Flying Group / LX-FMA / Falcon 900LX

Paul Bannwarth
 

VistaJet Malta / 9H-VCQ / Bombardier Challenger 300

Flyingphotos - Lisboa
 

N858CV / Bombardier Challenger 605

 Ronald Vermeulen - FLL

Presidential Aviation / N842SS / Gulfstream G200 Galaxy

Duncan Stewart
 

Private / N1111P / Gulfstream G-V / Serial #: 536

Duncan Stewart
 

HondaJet APMG S Upgrade Package Now Certified in Mexico

APMG S program is now available to owners in both the U.S. and Mexico of HondaJet Classic and APMG aircraft, enabling performance and capabilities of recent technical innovations.

Upgrade program is available through the Honda Aircraft Company Greensboro, NC Service Center and its extensive global Authorized Service Center network

 HondaJet Classic and APMG owners in Mexico can now upgrade their aircraft with the cutting-edge performance and technical innovations introduced on more recent iterations of the platform, such as the HondaJet Elite S, with the Federal Civil Aviation Agency’s (AFAC) formal certification of the HondaJet APMG S performance upgrade package. U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification was announced in Dec. 2025.

“We are excited to provide our customers in Mexico the opportunity to upgrade their aircraft with the advanced technology and performance of more recent iterations of the award-winning HondaJet,” said Amod Kelkar, Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer at Honda Aircraft Company. “We are pursuing additional international certifications and hope to expand availability of the APMG S upgrade package to more HondaJet customers around the world soon.”

Honda Aircraft Company is offering the APMG S modifications package through the company’s Greensboro, NC Service Center as well as its global network of 21 Authorized Service Centers. AVEMEX is the official HondaJet distributor for Mexico, offering sales and MRO services, including the APMG S upgrade package. Moreover, the Honda Aircraft Company has already modified several pre-owned HondaJet aircraft with APMG S upgrades, which are available through its pre-owned aircraft program.

The HondaJet APMG S upgrade package includes avionics software and hardware that deliver faster processing speeds and enable future innovation across the legacy HondaJet fleet. These enhancements also bring key features from the HondaJet Elite S – such as the Advanced Steering Augmentation System (ASAS) – to a wider portion of the fleet. These advancements support handling precision and expand crosswind capability. As part of the HondaJet APMG S modifications, owners and operators also gain access to a 136-kilogram (300-lb) increase in Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) over the unmodified legacy HondaJet. This enhancement enables operators to access an expanded range of useful loads. Operators also gain Graphical Weight and Balance features, enabling pilots to input loading and fuel data to estimate takeoff and landing weights.

Pace Airlines / N801DM / Boeing 757-256

 Flyingphotos - Lisboa

Bank of Utah Trustee / N7378S / B737-Max 8(BBJ)

 Paul Bannwarth

Air Charter Scotland / G-MATO / Dassault Falcon 7X

Flyingphotos - Faro
 

Aga Khan Foundation / LX-TTS / Gulfstream G600 (GVII-G600)

Flyingphotos - Lisboa
 

Roman Abramovich / P4-GJC / Boeing 737-700 BBJ

 Flyingphotos - Faro

N525RA / Cessna 525 CitationJet

 Ronald Vermeulen - FLL

N808SQ / Beechcraft Premier I

Ronald Vermeulen - FLL
 

Tradewind Aviation / N259TW / Pilatus PC-12 NGX

 Ronald Vermeulen - FLL

JetMagic / 9H-AVM / Boeing 757-200

Photo: Duncan Stewart

New Cessna Caravans To Boost Usda’s Fight Against Crop-Damaging Insects

Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has ordered three Cessna Caravan aircraft to support its sterile insect release program protecting citrus crops along the Rio Grande River in southern Texas. The new aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2027.

 APHIS will use the Caravans to carry and release sterile insects that help prevent the spread of destructive pests, including fruit flies. The environmentally friendly technique helps safeguard fruit-bearing trees, reduce crop damage and protect agricultural industries that rely on healthy harvests.

 These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,

Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales

“These aircraft will help APHIS reach remote areas and carry out their important mission of protecting agriculture,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “We’re proud to support their work with the dependable and versatile Caravan.”

 Known for its payload capacity, reliability and ability to operate in remote environments, the Cessna Caravan is well-suited for aerial application missions that require long flight durations, steady low-altitude operations and access to rugged airstrips. APHIS will equip the aircraft with custom release systems that safely distribute sterile insects across wide areas — an approach that reduces pest populations without the use of chemicals.

