BizAvIndia 3/2021 - Supplement to SP's Aviation

BizAvIndia a s u p p l e m ent to Sp ’s Av iat ion

Volume 7  •  issue 3

www.sps-aviation.com/bizavindiasupplement

P8

This is the Time to Harness BizAv Interest P 11

exclusive: Scott Neal, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Gulfstream P 14

Seek Expertise in Global Aircraft Transactions P 16

Sudhir Nayak, PRESIDENT, BUSINESS AIRCRAFT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION (BAOA)

Milestone: G700’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

First & EXCLUSIVE

“Our world has changed, and we must change sooner than later, to match that!”

P 19

How Fractional Ownership can Increase Business Aviation Industry in India

+ MORE...

PAGE 4

We Go the Distance to Get You to Your Destination JetHQ knows the global aircraft marketplace from tip to tail. We go anywhere to find an aircraft that drives your passion. Our dedicated professionals bring decades of sales experience, with relationships and resources to close deals others can’t.

Your Headquarters for Global Aircraft

L E T O U R E X P E R T S W O R K F O R YO U Contact Sanjeev Choudhary, Vice President of Sales --Asia, to begin. +91.99582.00918 schoudhary@JetHQ.com JetHQ.com

BizAvIndia

a supplement to Sp’s Aviation 2021

A S U P P L EMEN T TO S P ’ S AV I AT I O N

WWW.SPS-AVIATION.COM/BIZAVINDIASUPPLEMENT

P8

THIS IS THE TIME TO HARNESS BIZAV INTEREST P 11

EXCLUSIVE: SCOTT NEAL, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, WORLDWIDE SALES, GULFSTREAM P 14

SEEK EXPERTISE IN GLOBAL AIRCRAFT TRANSACTIONS P 16

SUDHIR NAYAK, PRESIDENT, BUSINESS AIRCRAFT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION (BAOA)

MILESTONE: G700’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

FIRST & EXCLUSIVE

“OUR WORLD HAS CHANGED, AND WE MUST CHANGE SOONER THAN LATER, TO MATCH THAT!”

Vo lu m e 7   •   I S S UE 3

On the cover:

VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 3

P 19

HOW FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP CAN INCREASE BUSINESS AVIATION INDUSTRY IN INDIA

+ MORE...

PAGE 4

BizAvIndia Cover 3-2021.indd 1

15/09/21 3:35 PM

Sudhir Nayak, now the President of BAOA is an active name within Business Aviation industry. Apart from being the founding member of BAOA, he is on the board of IBAC. Sudhir is Senior Vice President at Reliance Commercial Dealers (RCDL). Cover Photograph S. Nayak

Contents

Page 4

First & EXCLUSIVE

INTERVIEW BAOA PRESIDENT Sudhir Nayak Page 8

INDUSTRY GROWTH This is the Time to Harness BizAv Interest By Ayushee chaudhary Page 8

Page 11

EXCLUSIVE

As the awareness around the BA/GA industry is on the rise, the time is right to harness the Business Aviation industry

GULFSTREAM INTERVIEW Scott Neal, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Gulfstream Page 14

FLYING PRIVATE Seek Expertise in Global Aircraft

Page 21

OPERATIONS SERVICE Quality of Service to Air Travellers in Aviation Industry By Air Vice Marshal S.S. Chauhan (Retd)

Transactions By ROHIT KAPUR, President, JetHQ Asia

regular departments

Page 16

2 from

G700 Milestone

3 MESSAGE

Gulfstream G700 Takes off First

23

the editor’s desk from PRESIDENT, BAOA

NEWS AT A GLANCE

International Flights, Sets Record By Ayushee chaudhary Page 19

OWNERSHIP FRACTIONAL How Fractional Ownership can Increase Business Aviation industry in India By Sudhir S. Rajeshirke

www.sps-aviation.com/bizavindiasupplement

Awards 2017

Special

Contribution to Business Aviation

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from  the editor-in-chief Publisher And Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal Deputy Managing Editor Neetu Dhulia Principal Correspondent Ayushee Chaudhary BAOA Management Sudhir Nayak President, BAOA Group Captain R.K. Bali (Retd), Managing Director, BAOA Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal Planning & Business Development Executive Vice President: Rohit Goel design Team Senior Designer: Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Designer: Sonu S. Bisht Group Director – Sales & Marketing Neetu Dhulia Deputy Director – Sales Rajeev Chugh Manager – HR & Admin Bharti Sharma Deputy Manager – Circulation Rimpy Nischal Group Research Associate Survi Massey SP’s websites Sr Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma © SP Guide Publications, 2021 Advertising neetu@spguidepublications.com rajeev.chugh@spguidepublications.com SP GUIDE PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD A-133 Arjun Nagar, (Opposite Defence Colony) New Delhi 110003, India. Tel: +91 (11) 24644693, 24644763, 24620130 Fax: +91 (11) 24647093 E-mail: info@spguidepublications.com Owned, published and printed by Jayant Baranwal, printed at Kala Jyothi Process Pvt Ltd and published at A-133, Arjun Nagar (Opposite Defence Colony), New Delhi 110 003, India. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without prior written permission of the Publishers.

SP Guide Publications extend a very warm welcome to Sudhir Nayak who has taken over as the new President of BAOA. Sudhir is very well known amongst the domestic and international business aviation community and we are sure that BAOA will achieve a lot more under his leadership. Dear Reader, At the outset, we wish Sudhir Nayak the very best for his efforts and for the challenges going forward. This issue of the magazine contains the very first and exclusive interview of Sudhir Nayak. He shares his insights about the industry, the challenges that it is facing and the opportunities that should be tapped. As the awareness around the BA/GA industry is on the rise, assisted by the benefits it presents during these days of the pandemic, Ayushee Chaudhary writes about this being the time to hit the nail on its head and harness the Business Aviation industry especially in India. In another related article on promoting business aviation in India, Sudhir S. Rajeshirke explains how aircraft fractional ownership can increase business aviation industry in India. Fractional aircraft model reduces upfront acquisition cost, provides convenient access to good and consistent quality of business aircraft without all the hassles of managing aircraft operations. The magazine also contains an exclusive interview with Scott Neal, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales at Gulfstream Aerospace who talks about the company’s long history of listening to customers and incorporating their feedback into aircraft development while creating world class design. There is also a report on Gulfstream G700 that set its first ever city-pair speed records, adding up more points to Gulfstream’s design and technological advancement. In this issue, President of JetHQ, Asia, Rohit Kapur stresses on looking for expertise in global aircraft transaction as the business aviation industry is truly an international marketplace where the best aircraft or deal can only be found past a national border. Better options for both buyers and sellers await, but only if they have assistance navigating global aircraft acquisitions. A report by Air Vice Marshal S.S. Chauhan (Retd) brings an important topic of underperformed practice of service to the client, primarily in the case of air-traveller. He cites the example of Business Aviation where the service is comparatively much more important with a very few heads per trip to be taken care of. All this and much more in this issue of BizAvIndia. Welcome aboard and we wish you many happy landings!

MEMBER / PARTNER OF

J. Baranwal Editor-in-Chief

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message  from president, baoa

president

Business Aircraft Operators Association

Dear BAOA members, I am both humbled and honored that you have placed your confidence in me, in electing me as your President. I promise you that I will always endeavor to work with utmost compassion, honesty and integrity for the betterment of this industry. We are already facing one of the toughest situations ever seen by our generation. With unity and dedication to improve our business, let’s all join hands and work with the common positive goal in supporting each other. On behalf of the board I also humbly offer condolences to our industry brothers & sisters who have lost near and dear ones to this pandemic. I take this opportunity to thank our past Presidents Rohit Kapur, Jayant Nadkarni and AVM S. S. Chauhan for their leadership and continued support to the Association. Same for all our past and present GB members. We will all work together with our Managing Director Group Captain Bali to take our issues to the right forums and find practical solutions. Would like to place on record our sincere appreciation of the work Bali ji has been doing for our association. Lastly, I request your inputs and feedback on how we can all make this Industry association stronger, vibrant and function more efficiently & effectively.  BAI Thanks & Regards

Sudhir Nayak President, BAOA.

