Market Intelligence: -Training Aircraft Developments

US Based Paragon Flight Training Announces Record Enrolment and Training Infrastructure Expansion in 2024

Paragon Flight Training, an award-winning flight training academy based at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida, United States continues its stunning growth trajectory in announcing that student enrollment is at an all-time high. The milestone, along with other company news, was announced by Paragon Flight Training President Chris Schoensee.

“Our enrollment for Q1 2024 was record-setting, and we now have a backlog of students waiting to begin their flight training program in September, with other student start dates extended to spring 2025,” Schoensee said. “Clearly, the demand for pursuing a career as a commercial pilot remains exceptionally strong. And it’s not just at Paragon Flight; I’m hearing of positive growth trends in other peer flight academies as well.”

Corresponding with its high enrollment, Paragon Flight is on target to increase its aircraft training flight hours, a standard industry gauge, to 40,000 in 2024 – more than 60% higher than the 26,000 training hours tallied in 2023, which was also a record-setting number. The company now has 50 full-time flight instructors to meet student needs and is upping its maintenance team of aircraft technicians to eight in order to maintain its elite fleet.

Per a previously announced long-term strategy to add 50 Piper aircraft by the end of 2027, Paragon Flight will add nine new Piper P100i’s this year, with the first arriving this month. With over 20 Piper P100i aircraft currently in its fleet, Paragon Flight owns approximately 15% of the Piper P100i aircraft in existence, including the milestone 100th Piper P100i.

As a part of its push to increase efficiency and encourage sustainability in flight training, Paragon Flight also announced additions to its simulator training inventory, with agreements signed to receive – within 12-15 months – two more ALSIM simulators to complement its Piper P100i aircraft, and the Redbird Xwind simulator.

“Advanced simulator training is an absolute must for leading pilot training programs,” Schoensee said. “The ALSIM simulator matches the cockpit of the Piper P100i button-for-button, and the Redbird Xwind simulator is essential for maximizing student training in crosswinds conditions, which are the most difficult conditions for student pilots to master in the first stages of their pilot training experience.”

In addition to serving as president and owner of Paragon Flight Training, Schoensee is also president and chairman of the board of the National Flight Training Alliance.

 About Paragon Flight Training

Paragon Flight is an award-winning flight academy headquartered at Page Field in Fort Myers, Florida. Holding FAA and SEVIS accreditations, the company trains commercial, professional, and recreational pilots as well as offering military pilot training for domestic and foreign governments. With multiple locations, Paragon Flight has more than 34,000 square feet of training facilities in the South Eastern United States.

Source: Paragon Flight Training
Photo Credit: Paragon Flight Training (shown as meta image)

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Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology Announces Fleet Expansion with the Addition of 4 New Piper Aircraft in May 2024

United States based Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology proudly announces the expansion of its training fleet with the acquisition of four pristine Piper Aircraft to be used at their Tulsa Flight Facility. This brings Spartan’s total Piper Archer training aircraft to 40 since December 2020. This strategic move is aimed at accommodating the increasing training demand for qualified pilots in the aviation sector.

Celebrating over 95 years of instruction in aviation education, Spartan College has been at the forefront of technical training for pilots and aviation maintenance professionals. With campuses in Tulsa, OK; Los Angeles Area; Inland Empire, CA Area; and Denver, CO Area, Spartan has welcomed students from all 50 states and over 40 countries, evidencing its global reach.

“Since Spartan’s establishment in 1928, we’ve seen over 100,000 students train for careers as pilots and mechanics. By continuing to expand our fleet of new aircraft, we are increasing our commitment not only to our present and future students but also to the aviation industry at large,” says Rob Polston, CEO of Spartan College.

The Vero Beach-based aircraft manufacturer, Piper Aircraft, renowned for its production of the iconic Archer Aircraft since 1975, is responsible for the new additions to Spartan’s fleet. The Piper Archer is celebrated for its reliability and advanced technology, making it a staple in the training of novice aviators and flight schools globally.

“It is an honor to continue our partnership with Spartan College and provide them with 4 more Archers to support their premier flight program,” said John Calcagno, Piper Aircraft, Inc. President & CEO. “Piper Aircraft trainers are known for their reliability and ease of use, and that is why they are a top choice for flight training in the industry.”

This expansion of Spartan College’s fleet is a key component of the institution’s ongoing capital investment strategy, aimed at training and then supplying the aerospace and aviation sectors with a steady stream of adept, certified professionals ready to enter the workforce.

In response to the looming pilot shortage detailed in the most recent Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook, Spartan College offers courses designed to quickly prepare students for FAA pilot certification exams. The comprehensive program equips students with the skills and experience required for multiple FAA part 141 pilot certifications in as few as 17 months.