 APHIS currently operates Cessna Stationair aircraft for similar missions. The addition of the Caravan expands its fleet capacity, enhancing the agency’s ability to conduct aerial pest management programs that protect crops, support growers and strengthen environmental stewardship.

 

Airx Charter / Bombardier Crj-200 / 9H-YOU

Flyingphotos - Lisboa
 

Piper Saratoga II TC / N459FG

 Ronald Vermeulen - FLL

AirX puts Challenger 604 into service, mulls growth

AirX Charter (AX, Malta International) has entered the super-midsize jet segment following entry into service of a Challenger 604 added in October. The company confirmed to ch-aviation that further units are expected to join within the next six months.

“By building a fleet of Challenger 604 aircraft, the company is not adding capacity in the traditional sense, but positioning unit economics to apply sustained pricing pressure on the super-midsize market,” AirX said in a statement.

The company told ch-aviation that is currently focused on the Challenger 604 and Challenger 850 product, with a minimum of three to four expected to join AirX's fleet within the next six months.

Configured for up to 12 passengers, the 2002-built Challenger 604, 9H-ATGT (msn 5517), entered revenue service in late April after being parked at London Stansted since July, where it underwent preparation for entry into service, including a full cabin refurbishment.

On April 7, the jet was ferried to Lelystad for repainting into AirX livery by Satys (France). On April 22, work was completed, and five days later the aircraft ferried to Lille Lesquin.

AirX founder John Matthews says the addition represents the opening move in what he describes as the company's “dash to 50” aircraft. In September, AirX secured a USD136 million bond, with plans to deploy proceeds toward the addition of more than 30 aircraft over the next three to five years.

The company's fleet currently comprises 20 aircraft, including an A340-300, a B737-700(BBJ), a Challenger 604, eight Challenger 850s, four Legacy 600s, and five Lineage 1000s.

“This is not a mixed fleet by accident. It is engineered. Each aircraft has a role, each role has an economic purpose, and together they allow us to apply pricing pressure across multiple segments rather than operate within a single one,” Matthews added.

CH Aviation

L’avion Global 8000 De Bombardier Fait Ses Débuts En Amérique Du Sud Au Salon De L’aviation Catarina, Au Brésil, Où Il Rejoint Sur Place Les Avions D’exception Global 6500 Et Challenger 3500

Le salon de l’aviation Catarina marque les débuts en salon du jet d’affaires Global 8000, l’avion très long-courrier le plus rapide du monde et à l’avant-garde de l’industrie

L’avion Global 6500 aux caractéristiques sans compromis et le très populaire avion Challenger 3500 de Bombardier seront également exposés au salon, mettant en valeur leurs performances exceptionnelles, leurs technologies de pointe et leurs cabines au design novateur

Bombardier a annoncé aujourd’hui que l’avion d’affaires le plus rapide du monde, le Global 8000, sera présenté au salon de l’aviation Catarina à São Paulo, au Brésil, du 21 au 23 mai, marquant ainsi les débuts en salon de cet incroyable avion d’affaires. L’avion Global 6500 aux caractéristiques sans compromis et le très populaire avion Challenger 3500 de Bombardier seront également exposés au salon, dévoilant ainsi leurs impressionnantes caractéristiques de conception et de performance aux clients de la région. L’équipe des ventes de Bombardier sera également sur place pour rencontrer les clients.

Les avions Global 8000, Global 6500 et Challenger 3500 de Bombardier offrent aux clients un luxe, des performances et une distance franchissable de premier ordre, idéals pour les terrains d’aviation au climat chaud, en haute altitude et à pistes courtes. Produit phare de Bombardier annonciateur d’une nouvelle ère, le jet d’affaires Global 8000 est l’avion civil le plus rapide dans le ciel, avec une vitesse maximale de Mach 0,95 et une distance franchissable de 8 000 NM(1), permettant aux passagers de voler plus vite et plus loin que jamais.

Offrant l’altitude en cabine la plus basse en production dans l’aviation d’affaires, soit 2 691 pi en cabine à 41 000 pi d’altitude(1), l’avion Global 8000 réduit au minimum le stress physiologique associé aux voyages en haute altitude, permettant aux passagers d’arriver à destination reposés et prêts à poursuivre leurs activités. Grâce à son impressionnante distance franchissable, cet avion peut assurer des liaisons entre plusieurs grandes villes, notamment entre São Paulo et Perth, São Paulo et Vancouver, ainsi qu’entre São Paulo et Dubaï.