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INTERVIEW  BAOA PRESIDENT

Photograph: S. Nayak

First & EXCLUSIVE

Sudhir Nayak BAOA’s new President

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INTERVIEW  BAOA PRESIDENT

“Our world has changed, and we must change sooner than later, to match that!” “We hope the worst is behind us and things can only improve from here. I am personally very positive for our industry and see no reason as to why we can’t do better than the pre-pandemic days given the resilience shown by all of us”. Looking at the journey of BAOA, over the last decade, to grow the GA/BA industry in India, in his First and Exclusive interview, Sudhir Nayak, BAOA’s new President spoke exclusively to BizAvIndia sharing his insights about the industry, the challenges that it is facing and the opportunities that should be tapped. BizAvIndia (BAI): As a Founding Member, how do you perceive the journey and the evolution of our Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA)? Sudhir Nayak (Nayak): BAOA was, formed 10 years ago to further the growth of the General Aviation/Business Aviation industry as well as be the prime nodal & neutral body, to represent all the relevant industry issues with the various stakeholders in the Government (MoCA/DGCA/AAI/BCAS etc), various Airports, global industry associations (IBAC), etc. BAOA is progressively moving towards achieving the desired objectives. We have come a long way from where we started but still have still a long way to go.

inputs and support. Humanitarian evacuations and air ambulance services offered by this industry also needs to be grown systematically. More than 50 per cent of the planes are turboprops and smaller planes connecting regional and remote airports. All these uses have a multiplier effect on the economic activity and employment opportunities in the ecosystem. Infact, in a mature market such as USA, there are FBOs in some cities offering free landing and parking. This is done to attract more people to use those airports so that that specific country gets to earn the economic opportunity offered by the GA/BA industry. There is healthy competition amongst airports there to attract more traffic. In India too, the support services such as MRO, FBO, Ground handlers depend largely on GA/BA industry and needs to grow in tandem with the growth in therein. Newer models such as fractional ownership and aircraft management companies will provide the necessary impetus for rapid growth of this industry and help the economy to grow. The GIFT city IFSC support to the aircraft leasing industry will provide the necessary capital source for this industry to grow with inbuilt tax incentives/concessions.

BAI: What all roles Business Aviation can play to complement the country’s economy, according to you? Nayak: Whilst carrying passengers from point A to B safely and ontime, is the core objective of the aviation industry, GA/BA primarily provides schedule flexibility, speed & higher productivity and remote connectivity with airports that are generally not served well by scheduled airlines. New Areas such as seaplanes (e.g., Canada/Maldives model) and low-cost helicopter taxi (e.g., Sao Paulo model) have generated lot of interest. Government of India (GoI) is already creating a conductive envi“Use of multiple ronment for growth on this count by building water aerodromes as well as multiple heliports in large helipads along the new expressways e.g. cities and allowing use the Mumbai – Delhi corridor. of rooftop helipads Use of multiple heliports in large cities and allowing use of rooftop helipads can can set this untapped set this untapped helicopter taxi industry helicopter taxi to boom. The regulatory and local authorities need to look at these growth areas industry to boom” more closely. BAOA can provide necessary

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BAI: There is a slogan propagated by NBAA in United States: NoPlaneNoGain. Do you think this does apply in India, too? Nayak: Yes, young India is looking for speed, flexibility, efficiency, and productivity. This industry provides that, so I am positive that this slogan will hold good for us too. Our businesses are growing bigger faster, and they need this tool for improving business productivity… where time is of essence.

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INTERVIEW  BAOA PRESIDENT With the pandemic, people will grow more cautious and want to spend less time in busy airports, security check queues and large aircraft. So, this industry will get a leg-up in the current scenario for those who need these specific benefits & services. Imagine you must attend business meetings in four different cities on the same day, this industry supports that requirement easily Smaller aircraft with reach to remote multiple destinations will help bolster growth in smaller industrial towns (e.g., Jamnagar, Jamshedpur, Raigarh, etc). So NoPlaneNoGain applies all over the world including India!

l More FBOs, crew training & upskilling

facilities, use of global standards such as IS-BAO/IS-BAH l Conducive environment for support “With the pandemic, services such as: people will grow –  efficient & thriving MROs, –  efficient and viable airport ground more cautious and handlers want to spend less l Further economic issues such as bringtime in busy airports, ing ATF under GST and continuous rationalisation of duties, are issues security check queues already raised by my predecessors that and large aircraft. So, yet remain unresolved. l Heliports and Rooftop helipads for this industry will get helicopter taxi services and separate a leg-up in the current dedicated helicopter cell within the regulatory framework will give the scenario.” BAI: Do you think Business Aviation essential boost to this potent sector is still getting stepchild treatment in We will continue the positive engageIndia? ment and dialogue with the relevant stakeNayak: We have an overhang of certain perceptions which we must holders to get these and other issues effectively resolved. work towards changing over a period, by demonstrating the multiple uses that this industry provides to deeper & wider set of population. BAI: What will be your argument if Business Aviation is interThat will need continuous positive engagement with the various preted as the traveling mode meant for Rich and Famous, only? stakeholders by making them a part of our journey towards the fur- Nayak: I think during the pandemic, the demonstrated usage of therance of our industry. these aircraft to move patients, repatriation of the stranded, medical Our industry found only a cursory mention in the National Civil supplies and humanitarian aid will probably help change this perAviation Policy 2016. We must work very hard towards changing ception, albeit partially. that… for the stakeholders to take cognizance of GA/BA issues in the Shuttle flights to & fro from cities to industrial hubs, sports next NCAP update. related flights, religious & general tourism, aerial photography, movie shooting, power transmission line maintenance, air ambuBAI: As of today, what are the key issues that are persistently lance, complementing the UDAN operations, connecting remote being faced by India’s Business Aviation industry and what rem- areas for sourcing as well as supply of perishable/seasonal produce, edies do you propose? petal dropping, etc are some of the uses of the GA/BA aircraft. Nayak: Right now, the focus of the Government is on: The overall operating cost of this business is high, and volumes are not as one would like it to be, hence the business cost recovery l Building better airport infrastructure, automatically keeps this away from being affordable to common l Modernisation of ATCs, people, which in turn builds this general perception. This perception l Build better security and safety processes, will gradually decline with increasing depth and breadth of usage l Streamlining & standardising regulatory framework which will in turn reduce the operating costs leading to increasing l Private sector engagement in airports and related services the volumes and making it more affordAll this will automatically have a rubable, allowing desired usage. off effect and help improve the non-schedApart from the developed countries uled GA/BA industry too as we use the such as USA, UK, France… even Brazil, same resources. Mexico, China, Venezuela etc have more However, we do hope that we get some business aircraft than India both in absopositive attention from relevant authori“Newer models such as lute numbers as well as per capita. ties on certain specific issues already raised by the industry. fractional ownership BAI: Would you like to comment on the Some critical points (not meant to be and aircraft effects of COVID-19 on India’s Business an exhaustive list): Aviation? l Conducive regulatory framework with management companies regards to GA/BA industry e.g., ETDO/ l How the year 2021, as we are now into will provide the pilot training, check pilot issue/BA August, the beginning of second half of necessary impetus for check regulations/carriage of baggage/ this year, faired versus 2020 till now? patients/pets/etc l Has in any ways COVID-19 enabled rapid growth of this some kind of better recognition of l Carving out special landing slots and industry and help the Business Aviation thereby pleasant extended airport working hours surprises in terms of unexpected l Separate area for GA/BA aircraft parkeconomy to grow” growth in demand for this industry? ing, hangarage etc

