severe shortage of skilled manpower. Not enough people are entering aviation, so MROs and operators constantly struggle with staffing, whether technical staff or pilots. Our customers often need training urgently, but pulling personnel off the production floor for weeks at a time is extremely difficult given their demanding day-to-day operations. Still, training is very important for MROs and cannot be overlooked.
Q: Have there been any significant recent developments?
AT: Last year, we unified all our entities under one cohesive banner: Academy Aviation Group. This brings greater strength and breadth to our offerings, which is exactly where our tagline “Global reach, local insights” originated. Each entity retains its autonomy, regional identity, and staff, but gains breadth being part of an international group of companies under AAG.
The group now includes:
• Academy 147, our Malta-based EASA Part-147 company;
• Academy Aviation Maintenance Training (AAMT) in Melbourne, Florida, focused on FAA-compliant training;
• Academy Aviation Online , providing self-paced digital courses;
• ATC Dubai , our Aviation Training Center that delivers a wide range of programs, including air cargo and logistics, aviation regulations, cabin crew training, GCAA-approved Dangerous Goods courses, maintenance planning, and more. ATC Dubai has been recognised as a Regional Top Performing Accredited Training School by IATA.
Q: What drives your passion for this work?
AT: Every day is different, new challenges, new people, and new cultures. That dynamic environment is something I truly love; it demands adaptability.
Growing up, international travel was just a distant dream for me. Aviation has given me the opportunity to live a life I once only imagined: exploring countries, meeting remarkable people, and experiencing the world firsthand. In today’s global business landscape, especially in aviation, diversity isn’t just valuable; it’s a competitive advantage that helps us stand out and deliver exceptional results for our clients. |BAM
“ Flexibility is central to both scheduling and our customercentric mindset. One of our recent taglines captures it well: “Global reach, local insights”.”
A to Z First Class Delivery
Leading Aviation Designer and Engineer, Sarah Mespelt Larranaga, talks with Ashley Rose Legrand on all things aviation and design. Sarah has managed, designed and delivered over 100 aircraft over her illustrious career
“ “I like the engineering aspect of it. I like the design aspect. I like the problem solving aspect of managing projects. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.”
ARL: Sarah, you have cultivated a phenomenal brand of your own, that delivers a one-of-a-kind, first class experience for your clients. How did you get started in design, and what led you to aviation design specifically?
SML: I went to school for engineering and then afterwards I went to school for interior design in Savannah, Georgia, where Gulfstream is. I went to work at Gulfstream as an intern, strictly for monetary purposes. I didn’t have any clue about aviation design being a career option but I started working there and I loved it. And the rest was history. So I’ve been doing this for about 19 years post college and I love it. I like the engineering aspect of it. I like the design aspect. I like the problem solving aspect of managing projects. I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.
ARL: Say I’m a client. Take me through your process.
SML: Say for example you were buying a G650, a used one, you might come to me and say hey, I’m looking at this kind of airplane. What can we do design wise? Can you find me a completion center to do this at? What would the cost be? So I work with you on the ideal design ideas/ goals, any desired floorplan changes, available Avionic upgrades as well as crew
and client needs applicable to how they operate. I negotiate the cost of that work package, maintenance, avionics suggestions, anything new to bring that plane up to 2026. And then I manage the completion of that work scope, turning the design
over to that team, say Westar, Gulfstream, Bombardier or Duncan. I then follow that build and manage the schedule and the budget until it’s delivered to you.
ARL: So you really do so much more than just interior design.
SML: Design is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s so much underneath that that even the client doesn’t always realise initially. And it’s nice to be able to talk through that and try to separate yourself from the competition in that way by doing it all.
Also, certifications are always changing. It’s so much more than just coming up with a design because once you come up with that, you have to figure out a way to pull it off.
From a young age I learned the customer side, representing clients, negotiating costs, being able to recommend the aircraft type that suits their needs and just giving them the whole package from ideation to delivery.
ARL: Where do you source your materials from?
SML: For high end carpets we’re using Kalogridis, Tai Ping, Scott Group and Delos. For leather we use Garrett Leather, Aeristo Leather, Townsend Leather. For panels Tapis Corporation is the best in the business if you want a custom headliner. These are high quality aviation grade materials. They’re certified for airplanes, but also the highest quality for these high caliber clients. We need the highest quality when we’re making these custom seats and floors.
And for avionics everybody’s doing Starlink now. Starlink is a game changer. Their product is so exceptional and it’s really changed the way we deliver the plane to clients. I’m a huge fan of Cabin Management Solutions for a new CMS system. They have an elite system with touch screens and it is easily customisable and an adaptable system that pairs well with other upgrades. They also have the latest and greatest sound system in my opinion. A phenomenal cabin management system that’s really out of this world.
“ “For high end carpets we’re using Kalogridis, Tai Ping, Scott Group and Delos. For leather we use Garrett Leather, Aeristo Leather, Townsend Leather.”
ARL: How long do your projects last on average?
SML: If it’s a refurbishment, in a perfect world we would plan it for a couple of months leading up to input and then work on it for three to five months depending on the scope of the work. So say you were doing a full interior exterior paint, maybe we’re doing a new CMS system, Starlink or just different upgrades of this nature, you might be working on that plane for four months on average. But as long as we pre-planned it, we can save that time. So if those planes are taking anywhere from three to five months of actual work, we really would like to have a couple of months up front to
“ I like to go bold. I am definitely not afraid to take risks.”
plan that, order the equipment and materials, complete all of the design work and engineering, so that we can reduce that downtime and get the clients aircraft back in their hands.
ARL: Do you have a signature style?