Outre ses capacités long-courriers, sa basse altitude en cabine et son vol en douceur emblématique, l’avion demeure remarquablement agile, avec des performances au décollage et à l’atterrissage comparables à celles d’un avion léger. Le profil évolué de son aile, dotée de becs de bord d’attaque uniques, permet à ses clients de maîtriser jusqu’à 30 % plus d’aéroports que son plus proche rival.

« L’avion Global 8000 de Bombardier se situe aujourd’hui au sommet de l’aviation d’affaires, tandis que l’avion Global 6500 et l’avion Challenger 3500 de premier ordre affichent des performances éprouvées. Le salon de l’aviation Catarina offre à Bombardier l’occasion idéale de mettre en valeur les performances et les qualités de conception exceptionnelles de ces avions incroyables », a déclaré Frank Vento, vice-président, Vente, États-Unis et Amérique latine, Bombardier. « Bombardier est particulièrement bien positionnée sur le marché brésilien, et nous sommes ravis de mettre en valeur les qualités incroyables de ces avions impressionnants. »

L’avion Global 6500 de Bombardier allie style, performance et innovation sans compromis pour transporter les passagers plus vite et plus loin, tout en leur offrant le vol le plus en douceur possible. Avec une vitesse maximale de Mach 0,90 et une distance franchissable de 6 600 NM(2), il permet de relier des destinations clés telles que São Paulo à Aspen, São Paulo à Londres et São Paulo aux Lagos.

Sans être en reste, l’avion Challenger 3500 de Bombardier incarne le summum de la performance et de la valeur dans le segment des avions superintermédiaires, alliant une technologie de pointe à un confort exceptionnel pour les passagers. En 2025, l’avion Challenger 3500 a été l’avion d’affaires superintermédiaire le plus livré, avec près du double de livraisons de son plus proche rival. Il offre une distance franchissable de 3 400 NM et une vitesse maximale de Mach 0,83(2), permettant de relier des destinations clés telles que São Paulo à Saint-Martin, São Paulo à El Calafate, ainsi que São Paulo à Dakar.

Les clients de la région qui souhaitent faire entretenir leurs avions bénéficieront également d’une plus grande tranquillité d’esprit grâce au réseau de service et de soutien dévoué de Bombardier, notamment l’établissement de service agréé MAGA Aviation situé à l’aéroport Catarina de São Paulo, qui propose des services de maintenance en ligne, des pièces de Bombardier et les outils nécessaires pour tous les avions Global, Challenger et Learjet.

Le centre de service complet de près de 28 000 m2 (300 000 pi2) de Miama-Opa Locka appartenant à Bombardier propose aux clients des capacités de maintenance étendues, et Bombardier dispose d’un vaste réseau d’environ 100 établissements dans le monde qui sont prêts à soutenir les clients n’importe où et n’importe quand.

Les visiteurs du salon de l’aviation Catarina auront l’occasion d’explorer l’avion d’affaires le plus rapide de la planète, le Global 8000(1), ainsi que les impeccables avions Global 6500 et Challenger 3500.

Fleet Launch Customer Netjets Takes Delivery Of First Three Cessna Citation Ascend Midsize Business Jets

 

Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, achieved a major milestone as the first three Cessna Citation Ascend business jets were delivered to fleet launch customer NetJets. NetJets, which operates the world's largest, most diverse private jet fleet, is the first private fleet operator to take delivery and begin operations with the Cessna Citation Ascend. Setting new standards in performance, comfort and operational efficiency for the midsize business jet market, the Citation Ascend builds on the longstanding relationship between Textron Aviation and NetJets by offering owners a seamless progression of advanced aircraft designed to deliver exceptional reliability, efficiency and luxury.

“The Citation Ascend represents our continued investment in supporting NetJets customers well into the future,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “Building on the proven performance the Citation family is known for, the Ascend introduces new technology and comfort enhancements that matter to fleet customers. We look forward to supporting NetJets as they take delivery of their first Ascend and continue delivering a premium, dependable experience for customers around the world.”