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INTERVIEW  BAOA PRESIDENT

Regional connectivity also has allowed the Business Aviation industry to boom significantly

pushed us to think hard on cutting wastage and innovating which will permanently some of the toughest situations emerged change and improve the way we operate. out of Coronavirus pandemic? Nayak: At the cost of sounding repetitive, I “More than 50 per BAI: What will be your key message for think the usage of the GA/BA aircraft durcent of the planes the BA fraternity in India? What all ing the pandemic in 2020-21: assurances you would like to convey to l as air ambulance to move patients, are turboprops the industry having taken over as the l repatriation of the stranded, and smaller planes President of BAOA? l medical supplies and Nayak: We hope the worst is behind us and l humanitarian aid connecting regional things can only improve from here. I am was appreciated by one and all and was and remote airports” personally very positive for our industry a shot in the arm that industry needed durand see no reason as to why we can’t do beting this otherwise lull period. ter than the pre-pandemic days given the On behalf of the BAOA board, I would take this opportunity to express sincere condolence to those who resilience shown by all of us. Our industry has found more uses than before during this pandemic and we have survived this storm. Now have lost their loved ones to this pandemic. These are turbulent times, and one must keep seated with the is the time to rebuild, refocus, regroup, innovate and grow from here through collaboration. seat belts engaged without taking any unnecessary high risks. With the responsibility as the President of BAOA Board, I can The only way we can fight this pandemic is by 100 per cent vaccination of the entire ecosystem comprising of our own crew, engi- assure our members that we will sincerely and continuously strive to neers, handlers, office staff, airport staff, etc. We must always keep apply our efforts to the cause of furthering the objectives with which our guards up and ensure social distancing as well as continuous this association was formed and help building this into a stronger sanitisation of ourselves, our homes, workplaces and our aircraft. We edifice to weather tougher storms. Me and my Board colleagues look must improve our lifestyles by eating healthy, exercising and keep a forward to working with each and every one of you, irrespective of the size, nature, or geography of your operations as a member of this induscalm mind by practicing meditation and yoga. Working from Home (WFH) has taken away or significantly try association. To start a dialogue, may I request you to send the top three issues reduced the commuting time. We must use any extra time available for online learning, upskilling, and building better human bonds that you think need resolution in short, medium, and long term. You through online communication. Our world has changed, and we can reach me on sudhir.nayak@ril.com/sudhir.nayak@baoa.in or on must change sooner than later, to match that. This pandemic has also WhatsApp @ +91-9867729649.  BAI

PHOTOGRAPH: SP Guide Pubns

l And how do you propose to fight against

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INDUSTRY  GROWTH

This is the Time to Harness BizAv Interest   By Ayushee chaudhary

I

ndia’s geographical location and the opportunities that come with it has been an area of global interest. The potential that the geographical dimensions offer are certainly considerable and come with a lot of scope for the aviation industry as the location makes for significant trade and tourism opportunities. Business aviation has been the talk of the season globally as it appeared to have had shares of benefits after the pandemic. According to WingX Advance, August 2021 delivered the predicted record rebound in business aviation demand. Business jet activity so far this year is still on course to eclipse the global flight activity recorded in 2019, which was the year when the market finally surpassed record activity levels back in 2008. Business jets have

Flying private has emerged as the right option to optimally balance the time and visit as well as return from a place according to one’s own requirement flown just under 2.9 million sectors in 2021 through August, three per cent more than in the same period 2019, up by 70 per cent compared to last year, the company noted. Scheduled traffic had started to recover more quickly, with flights in May 2021 up almost three times compared to May 2020. Additionally, combining scheduled, cargo and business jet flight activity, Asia was the only region ahead of 2020 trends that time. India also saw higher levels of business jet activity than in 2019. BizAv activity aids Business aviation has garnered limelight after the pandemic. People no longer look at private aviation being just for the elite but also

PHOTOGRAPH: vijayrupanibjp/Twitter

New Areas such as seaplanes have generated a lot of interest and the Government is creating a conductive environment for growth on this count

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INDUSTRY  GROWTH for those who prioritise safety, want to avoid crowd, wish for efficient results in their business, prefer flexibility and value their time as an asset. In a much awaited and significant move last year, India’s first General Aviation Terminal was inaugurated at Delhi Airport on Thursday, September 17, 2020. The terminal can cater to 150 private movements daily and handle over 50 passengers every hour. The facility consists of 70 plus aircraft parking bays, two aircraft hangars and two fixed-base operators (FBOs). Leisure travel too witnessed a surge this year compared to last year as more and more vaccinations were given and people began to step out for “workstations”. This trend is likely to go up as the work culture is expected to stay largely hybrid going ahead. Even though international trips for businessmen or travel are not expected to be back to pre-pandemic levels anytime soon, more and more people are exploring opportunities and destinations in the domestic market. While there are many private operators already present in the Indian market, new players have emerged since last year. Star Air which is majorly a regional airlines, also started charter services amidst the pandemic, striking at the need of the hour. Regional connectivity has also significantly allowed the industry to boom. More than half of the planes in the Indian business aviation industry are turboprops and smaller planes connecting regional and remote airports, Business Aircraft Operators Association (BAOA) President, Sudhir Nayak had also highlighted. More routes are being added in the domestic market. AGS Allianz noted that over 1,400 new air routes are scheduled for 2021 – more than double those added in 2016 – driven by Europe (over 600) and Asia Pacific (over 500), with regional airports set to be the main beneficiaries.

New routes and services, like seaplanes, are also being added. These new areas such as seaplanes and low-cost helicopter taxi has generated lot of interest. Government of India is already creating a conductive environment for growth on this count by building water aerodromes as well as multiple helipads along the new expressways, Nayak shared. In a step to develop seaplane services in India, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between two ministries of the Government of India on June 15, 2021. The commercialisation of Dham yatras (pilgrimages) by many private operators have also been an area of expansion and interest among the people. Use of private aircraft for humanitarian causes also boosted and highlighted the importance of the business aviation industry. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India had given out an order dated May 24, 2020, permitting international charter operations and operations by private aircraft to bring back stranded Indian nationals to India which gave the BizAv industry the opportunity they needed. In order to facilitate the movement of stranded Indian nationals and certain OCI Card holders, a Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for Private aircraft and Charter operations on international sectors in view of COVID-19 pandemic was also prepared by the Ministry through a letter issued to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Flying private has emerged as the right option to optimally balance the time and visit as well as return from a place according to one’s own requirement. Despite this, compared on a global level, India is yet far from harnessing its potential in the business aviation industry. While the authorities have taken certain significant steps in the recent past and awareness has also increased, there are still concerns

PHOTOGRAPHs: GMR Airports, Himalayan Heli Services

(Left) India’s first General Aviation terminal facility for Private Jets; (right) New areas such as low-cost helicopter taxi has generated a lot of interest

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INDUSTRY  GROWTH

The 4th phase of UDAN is expected to have a helicopter element for connectivity to remote hill areas

allowing use of rooftop helipads can set this untapped helicopter taxi industry to boom. Group Captain R.K. Bali (Retd), Managing Director, BAOA, had earlier remarked, “The UDAN case so far has been based on 30-40-seater aircraft. Ours are 6-to-20 seaters. The 4th phase of UDAN is expected to have a helicopter element for connectivity to remote hill areas. Here, we will have a big role to play. We have over 10 helicopter operators amongst our members. This should be a good utility to the public.” The highly anticipated GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-city) is garnering IFSC support to the aircraft leasing industry that will provide the necessary capital source for this industry to Factors that need correction The policies need to be regulated in a more optimum manner. For grow with inbuilt tax incentives/concessions, added the BAOA presiinstance the recently notified Drone Rules 2021 have reduced cer- dent. The jet charter company, JetSetGo recently became the first tain approvals, forms, and fees and also brought in security relax- Indian aircraft leasing company. The company’s aircraft leasing unit ations which comes as an encouragement for the industry. The busi- is expected to start operating from GIFT City next month bringing ness aviation industry in India also needs a regulated and unified in a Hawker 850. JetSetGo witnessed a multifold increase in booking framework that motivates operators to become a part of the industry request since the pandemic. As the awareness around the BA/GA industry is increasing right with the ease of doing business. An enhancement for training facilinow, this is the time to hit the nail and expand ties as well as more use of global standards is a people’s knowledge about the industry, must too. tap into the opportunity and let more Insufficient infrastructure for busiand more people enter the industry as ness & general aviation (BA/GA) has passengers, customers, operators, ownlong been a major deterrent for the secers, etc. Across the world many new tor in India. It is of utmost importance Leisure travel too owners as well as fractional owners have that the needs of the industry are incorwitnessed a surge this emerged and this can be utilised for the porated into the planning process for industry’s growth and also the economy existing as well as the new airports that year compared to last of the country. Pre-Covid-19 business will come in future. Nayak underlined year as more and more travel traffic amounted to $1.5 trillion a the need for modernisation of ATCs (Air year or around 1.7 per cent of global GDP, Traffic Controllers) and to have separate vaccinations were given according to AGCS Allianz. While the area for GA/BA aircraft parking, hangaand people began to step industry navigates to replenish, it can rage, etc. out for “workstations” equally refuel the economy in a great way Nayak underlined that the use of especially after such pandemic sides.  BAI multiple heliports in large cities and

PHOTOGRAPH: Pawan Hans

that need to be addressed swiftly. The Indian Government’s Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS), UDAN has the potential to connect more of India’s population via air transport but here again the recognition that business aviation is a key tool to enhance business productivity is necessary. The high operational cost, challenges in ease of doing business, complications with the tax structures, inadequate infrastructure and complicated processes to obtain operating licenses have resulted in subdued growth of the business aviation market.