SML: I like to go bold. I am definitely not afraid to t ake risks. I have a few really special projects that I’m working on right now on a Dassault Falcon 7X , Falcon 2000 and Gulfstream G650 for a client. We’re doing something truly special on each of these, it’s so unique. So interior and exterior knockouts and unique company branding challenges like these sharpen my creativity. I love it when the client’s not afraid to take a risk and I’m happy to lead them there.
ARL: I understand that you develop close relationships with your clients. Is that really important to you?
SML: You often do. And yes, it is. That’s the goal. I’m proud to say some of the clients I’ve worked with multiple aircraft and some even 15 and 18 years. It’s special to see how they’ve developed and what different aircraft types they’ve gone through and just growing with them and kind of always knowing what they like design wise and what they need service wise.
Our long time clients are always upgrading. I’ve worked with clients through multiple planes and maybe even some clients, three and four planes. Like they had a Gulfstream G650, now they have a Bombardier Global 7500. Seeing the progression of the client and revisiting what worked on the last one and what we could do for the next one is rewarding. How has their life changed? Has their family grown? Do they need more space? So that’s just a rewarding part of it, to watch clients and their families and businesses grow and have the aircraft grow with them.
It’s nice to bring the avionics and standard equipment on the inside to the latest and greatest available so that your client feels like they’re operating a brand new aircraft. Being an
“ “This year I have worked toward growth and client solutions, adding a full-service design studio in Los Angeles, California.”
advocate of the client is the number one job. I’m their eyes and ears and voice. I’m a problem solver more than anything else, which is an extremely rewarding part of the job.
ARL: That must feel nice, that people come back to you.
SML: Yes, I mean that does. It’s like the ultimate compliment if you have a repeat client and also if a client refers you to another client and they give you such a good recommendation that it’s not even a question. So that builds trust and that’s the goal I think for me. I want to save my clients time, money and create not only peace of mind, but memorable details.
Every time I have a new client I think to myself “How do I exceed expectations and make this my repeat client.” I want to add so much value that the next time it’s not even a thought if they’re going to call me. They’ll call me first and know that I’ll handle every aspect of that project. Signature vision, communication, adding value to aircraft and above all listening first, designing second to create the right design. So that’s always my goal, to leave them very proud of their aircraft in the end and know that I delivered them an exceptional product on time and on budget.
ARL: What are some of your biggest challenges?
SML: There are always obstacles along the way, especially with used aircraft, that can be unforeseen. There are maintenance challenges and material delays, broken parts and always needed system upgrades to bring things up to date.
Managing schedules and client expectations is also a big challenge. If you tell a client this is going to take four months to build the refurbishment and all of a sudden you get to month 2 and find out a part is broken or the vendor just had a delay on this item, it’s a stressful situation and you must work for the best solution for your client. Figuring out how to mitigate those is important. So that’s the challenging part, the delays and the unknowns. You have to be adaptable and come up with safety forward, yet client serving solutions.
ARL: Is there something specific that you’re hoping to accomplish soon? What’s on the horizon for you? Anything different you’re working on?
SML: Well I’ve always had a goal to grow my business and create even more accessibility for clients all over the country as well as globally. I would always just put my head down and work, but this year I have worked toward growth and client solutions, adding a full-service design studio in Los Angeles, California. There are so many completion centers in the Mid-West and East Coast, but I want my busy West Coast clients to get convenient access to every material and really be able to explore the process. I want to institute a confidential space for high-end clients, create a seamless process, and promote a hands on material exploration. This is not just a workspace, but where the aircrafts vision begins to take shape. |BAM
WE CARE. IN THE SKY & ON THE GROUND
AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE SERVICE CENTER
JET CHARTER – READY TO FLY WITHIN 2 HOURS
AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT & HANGARAGE
CERTIFIED FLIGHT PLANNING AND GROUND HANDLING IN PRAGUE & BRATISLAVA
CONTINUING AIRWORTHINESS MANAGEMENT ORGANISATION
“ We do aim to be more of a quality company over quantity. That’s what we’re about.”
First Class Finish
Jamie Lambert, managing director of Lamberts London, discusses decorative metal plating processes and what makes Lamberts so extraordinary
Started in 1969 in Watford, England as “Frank Lambert Partners,” Lamberts London is a family business that has stood the test of time. For over 50 years they have represented luxury, elegance and excellence. Their state-of-the-art custom-designed facility matches their business ethics, integrity and state of mind.
ARL: Jamie, can you elaborate on exactly what Lamberts does?
JL: We’re all about decorative metal plating. So ultimately, we add value to the parts. It’s very high-end. We do gold plating, silver plating, chrome, nickel plating. Then we do a lot of different finishes like polished, satin brushed or matte effects. We also do clear coat lacquers, which helps with fingerprints and resists scratches. Plating is a very niche industry.
We’re not commercially high volume driven, we’re small to medium volume with a focus on exceptional quality. We fashion custom, bespoke components. First class and business class suites on aircraft. That’s not massive high volume. We operate based on quality and performance which drives business growth. If you do good things people will remember. We do aim to be more of a quality company over quantity. That’s what we’re about.
ARL: And is all your work done right there in Watford, England?
JL: Yes, we have a factory facility that we own; we’re very proud of that. We have 3 key stages, all on site; we have a metal finishing department, a metal plating department and a surface coating department. All of them interconnect through a central quality management center.
ARL: I understand you’re not just in the business of aircraft interiors, correct?
JL: That’s correct. Although 75-80% of our business is aerospace, we work in a variety of other luxury sectors as well. We work within the automotive sector with several British luxury marques. We do a lot of what you call special vehicle operations. We do the metal work, trim décor in the
doors or on the dashboards. We also do interior design work, for example in penthouses or Super Yachts. That can vary from sinks, faucets, hinges and handles to furniture pieces. And we do some work within the luxury packaging sectors as well, working on Collectable Masterpieces and LimitedEdition Releases for whisky manufacturers. We even do work for various Royal households around the world.