The Ascend offers NetJets owners a blend of productivity, performance and luxury. Key features include:
Spacious, luxurious cabin: A flat floor with generous legroom, seating configuration for eight passengers, a full refreshment center and spacious baggage compartment provide unparalleled comfort during every flight
Leading avionics: Equipped with Garmin G5000 technology, the Citation Ascend features the latest software and hardware, including autothrottles for enhanced operational ease
Enhanced efficiency and power: Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, the Ascend delivers increased thrust, improved fuel efficiency and a four-passenger range of 1,940 nautical miles

“NetJets is the world leader in private aviation known for its unwavering commitment to safety and service. The Cessna Citation Ascend is the newest way to experience that,” said Patrick Gallagher, president, NetJets Aviation. “NetJets is pleased to be the fleet launch customer of the Citation Ascend. Building on the success of the Citation Latitude and Citation Longitude, our discerning owners have shown a preference for midsize jets, and the Citation Ascend represents the next evolution in midsize jet travel, delivering the latest in exceptional design and comfort.”

Through the years, NetJets has owned and operated industry-leading Citation business jets, including the Citation S/II, Bravo, V Ultra, Encore, Encore+, VII, Excel, XLS, Sovereign, X, Latitude and Longitude models. The company’s new Ascend will begin operations immediately, offering NetJets owners premium amenities, ideal range, and additional seating for both business and leisure travel. Additional deliveries of the Citation Ascend are expected in the coming months as the NetJets fleet continues to expand.

Textron Aviation supports Citation Ascend operators like NetJets with an unmatched global Aftermarket network built for reliability and scale. With 20 company owned service centers, 21 Authorized Service Facilities (ASFs), more than 40 mobile service units and 24/7 aircraft on ground (AOG) support, expert assistance is always close at hand. An expanded parts distribution network enables fast access to more than 150,000 part numbers, helping maximize aircraft availability and minimize downtime across complex, high utilization fleets.

Next-Generation Praetor 600E Earns Triple Certification From Anac, Faa, And Easa

·Triple certification by ANAC, FAA, and EASA underscores Embraer’s engineering excellence and global operational readiness

The Praetor 600E debuts Embraer’s Smart Window™—redefining how passengers experience productivity, connectivity, and comfort

Embraer (NYSE: EMBJ / B3: EMBJ3) today announced that the Praetor 600E has earned triple certification from Brazil’s Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC—Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil), the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency).

The certification follows the unveiling of the new aircraft, alongside the Praetor 500E, in February 2026, when both were introduced as the first evolution of the industry-leading Praetor family. This milestone confirms the Praetor 600E’s readiness for global operations, meeting strict safety and performance requirements while introducing a new era of cabin experience.

“Achieving triple certification from ANAC, FAA, and EASA is an important milestone for the Praetor 600E,” said Michael Amalfitano, President and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “Since announcing the aircraft in February, new customer sales and market feedback have been exceptionally strong. This triple certification is a clear validation of Embraer’s engineering excellence and accelerates our path to entry into service for customers worldwide.”

With an intercontinental range of 4,018 nautical miles (7,441 km), four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves, the Praetor 600E enables nonstop missions between major city pairs such as London–New York and São Paulo–Miami. Complementing this performance capability, the latest model introduces a completely reimagined cabin, featuring all-new Embraer-designed seating, an advanced Cabin Management System (CMS), and next-generation technology that elevates comfort, productivity, and connectivity.

The Praetor 600E introduces industry-first cabin technology with a 42-inch, 4K OLED touchscreen Smart Window™, an optional feature delivering a new level of functionality and immersion. This Embraer-exclusive touchscreen enables video conferencing, high-resolution content streaming, and real-time external views via three externally mounted cameras. With the option to configure a divan across from the Smart Window™, the cabin becomes a versatile environment for meetings, movies and other entertainment.

The super-midsize jet also features Embraer’s comprehensive avionics suite—including class-exclusive full fly-by-wire technology with active turbulence reduction, the Embraer Enhanced Vision System (E2VS), and the Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS)—reducing pilot workload, enhancing situational awareness, and supporting smoother flights while expanding operational flexibility to a broader range of destinations.

The Praetor 500E is expected to receive triple certification by the end of 2026. For new orders, deliveries for both aircraft are planned to begin in 2029.

 

N307HR / Gulfstream G280

 Ronald Vermeulen

N173JM / Gulfstream G200

 Ronald Vermeulen

N100ZT / Cessna 525C CitationJet 4

 Ronald Vermeulen

Net Jets Europe / CS-CHK / BD 700-1A10 'Challenger 350'

Paul Bannwarth
 

Qatar Executive / A7-CGD / Gulfstream G 650ER

Paul Bannwarth
 

Skyservice Business Aviation / C-FWSH / Gulfstream G 280

Paul Bannwarth
 

Textron Aviation Announces Fleet Order From Luminair To Operate Nine Best-Selling Cessna Citation Latitude Midsize Business Jets, Supporting Charter Operations Across Europe

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany (April 21, 2026) – Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced at AERO Friedrichshafen it has entered into a purchase agreement with LUMINAIR, a private jet operator in Europe, to operate nine Cessna Citation Latitude business jets. Renowned for its exceptional features, versatility, impressive range and operating economics, the best-selling midsize business jet was selected by LUMINAIR to support their increasing demand and enhance their mission flexibility.

