Archives: Market Intelligences

Flight School Management Software Provider FlightLogger Announces Update for Partner Flight Schools – Automated Scheduling V2

FlightLogger, a leading digital flight training management software provider, has announced the release of Automated Scheduling V2, a new feature aimed at streamlining scheduling processes for flight schools and training centers. The update, which will be available for free to all users, reflects FlightLogger’s commitment to continually enhancing its platform to meet the evolving needs of aviation training providers.

“On Monday, our development team will release yet another free update, this time being Automated Scheduling V2,” shared Kenneth Jeppesen from FlightLogger.

Source: Kenneth Jeppesen (FlightLogger)

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Flight School Management Software Provider FlightLogger Onboards Learn to Fly Flight Training Group in Australia

FlightLogger welcomes Learn To Fly in Melbourne as a new client, expanding its already strong presence in Australia.

Learn To Fly Melbourne is a premier flight school offering a wide range of flight training programs designed to meet the needs of aspiring pilots. Located at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne, Australia, the school caters to both domestic and international students, providing high-quality training with state-of-the-art facilities and a modern aircraft fleet full of Diamond, Sling, and Cessna aircraft – not to forget their state-of-the-art simulators.

The school offers various programs including the Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL), Private Pilot Licence (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), and Diploma of Aviation courses. Learn To Fly is the only flight school in Victoria utilizing Diamond aircraft and is a registered training provider, making them eligible to offer VET Student Loans for diploma programs.

A perfect fit to Learn to Fly Melbourne’s quality commitment

“Learn To Fly Melbourne’s commitment to high-quality, accessible aviation training perfectly aligns with our mission to support top-tier flight schools around the globe. With the use of their modern aircraft fleet, experienced instructors, and strong industry connections, Learn To Fly Melbourne sets an impressive standard in aviation education. We’re proud that FlightLogger’s digital platform will enhance their operations, helping them deliver an unparalleled learning experience for the next generation of pilots.” – Mads D. Larsen, CEO of FlightLogger.

Offering accessible, professional, and tailored training

In addition to core pilot training, the school provides specialized courses such as multi-engine, instrument, formation, and aerobatics endorsements. Learn To Fly Melbourne emphasizes a supportive, flexible learning environment, with full-time, part-time, and even casual training options. Their mission is to make flight training accessible, professional, and tailored to each student’s career goals.

With a team of experienced instructors and industry connections, Learn To Fly Melbourne is committed to helping students achieve their aviation dreams and offering career pathways through partnerships with major airlines and flight organizations.

FlightLogger is thrilled to support Learn To Fly Melbourne’s mission to make aviation training inclusive, dynamic, and tailored to each student’s unique aspirations. A warm welcome to the FlightLogger family, which is currently present in 48 different countries globally!

Source: FlightLogger
Photo Credit: FlightLogger

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Spanish Private Equity Firm Announces Major Acquisition of Spanish Flight Training Group

Madrid, Spain – Sherpa Capital, the leading private equity firm in Iberia, is pleased to announce that it has acquired 80% of FlyBy, one of the largest flight training groups in Spain.

This strategic investment marks the beginning of a new growth phase for FlyBy, with an ambitious expansion plan that includes both internationalization and inorganic growth, as well as strengthening its position as a leading training center.

Statement:

“We would like to thank Alex Alvarez for the trust placed in Sherpa Capital by choosing us as a strategic partner to drive the company’s future growth, as well as our advisors in this transaction: Grant Thornton España, Pérez-Llorca M&A and Squire Patton Boggs,” Sherpa Capital said.

About Sherpa Capital
Sherpa Capital, with over 14 years of experience, is a leading private equity firm in Iberia. Its investment strategy, Operational Value, focuses on mid-sized companies with strategic and operational challenges. It manages over 350 million euros, standing out for its model of sustainable value creation through business improvements. Its team of 40 experts with deep operational knowledge works closely with portfolio companies, employing a unique methodology that allows for the development of plans tailored to different challenges. This approach ensures the scalability and long-term evolution of businesses, positioning Sherpa as a benchmark in business transformation and value creation.

Source: Sherpa Capital
Photo Credit: Sherpa Capital

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Shaping the Future of Military Flight Training: KF Aerospace’s Role in Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program

Canada – KF Aerospace is playing a significant role in the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program, a 25-year initiative that will modernize and enhance Canada’s military flight training capabilities. Beyond its partnership with CAE under SkyAlyne, KF Aerospace has been subcontracted to SkyAlyne for key tasks that leverage our expertise in aircraft acquisition, training, and airworthiness. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ll be doing as part of this important program:

Southport Base Operations and Multi-Engine Training Program

KF Aerospace will continue managing the Southport Base and we will take responsibility for Advanced Flying Training – Multi-Engine (AFT-ME) using the new Textron/Beechcraft King Air 260 (left) aircraft (a newer, larger and more advanced version of the King Air C-90Bs we currently operate).