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GULFSTREAM  INTERVIEW

EXCLUSIVE

Gulfstream – Delighting Customers and Setting Standards “We see great demand around the world for the super-midsize G280; for the industryleading performance and cabin comfort of the G650 and G650ER; and for our nextgeneration G500 and G600 and industry flagship G700”, Scott Neal, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Sales, Gulfstream in an exclusive interaction with BizAvIndia.

BizAvIndia (BAI): What all are the key pillars behind the offering of elitist jet family? Scott Neal (Neal): Gulfstream’s mission is to create and deliver the world’s finest aviation experience. We do this with an unparalleled dedication to investing in research and development; technology and innovation; quality and craftsmanship; and customer support.

Photographs: Gulfstream

BAI: The windows in Gulfstream jets are generally distinctly large in size compared to any other business jets in the world. Are these oval-shaped large windows an integrated feature on all the jets by Gulfstream? Neal: All Gulfstream’s large-cabin aircraft feature the Gulfstream panoramic oval window. BAI: Where did the idea of such panoramic windows originate from? Neal: Gulfstream has a long history of listening to customers and incorporating their feedback into aircraft development. As early as the Gulfstream I, which made its first flight in 1958, prospective customers shared that they wanted ample passenger visibility in the world’s first purpose-built business aircraft. As a result, Gulfstream

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executives designed the large elliptical oval windows that formed the basis of every window design since. The windows on the Gulfstream G500, G600, G650, G650ER and G700 are the largest in the business-aviation industry at 28.10 inches/71.31 centimeters.

“Gulfstream’s award-winning interiors stand apart in our industry. This is a result of close collaboration among our research and development engineers, industrial and interior designers, and the craftsmen and -women who hand-craft Gulfstream cabin furnishings.”

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GULFSTREAM  INTERVIEW BAI: Has this feature been received well by our customers? Neal: Gulfstream customers are very enthusiastic about the distinctive oval windows and the health benefits gained from the flood of natural light the windows let into the cabin. BAI: It is quite prevalent in the industry that Gulfstream jets fly well above the weather. What is the maximum and minimum altitude your jets usually maintain? Does it vary from G700 to G280 to G550/ G500 to G650, for example? Neal: Gulfstream’s various aircraft altitude are: Aircraft

Initial Cruise Altitude

Maximum Cruise Altitude

G280

43,000 ft / 13,106 m

45,000 ft / 13,716 m

G500

43,000 ft / 13,106 m

51,000 ft / 15,545 m

G550 / G600 / G650 / G650ER / G700

41,000 ft / 12,497 m

51,000 ft / 15,545 m

You can find this information and more on www.gulfstream.com in the specifications section of each aircraft page. BAI: Not quite long back, Gulfstream had announced about enhancing its aircraft redesign programme to offer multiple options intended to suit a wide range of owner needs and timelines. Can you share the details of the same? Neal: Gulfstream announced it has enhanced its aircraft redesign programme to offer multiple options intended to suit a wide range of owner needs and timelines. In as little as 30 business days, any Gulfstream aircraft can be redesigned with the assistance of a dedicated designer. The new Gulfstream programme empowers customers to choose a refurbishment package that best suits their situation: • The Refresh: In as few as 30 working days, aircraft receive recovered seats as well as upper and lower sidewalls, fresh carpeting and exterior paint. • The Premium: In addition to the offerings of the Refresh, aircraft are outfitted with new veneers and countertops.

The Custom: Aircraft are reimagined with all the perks of the Premium as well as a new floorplan. Redesign customers are assigned a dedicated member of Gulfstream’s award-winning, internationally recognised interior design team, who works with them from planning to completion and provides Gulfstream’s world-class service from start to finish. Aircraft can benefit from a redesign at various stages of their lifespan, depending on usage as well as owner needs and preferences. Aircraft redesigns can be accomplished when the aircraft is already undergoing other maintenance services. •

BAI: Are aircraft-interiors one of the most defining factors for Gulfstream? Neal: Yes, Gulfstream’s award-winning interiors stand apart in our industry. This is a result of close collaboration among our research and development engineers, industrial and interior designers, and the craftsmen and women who hand-craft Gulfstream cabin furnishings. BAI: Also, has it been crucial to have in-house interiors? Why is it that important through the eyes of your potential buyers? Neal: Developing, designing and completing all Gulfstream interiors in-house ensures that every aircraft cabin we deliver exceeds our customers’ expectations as well as our commitment to quality. BAI: Gulfstream delivers personalised aircraft for every mission. Can you elaborate on that? How involved are your customers in the process? Neal: Once an aircraft deal is finalised, Gulfstream’s interior design team works hand-in-hand with customers to help them realise the vision they have for their aircraft cabin. Gulfstream designers get to know customers personally to help create an interior that will meet all their on-board needs and provide the environment they need. The process begins with determining the primary function of the aircraft — how often will customers be traveling and to where; will the aircraft be used primarily for business trips or family time? Will they travel with children and pets? Will they make many overnight trips, requiring a higher number of sleeping spaces? These are just some of the questions they start with as they guide customers through the interior design process.

Gulfstream SEES GREAT DEMAND around the world FOR SUPER-midsize G280

“Gulfstream’s research and development investments have also enabled us to create a cabin environment that is the most comfortable in the industry. The Gulfstream Cabin Experience includes 100 per cent fresh, never recirculated air, the lowest cabin altitude and the whisper-quiet noise levels, all of which support passenger health and well-being.”

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GULFSTREAM  INTERVIEW

Gulfstream has enhanced its aircraft redesign programme to offer multiple options intended to suit a wide range of owners

“Gulfstream was the first businessjet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to offer sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to customers and the first to offer customers a carbon-offset PROGRAMME” BAI: Your top three picks from your jets’ family that have been received in the best manner by the elite group and what made them the best? Neal: Thanks to our long-standing business practice of continued investment in developing new technologies and our commitment to continuous improvement, all aircraft models and programmes are seeing great demand. Because the growth of business aviation has evolved so much around the world over the past two decades, to try to single out bestselling models does not accurately reflect the impact of the rise of business-jet adoption over the years. We see great demand around the world for the super-midsize G280; for the industry-leading performance and cabin comfort of the G650 and G650ER; and for our next-generation G500 and G600 and industry flagship G700. BAI: How do you ensure maintaining the level of standards and the customer trust together? Neal: Thanks to our parent company General Dynamics, Gulfstream leads the business jet industry in part because of con-