“The Citation Latitude is exceptionally well suited to LUMINAIR customers travelling across Europe, offering a spacious and comfortable cabin experience along with the reliability they need to make regional missions feel effortless, day after day,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Marketing. “The Latitude delivers seamless connections between Europe’s major cities, offering efficient travel options for passengers.”

With a stand-up, flat-floor cabin and ample space for up to nine passengers, the Citation Latitude stands as a preferred choice among customers for a wide range of operations, including corporate travel, personal travel, air ambulance, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), utility transport, aerial survey, flight inspection, training and numerous other specialized missions. The Latitude can fly nonstop between destinations such as Edinburgh to Larnaca, Riga to Tenerife and Helsinki to San Sebastián. Deliveries to LUMINAIR are expected to begin this year.

“The introduction of the Citation Latitude marks an important milestone in our fleet strategy,” said Alexander Stevens, chief operating officer and founder of LUMINAIR. “We are scaling with purpose - expanding our capabilities while maintaining the steadfast commitment to safety and excellence our clients expect.”

Gulfstream Delivers 10Th G700 Aircraft To Qatar Executive

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. today announced it has delivered the 10th G700 aircraft to Qatar Executive, the private jet charter division of Qatar Airways Group. This delivery completes the order announced in October 2019 and marks the 25th Gulfstream aircraft delivered to Qatar Executive since the partnership commenced in 2015.

“Qatar Executive has been a valued and respected partner for more than a decade,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “We were honored to have them as our international partner for the G700 launch and first delivery and appreciate their continued trust as we deliver yet another high-quality aircraft to their growing world-class fleet.”

For Qatar Executive, the delivery of this G700 is a key milestone in its continuous growth strategy, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global business aviation market while continuing to expand its capabilities and enhance the travel experience for its passengers.

The G700 features the most spacious cabin in the industry and the Gulfstream Cabin Experience with 100% fresh air, natural light from 20 Gulfstream Panoramic Oval Windows and the industry’s lowest cabin altitude at the highest elevations. With a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.935 and a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.90, the ultralong-range G700 has more than 90 city-pair speed records to date.

The performance capabilities of the G700 can be attributed to the combination of Rolls-Royce Pearl 700 engines, Gulfstream-designed advanced aerodynamic wing and high-speed winglet introduced on the aircraft. The G700 is also outfitted with the award-winning Predictive Landing Performance System and dual head-up display featuring Gulfstream’s new Combined Vision System (CVS) that unites Enhanced Flight Vision System (EFVS) and Synthetic Vision System (SVS) in a single image, increasing pilot situational awareness and opening access to more airports.

Pilatus Breaks Ground on Delivery Center as well as Manufacturing and Engineering Facility in Colorado USA

Pilatus marked the official start of construction on a new state-of-the-art facility at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Broomfield, Colorado. The new building will house a premium customer delivery center, where customers from all over the country can configure and personalize their PC-12 or PC-24. Additionally, Pilatus will significantly expand its existing engineering as well as passenger seat processing capabilities for the growing fleet.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together senior Pilatus executives and representatives from Jefferson County Government, Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, and numerous local and regional stakeholders.

Markus Bucher, CEO of the Pilatus Group, emphasizes the importance of the investment: “This new facility with an investment of 50 million US dollars will allow Pilatus to expand local engineering capabilities by creating more than 50 new, highly paid jobs. Together, these functions will support Pilatus’ continued commitment to quality, innovation, and Swiss craftsmanship while ensuring an exceptional customer experience”.

Thomas Bosshard, CEO of the Pilatus subsidiary, Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd, added: “The United States is the most important market for Pilatus, and this investment underscores our commitment to a personalized and seamless customer experience throughout the ownership journey”.

