Market Intelligence: -General Aviation

Redbird Flight Simulations and Sporty’s Partner to Advance Migration Flight Training Conference

USA – At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, Redbird Flight Simulations and Sporty’s announced a new strategic partnership to jointly advance the Migration Flight Training Conference, a premier event for aviation educators and flight training professionals in the United States.

  • The partnership will see Sporty’s actively contribute to the development of the conference agenda, content creation, and promotional outreach to its extensive audience of pilots, students, and flight instructors.

  • Migration was established by Redbird in 2011 and has evolved into the leading annual gathering for U.S. flight training professionals, university aviation educators, K-12 administrators, and general aviation stakeholders.

  • Past editions have featured participation from key institutions including the FAA, NTSB, and AOPA, addressing regulatory updates and practical challenges in flight training.

  • Migration 2026 will be held March 3–4 at the Aerospace Center for Excellence in Lakeland, Florida—marking the conference’s return to one of its most impactful venues.

Statements

  • “Migration has become a linchpin in aviation education that facilitates opportunities for flight training professionals, general aviation leaders, and K-12 administrators and teachers to network with and learn from one another,” said Redbird CEO Charlie Gregoire. “This partnership with Sporty’s will only increase the value the event offers attendees.”

  • “Migration brings together the people and ideas that move flight training forward, and that’s exactly where Sporty’s wants to be,” said John Zimmerman, President & CEO of Sporty’s. “We’ve long admired Redbird’s commitment to improving the aviation learning experience.”

Source: Redbird Flight Simulation

Source: Redbird Flight
Photo Credit: Redbird Flight

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Diamond Launches Flying Club at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025 to Build Global Pilot Community

Global – Diamond Aircraft has officially launched the Diamond Flying Club, introduced during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025 and originally established in May 2025, aimed at strengthening community ties among Diamond operators.

Conceived and operated by Wanfeng Diamond Aircraft’s headquarters, the DFC adopts a model of one global headquarters plus three regional hubs in Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region respectively. Driven by a vision to continually improve the overall aviation experience, DFC will serve as the premier platform to connect aircraft owners and aviation enthusiasts with the Diamond Aircraft company; to link members with fellow members; and to coordinate suppliers, flight schools, dealers, and service providers.

The club’s official online platform will feature six core functions:

  • A club overview, with comprehensive information about the DFC
  • A quick and easy enrollment system for club membership
  • A portal to share the latest Diamond Aircraft news as well as updates on our global event schedule
  • Our e-commerce “Pilot Shop” platform for Diamond-branded General Aviation products
  • A member center that will include streamlined registration to Diamond events
  • An online forum with multilingual functionality to enable members to stay in contact wherever they happen to be.

The DFC will not only be open to Diamond aircraft users, but also to aspiring aviators and wider fans of Diamond Aircraft and General Aviation. By building a cross-regional and interactive global community in which aircraft owners, aviation elites, top aerospace experts, and flight enthusiasts can exchange their experiences, Diamond will also enhance its ability to share resources, information on research and developments, providing a further means to enhance customer experience.

Diamond Aircraft, headquartered in Austria with facilities in Canada and China, is amongst the leading aircraft manufacturer in General Aviation.

Source: Diamond Aircraft
Photo Credit: Diamond Aircraft

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Tecnam Announces Sale of Two P2012 to Guyanan JAGS Aviation

Guyana – Tecnam is proud to announce the sale of two P2012 Traveller aircraft to Jags Aviation Inc., a dynamic and fast-growing aviation enterprise in Guyana, and a valued member of the BK Group of Companies.

The two brand-new P2012 Travellers, each powered by two 375 hp Continental GTSIO-520-S engines, are scheduled for delivery in early August 2025. One of the aircraft is currently featured at the prestigious EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, highlighting Tecnam’s leadership in cutting-edge regional aviation solutions.

The two aircraft are configured for a dual role: transport and medevac. The transport configuration allows for normal passenger operations, while the medevac configuration allows for medical transportation day and night.

The Tecnam fleet operated by Jags will be working in the hot and humid tropical conditions of Guyana’s highlands. The P2012 will showcase its strength, durability and versatility in conditions ranging from blistering sunshine to heavy rain.