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tinued investments in research and development. These investments have allowed us to introduce six new aircraft since 2008, including the next-generation G500, G600 and G700 which include the Symmetry Flight Deck, the industry’s only electronically linked active control sidesticks and most extensive use of touchscreen technology; and enhanced flight vision system for touchdown and rollout. Gulfstream’s research and development investments have also enabled us to create a cabin environment that is the most comfortable in the industry. The Gulfstream Cabin Experience includes 100 per cent fresh, never recirculated air, the lowest cabin altitude and the whisper-quiet noise levels, all of which support passenger health and well-being. BAI: Gulfstream has been focusing a lot on sustainability. How crucial is this programme? Neal: Sustainability is a top priority for Gulfstream, and, as a result, we are a leader in supporting the business-aviation industry’s goals for sustainability. Gulfstream was the first businessjet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to offer sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to customers and the first to offer customers a carbon-offset programme. In addition, Gulfstream’s large-cabin aircraft were designed with advanced aerodynamics and feature engines with advanced technology, which, combined, reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. BAI: What should the market expect from Gulfstream in the future? Any specific new programmes in the pipeline? Neal: We are always exploring new products and services that will enhance safety, performance and flexibility for our customers. Our focus now is on certifying the G700, continuing to expand the G500 and G600 fleet, and delivering the class-leading G650, G650ER and G280 to customers.  BAI

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FLYING  PRIVATE

JetHQ excels at guiding clients through every phase of the transaction – including areas made more difficult by pandemic restrictions

  By ROHIT KAPUR

President, JetHQ Asia

T

Seek Expertise in Global Aircraft Transactions

PHOTOGRAPHs: JetHQ

he world of private aviation is more than just one country or region. It’s truly an international marketplace where the best aircraft or deal can only be found past a national border. Better options for both buyers and sellers await, but only if they have assistance navigating global aircraft acquisitions. Aircraft operators in the United States have enjoyed the benefits of a business aviation environment built over decades. With most of the world’s private aircraft located in North America, chances are a US-based buyer can generally find the aircraft with the needed specifications or fit. It’s more difficult to find the same options in emerging markets such as India or South Asia. Why should a buyer limit a search to just 10 or 20 per cent of the global market by staying within that region? JetHQ’s aviation professionals are able to source aircraft from Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the US to assist buyers in India or South Asia. JetHQ puts its full resources of worldwide connections to work for clients. Whether that’s through international research departments within North America or Europe who track every possible aircraft which may be available for sale, or locally based sales members who understand local languages, cultures and markets to locate the right plane for the client. No Supply, All Demand The private aviation market is broadening. More concept buyers – a term used to describe people who have never purchased an aircraft – are entering the market. Additionally, existing owners are wanting to upgrade their aircraft via trade. Right now, demand is high, but supply is low. Brokers are chasing aircraft and, if an

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owner hints at a coming trade, multiple buyers are making bids on the aircraft months in advance of sale. Worldwide, there are approximately 20,000 business aircraft – not enough to meet the needs of new and existing buyers. Sellers have an even greater advantage when moving internationally. For US-based sellers, allowing an aircraft to be promoted globally increases its value, and prevents it from being overlooked in a potentially saturated market. JetHQ professionals can also determine where an aircraft is in higher demand, based on thorough analysis of trends and data. That adds up to a higher resale price for owners, maximising their investment. By being a member of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA), JetHQ brings a higher level or reputation than other brokers within these markets. Buyers and sellers alike know JetHQ has been vetted and adheres to IADA’s rigorous standards to receive this prestigious accreditation. JetHQ excels at guiding clients through every phase of the transaction – including areas made more difficult by pandemic restrictions.

JetHQ strength comes from the thorough knowledge of the processes and rules and regulations that are existing

Evaluate and Inspect When exporting or importing an aircraft across borders, multiple aviation authorities have to be satisfied with the transaction. The aircraft needs to be deregistered with an export certificate of airworthiness and clear customs before an import certificate of airworthiness of the new country is granted. That only happens if the aircraft conforms to that aviation authority’s requirements and regulations. A top inspection team can make that happen more easily. They know what to look

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FLYING  PRIVATE

Kodiak is the most-advanced short-takeoff and landing turboprop available; (inset) Sanjeev Choudhary is Vice President of Sales for Asia at JetHQ

for – digging through engine and airframe histories, as well as detailed hands-on examinations. They’re also aware of what modifications or installations may be required to register and operate the aircraft in the new country. Legal aftermarket aircraft in one country may not conform to specifications and operational requirements of another. Something as simple as a galley upgrade may require modifications and proper documentation to be legal in the destination country. Of course, a thorough inspection also protects a buyer from mechanical or wear issues that might prove costly over the long term, both in money and productivity lost to downtime. Complete the Paperwork While international transactions offer wider range of aircraft and sales partners, it does come with a consideration: timing. Speeding up governmental bureaucracies – in multiple countries – can be difficult. Top brokers have the experience to know what’s realistic and how best to manage the transaction. That involves setting up escrow to cover the financial aspects, as well as on-the-ground knowledge to facilitate faster governmental inspections, certification and registration. Language or cultural differences should not be a barrier to finishing the deal, nor should time zones. An experienced team should include pilots and technicians who are type-rated for the aircraft. They’ll be called upon for the final transportation. If the regulators are satisfied, a buyer should not have to wait on delivery because of personnel shortages. Build a Partnership JetHQ clients have discovered that they have a full partner throughout the aircraft transaction process. Sanjeev Choudhary, JetHQ’s Vice President of Sales-Asia, recently assisted a client with putting together the entire structure of the purchase. This was for a concept buyer in India for the purchase of a King Air. Right from advising him on the best

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and most effecient way to buy the aircraft, he also assisted them with finance options, opinions for tax implications and also the entire process for closing, ferrying and importing to India. This was managed as a turnkey project in a seamless and efficient way. This comes only when salespeople have full knowledge of the transaction, and have the network to connect with the right people to get the job done well. The first thing that stood out about JetHQ was its familiarity with India, and its complex regulations for import of an aircraft. Advising on the correct processes and getting all the paperwork in order for obtaining permission from the regulator and the financial institution in a timely manner is what JetHQ excels at. This strength comes from the thorough knowledge of the processes and rules and regulations that are existing. The company has returned to JetHQ to assist them in finding another mid-size aircraft for its use, which JetHQ is in the process of doing. The JetHQ team for Asia consists of Rohit Kapur, President for Sales, located in Dubai, and Choudhary, located in New Delhi. JetHQ also represents Daher for the sales of the Kodiak series of aircraft in the Indian sub-continent. Move Forward with Confidence Over the next year, JetHQ expects the pre-owned market to continue to grow as clients take the lessons learned from the pandemic and secure their own private aviation solutions. Current aircraft owners should see the unmet demand by prospective buyers in South Asia and the Middle East. JetHQ advises them to take advantage of this demand and enter their aircraft into the market. With a high level of service and aircraft acumen, JetHQ’s team can advise these current owners and find qualified buyers for their aircraft that will benefit them in the long run. Just like finding the right aircraft, finding the right team is critical to a successful international transaction.  BAI

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G700  Milestone

Gulfstream G700 Takes off First International Flights, Sets Record   By Ayushee chaudhary

T

he new state-of-the-art, Gulfstream G700 set its first ever city-pair speed records. The record was established for the flight from Savannah to Doha, Qatar, and then from Doha to Paris. Termed as the largest aircraft in its fleet by Gulfstream, this fully outfitted G700 production test aircraft connected its home-base Savannah to Doha, traversing a distance of 6,711 nautical miles (nm)/12,428 kilometers (km). It covered this distance at an average speed of Mach 0.88 in 13 hours and 16 minutes. The aircraft then set another city-pair record from Doha

The flights set first ever city-pair speed records and showcased Gulfstream’s commitment towards sustainability

to Paris, flying 2,953 nm/5,469 km in six hours and 15 minutes at an average speed of Mach 0.90. “These were the first international flights for the G700, and it performed exceptionally well, setting two new records in the process,” said Gulfstream President, Mark Burns. Substantiating sustainable steps The record-breaking flights further displayed Gulfstream’s commitment towards sustainability, especially in reducing carbon emis-