Eco-Driven Building Design

Sustainability is a key element of the project and a core value for Pilatus. The new building has been designed to achieve LEED Gold certification and will incorporate photovoltaic panels to harness solar energy, reflecting the company’s commitment to responsible growth and environmentally conscious operations. By integrating sustainable energy solutions and high-efficiency design standards into the facility, Pilatus continues to prioritize long-term environmental stewardship as it expands its global footprint.
Large footprint in the US

Effective January 1, 2026, Pilatus consolidated its US subsidiaries into a single entity, Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd, creating a unified organization of approximately 400 employees with harmonized systems across all American operations. The company’s US footprint includes its headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, as well as additional locations in Westminster (Maryland), Rock Hill (South Carolina), and Atlanta (Georgia).

PC-12 PRO Simulator Certified for Pilot Training

Progressive, Proven, Professional: the Pilatus Advanced Cockpit Environment (ACE), based on the Garmin G3000 PRIME, is at the heart of the brand-new PC-12 PRO. The accompanying flight simulators have now been certified, and are set to play a center stage role in the new pilot training program. The system is unique within this aircraft category, and sets new standards in terms of technology, efficiency and safety.

The new PC-12 PRO flight simulators mark a significant milestone in pilot training. Approved in accordance with the requirements of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), they are now available for various training missions in Switzerland, and in the USA through SIMCOM.

The Europe-based simulator is EASA-approved as a Level 2 Flight Training Device, and as a Level II Flight Navigation Procedures Trainer Multi-Crew Cooperation. Under the FAA, the simulator is approved as a Level 6 Flight Training Device.

Serving as a systems trainer, the simulator allows crew members to familiarize themselves with the systems and functions of the PC-12 PRO’s brand-new smart cockpit, and to acquire proficiency in operating them in a realistic environment. It can also be used to train procedures and workflows, including the simulation of abnormal situations and challenging weather conditions. 

PROficient Training

Time in the simulator provides very effective, high-quality training, allowing pilots to practice complex or rare situations in a realistic environment with opportunity for repetition, further enhancing safe operation of the exceptionally safe, globally proven PC-12. At the same time, simulator training contributes to sustainability as it has less impact in terms of emissions.

The differences training required to transition from the PC-12 NG or NGX to the PC-12 PRO can be completed entirely in the simulator. All this results in training of the highest quality that is also more time and cost-effective.

The new PC-12 PRO simulator provides a highly efficient platform for learning to operate the brand-new Garmin G3000 avionics. “The instructors are true experts who push you to perform at your best,” says Captain Ralf Wendland of Austrian-based Kitzbühel Airways, who successfully completed the training.

David Liechti, a pilot and Team Leader Flight Training at Pilatus, added: “We are taking training to the next level with our new PC-12 PRO flight simulator and web-based training. The result is a training program which not only delivers the highest quality, but also actively contributes to improved flight safety”.

The first full-motion PC-12 PRO simulator is also currently in production and is planned to be available in 2028 at Fly7’s training center at Lausanne Airport (La Blécherette), Switzerland.

PrivatAir / D-APAB / Airbus A319-132

 Flyingphotos - Lisboa

PrivatAir / D-APAA / Airbus A319-132

Flyingphotos - Lisboa
 

Private (280 Holdings) / Boeing 727-212(Adv) / N31TR

 Flyingphotos - Lisboa

Private / N50TC / Boeing 737-72T(BBJ)

 Flyingphotos - Newark Liberty International Airport

Peruvian Army Selects Beechcraft King Air 360C For Multi-Mission Operation

King Air 360C strengthens Peruvian Army’s ability to deliver emergency response and life-saving aid to remote regions

 The Peruvian Army has signed an agreement to purchase a cargo door equipped Beechcraft King 360C aircraft, which is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, to deliver critical services for communities across the country. With its generous payload, the twin-engine turboprop will enhance the Army’s capability to perform medical evacuations, transport patients and provide rapid humanitarian aid during disaster relief efforts. The aircraft is expected to enter service in 2028.

This order follows the delivery of two multi-mission, air medical equipped Beechcraft King Air 360CHW aircraft to the Peruvian Air Force. The King Air 360CHW is cargo door equipped and fitted for operation at higher operating weight.

The Beechcraft King Air 360C is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company.

 The King Air 360C will give the Peruvian Army a versatile, enduring platform for critical care transport and disaster response, and we’re honored to support their national mission.

Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales

“Beechcraft and Cessna aircraft designed for special missions continue to demonstrate unmatched reliability in some of the world’s most demanding environments,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales. “The King Air 360C will give the Peruvian Army a versatile, enduring platform for critical care transport and disaster response, and we’re honored to support their national mission.”