While they previously handled Grob aircraft training, this will now be managed by CAE in Moose Jaw as part of the Basic Flying Training. The continued work at Southport will include:

  • Scheduling of simulator and classroom training
  • Flight Operations and Dispatch
  • Training administration and continuous improvement
  • Office-related functions and management of subcontractors

Although SkyAlyne will operate as the overarching brand, KF Aerospace will remain integral to day-to-day training operations at Southport, ensuring seamless support for Canada’s future aircrew.

There will also be a significant ramp-up period at Southport over the next few years, during which we will oversee the construction of new facilities and the delivery of new training equipment and aircraft.

Aircraft Acquisition

KF Aerospace is responsible for acquiring five training fleets to be used across three training sites (Southport, Moose Jaw and Winnipeg). These aircraft were selected to meet the diverse training needs of future aircrew:

  • Grob G120TP for Basic Flying Training (BFT)
  • Pilatus PC-21 for Advanced Flying Training (AFT) and Advanced Flying Training – Jet (AFT-J)
  • Beechcraft/Textron King Air 260 for Advanced Flying Training – Multi-Engine (AFT-ME)
  • Airbus H135 Helicopter for all Rotary-Wing Flying Training (AFT-RW)
  • De Havilland Dash 8-400 for training Air Combat Systems Officers and Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators in Winnipeg (ACSO/AESOp)

Each aircraft was chosen based on its performance, safety features, and suitability for military training. They will be critical for ensuring that future RCAF aircrew receive high-quality, mission-focused training that prepares them for real-world operations.

Airworthiness and Engineering (ATO)

In addition to Southport management and aircraft acquisition, KF Aerospace will ensure the airworthiness of all training aircraft. This includes overseeing the Acceptable Technical Organization (ATO), and ensuring that our fleet meets the stringent safety and operational standards required for military use.

Source: KF Aerospace
Photo Credit: KF Aerospace

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Digital Aviation Publisher, Padpilot, Unveils New AI-Powered Resources Designed to Enhance ATPL Theory Training

United Kingdom headquartered Padpilot has unveiled its new Digital eLearning Suite for ATPL theory, an update to computer-based training. The eLearning Suite launches with an EASA ATPL(A) Air Law course and contains microlearning modules, and new interactive visual content based on operational scenarios to bring ATPL theory to life. It covers the EASA Learning Objectives with a mix of activities in bite-sized lessons which include video lessons, cue cards, operational simulations and real-world case studies.

The precise lessons and variety of formats reduces the possibility of cognitive overload and allows students to benefit from greater learning satisfaction and improved knowledge retention. The eLearning CPourses also contain links to Padpilot’s new Smart AI Assistant: The Padpilot Briefing Room. Students are able to study more effectively with instant support, receiving accurate answers to ATPL-related questions in seconds, sourced only from from Padpilot’s complete library of ATPL theoy resources.

Students are able to master ATPL theory at their own pace, while instructors can streamline teaching objectives, enhancing student engagement with personalised learning paths and progress tracking. (More ATPL subject courses are in development).

The second new tool is The Padpilot Briefing Room: a next-generation AI-powered Smart Assistant. Built on Chat GPT 4.0 and developed with the Padpilot team of subject matter experts, this AI tool provides instant study support for students, plus a range of instructor resources, based solely on the most up to date available ATPL content.

In July, Padpilot announced major updates to its ATPL(A) materials, adding new content and amendments to reflect the most recent EASA ATPL(A) syllabus changes, including the new ECQB 2024 Amendment 5.

The Padpilot Briefing Room will enable training organisations and student pilots to access accurate, reliable, fast ATPL theory information, free from the potential errors and inconsistencies common with general searches and open-source AI.

Because it’s built on the latest AI model, the Smart Assistant goes beyond simple question-answering. It can ‘see’ and understand images, and render complex maths formulae and tables from Padpilot’s ATPL manuals. It also provides EASA Learning Objective and book chapter references with each answer given, enabling further study, and has multilingual support for a global audience.

Ground instructors can use the tool to create customised lesson plans, assessments and quizzes, reducing time spent on lesson preparation and administration.