ARL: You mentioned you have various types of gold. Can you tell us more?
JL: We’ve got about seven different gold colors that we offer; 24K, 14K, Champagne, Almond, Rose, Mocha and we can also directly plate onto stainless steel with a specialist engineering adhesion gold as well. We also have three different Chromes; Bright Chrome, Jet Chrome and Graphite Chrome.
ARL: How are you handling the gold crisis, has it impacted you?
JL: We get a lot of our metals and chemicals from companies here in the UK and also Germany and Switzerland. We always keep replenishment because we run a lot of KPIs and we monitor our performance and see that we have minimum stock quantities. We don’t have all our eggs in one basket either and that’s a good key point. I have multiple chemical suppliers so if one can’t deliver, I can get hold of another one.
ARL: Your company is very environmentally conscious. Do you feel this is something that sets you apart?
JL: Yes, we have the ISO 14001 environmental standard. We want to make sure that we run a system that is ethical and we’re not doing anything that can harm the environment. We remove and neutralise chemicals correctly and we safeguard our employees, that is very important to us. The air that they breathe is monitored. We run many risk assessments and audits, and we stay on top of that.
A lot of gold sold out and we still had stock. One supplier sold out so I then switched over to my other supplier. In total we have three gold suppliers. You must bear in mind because you’re buying precious metals you’ve got to be at the forefront and there’s no question you’ve got to have stock. You’ve got to have reserves in order to do it. I think cash reserves and stability are vital. These days in any company to deliver you can’t let a customer down. That’s what it’s all about with what we do here. We are artisans. We transform the components, all by hand. Nothing is automated.
ARL: How important is it to you to invest in your employees?
JL: It’s difficult to find the right people. When you do, you need to hold them and retain and cherish them. Get the best out of them. And I think if you’ve got the right attitude, you can be taught any skill in the world. It’s all about attitude. We are all about continued improvement and organisational knowledge. I like reinvesting back into the company a lot and that includes our employees.
ARL: Lamberts went through a very challenging situation a few years back. Can you tell us more about that and how you recovered?
JL: Yes, we had a fire in the facility. We had to temporarily cease operations but we were insured, which is good. The insurance company accepted liability. The fire was caused by this heater element that had just been installed. It was dreadful.
We managed to pull together and put the Plant back together within nine months time. Even our insurance company said it was fast. They thought it would have taken us 2 years.
We managed to retain a lot of our clientele, which is fantastic. We probably only had one project that had to go elsewhere because of time constraints. That project had to be finished, but that’s it. We’re all back now and we’ve got even more safety systems in place. We’ve changed technologies on how we heat our tanks.
We’ve also got special fuse blowouts on the actual heaters as an additional failsafe. We now have an even better state-ofthe-art plating plant that has the newest and best technologies.
ARL: There is a lot to manage in your business. How do you tackle the challenges?
JL: It can be quite challenging. It can be stressful, but I t hink in all our lives we need that little bit of stress. It keeps us going. It drives change. I love change and I like new things. I don’t like to stagnate.
ARL: Do you have any new things on the horizon?
JL: So everyone’s heard of Rose Gold and 24K Gold but we’ve custom designed a gold with our chemists in our laboratory called Mocha Gold, which we’ve trademarked. It’s a brown gold. In our discussions with designers and customers, we think that’s going to be the next trend. We’re on revision 3 of it. We’ve been working on it for quite some time. There’s been a lot of research and development going into it and it is available now for people to select on projects. |BAM
“ We’ve got about seven different gold colors that we offer; 24K, 14K, Champagne, Almond, Rose, Mocha and we can also directly plate onto stainless steel with a specialist engineering adhesion gold as well. We also have three different Chromes; Bright Chrome, Jet Chrome and Graphite Chrome.”
www.lifeport.com
“ My expertise in tableware allows me to elevate the inflight experience for a diverse and discerning clientele.”
LEGACY IN MOTION
Thilo von Hahn, owner of Sky Selections, discusses the wide range of premium aircraft materials his company supplies, including leather, carpets, tableware, and wall panels
ARL: Thilo, what makes Sky Selections so special, and what inspired you to create it?
TVH: Sky Selections is a premium supplier of fine tableware, cutlery, glassware, and bespoke accessories for the private aviation and yacht industries. We also design custommade galley inserts that integrate seamlessly into each aircraft
But at its core, Sky Selections is about something far deeper than products. It’s about atmosphere. About memory. About the quiet power of a beautifully set table.
I’ve always been fascinated by elegant table settings, the way silver catches the light, the way crystal elevates even the simplest moment. I believe this fascination is rooted in my family history.
Beyond aviation, I’m a passionate connoisseur of fine dining and an avid porcelain collector. My expertise in tableware allows me to elevate the inflight experience for a diverse and discerning clientele. Sophistication and elegance is not just business, it’s a lifestyle, which further enriches the level of luxury I am able to provide.
ARL: Tell us about your family background.
TVH: My family is of German-Baltic descent. When history forced them to leave the Baltic states after 700 years and rebuild their lives in Germany, they were able to take almost nothing with them except their silver. That silver became more than an object. It became memory made tangible.
ARL: That’s a powerful image.
TVH: It truly is. Our silverware is the only physical thread connecting us to centuries of family history. Yet we don’t hide it away, we use it every day. It sits at our table, gathers stories, and witnesses celebrations. In a way, it has become a living member of our family (laughs). For us, dining culture is not about luxury alone. It’s about identity. Continuity. Honouring where you come from while creating something meaningful for the future.
And that is exactly what Sky Selections stands for—helping our clients create moments that are not only beautiful, but lasting. The beginning of a heritage of their own.