Through a King Air 360C offset program, Textron Aviation is strengthening its relationship with the Peruvian Army by delivering advanced capabilities and long-term support. The collaboration includes an aeromedical project with medical beds and equipment, plus training on installation, operation and maintenance. Textron Aviation will also offer aircraft maintenance instruction, including engine and avionics technician training, ensuring the Peruvian Army can sustain and maximize its fleet.

 The Peruvian Army has operated Textron Aviation aircraft for more than 20 years, including the Cessna Skylane, Skyhawk, Amphibian Caravan and Citation Excel, along with the Beechcraft King Air 350 and 1900D.

 For more than 60 years, the Beechcraft King Air has delivered proven reliability and mission flexibility. Since 1964, customers have taken delivery of more than 7,900 aircraft, logging over 66 million flight hours worldwide, including strong adoption in international markets such as Peru, where King Airs make up 44 percent of the turboprop fleet. The King Air is the world’s best-selling business turboprop family, supporting commercial and special missions for every branch of the U.S. military.

 Endless Special Missions Possibilities 

When government, military and commercial customers need airborne solutions for critical missions, they turn to Textron Aviation, home to the iconic Beechcraft and Cessna brands. Textron Aviation offers the industry’s broadest range of special mission aircraft with customizable configurations using proven technology and advanced engineering. The Textron Aviation family of aircraft includes single- and multi-engine piston aircraft, turboprops and Citation jets. These aircraft support missions such as air ambulance, amphibious operations, flight inspection, aerial surveillance, training and utility transport, all backed by an extensive global service network. For more information visit www.specialmissions.txtav.com

 

The Indonesian Ministry of Defense Selects the PC-24 with an Order for Twelve Aircraft

The Indonesian Ministry of Defense has selected the PC-24 to support the Indonesian Air Force transport pilot training, air transport and liaison missions. A contract for twelve PC-24s has been signed with PT E-System Solutions Indonesia, the authorized defense contractor by the Ministry of Defense. The contract includes an option for additional aircraft, ground support equipment, tools, spare parts, training, and technical support from Pilatus headquarters in Stans, Switzerland.

The PC-24 was developed for exceptional operational flexibility and is certified for single-pilot operation. It is equipped with a standard cargo door and is approved for use on unpaved runways. These features make the aircraft ideal for a variety of government missions, including instrument flight rules (IFR) pilot training, transport, and liaison duties. Pilatus will provide its integrated support program to ensure maximum fleet availability and efficient maintenance.

With the selection by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, Pilatus has further strengthened its presence in Southeast Asia. The planned usage demonstrates the great versatility of the PC-24. Above all, however its ability to take off and land at short airfields and operate from unpaved runways, which increases accessibility to more remote islands in the 17,000-island nation, was a decisive selection criterion.

Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, commented: “We appreciate the trust placed in Pilatus by the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. This program marks the beginning of a long-term relationship, and our priority is to support Indonesia in putting the fleet into service smoothly.”

Ioannis Papachristofilou, Vice President of Government Aviation at Pilatus, added: “The selection by the Indonesian Air Force emphasizes the growing interest of government operators in our PC-24 Super Versatile Jet. We remain focused on supplying solutions to facilitate various missions ranging from training to transport.”

At the same time, a Letter of Intent (LOI) has been signed among the parties for the supply of 24 PC-21 trainers. This package also includes Ground Based Training Equipment, spare parts, ground support equipment and technical support.

Pilatus Acquires German Air Alliance and Strengthens Its Presence in Europe

Founded in 1993, Air Alliance GmbH is recognized for its expertise in the sale of Pilatus aircraft, maintenance services and flight training. The entire workforce of approximately 120 employees will be retained under the acquisition. René Petersen, the current Managing Director, will remain with the company as CEO. He and his team will lead further operations under the new ownership structure.

Air Alliance has been an authorized Pilatus Sales & Service Center since 2014, overseeing sales and technical support for the PC-12 and PC-24 in Germany and Austria. The company’s portfolio of services also includes a flight training school and commercial flights with the PC-12 and PC-24 Super Versatile Jet under a professional aircraft management program and air operator certification (AOC). This puts Air Alliance in touch with the entire value chain: from sales and maintenance through to operational management.

Unicair GmbH, the Air Alliance Group’s subsidiary, which provides global ambulance flights, is not part of the acquisition and will remain an independent company.