Advanced courseware 

“At Padpilot, our mission has always been to use the latest technology to provide the most advanced pilot training courseware,” said Nathan Gray, CEO of Padpilot.

“After two years of in-house development, we’re excited to launch these dynamic tools, powered by next-generation AI, that will elevate ATPL ground training efficiency and student engagement, leading to deeper understanding, faster progress, and more knowledgeable pilots.”

The Briefing Room empowers students with instant access to accurate information and supports instructors with efficient tools, while the eLearning Courses will reduce overwhelm and enhance the student learning experience. Together, they offer dynamic new options for modern ATPL instruction.

The Padpilot Briefing Room and eLearning Suite are available now to Padpilot partner schools.

About Padpilot
Aviation courseware creator Padpilot has been bringing aviation theory to life for 14 years. Since the launch of the first-ever iPad-based digital ATPL textbook in 2011, Padpilot has harnessed the latest technology to create innovative digital teaching and learning resources that enable pilot training providers worldwide to deliver a smarter theoretical knowledge education to trainee pilots.

Source: Padpilot
Photo Credit: Padpilot

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Air Expo 2024 Launches in Abu Dhabi Including Inaugural Middle East Aviation Career Event

The event is supported by notable sponsors, including AD Mobility as the official sponsor, DCT Abu Dhabi as the destination sponsor, Etihad Airways and Adnoc as Platinum sponsors.

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Air Expo 2024 kicks off on November 19 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), running from November 19 to 21. The event places a strong emphasis on aviation training, advanced air mobility, and emerging trends reshaping the future of aviation. The opening day of this flagship event was graced by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Member and Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, as well as a representative from Abu Dhabi, top industry CEOs, and a distinguished delegation.

Supporting Abu Dhabi as a Global Aviation Hub

The three-day conference and exhibition, now in its seventh edition, highlights Abu Dhabi’s aspiration to become a global aviation hub by bringing together prominent companies such as Sanad a Mubadala company, alongside leading industry experts, Boeing, Flight Safety International, Jet Aviation,  The conference will showcase the latest developments in aerospace technologies, such as electric Air Taxi, Advanced air mobility, while also addressing crucial topics in training, services, and sustainable aviation safety.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan said: “It is with great pride that we gather at the Abu Dhabi Air Expo to celebrate the spirit of innovation, ambition, and aviation excellence. This event embodies our collective commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, driving growth, and fostering creativity within the aviation industry. Abu Dhabi’s vision is to support tourism, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic development through such world-class events. By bringing together innovators, industry leaders, and stakeholders from around the globe, we are cultivating an environment where collaboration thrives, and prosperity is achieved. The Abu Dhabi Air Expo is not only a showcase of cutting-edge aerospace advancements, but also a key platform for future opportunities and partnerships that will propel the industry forward.”

Abu Dhabi’s Leadership in Aviation Training

The Middle East Aviation Career (MEAC) initiative aims to educate, inspire, and promote inclusivity within the aviation industry. In response to the rapid growth of the UAE’s aviation sector—fueled by increasing tourism and strategic government investments—the MEAC addresses the need for a well-equipped workforce. Over 40 leading flight training schools are involved, highlighting the growing demand for qualified pilots. These coordinated sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore career prospects, embrace innovations, share insights, and address challenges in human capital development in the UAE. With a forward-looking approach to global aviation, Abu Dhabi is poised to make a significant impact at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, emphasizing the essential role of aviation training in establishing the UAE’s capital city as a key global player.

Focusing on its vision for 2030, Abu Dhabi continues to lead in aviation training solutions across the MENA region, showcasing achievements and milestones that position it as a frontrunner.

Additionally, the ‘Women in Aviation Middle East’ conference highlights vital progress in air mobility, focusing on opportunities and challenges specifically related to enhancing women’s participation and success in the aviation industry.

Advancing National Goals Through Innovation

The Air Expo is aligned with the Vision of Abu Dhabi and is a strategic fit: The aviation sector represents one of the most important vital fields that stimulate and support the growth of many sectors related to this industry & reflects the UAE’s strategic focus on integrating aerospace innovation with advanced technology and sustainability, stated H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The event promotes diversity, employment opportunities, and best practices within the industry, while also supporting the UAE’s strategic focus on integrating aerospace innovation with advanced technology and sustainability.

Partnerships Driving Growth and Connectivity

The event is supported by distinguished sponsors – AD Mobility as Official Sponsor, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national airline, serving as the Official Airline for the event and Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi, event’s Official Destination Partner, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global centre for innovation, connectivity, and world-class events, while promoting the emirate’s cultural and economic offerings.