ARL: Incredible. You cater to many different budgets and aircraft types—is that correct?
TVH: Yes, absolutely. We offer solutions for every taste, budget, and aircraft size, from stainless steel to silver-plated to 925 sterling silver. There is truly something for every aircraft owner.
We’ve developed three distinct programs:
• Tabletop Audit Program – Our entry-level offering, ideal for light and midsize jets such as the Challenger 350. With limited galley space and fewer service scenarios, the focus here is on refinement and weight optimisation.
• Full Curation Program – A more elevated approach designed for large cabin jets like the Challenger 650, G500, or Global 6500. These aircraft often feature multiple dining layouts, allowing for a more tailored and versatile presentation.
• Signature Onboard Program – Our highesttier offering, created for ultra-long-range and VIP completion aircraft. These jets include separate service zones, more complex dining scenarios, and demand a strong emphasis on brand identity and recognition.
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CAV’s relationship with Hawker stretches back over 50 years, when we designed and manufactured TKS® panels for their first business jet... 20 years later, we became responsible for the entirety of the Hawker’s leading edge sections.
Today, we are the only company equipped to overhaul TKS® panels and Hawker leading edge sections to the original specifications. We combine proven history with innovation, keeping your aircraft flying safely, efficiently and reliably.
ARL: Your passion really shines through. What drives you?
TVH: I’m deeply passionate about promoting both traditional and modern European tableware design, it’s simply beautiful. Preserving this level of handcrafted artisan craftsmanship is incredibly important to me. When you invest in these pieces, you’re not just treating yourself, you’re helping to sustain a centuries-old tradition.
ARL: You also offer different tableware packages, correct?
TVH: Yes, we currently offer 15 pre-curated packages on our website. This is the simplest way for customers to select tableware, cutlery, and glassware. Clients can choose a complete package or mix and match according to their preferences. For example, a customer might say, “I like this selection. What would it cost for an aircraft with six passengers?”
We also offer custom galley inserts tailored to these packages.
ARL: What else does Sky Selections offer?
TVH: In addition to our tableware collections, we offer a range of specialty items, including caviar servers. For our latest program, we’ve partnered with Hamburg-based caviar producer Diekmann & Hansen, who have been producing topgrade caviar since 1839. Our clients can now not only select from a refined range of caviar servers, but also order premium caviar directly through us via WhatsApp or our website.
Creating a seamless, one-stop experience is key for us. We aim to provide everything needed to make each flight as refined and enjoyable as possible.
We have a fantastic team at Sky Selections, and we truly love what we do. That, ultimately, is our secret. |BAM
“ Preserving this level of handcrafted artisan craftsmanship is incredibly important to me. When you invest in these pieces, you’re not just treating yourself, you’re helping to sustain a centuries-old tradition.”
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Wide European Reach
Ashley Rose Legrand talks with Jean-Francois Guitard, Director BU General Aviation and Business Development for Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur and Sky Valet. Based in Nice, France, Sky Valet have over 45 FBOs across Europe. A key component of the franchise opportunity is allowing their clients to maintain their independence while still benefiting from their vast network
ARL: How did Sky Valet get started?
JFG: It started in Cannes and St. Tropez airport and after that opened to a franchise network which is quite unique in Europe.
The first franchise agreement was signed in 2017 in Avignon France and Cuneo in Italy. After that, progressively we got new franchisees. They are now in Portugal, Spain, Greece and Cyprus. We have gathered more than 45 stations across Europe. In Paris alone there are 7 FBO’s and we are part of it with Advance Air Support.
ARL: What kind of services do you offer your members?
JFG: The key features include common presence at exhibitions, particularly EBACE. We have a large booth there, so we provide very good visibility for our members. We also share other exhibitions across Europe, the Middle East and North America. We attend the Schedulers and Dispatchers show and also the Dubai Air show. Friedrichshafen, which is another European exhibition is another event we frequent. So that’s the first benefit. A second benefit is exposure on our social media networks. We like to provide light on our franchises. We also publish a magazine called Private Sky, to highlight all our members in the network and to provide a high quality magazine for our customers.
“ The franchise opportunity is quite simple. They master their own FBOs and keep their own brand. We share our Sky Valet brand and that provides greater visibility across our vast and comprehensive network throughout Europe.”
ARL: Can you tell us more about the franchise opportunities?
JFG: The franchise opportunity is quite simple. They master their own FBOs and keep their own brand. We share our Sky Valet brand and that provides greater visibility across our vast and comprehensive network throughout Europe. We do not want to be intrusive regarding our franchisee and this is a key component of our philosophy. We share a brand, tools and materials but each franchise stays independent and can manage their FBO as they would like to manage it. They can see it’s a Sky Valet station, meaning that we share the same values and standards of services.
ARL: You mentioned values. What are Sky Valet’s values?
JFG: Our values are excellence, quality, reliability and flexibility. It’s very important that we provide flexibility to our customers. We also go by a French word, “Sur mesure,” which means tailor made. This is an integral part of our experience.
ARL: What are some challenges you face?
JFG: The challenge is to continue to grow in a quite complex environment because in Europe business aviation is not always viewed in a good light. There are many
Sky Valet seminar is happening every year to gather members during 2 days of workshop in Cannes Mandelieu or Nice
“ Despite the challenges, I’m happy to see that we have new members joining the network every year. The concept appears to be solid. We must continue consolidation of this network and that should be great.”
opponents. It’s not like in the United States. It’s not so democratised. Business aviation is still a niche market in Europe. We also have geopolitical situations in Europe. For example, we lost the Russian traffic four years ago due to the war crisis with Ukraine and recovery will be long and complicated. In a complex market we have to move carefully.