Growing European Market

The acquisition builds on a successful partnership of many years. It provides an opportunity for Pilatus to expand its market presence and strengthen the quality and consistency of its portfolio of services in Europe, with the aim of moving even closer to its customers and of consistently leveraging synergies between manufacturing, sales and operations.

Speaking at the contract signing, Pilatus Chairman of the Board of Directors, Hansueli Loosli, noted: “Europe, particularly Germany and Austria, is a very important market for Pilatus, and offers potential for further growth. This acquisition gives us the opportunity to leverage synergies and move even closer to our customers with the Pilatus brand and our own services. I’m delighted that we have Air Alliance and its employees on board with us to fulfill our mission together – Welcome to the Pilatus Family!”

The merger opens the door to new opportunities for Air Alliance, too: “Pilatus will allow us to embark on further growth in our markets and areas of strengths – something which we could not have achieved at the planned pace without a partner as strong as Pilatus”, commented René Petersen.

Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus, added: “Going forward, we will do everything possible to work together to provide our customers with the exclusive, first-class service they are entitled to expect as purchasers or owners of a Pilatus aircraft. We all look forward to building an even closer partnership in the future.”

The transaction is subject to the usual regulatory approvals as well as the approval of the German Federal Aviation Authority.

Cirrus Delivers Strong 2025 Performance

Duluth, MN and Knoxville, TN — Cirrus delivered 691 SR Series aircraft – SR20, SR22, SR22T – and a record-breaking 106 Vision Jets in 2025. Following the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) annual report, the SR Series is the best-selling high performance single-engine piston aircraft for 24 years in a row, and the Vision Jet is the best-selling jet in general aviation for eight years in a row, leading the business jet market.

Cirrus delivered a remarkable year with the unveiling of the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland while celebrating 11,000 total SR Series deliveries. The new Cirrus Instrument Rating Program and Cirrus Next™ also contributed to successfully creating a pathway for Cirrus owners to advance their flight training or upgrade their aircraft.  

“Cirrus continues to create momentum in Personal Aviation through its leadership in product innovation, ownership offerings and new services,” said Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus. “Owning and operating a Cirrus unlocks opportunities and grows economies. These milestones reflect Cirrus’ dedication to continuous innovation in Personal Aviation.”  

SR Series & Vision Jet 

With the introduction of SR Series G7+ featuring Safe Return Emergency Autoland, the Cirrus SR Series became the world’s first single-engine piston aircraft equipped with an FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing system, where passengers can easily activate the system in an emergency with a push of a button. Safe Return Emergency Autoland then proceeds to autonomously communicate, navigate and land the aircraft at the most suitable airport.  

Now all Cirrus aircraft features a total safety solution with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®), Safe Return Emergency Autoland and Perspective Touch+™.  

The G7+ also added Automatic Database Updates, Runway Occupancy Awareness and Smart Pitot Heat. 

Cirrus returned the Arrivée Special Edition aesthetics package for the SR Series product line. New exterior colors and premium leather options add to an enhanced, luxurious, in-flight experience. 

Cirrus Approach™ Flight Training 

Cirrus Approach expanded its offerings with a new Cirrus Approach app to support advanced tools for flight training. With the new app, students paired with Cirrus instructors can access comprehensive training material and track progress from Apple iPad devices. 

Cirrus also introduced its Instrument Rating Program, designed for those interested in advancing their pilot expertise for all-weather flying. The program combines self-study content with in-person flight training including safety and best practices for operating a Cirrus aircraft. 

Cirrus expanded its Vision Jet flight training capability at its location in Scottsdale. The new Vision Jet flight training simulator is used for recurrent Vision Jet training. The simulator replicates the technologically advanced Vision Jet flight deck. 

Cirrus Owner Services 

Cirrus introduced its latest Cirrus IQ app update with Cirrus IQ PRO™ designed to enhance the pilot and aircraft ownership experience by providing real-time data, remote status updates and maintenance tracking to effortlessly manage their aircraft. With the G7+ introduction, Automatic Database Updates were enabled by Cirrus IQ PRO connectivity. 

Cirrus has simplified the aircraft upgrade process with Cirrus Next. The new program is supported through Cirrus to ensure a streamlined upgrade pathway to a new aircraft, including a trade-in or transition option for the aircraft you currently own.  

Company Investment 

Cirrus is investing in expanding its Grand Forks manufacturing facility to support developing the world’s best-selling aircraft and opened its McKinney location to support aircraft sales and management, flight training and more. 

To learn more about Cirrus, visit www.cirrusaircraft.com.