“We are excited to partner with Jags Aviation Inc. in their mission to transform regional air connectivity in Guyana,” said Francesco Sferra, Tecnam P2012 Special Mission Platforms Sales & Business Development Manager and Experimental Test Pilot. “The P2012 Traveller is perfectly suited to meet the diverse and demanding operational needs of Guyana. With its advanced safety features, operational flexibility, and low operating costs, it offers an unparalleled solution for operators looking to deliver both passenger and cargo services across the country.”

Brian Tiwarie, Executive Chairman of Jags Aviation Inc., emphasized the broader vision behind this investment: “Tecnam is bringing modern concepts and enhanced safety aspects to the aviation world, and particularly to Guyana, which has long operated in a very limited capacity and ‘Jurassic’ era. The addition of these Tecnam aircraft will greatly bolster the dynamic and modern fleet here at Jags Aviation Inc., allowing us to significantly enhance Guyana’s tourism sector and provide reliable air connectivity. We are considering acquiring two additional aircraft in 2026 to support our growing operations.”

Jags Aviation is also advancing its capabilities by becoming both an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) and Flight Training Organisation (FTO), aiming to develop local aviation talent and build sustainable aviation infrastructure in Guyana.

Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Brian Tiwarie, Jags Aviation Inc. is rapidly positioning itself as a transformative force in Guyana’s aviation sector. Mr. Tiwarie also leads BK International Inc., Guyana’s largest privately-owned construction company, which has built a reputation through landmark projects funded by both public and international agencies. “With the largest pool of construction and transportation assets in Guyana, the BK Group of Companies is now taking to the skies,” added Mr. Tiwarie.

Source: Tecnam
Photo Credit: Tecnam

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Thrust Flight Expands Aviation Training Offering With New Aircraft & Powerplant Mechanic School and FAA‑Approved Dispatcher Course

Texas, USA – Thrust Flight, the nationally recognized aviation training provider behind the Zero Time to Airline® pilot program, is expanding its footprint in aviation education with the launch of a new Aircraft & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic School in Conroe, Texas and a new FAA-approved Aircraft Dispatcher program at its North Texas campuses in Addison and Denison. These additions solidify Thrust Flight’s position as a comprehensive training hub for today’s most in-demand aviation careers.

“Aviation doesn’t just rely on pilots; it’s powered by a team of skilled professionals on the ground and behind the scenes,” said Patrick Arnzen, CEO and Founder of Thrust Flight. “Our mission is to open doors across the entire aviation workforce, from the cockpit to the control room to the hangar. We want students to know that if you’re serious about aviation, we’ll turn your goals into a flight plan for success.”

Conroe Campus Offers Accelerated Path to A&P Certification

Located at Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport–central to Houston’s growing aerospace industry–the new Thrust Institute of Maintenance welcomed its first class of A&P mechanic students on July 16, 2025.

The 12-month FAA Part 147 program prepares students to earn their Airframe and Powerplant certification, a credential in high demand across commercial airlines, independent maintenance organizations, and charter and cargo operators. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, aircraft mechanics and service technicians earn a median annual wage of $75,270, with top earners exceeding six figures.

Unlike traditional programs that take 20 to 28 months, Thrust Flight’s accelerated model trains students in just one year through hands-on experience with real aircraft components, one-on-one instruction, and small, 15-student cohorts. Day and night class options offer ultimate flexibility for working professionals in the process of changing careers.

FAA-Approved Dispatcher Training Adds Third Career Pat

On May 14, 2025, the FAA granted Thrust Flight approval to offer a Part 65 Aircraft Dispatcher certification program. The five-week course (three weeks with prior credit) trains students for one of the most critical and often overlooked roles in commercial aviation: coordinating flight plans, monitoring weather, and ensuring flight crews are equipped with everything needed for safe, compliant operations.

Led by veteran instructor Rick Sanchez, the course launched with an internal beta class in July. The first public cohort will begin January 2026 at Thrust Flight’s Addison and Denison campuses, with additional locations to follow.

A Unified Gateway to In-Demand Aviation Careers

With pilot, maintenance, and dispatcher training now integrated across its suite of programs, Thrust Flight offers multiple entry points throughout the year and flexible financing options for students seeking stable, high-paying aviation careers—no four-year degree required.

“Whether you’re starting from scratch, pivoting from another industry, or trying to complete training that got interrupted, we’ve built programs that help you move forward fast,” said Arnzen. “This is about meeting students where they are today, and equipping them with the skills, confidence and momentum to lead the aviation workforce of tomorrow.”