Sky Valet members can meet their clients and the whole industry during Sky Valet cocktail every year at EBACE
ARL: How does the future look for Sky Valet?
JFG: Despite the challenges, I’m happy to see that we have new members joining the network every year. The concept appears to be solid. We must continue consolidation of this network and that should be great. Sky Valet is an open network, so we hope to keep welcoming new members because it’s simple and easy to access. |BAM
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Mototok tugs are in use worldwide – from gate pushback, MROs & FBOs to aircraft carriers and OEM production lines – trusted by leading aircraft manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing, Gulfstream, Lockheed Martin, Dassault, Bombardier, Embraer and Pilatus.
ROGER BUNTER, CEO,
AERSOLUTION INTERIOR
Delivering the ELITE
Ashley Rose Legrand sat down with Roger Bunter, the CEO of Aersolution Interior, to get a look at the inner workings of the company. Based in Switzerland, Aersolution was founded nearly 20 years ago, in 2007
ARL: Roger, you have over 30 years’ experience in the industry, can you tell us how you got your start and made the transition to founding Aersolution?
RB: I was head of engineering and production for air rescue helicopters. My first project with my new company was a VIP Medical Interior on a 747. It was a very smooth transition. Twenty years ago marked my start directing aircraft interiors in the VIP world. It was a bit of a change from aeromedical interiors, which were primarily for rotorcraft and small fixed-wing planes.
ARL: Roger, can you give us a clearer picture of what Aersolution does and what makes your role in the interiors sector so distinctive?
RB: We are a niche player in a niche market. We work
b ehind the scenes. All of our products over the last 12–14 years are electrical or manually actuated interior components. This means we handle the structure, mechanics, and electrics for hi-low tables, sliding doors, partitions, beds, and all these special kinds of actuated systems. It could also be a cabinet or wardrobe door. These are mostly fairly small systems, but they can also include full-sized beds for VIP or business jets. Most of the time in a finished cabin, you can’t see our product you just get the experience of it. This is something a customer once told us: “We can’t see your product, but if the VIP is operating and your product isn’t working, it’s the only thing the VIP is interacting with, and suddenly the whole aircraft feels bad.” You can’t see it, but you feel it. You can hear it. And that gives the user the experience.
“ “We handle the structure, mechanics, and electrics for hi-low tables, sliding doors, partitions, beds, and all these special kinds of actuated systems. It could also be a cabinet or wardrobe door.”
ARL: Do you operate in distinct segments or divisions within the company, and how do they differ in approach?
RB: There are two segments in our company. One is the VIP world, which is our core business from a design and engineering point of view. Here we create highly customised systems dedicated to a unique VIP client, in this case it’s a critical system. The other is business jet systems, which are more serialised parts. Most of the time the systems are very specific.
ARL: Where does most of your customer base and business activity come from geographically?
RB: Our customer base is mostly in Europe, Asia. The United States is becoming more important nowadays.
ARL: What key approvals and certifications set Aersolution apart and enable you to deliver in this specialised field?
RB: We are a certified EASA Production Organisation
“ “Over the years we’ve built up a modular system with hardware components and mechanical solutions that can be reused in new products. We also develop systems without a customer order just to make sure we can meet timelines.”
in accordance with EASA Part 21 Subpart G (approval reference: CH.21G.0020). This is the regulatory approval from the authorities (via the Swiss FOCA on behalf of EASA) that confirms our production processes meet strict airworthiness requirements, allowing us to release our products as compliant and airworthy. Every completion centre can take our parts and install them directly. From my point of view, this is a prerequisite for this business. The package isn’t complete without it.
ARL: What would you say is one of the biggest challenges you face in delivering these highly specialised, often custom systems?
RB: The most difficult thing is the timeline. Most of the products we build are made from scratch. Over the years we’ve built up a modular system with hardware components and mechanical solutions that can be reused in new
products. We also develop systems without a customer order just to make sure we can meet timelines, so we have standard products that can be customised, and parts of the system can be standardised to meet most customer expectations.
ARL: How do you approach sourcing materials and building your supply chain to support that level of precision and speed?
RB: We have a large supply network of local suppliers, all within a half-hour drive. We see this as a necessity. Proximity means quick communication and fast reaction times. They come to us, bring the parts, see the parts, and know the products. Our suppliers understand what is important for our products. We speak the same language. This enables fast and efficient production and a shortcut exchange between the different entities. An overarching theme for Aersolution is our dedication to the customer experience. We have unique products. It is important that we support the customer until they deliver the product to their end customer. We are well recognised by our customers. The reputation we have earned from this commitment over our 20-year history speaks for itself. We are also highly respected for our expertise and craftsmanship. We are the elite. Aersolution has earned a strong reputation for on-time delivery, quality, and customer support. Innovating and staying ahead of customer expectations is a
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top priority for us. As I say, “it’s in our DNA.” Staying one step ahead is what sets us apart. It’s really important for us to be ahead of the customer’s new expectations, so we are always improving our products and our standards just to be ahead of potential customer requests. Our commitment and dedication to the customer is paramount and cannot be understated.
ARL: Roger, what are you most proud of when you look at what Aersolution has achieved and how it’s perceived in the industry?
RB: When clients say, “If we have a problem and we don’t know the solution, your company name pops up first.” We are known for doing the difficult things. Our product is only finished when our customer has finished their task. That’s also something we are well known for in the aviation world: a focus on quality and on-time delivery.
ARL: Looking ahead, what new developments or steps is Aersolution taking to continue that tradition of innovation and customer support?
RB: We are now in the process of becoming an approved maintenance organisation. This will allow us to support our customers much more efficiently over the lifetime of our products. Our target is to complete the process by the end of this year.