Similarly, ADNOC is a Platinum Sponsor of the event, highlighting its critical role in fostering long-term growth and connectivity in global aviation. SANAD, a mubadala company, is supporting the event as the Gold Sponsor, while Emirates Transport is the official VIP transportation provider. 

Additionally, FlightSafety International, a global leader in aviation training and innovation, serves as the Official Conference Sponsor of Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024. This partnership reflects its dedication to driving innovation, excellence, and safety in the aviation industry. 

About Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Air Expo Abu Dhabi is a premier aviation event, showcasing the latest developments, innovations, and future outlooks in the aviation industry. The event gathers industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts to engage, share knowledge, and explore the forefront of aviation technology and solutions. For more information, visit www.adairexpo.com

Source: Air Expo Abu Dhabi
Photo Credit: Air Expo Abu Dhabi

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Grob Aircraft Contracted by SkyAlyne to Deliver 23 New Grob G 120TP Aircraft for RCAF Pilot Training

Ottawa, Canada — On November 19, 2024, SkyAlyne is pleased to announce the successful signing of a contract with Grob Aircraft SE to acquire 23 Grob G 120TP aircraft for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.

The Grob G 120TP is an upgraded version of the Grob G 120A, which is currently in use by the Contracted Flying Training and Support (CFTS) program, operated by KF Aerospace and the RCAF for RCAF Pilot training. The TP variant features updated avionics, higher performance, and a more powerful turboprop engine.

“The new Grob G 120TP will serve as the Basic Flying Training aircraft for the FAcT program, which means every RCAF Pilot who gets their wings will begin their flying training on this aircraft. Selecting the right aircraft for this role is tremendously significant to ensure that RCAF pilots have the best foundation to build upon,” explained SkyAlyne’s senior executive, Kevin Lemke. “Together with our partners across Team SkyAlyne, we are dedicated to building a world-leading pilot and aircrew solution for the RCAF. We are honoured each and every day to be entrusted to partner with the RCAF to deliver the FAcT program.”

The signing of the purchase agreement between SkyAlyne and Grob Aircraft confirms production slots and manufacturing schedule. Factory acceptance of aircraft is expected to begin in August 2025.

The Grob G 120TP is currently in use by numerous other militaries, including Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In total, over 200 Grob G 120TPs have been delivered worldwide to-date.

The 25-year FAcT program, awarded to SkyAlyne in spring 2024, is currently in a five-year transition period to become the sole Pilot and Aircrew training program for the RCAF, as the three current RCAF training programs conclude, and their responsibilities are merged into FAcT. The FAcT program is overseen from a Joint Management Office at SkyAlyne’s Ottawa headquarters, with three operational bases: Moose Jaw, SK, Southport, MB, and Winnipeg, MB.

When operational, SkyAlyne will manage and maintain the fleet while providing instructors to serve alongside RCAF instructional personnel. The Grob fleet will be based at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.

SkyAlyne: The Future of Aircrew Training
SkyAlyne is the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program provider for the Royal Canadian Air Force. SkyAlyne is a team of defence, training, simulation, and aviation industry experts assembled from across Canada, working to prepare the next generation of RCAF pilots and aircrew. SkyAlyne was formed in 2018 as a partnership between CAE and KF Aerospace, two Canadian aviation, training, and defence leaders. The partnership was built to jointly answer the call for the Government of Canada’s FAcT program. In 2023 SkyAlyne was named the preferred bidder, and in 2024, was officially contracted to partner with the RCAF and deliver the FAcT program.

Source: SkyAlyne
Photo Credit: SkyAlyne

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VoltAero Announces Training Partnership Including Flight Simulator at Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – VoltAero has signed a strategic partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with AltiSky for the Cassio electric-hybrid airplane family’s local assembly and distribution across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, selecting a partner that brings proven capabilities in aircraft marketing, distribution, maintenance, training and support.

Under terms of the new agreement, AltiSky will become a VoltAero partner, and is to build a 30,000-square-foot Cassio assembly facility with an adjoining delivery center in the U.S. along with a state-of-the-art training complex that includes a flight simulator. AltiSky also is to establish a network of regional maintenance support facilities in its area of responsibility.

This strategic partnership was announced today at the Air Expo Abu Dhabi, where VoltAero is present as part of the company’s strategy to expand its global industrial and support network while readying the production, certification and service entry of its Cassio aircraft product line. The agreement follows VoltAero’s inauguration earlier this month of its primary Cassio final assembly facility and new headquarters at France’s Rochefort Airport.