About Thrust Flight
Thrust Flight is a nationally recognized aviation training provider with locations across Texas. Over the past 15 years, the company has trained thousands of pilots through its flagship Zero Time to Airline® program, preparing them to fly for commercial airlines around the globe. Today, Thrust Flight offers a full suite of FAA-approved programs for pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and flight dispatchers, supporting every stage of the aviation career journey.

Source: Thrust Flight
Photo Credit: Thrust Flight

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Pilot Expo Announces 2026 Edition, Broadening Scope to Include MRO and Engineering Training Pathways

Brussels, Belgium – Pilot Expo, Europe’s largest air crew recruitment and career development event, will return to Brussels in 2026 following a record-breaking 2025 edition. The event, which attracted over 4,000 attendees earlier this year, is expanding its scope to address industry-wide shortages not only for pilots and cabin crew but also for engineers and maintenance professionals.

  • Dates for 2026: February 20 & 21

  • Pilot Expo 2025 hosted 100+ exhibitors and 50+ expert speakers, providing a platform for networking with airlines, flight schools, and aviation employers from around the globe.

  • In 2026, the event will broaden its focus to include recruitment and training opportunities in MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) and engineering, reflecting the growing global demand for technical aviation roles.

  • The event will continue to offer free entry for experienced pilots, cabin crew, and engineers who present company ID upon arrival.

Source: Pilot Expo
Photo Credit: Pilot Expo

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FAA’s New MOSAIC Rule Modernizes Light Sport Aicraft Certification, Expands Training Capabilities

USA – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has finalized its long-anticipated “Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification” (MOSAIC) rule, significantly expanding the scope, design, and operational flexibility of light-sport aircraft (LSA) and sport pilot regulations. This comprehensive overhaul is designed to enhance aviation safety while providing increased flexibility for manufacturers, pilots, and flight training providers.

1. Objectives and Scope:

  • To modernize and expand the scope of aircraft eligible for special airworthiness certification.

  • To enable broader use of LSAs in recreational flying, flight training, and certain commercial aerial work.

  • To expand pilot privileges and repairman capabilities, making aviation more accessible and affordable while retaining safety standards.

2. Key Changes Introduced:

A. Aircraft Certification (Light-Sport Category):

  • Removes weight limits, previously capped at 1,320 lbs for landplanes and 1,430 lbs for seaplanes.

  • Allows higher speeds by increasing maximum stall speed limits.

  • Expands aircraft types to include:

    • Rotorcraft

    • Powered-lift

    • Electric and alternative propulsion

    • Constant-speed propellers

    • Retractable landing gear

  • Enables four-seat configurations (but only two occupants allowed for sport pilots).

  • Permits cargo and fuel capacity expansion, enhancing utility.

B. Sport Pilot Certification:

  • Expanded privileges include operation of:

    • Helicopters (via endorsements)

    • Night flights

    • Aircraft with retractable landing gear and constant speed props

    • Four-seat aircraft (limited to two occupants)

    • Higher-performing aircraft in both the LSA and certain normal categories

  • Model-specific privileges granted for aircraft with simplified or unconventional controls.

  • Removes outdated weight and engine type restrictions.

C. Maintenance and Repair:

  • Light-sport repairmen can now:

    • Work on a broader class of aircraft, including amateur-built models within the same class/category.

    • Conduct condition inspections on these aircraft.

  • Updates manufacturer safety directive compliance and maintenance/alteration protocols.

D. Operational Regulations:

  • Revises and expands operating privileges for:

    • Light-sport category aircraft

    • Experimental aircraft

    • Restricted category aircraft (including former military aircraft)

  • Codifies experimental aircraft’s use for space support vehicle flights, aligning with Congressional mandates.

  • Updates airport operations in Class G airspace and right-of-way rules.

E. Experimental Aircraft:

  • Introduces a new purpose for issuing airworthiness certificates to former military aircraft.

  • Extends certain experimental certificates’ validity from 1 to 3 years.

F. Restricted Category Aircraft:

  • Mandates U.S. military service history for former military aircraft to be certified in this category.

  • Codifies previously informal special purpose operations into regulation.

G. Noise Compliance:

  • Enables voluntary compliance with Part 36 noise standards for LSAs, allowing manufacturers to certify noise standards.

The MOSAIC Rule will be effective 90 days after Federal Register publication for most provisions.

To learn more about the final rule, click here.

Source: FAA

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