Mr. Bunter’s devotion to his customers and to overall excellence in every facet of his business shines through with ease. It is clear that Aersolution will continue to evolve and reach new heights. Improving and setting a high standard is who they are. As Roger says, “with every project you grow.” |BAM
Jay Mesinger 2025 Jay Mesinger 1984
JJETS RISING
Jay Mesinger, CEO and Founder of Mesinger Jet Sales, discusses the current state of the Aviation Market
ay Mesinger is the CEO and Founder of Mesinger Jet Sales, an international aircraft brokerage firm, with over 52 years of experience in the aviation industry. Mesinger Jet Sales has modernised the formula for buying and selling aircraft and provides its clients with the best market intelligence for aircraft sales pricing and correct acquisition expectations.
Jay is a published Aviation Journalist and Industry Thought Leader. He is a member of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA); a member of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Leadership Council; a member of Gulfstream’s “Key Player” team; and a member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA). In addition, he is a member of the Colorado Aviation Business Association (CABA).
Additionally, he was the Chairman of the Associate Member Advisory Council (AMAC) and a member of the Board of the
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). He was the first aircraft broker to serve on the NBAA board. Jay also served on the Customer Advisory Board of Jet Aviation and on the Customer Advisory Board of Airbus North America. Jay also served on the Duncan Aviation Customer Advisory Board for 2 terms and was on the Board of Directors of The Morris Animal Foundation.
Jay regularly speaks at industry gatherings and holds live online sessions with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) for their News Hour webinars and Corporate Jet Investors (CJI) Town Hall – Masterclass. He also writes the Mesinger Pulse newsletter (Jay Mesinger’s Industry Perspectives), and started the very first aviation brokerage website over 30 years ago, www.jetsales.com . Jay continues to communicate from the cutting-edge of business aviation through various social networking platforms – The Mesinger Blog (https://jetsales.com/articles/) and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com).
Jay speaking at CJI London 2026
Q: How would you characterise today’s private aircraft market for high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth buyers? What’s driving demand at the very top end?
JM: There is obviously a huge wealth creation and wealth retention in our global society today. This wealth is allowing for an attention to the private aviation market almost like never before. Also, reestablishing the 100% Bonus Depreciation in the US contributes to the focus and increased transaction activity. Of course the bouncing tariff balls keep us on our toes and creates some questions whose answers seem to change daily. The net result is still positive and keeping activity strong.
Q: Is a private aircraft best understood as a luxury indulgence, a strategic business asset, or something in between?
JM: That is a great question and it always depends on w ho is asking the question to whom! Many people may be reluctant to call this type of purchase an indulgence. It would be more likely to be characterised as an asset that allows for a travel mode that is safe and reliable for those that can afford and demand this method. So many people liken this
to Kodak Moments. Taking the entire family on adventures that enriches their lives and create even stronger family bonds. Corporate users would absolutely suggest that getting out ahead of your competition and in front of their clientele strengthens the relationships between client and provider and increases business and builds profits.
Q: When advising seasoned buyers, what factors matter most beyond range and performance?
JM: We are really lucky given all the manufacturers that are providing these business and personal tools for travel. All of the manufacturers build safe, reliable and well supported products. This allows for a wonderful choice of provider for the customers to pick from. In fact, hats off to them all for even supporting the long out of production aircraft. This continued support keeps everyone’s fleet size from shrinking rapidly after production has ceased. Range and performance are always key factors in choice of aircraft to focus on. Mission fulfilment is critical and allows for one to not overbuy and to pay close attention to not underbuying. Hitting the mission mark is essential to the long after purchase enjoyment of the asset.
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Mesinger Jet Sales Team
“ “We, as aircraft professionals, rely on each other to explain and discuss those essential details and allow for the much demanded and respected confidentiality in a transaction.”
Q: How do you manage confidentiality and trust in transactions that often involve globally recognised individuals and nine-figure sums?
Q: What are the most expensive mistakes you see buyers make and how can they avoid them?
JM: Not demanding complete due diligence is the road map for serious mistakes in purchasing an aircraft. Not completing pre-purchase inspections at qualified facilities and including extensive records review as part of these inspections can create expensive omissions and cause unreliability and a lack of value retention.
Q: How do you see the landscape of business aviation evolving over the next five years for discerning owners?
JM: There is a fine line between transparency and confidentiality. Safety and security as well as keeping the individuals out of public view is the strategy we all work to retain. We, as aircraft professionals, rely on each other to explain and discuss those essential details and allow for the much demanded and respected confidentiality in a transaction. Of course, the ultimate need for KYC (Know Your Customer) awareness ultimately dictates what is transmitted between buyer and seller and lenders to stay within the bounds of the transaction.
JM: I see our industry continuing to attract those participants who can afford and demand this method of travel. I do see the backlogs from the manufacturers causing a continued focus on the pre-owned marketplace. An unsettled geopolitical world will also keep the safety and security focus on this method of travel. I feel we all have a bright future and all must pull together to provide transparency and confidence among our clientele. Using facts and not hearsay, providing accuracy and intelligence for our clients to make decisions with are paramount in all of our successes including the success of our clients! The most important success. |BAM
Partnership in Action: Skylink
Services and Legendaire Join Forces
Skylink Services, Cyprus’s only FBO, teams up with the island’s first dedicated business aviation MRO to deliver a fully integrated one-stop experience at Larnaca. Interview with Emily Mavros, Director, Skylink Services Ltd, and Nick Kikessis, Director/CEO, Legendaire
Q: Emily, for readers who may not be familiar with Skylink’s story, can you give us a brief overview of the company’s journey?
EM: Skylink Services was founded in 1992 by George Mavros, our Managing Director, to fill a clear gap in professional ground handling for executive and business aircraft in Cyprus. We began at both Larnaca and Paphos airports and steadily built our reputation for reliability and high standards.