Bill Minkoff, the President and Co-founder of AltiSky, has significant expertise in aircraft sales, distribution, flight operations and advanced air mobility. Under his management, AltiSky became the first U.S. stocking dealer and service center for Tecnam Aircraft.

Minkoff is an experienced aviator, having logged 20,000 hours in various types of general aviation, commercial and military aircraft – including serving as a U.S. Navy fighter pilot and instructor, and as a line check captain with Delta Airlines. Minkoff also co-founded the Advanced Air Mobility consultancy company and served as Vice President of the Advanced Air Mobility Association.

“After looking at many of the all-electric airplanes currently under development – including eVTOLs – I’m convinced that VoltAero’s approach is truly realistic, bringing Cassio’s configuration as a conventional takeoff and landing aircraft together with the company’s proprietary electric-hybrid propulsion system,” Minkoff said. “Cassio uses battery technology and power output levels available today, backed by the safety of VoltAero’s dual-source electric-hybrid powertrain. Additionally, its operation from airports reduces risks that eVTOLs face in terms of urban acceptance and the need for significant infrastructure development.”

Jean Botti, VoltAero’s CEO & Chief Technology Officer, added that the AltiSky partnership opens the all-important North American market for Cassio aircraft. “Bill Minkoff’s aviation knowledge, along with his extensive business network and proven track record in aircraft sales, provide a partner that will position Cassio as a benchmark in North American regional air mobility.”

VoltAero’s Cassio electric-hybrid aircraft family consists of three versions that seat from five to 12 persons, and which are tailored for regional commercial operators, air taxi/charter companies, private and business owners/operators, as well as in utility-category service for cargo, postal delivery and medical evacuation (Medevac) applications.

VoltAero’s first production aircraft version will be the Cassio 330, configured with a five-seat interior and operating on a combined electric-hybrid propulsion power of 330 kilowatts. It is to be followed by the six-seat Cassio 480 with a combined electric-hybrid propulsion power of 480 kilowatts; and the Cassio 600, to be sized for a 10/12-seat capacity with electric-hybrid propulsion power of 600 kilowatts.

The VoltAero propulsion concept is unique: the Cassio aircraft will utilize the Safran ENGINeUS electric motor for all-electric power during taxi, takeoff, primary flight (if the distance traveled is less than 150km.), and landing. The hybrid feature – with the internal combustion engine from Kawasaki Motors – comes into play as a range extender, recharging the batteries while in flight. Additionally, this hybrid element serves as a backup in the event of a problem with the electric propulsion, ensuring true fail-safe functionality.

By integrating VoltAero’s patented electric-hybrid propulsion system into the company’s purpose-designed airframe, the Cassio aircraft will deliver an order of magnitude higher performance as compared to the current competition and provide significantly lower operational costs.

VoltAero is exhibiting its Cassio 330 aircraft at this week’s Air Expo Abu Dhabi in the ADNEC Centre (Exhibit stand #540). Additionally, CEO & Chief Technology Officer Jean Botti will participate in the Air Expo Abu Dhabi’s Conference program on November 20 at 15h40 with a presentation entitled: “Revolutionizing Regional Air Mobility.” Botti will be joined by Christophe Lapierre, the CEO of Sigma Air Mobility, which is collaborating with VoltAero on advanced air mobility solutions for the Cassio aircraft.

About VoltAero
VoltAero is taking electric aircraft to an entirely new level. Benefitting from 80-plus years of combined pioneering expertise, VoltAero is developing a truly unique general aviation airplane family, Cassio, for safe, quiet, efficient and eco-friendly flight in electric and electric-hybrid modes.

Source: VoltAero
Photo Credit: VoltAero

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Brazilian Pilot Training Organization, EPA Training Center, Joins E.A.V. Virtual Aviation Meeting

EPA Training Center (EPA), a 2,700 square meter pilot simulator training facility based in Curitiba, Brazil, has announced its participation in the E.A.V. – Virtual Aviation Meeting, an event bringing together virtual aviation enthusiasts from across Brazil. Scheduled to take place on November 23, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, the event will be held at Spazio Italia in São Paulo.

As part of its involvement, EPA Training Center will raffle a unique opportunity for two attendees to experience its Pilot Program for one day. The lucky winners will participate in training sessions alongside the EPA team and enjoy the thrill of flying in state-of-the-art simulators.

Source: EPA Training Center
Photo Credit: EPA Training Center

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