PHOTOGRAPHs: Gulfstream

G700 sets an air-speed record on its first international flight

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G700  Milestone sions. For the Savannah to Doha flight, Gulfstream fueled the G700 with a blend of sustainable aviation fuel and carbon offsets were applied for both flights, informed the aerospace company. “We are proud that not only did the aircraft prove its speed and distance capabilities, but the fully outfitted cabin is also receiving rave reviews with its impressive cabin size, environment, quality and flexibility,” added Burns. Gulfstream underlined its sustainability goals that encompass three pillars: l energy and emissions, l operations, and l culture and learning. Through these goals, Gulfstream has continued to maintain levels with industry goals established by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) to curtail carbon emissions, revamp fuel efficiency and pursue carbon-neutral growth. This year, in July, another feather was added to Gulfstream’s sustainability hat as it became the first company to earn the National Aeronautic Association’s (NAA) first ever “Sustainable Wings” Certification on roundtrip for another record-setting flights from Savannah, Georgia to San Francisco, California and back to Savannah. NAA’s Sustainable Wings certification recognises records that are set using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The aerospace company has been consistently making significant efforts towards sustainability. There are several elements to Gulfstream’s sustainability programme, including aircraft sustainability, eco-friendly buildings and the use of SAF for its corporate, demonstration, customer support and flight test fleets in Savannah. Gulfstream also gives an opportunity to its operators to decrease their carbon footprint with the carbon offsets programme, which is available through Gulfstream’s Aircraft Ownership Service and funds activities that generate an equal reduction in carbon emissions. G700 Cabin features The G700 cabin is claimed as the most spacious in the industry by the company. Gulfstream further added that the cabin can be configured for up to five living areas with options for an ultra-galley with 10 feet of counter space; a dedicated crew space; an entertainment and presentation area; six-place conference and dining area; and a state room with full-length wardrobe and a grand suite with shower. Interior elements in the cabin comprise of the G700’s award-winning seat design, and the all-new ultra-high-definition circadian lighting system. Natural stone flooring in the galley and bathrooms; quartz countertops; powered single seats;

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Maximum Range2

Performance 7,500 NM

High-Speed Cruise

Mach 0.90

Long-Range Cruise

Mach 0.85

Maximum Operating Mach Number (Mmo)

Mach 0.925

Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW)

6,250 ft

Initial Cruise Altitute

41,000 ft

Maximum Cruise Altitude

51,000 ft

Systems Avionics

Gulfstream Symmetry Flight Deck

Engines

Two Rolls-Royce Pearl 700

Rated Take-off Thrust (each)

18,250 lb

2

NBAA IFR theoretical range with 8 passengers. 4 crew and NBAA IFR reserves. Actual range will be affected by ATC routing, operating speed, weather, outfitting options and other factors. All performance is based on preliminary data and subject to change. Source: Gulfstream

“These were the first international flights (Savannah to Doha, Qatar, and then from Doha to Paris) for the G700, and it performed exceptionally well, setting two new records in the process” — Mark Burns, President, Gulfstream Aerospace

surround sound; and other bespoke features that come standard on the aircraft are also included. Gulfstream has taken the G700 interior through “more than 15,500 test points to ensure the cabin’s comfort, maturity and durability upon its entry into service, validating every facet of the cabin to ensure the utmost in interior comfort and reliability upon customer delivery,” added the company. To further advance the cabin experience, Gulfstream had announced a lower cabin altitude for the all-new Gulfstream G700 on the new business jet flagship in June 2021. Originally announced with a cabin altitude of 3,290 feet (ft)/1,003 meters (m) when flying at 41,000 ft/12,497 m, the G700 cabin altitude at the same flight level has been improved to 2,916 ft/889 m. As informed by the company earlier, this enhancement allowed the G700 to retain its leadership position with the lowest cabin altitude in the business aviation industry. “This new, industry-leading cabin altitude is a result of our ongoing investments in customer health and safety and will provide even more comfort for passengers over the ultralong-range flights the G700 is capable of achieving,” Burns had stated. In addition to the low cabin altitude, the Gulfstream cabin experience on the G700 comes with: l 100 per cent fresh, never recycled air; l whisper-quiet noise levels;

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G700  Milestone

The G700 cabin is claimed as the most spacious in the industry by the company

Gulfstream also highlighted the advantage of the high speed 20 of the industry’s largest windows; that not only allows the passenger to reach the destination faster high-definition circadian lighting system; but also leads to fewer flight hours that further create longer periaward-winning seat design with advanced ergonomics and a variety of enhanced comfort preferences customers can choose ods between scheduled maintenance visits, higher potential aircraft value and fresher crews. from. Within the first year of the programme itself, the GulfThe service entry of the aircraft is expected next year in 2022. On April 15, 2021, the G700 cabin took flight on the first fully stream G700 flight-test programme had made significant progoutfitted production test aircraft. At the same time, the company ress, surpassing 1,100 hours of flying and completing new comhad announced the G700 aircraft dedicated to testing the cabin pany test regimens by February 2021 after its maiden voyage in experience had flown for the first time and joined the five other test February 2020. At that time, the G700 had successfully completed several aircraft already in the steadily maturing certification programme. Another highlight of Gulfstream, the Symmetry Flight Deck critical phases-of-flight tests, including envelope expansion, flutter, aerodynamic stalls, flying qualiis also aboard the G700. The deck featies, flight control systems and air-data tures the industry’s only active-contesting. The test fleet then went on to trol sidesticks, most extensive use of conduct winglet and wing-ice shape touch-screen technology and a data stall testing, loads testing and initial concentration network, as well as the cold-weather testing. The test aircraft award-winning Gulfstream PredicThe record was have performed avionics testing in Chitive Landing Performance System and cago, as well as Van Nuys, San Jose and Enhanced Flight Vision System and established for the Oakland, California. The G700 had also Synthetic Vision on dual head-up disflight from Savannah to begun flight-into-known-icing (FIKI) plays, informed the company. Doha, Qatar in 13 hours testing before February and successThe aircraft is powered by Rollsfully completed high-altitude engineRoyce Pearl 700 engines and can fly at and 16 minutes, and then performance testing at an altitude of its high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90 for from Doha to Paris, in 6 9,078 ft/2,767 m while undergoing high6,400 nautical miles/11,853 kilometers intensity radiated fields/indirect effects or at its long-range cruise of Mach 0.85 hours and 15 minutes of lightning (HIRF/IEL) testing.  BAI for 7,500 nm/13,890 km. l l l l

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OWNERSHIP  FRACTIONAL

How Fractional Ownership can Increase Business Aviation Industry in India   By Sudhir S. Rajeshirke

If issues pertaining to legal ownership and taxes are solved, then fractional ownership structure can offer significant benefits to Indian customers

PHOTOGRAPH: Embraer

Fractional ownership reduces upfront acquisition cost and provides convenient access to good quality business aircraft

F

ractional ownership of business aircraft has been a major contributor to the growth of business aviation industry, specifically in the USA, where the business model in its current form was launched in the late 80s. Prior to that, business aircraft users either had to purchase a whole aircraft or had to charter one, based on their requirements. Either of

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those models has problems. Purchasing a whole aircraft meant that an owner had to incur a huge outlay of upfront capital expenditure and set up a fully equipped flight department just to manage and operate a single aircraft. On the other hand, there were issues with the quality and consistency of service on a chartered aircraft. Fractional aircraft solution solved these problems. In this model,