In 2010 we opened the island’s only dedicated Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at Larnaca International Airport. This includes a modern 2,500 sqm VIP lounge with full security and immigration facilities, plus a large fleet of vehicles for seamless crew and passenger transport. We were also entrusted with the operation and management of the official Heads of State Lounge for the Republic of Cyprus. These milestones established us as the leading ground handler in the Eastern Mediterranean. We now handle 98 percent
Emily Mavros , Director, Skylink Services Ltd
Nick Kikessis , Director/CEO, Legendaire
of all executive aircraft movements in Cyprus and also support military flights.
In early 2022 we launched our sister company, Skylink Gourmet, bringing 5-star in-flight catering in-house for the first time. We also have Elitejet as a sister company offering aircraft chartering, sales, purchases and management. Today, with more than 60 staff across the group and multiple ISO certifications plus IS-BAH Stage 2 (the only holder in the region), we continue to focus on delivering a complete, worry-free experience.
Q: What prompted the latest development, the partnership with Legendaire?
EM: Our clients have always asked for more integrated s ervices, particularly maintenance support on the ground. As the only FBO in Cyprus, we saw a clear opportunity to expand our offering by working with a trusted local partner rather than sending aircraft elsewhere. Legendaire, established as the first business aviation MRO in Cyprus, was the natural choice. This collaboration allows us to create a true one-stop shop at Larnaca, with handling, catering, and now professional maintenance all under one coordinated umbrella.
Q: Can you tell us more about the new hangar project and what it will deliver for customers?
EM: The partnership meant incorporating a new company named Premium Aviation Services (P.A.S.), which centres on a significant infrastructure expansion. We are jointly developing a new hangar facility that is scheduled to open in Q4 2026. The indoor space will be a luxurious 4,500 square meters and will accommodate between 8 and 10 business jets depending on aircraft type, with the largest being a Global 7500. An additional 2,500 square meters of outdoor apron space will provide further flexibility.
This new facility will dramatically improve the customer experience by allowing seamless transitions between arrival, catering, ground services, and maintenance without the aircraft having to move to another location. Clients will benefit from reduced downtime, greater convenience, and the reassurance of having everything coordinated by teams that already know their preferences and requirements.
Q: Nick, Legendaire brings specialised maintenance expertise to the table. What is the background of the company and how does it complement Skylink?
“ The partnership meant incorporating a new company named Premium Aviation Services (P.A.S.), which centres on a significant infrastructure expansion.”
- Emily Mavros, Director, Skylink Services Ltd
Nick Kikessis: Legendaire was est ablished in 2015
and commenced operations in 2016 as an EASA Part 145 MRO based at Larnaca International Airport. We initially specialised in Bombardier aircraft types, including the Global XRS, Global 5000/6000, Challenger 604/605/650, Challenger 300, and Learjet 60 series. In 2019 we expanded our approvals to include the Global 7500, Challenger 350, and Embraer 135/145 Legacy 600, with further types planned in the near future.
We also hold ISO and EMAS certifications and are authorised to work on aircraft registered in Cayman, Isle of Man, Guernsey, and San Marino, in addition to EASA.
What makes us a strong partner for Skylink is our shared location and philosophy. We are ideally positioned as a gateway to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. This enables rapid response times, especially for AOG situations where our mobile repair teams can be on site quickly anywhere in the region. For aircraft based in or routing through Cyprus,
we offer both line maintenance and scheduled maintenance support, plus additional services such as flight engineer services and aircraft pre-purchase inspections.
Q: How will the partnership work in practice for an arriving business jet customer?
EM: It will be seamless. When a client arrives at Larnaca, our Skylink team handles all ground services, immigration, security, and catering through Skylink Gourmet exactly as before. If the aircraft requires any maintenance, whether routine scheduled work, line maintenance, or an AOG situation, Legendaire’s engineers, who are based on site, can begin work immediately without the aircraft needing to be towed elsewhere.
The new hangar, opening in Q4 2026, will make this even smoother. Aircraft can taxi straight in, crews and passengers can enjoy the VIP lounge and gourmet catering, and maintenance can be carried out in parallel. The customer
“ What makes us a strong partner for Skylink is our shared location and philosophy. We are ideally positioned as a gateway to Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.”
- Nick Kikessis, Director/CEO, Legendaire
deals with one point of contact for the entire visit, which greatly reduces stress and turnaround time.
Q: You also mention working towards Base Maintenance capabilities. What stage is that at?
Nick Kikessis: We are actively working with the Cyprus Civil Aviation Authority to obtain Base Maintenance approvals. This will further enhance the range of services we can offer at Larnaca and position Cyprus as a more complete business aviation hub in the region.
“ It is the natural next step in our evolution. From a pure ground handler in 1992, to an FBO with in-house catering, and now to a fully integrated facility with on-site MRO capability, we are building something unique in the Eastern Mediterranean.” - Emily Mavros
Q: Finally, Emily, what does this partnership mean for Skylink’s long-term vision?
EM: It is the natural next step in our evolution. From a pure ground handler in 1992, to an FBO with in-house catering, and now to a fully integrated facility with on-site MRO capability, we are building something unique in the Eastern Mediterranean. Our clients want convenience, quality and reliability. This partnership delivers all three in one location.
We believe the combination of Skylink’s renowned service culture and Legendaire’s technical expertise will set a new benchmark for business aviation in Cyprus and the wider region. We are very excited about the new hangar opening in late 2026 and the opportunities Premium Aviation Services (P.A.S.) will bring. |BAM
Guardian Jet Delivers Moore in Florida
WBAM sat down with Mike Moore to discuss his appointment as Regional Sales Manager at Guardian Jet in Florida
ith more than 30 years of experience in private aviation, Mike brings deep expertise in aircraft sales and acquisitions, aircraft management, and charter operations. His consultative, transparency-focused approach aligns closely with Guardian Jet’s emphasis on data-driven decision making and client outcomes.
“ “Stepping into this role in Florida is especially meaningful. It is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets, and it presents a tremendous opportunity to build relationships and deliver value in a very dynamic region.”
Q: Congratulations on your new role at Guardian Jet. Drawing on your extensive background, what motivated you to join the team as Regional Sales Manager in Florida, and how do your long-standing values and market insights shape your approach to serving clients in this position?
MM: I’ve had the opportunity to work with Guardian Jet s everal times throughout my career. In recent years, I
“ The Vault Powered by AI is Guardian Jet’s proprietary platform that aggregates and analyses real-time market data using artificial intelligence. It not only tracks aircraft values, availability, and transaction trends, but also helps clients manage their aircraft like assets in a portfolio.”
Q: What truly differentiates Guardian Jet from its competitors in today’s private aviation landscape?
MM: Our bench strength truly sets us apart. Guardian Jet has a dedicated trading floor with more than 20 market researchers and analysts tracking over 130 markets in real time. Understanding aircraft values is at the heart of everything we do, and that depth of insight allows us to deliver the most accurate, up-to-date data to our clients through The Vault Powered by AI. In addition, our consulting department provides strategic guidance on aircraft ownership, operations, and transactions, giving clients a full spectrum of support beyond just buying or selling. This expertise serves a prestigious client base that includes over 40 of the top Fortune 100 companies.
Q: Can you elaborate on The Vault Powered by AI and how it transforms the way clients approach aircraft ownership and decision-making?
competed against them, so I was genuinely excited when the opportunity came to join the team as Regional Sales Manager. Stepping into this role in Florida is especially meaningful. It is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets, and it presents a tremendous opportunity to build relationships and deliver value in a very dynamic region. I’ve built my career on honesty and transparency, and those values are at the core of Guardian Jet. With access to the Vault’s unmatched transaction data and market intelligence, I can give clients a clearer path to making the best decisions for their mission. Known across the aviation community for my integrity and deep market knowledge, I have spent my career guiding clients to the best outcomes for their missions, leveraging long-standing relationships and strategic insights.
MM: The Vault Powered by AI is Guardian Jet’s proprietary platform that aggregates and analyses real-time market data using artificial intelligence. It not only tracks aircraft values, availability, and transaction trends, but also helps clients manage their aircraft like assets in a portfolio. Even if a client isn’t ready to sell, knowing the value of their aircraft and current market conditions can inform decisions around insurance limits, depreciation, modifications, and strategic timing for upgrades. Essentially, it gives clients the insight they need to make smarter, more proactive ownership decisions. Clients have 24/7 access to this secure online portal, which provides complete transparency into every aspect of their relationship with us. They can search for new or replacement aircraft, monitor replacement markets, review Guardian Estimates of value, compare makes and models, and access actionable analytics that support better-timed and better-executed transactions. Many clients have saved millions over the lifecycle of their aircraft by using these tools to treat aviation assets with the same rigor as any other portfolio holding.
Q: How does your personal expertise enable you to deliver unique value to clients beyond a standard transactional relationship?
MM: I bring over 30 years of experience in aviation, including several years focused on buying and selling aircraft
for my clients. What really allows me to add value, though, is my background in aircraft management. With more than 20 years in that space, I’m not just approaching this from a transactional standpoint. I’m able to work closely with clients and guide them through flight operations, maintenance management, crewing, and the overall economics of aircraft ownership. Combined with Guardian Jet’s experience and reputation, it gives me the resources and insight needed to help grow the Florida market in a meaningful way.
Q: Do your clients typically fall into distinct buyer or seller categories, or do you support a broader range of aviation needs?
offices, and private wealth managers to help them evaluate and optimise their private air transportation solutions. My experience allows me to provide objective, independent assessments of all available options to ensure alignment with each client’s usage patterns, financial considerations, and operational requirements. This can include evaluating charter solutions, jet cards, fractional ownership, or whole aircraft ownership—with the ultimate goal of identifying the most appropriate structure for each client.
Q: To what extent does Guardian Jet operate on a global scale, and how does that international presence benefit your clients?
MM: Yes, Guardian Jet has a true global footprint. We have sales representatives based around the world, including Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America, Mexico, Central America, and, of course, the United States. The level of experience and talent on our sales team is exceptional, and it allows us to provide clients with knowledgeable support no matter where they are.
Q: How would you characterise the current state and trajectory of the private aviation market in Florida?
MM: Not necessarily. I work with individuals, family
MM: The Florida market is expanding rapidly. Over the next t hree to five years, we’ve seen tremendous growth, with many aircraft owners relocating from the Northeast. In the post-Covid era, we are also seeing an increase in first time buyers who live in Florida. Overall, it’s a dynamic and fastgrowing market that presents significant opportunities for both buyers and sellers. |BAM
A One-Day Conference
Thurs 3rd September 2026
HILTON HEATHROW TERMINAL FIVE POYLE ROAD, COLNBROOK, SL3 0FF
PHOTOS FROM LAST YEAR’S EVENT
Following the resounding success of BMC25, B izAv Media , is again co-hosting a one-day conference, BizAv Maintenance Conference (BMC26) , on the 3rd September 2026 , in London.
The conference will feature world-class speakers and panellists from across the BizAv Maintenance sectors of the industry.
This is a tremendous opportunity for companies of all sizes in the BizAv Maintenance sector to come on board and be part of the future of BizAv Maintenance.
Contact Max Raja at max@bizavltd.com or Roger Baker at roger@bizavltd.com for more information.