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OWNERSHIP FRACTIONAL Opportunity for aircraft multiple owners purchase a share (usufractional ownership in India ally from 1/4 to 1/16) in the whole airAny company with an annual revenue of craft. The aircraft usually is managed `1,000 crore and above which requires by a fractional company which mainWhile on one hand a its executives to travel to destinations tains several aircraft of the same type, company saves tax, the not well served by airlines can become which are also sold to multiple owners. a potential customer for fractional airThus, every owner of a shared aircraft company also saves craft. That represents a sizeable marhas access to “blocks of usage” on the significant executive ket for aircraft fractional ownership in entire fractional company’s fleet per time and helps increase India. A main attraction of the fractional their share entitlements. industry has always been that it offered Fractional aircraft model thus company productivity lower barriers to entry for new business reduced upfront acquisition cost, proby use of aircraft for aviation users and an easy way to add lift vided convenient access to good and for companies and owners that didn’t consistent quality of business aircraft executive travel need another full airplane. without all the hassles of managing airFurther, if issues pertaining to legal craft operations. The business model ownership and taxes are solved, then also reduced the threshold of companies that could afford to purchase share in an aircraft. This helped expand fractional ownership structure can offer significant benefits to the market of business aircraft to include companies that could not Indian customers. Some of them are as follows: become owners earlier. l Better operations, maintenance and regulatory oversight: India is at a similar stage in which potential business aircraft The fractional company is responsible for servicing the flying users have only two ways in which they can use business aircraft needs of its shared owners. As an aviation company, it can put – either they purchase a whole aircraft or use charter services. together an experienced team which can service multiple aircraft The challenges in each of the cases still remain the same as menin terms of managing flight operations, CAMO functions, maintioned earlier. tenance oversight and charter the aircraft when not used by the owners. This indirectly benefits DGCA. Instead of monitoring Regulations in India for fractional assets multiple companies owning one or two aircraft and using varied Current regulations in India do not clearly allow fractional ownersystems, the DGCA has to monitor one company with multiple ship of movable assets such as aircraft or yacht. This creates a few aircraft. This tremendously reduces DGCA’s work load. challenges. First, there is no legal structure that allows multiple l  Depreciation benefits on the share of the aircraft: If compaownership titles on a single aircraft. In a standard business model, nies are allowed clear titles on their share in an aircraft asset, a fractional aircraft owner can claim depreciation benefit on the then they can claim depreciation which helps in tax savings. value of the share size in an aircraft. As there are no clear multiple Note that while on one hand a company saves tax, the company titles on a shared aircraft in India, this depreciation benefit cannot also saves significant executive time and helps increase company be claimed. Secondly, having a clear title allows an owner to sell the productivity by use of aircraft for executive travel. Hence tax savpiece of the asset at a pre-determined price to the fractional comings should be seen from the perspective that it enables better pany after a certain tenure. This form of exit is not currently posbusiness execution. sible in India. A few initiatives have been taken in the past by aviation com- IFSCA, GIFT City could provide a platform to regularise panies who planned to offer some form of structure to formalise aircraft fractional ownership fractional ownership in aircraft assets. One such structure was The Government of India established International Financial Sercompany structure in which fractional aircraft shareowners form vices Centres Authority (IFSCA) at the GIFT City in Gujarat to a company and they become the shareholders of the company. The enable aviation companies to provide innovative business models to fractionally-owned property becomes a property of the company Indian and foreign customers. As a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and shares are issued according to the share size of the individual IFSCA provides an ideal platform from which aircraft fractional owner. This model has inherent problems. First, the company still ownership services can be launched. This requires that the Ministry needs to establish a flight department and comply with regulatory of Civil Aviation not only sees the value of this business model but requirements. This is no easy task. Secondly, it is very difficult to also promotes this to other ministries such as Ministry of Finance to calculate price per share in a company that has a depreciating asset. provide depreciation benefits and Ministry of Law to provide clear This challenge typically comes up after four to five years when a new titles on shared movable assets. owner wants to purchase a share in the company from an existing Small European countries such as Malta have become a hub shareholder and the aircraft has lost more than 30 to 40 per cent of for serving private aviation solutions for large European and UK its value. Third, owners become directors in the company and are markets. In the same way, India is at the crossover of a potential subjected to liabilities of a typical aviation company. The company on-demand aviation revolution. Through aircraft fractional ownmust also comply with the provisions and regulations of the Com- ership model, we can create an aviation market for India and for panies Act. the global market.  BAI These challenges are considered too much of a hassle for any potential aircraft owner who aspires to buy a fractional share in an The author is the Chief Operating Officer of JetClub Europe, a aircraft. Therefore this model has not been successful in India. leading aircraft fractional ownership company.

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OPERATIONS  SERVICE

Good attention during course of flight & a helpful attitude with a view to make the air-traveller feel homely & comfortable is vital for a service provider

Quality of Service to Air Travellers in Aviation Industry

Illustrations: SP’s Team

  By Air Vice Marshal S.S. Chauhan (Retd)

R

ecently, an airlines rating agency has rated the top 20 airlines of the world, based on their concept statement which reads as follows: “To be named in the top twenty, airlines must achieve a seven-star safety rating and demonstrate leadership in innovation for passenger comfort”. The list of top-20 airlines, as given, is as follows: Qatar Airways, Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Emirates, Cathay Pacific. Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, EVA Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, ANA, Finnair, Japan Airlines ,

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Unfortunately, in most minds, consciously or sub-consciously, the class-based system prevalent in India since ages has given rise to a lower esteem value to the act of service to others KLM, Hawaiian Airlines, Virgin Australia, Delta Airlines, & Etihad Airways. Surprisingly, or perhaps not very surprisingly, one does not find even a single Indian airline figuring in this top 20 list! The reasons may not be far to see. It may be primarily related to the under-performed practice of service to the client, which in this case is primarily the air-traveller. Why this may be so? As an anonymous source has most aptly pointed out “The difference lies in not just meeting but exceeding customer’s expectations”.

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OPERATIONS  SERVICE What then forms a good material for providing true service to a client & make this difference? Some thought leaders & seasoned professionals in the customer service industry have put forward the following traits considered as an essential pre-requisite in personnel engaged in the service sector: l Customer Empathy/Compassion. l Communication Skills. l Patience. l Enthusiasm. l Stress Management. l Flexibility. l Charisma. l Professional Knowledge. According to another (somewhat of a sweeping!) thought, a person who: l Is good at heart. l Does not hesitate to sweep floors. l Has no inhibitions in cleaning toilets. l Has an in-built desire to serve others. l Has extraordinary patience. l Takes to requisite training like fish to water”. l Is a suitable material to go into the Service Industry. Unfortunately, in most minds, consciously or sub-consciously, the class-based system prevalent in India since ages has given rise to a lower esteem value to the act of service to others & as such, by & large, it falls short of expectations of service provided by the service providers to the clients. The act of Service to others may, in a number of cases, be still looked down upon condescendingly. Also, there is no sure-shot filter to screen some family-spoiled brats getting into the service lane through faulty selection procedures. Business Aviation is just a small shadow of the larger scheduled airlines’ operations. In scheduled airlines, with large client numbers in one flight, the service is mass- numbers based. In Business Aviation, however, with very few heads per trip to take care of, the service score is more intimate & hence it’s quality even more discernible. A genuine, non-pretentious welcome on arrival, good attention during course of flight & a helpful attitude during departure of air passengers (all this not as a routine duty or a favour but with a view to make the air-traveller feel homely & comfortable) is vital for a service provider with a difference. However, this trait, as a long time observation, is somehow seen as deficient in some aspects. This deficiency pertains to not only the ‘Pilot to Passenger’ interaction, more so in Business Aviation Operations, but also to ‘Technician to Aircraft’ or ‘Groundhandlers to Passengers & Aircraft (including its crew)’ care. This is intentionally put as generally as above, as any more specific statements may result in “raising of the storm” in self-defence by various categories of service providers, consisting of the operational, maintenance & other airport-based lobbies, forgetting that these are deeprooted issues that need an honest introspection & self-assessment before trying to remonstrate! The proof of pudding lies in the eating. No Indian Aviation Company figures in the top-20 list in which ‘passenger comfort’ happens to be one of the two main criteria. And to say that the rating agency may be biased one way or the other would, perhaps, be just akin to making a political statement in any country’s favour not listed in the top 20, rather than truly introspecting & demonstrating a will to resolve the core issues. Isn’t there, to a smaller or greater extent, an inherent attitudinal deficiency in the Indian Service Sector? How many of us will disagree that the service attitude of the product company changes for

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BizAvIndia   |  ISSUE 3  | 2021

The act of Service to others may still be looked down upon condescendingly

the worse almost immediately after a product in question is successfully sold to a client, be it a holiday package, a refrigerator, a television, a water RO system, or be it an airline ticket? In all fairness, one must also admit that some of the customers/ clients (includes air travellers) are admittedly, not holy cows! However, give & take a few positive or negative traits that are inherent to each nationality, the scene internationally in this respect is no different & may be even at par. Rowdies, expecting a slice of the moon & the sky, are universally distributed. That, however, should not affect the classical concept of service & hospitality that the bulk of customers, including the air travellers in our case, expect & ought to be given by the assigned part of the service industry. There is no magic wand to alter the basic, in-built traits of a grown-up individual’s character, presently laced with somewhat deep-rooted convictions & attitudes, nurtured & cemented during an individual’s growth period in his/her formative years. Rigorous, repetitive training in fundamental concepts of true service of raw recruits taken into a ‘National Service Force’ may provide a solution, as the service sector in India, not only in aviation but in all other service-based applications, suffers from a similar malaise and therefore needs to be overhauled to enable provision of a better service experience to the clients in every sector of application, including aviation. This would be an arduous & long-drawn exercise, similar to preparing for the Olympics, where medals are so difficult to get, unless the fundamentals of training & preparation for the event are drastically overhauled. May be, as a result, one may not only garner more Olympic medals, but may also find an Indian Aviation Company listed in the top 20 a few years hence, if not earlier!  BAI

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news  at a glance

Gulfstream G500 Interior Earns Award for Design Excellence

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ulfstream G500 have been awarded the 2021 International Yacht & Aviation Award (IY&AA) for excellence in cabin design. The “Performance and Polish” G500 entry gained the top honors in the Interior Design/VIP Completions category. The Gulfstream G500 Performance and Polish interior design conveys the aircraft’s high-speed capabilities and mimics the smooth flight passengers enjoy while flying in the aircraft’s stylish, comfortable cabin. The award-winning design was achieved through a play on contrasts in color, content and composition: linear patterns juxtaposed with sweeping movement; plush upholstery balanced with smooth, sleek lines; ebony furniture contrasting with ivory upholstery; and a carpet that blends the two. The combination of Gulfstream innovation and artistry is also evident in the award-winning seat design, advanced ergonomics, handcrafted furnishings and hand-tailored finishes. The award-winning tall and wide G500 cabin offers interior designers great flexibility. In addition to the bespoke interior, passengers flying aboard the G500 benefit from 100 per cent fresh, never recirculated air, industry-leading low cabin altitudes, whisper-quiet sound levels and 14 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows.  BAI

Embraer Delivers its 1,500th Business Jet

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he milestone aircraft is a Phenom 300E, the best-selling light jet for nine years in a row, which was delivered to Haute Aviation, a Swiss company focused on charter, brokerage, and aircraft management. The aircraft, with a non-stop range of 2,010 nautical miles (3,724 km), will allow customers from Switzerland to fly domestically, across Europe, and throughout the world. With superb runway and climb capabilities, the Phenom 300E demonstrates unmatched performance throughout the area with technologies such as Synthetic Vision System (SVS) to provide enhanced situational awareness and runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS)-the first technology of its kind to be developed and certified in business aviation. Phenom 300E is the fastest and longest-ranged light jet, capable of reaching Mach 0.80, allowing its customers to reach their destination quicker and with superior comfort. In fact, the Phenom 300E can reach all of Europe from Switzerland with all seats full, faster than any other aircraft in the segment.  BAI

Beechcraft King Air 360/ 360ER and 260 Aircraft Achieve EASA Certification

Photographs: Embraer, Textron Aviation

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extron Aviation today accomplished a major milestone with its newest twin-turboprop models, the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260, as both aircraft achieved European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification and will begin deliveries to customers throughout the region. Renowned for their versatility and reliability, King Air turboprops have been a popular choice across Europe with more than 460 aircraft throughout the region. Nearly half of all King Airs in Europe are owned and operated in France, Germany and the United Kingdom. A typical King Air 360 flight with four passengers and a single pilot has a maximum range of 3,345 km (1,806 nautical miles), allowing it to complete flights such as London to Athens or Frankfurt to Moscow without stopping to refuel. Similarly, the King Air 260 has a maximum range of 3,185 km (1,720 nautical miles), allowing four passengers and a single pilot to take complete flights such as Rome to Madrid or Paris to Stockholm without refueling.  BAI

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Beechcraft Denali Moves Closer to First Flight

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extron Aviation today announced it successfully completed initial ground engine runs on the prototype Beechcraft Denali singleengine turboprop powered by GE Aviation’s new advanced Catalyst engine. The testing moves the clean-sheet design aircraft closer to its milestone first flight, which is anticipated by the end of the year. GE Aviation’s Catalyst engine has completed over 2,450 hours of testing and is prepping for a first flight on its Beechcraft King Air flying test bed. The Catalyst engine is a more environmentally friendly engine that burns less fuel than older turboprop technologies. The Beechcraft Denali development program has achieved several important milestones in recent months. Earlier this summer, GE Aviation Catalyst engine was installed on the Beechcraft Denali prototype airframe and the aircraft was powered on for the first time. Two other Denali flight test articles are also in development. The company anticipates certification for the Denali in 2023.  BAI

BizAvIndia   |  ISSUE 3  | 2021

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news  at a glance

Bombardier Introduces the New Challenger 3500 Aircraft

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ombardier is proud to present the industry’s best super midsize business jet, the new sustainably designed Challenger 3500 aircraft. The next-generation Challenger 3500 aircraft, the evolution of the Challenger 350 aircraft, introduces a redesigned interior with intelligent and sustainably minded cabin features crafted to combine comfort with function. Further elevating the passenger experience, Bombardier’s exclusive and patented Nuage seat is included in the aircraft’s standard configuration – the first time a seat of this calibre is available in the super mid-size segment. As part of an overall focus on passenger wellness, this new business jet will provide a reduced cabin altitude of 4,850 ft at 41,000 ft, representing a 31 per cent improvement compared to its predecessor. The Challenger 3500 aircraft also introduces several innovative technological features, such as the industry’s first voice-controlled cabin to manage lighting, temperature and entertainment systems, the first wireless chargers throughout the cabin and the only 24-inch, 4K display in its class. In the cockpit, Bombardier introduces a standard-equipped autothrottle system to the Challenger 3500 flight deck, which offers the most baseline features in its class. This new business jet is expected to enter service in the second half of 2022. The latest Challenger aircraft was also designed through a sustainable lens. Following Bombardier’s recent groundwork on making the Global 7500 aircraft the first business jet ever to receive an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), the Challenger 3500

aircraft will be the first business jet in the super mid-size segment to have an EPD. In addition to this important declaration of the aircraft’s life cycle environmental footprint, other environmentally conscious initiatives include the option for customers to choose from a selection of high-end sustainable materials for the cabin. Another sustainable initiative is the introduction of the first eco app* solution in business aviation. The eco app is developed by SITA, a leading specialist in air transport communications and information technology, using its existing eWAS Pilot with OptiFlight® solution. The innovative tool is designed to specifically optimize flight plans and reduce fuel burn, further decreasing the aircraft’s environmental footprint.  BAI

Dassault Aviation Leads Business Jet Industry in Product Support

PHOTOGRAPHs: Bombardier, ICON Aircraft, Dassault Aviation

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assault Aviation was voted the top business jet OEM for product support for the third consecutive year.Its industry leading “overall average” score was 8.7 (the highest for any company in the history of the survey), up from 8.3 in 2020. In recent years, there has been a growing need for expanded facilities and capabilities, and Dassault has responded by doubling its capacity through quality acquisitions and internal investments. Through these actions, the company positioned itself well for the 2021 rebound in fleet activity and a concurrent growth trend for MRO visits. Building on its product support track record in the year ahead, the company will further expand services, like its industry-leading FalconCare guaranteed maintenance programme which will offer operators more tailored coverage options or FalconAdvantage created to provide a new Spares membership programme with exclusive benefits, discounts and extended warranties.Customer service is also making big investments in the Falcon 6X product support programme to ensure a smooth entry into service of the new aircraft in 2022.  BAI

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BizAvIndia   |  ISSUE 3  | 2021

ICON Announces Type Certified Model

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CON Aircraft announced that it is set to receive Type Certification in the Primary Category for its revolutionary amphibious aircraft, the ICON A5. The move, which allows the company to lean further into its global expansion plans, is in the final stages of approvals with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Ultimately, it will pave the way for the A5 to be exported to and registered in countries that do not recognize the Light Sport model of the aircraft. The first ICON A5 Certified Edition is scheduled for completion in late 2021. It will feature a Garmin 796 avionics package, as well as the new “Signature” livery design with three new color options. With the new Certified Edition, pilots around the world will be able to import and register their ICON A5 in their home countries.  BAI

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