“We are thrilled to introduce four new Piper Archers to the growing Spartan fleet.  The aircraft are equipped with the most current technology to enhance our students’ training experience,” explained Beau Schrader, vice president of flight operations at Spartan College. “The Piper Archers are outfitted with today’s avionics, including the Garmin G1000 NXi integrated flight deck.  Pilots will benefit from enhanced situational awareness, intuitive controls, and seamless navigation capabilities.”

About Spartan College

Established in 1928, Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology has trained over 100,000 pilots and technicians. The Tulsa, OK campus is licensed by the O.B.P.V.S. Campuses are located in the following areas: Tulsa, OK; Los Angeles, CA; Inland Empire, CA; and Denver, CO. Spartan students have come from across the United States and over 40 countries. To learn more and for consumer information, location of training, school licensing and accreditation visit www.Spartan.edu. Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by campus and are subject to change. Third-party certifications and employment opportunities are not guaranteed. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Administrative office: Spartan Education Group, LLC, 1 N. Franklin St., Suite 2125, Chicago, IL 60606

About Piper Aircraft

Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fl., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series, the M700 FURY, M500, and M350, offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.

About the Piper Archer TX 

As a classroom, the Piper Archer TX provides students everything needed to learn to fly safely. Standard instrumentation includes a Garmin G1000 NXi glass cockpit and G5 standby display, a perfect mixture of low workload and high technology. Piper’s specially created flight school interior, designed to withstand the rigors of flight training, is standard, and the option for factory-installed air conditioning adds to the Archer’s appeal as a training aircraft. Building on over sixty years of PA-28 manufacturing expertise, the Piper Archer TX stands in a class all its own when it comes to reliability, stability, and ease of operation for students and instructors alike.

Source: Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
Photo Credit: Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology

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Training Aircraft Manufacturer Elixir Aircraft Delivers Aircraft to Jean Bertin Flying Club

Elixir Aircraft, a fast growing training aircraft manufacturer headquartered in La Rochelle, France, has shared that the Jean Bertin Flying Club in Chavenay has received its Elixir. “Pleasure of flying, modern technological environment, permanent show under this panoramic bubble, it’s a real 4th generation aircraft, a description that applies to all levels as soon as you let yourself slide at the controls,” comments its president enthusiastically.

In April 2024 Elixir Aircraft announced that two more European ATOs joined its order book:

  • Rubric Aviation from the UK (Rubric Aviation will fly Elixir Aircraft for its Scottish center)
  • Panamedia from Spain

“We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of Elixir aircraft for our clients in the UK,” said Ian A Henderson, CEO of Rubric Aviation. “The addition of these exceptional planes to our fleet underscores our commitment to providing unparalleled aviation experiences and ushering in a new era of aviation excellence. Elixir planes embody the pinnacle of innovation, performance, and reliability.”

Panamedia trusts the 4th generation Elixir training airplane for its bases of Valencia, Castellón and Mallorca. They were particularly attracted by its main features: a full glass cockpit, landing gear with shock absorbers, and an integrated BRS parachute.

“When I first read the technical characteristics of the Elixir, I wanted to fly it personally to feel it. Therefore, I traveled to La Rochelle where the Elixir Aircraft team welcomed me with open arms and explained everything to me in detail before taking a beautiful flight. For our Panamedia ATO, the Elixir more than meets our expectations and we intend to renew our fleet with many Elixir.” declared José Parejo Navas, Director of Panamedia International Flight School.

Emmanuel Gil, Head of Sales Elixir Aircraft Europe commented “we are delighted that Rubric Aviation and Panamedia have chosen the Elixir Aircraft to add to their respective fleets. This underlines the confidence ATO’s have in the Elixir and its perfect fit for the professional flight training organizations.” Elixir Aircraft’s order book now includes 200+ orders, pre-orders and LOI.

The Elixir Aircraft team will be present at the following events in 2024:

  • EAA AirVenture – 22 to 28th of July
  • EATS – 5 to 7th of November
  • Green Aero Days – 3-4 December

Source: Elixir Aircraft
Photo Credit: Elixir Aircraft

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Training Aircraft Manufacturer, Piper Aircraft, Announces Approved Service Center in France

Piper Aircraft, Inc. and Authorized Piper Dealer, Flying Smart Aero, announced the appointment of Troyes Aviation as the Approved Piper Service Center in France. Founded in 1973 by Françoise Horiot and transferred to new ownership in 2023, Troyes Aviation is a fully-owned subsidiary of JGH SAS and the sister Company of JG AVIATION, the Authorized Pilatus Service Centre for France.

“Flying Smart is proud to add Troyes Aviation to our established network of approved service centers, covering France,” stated David Fabry, Dealer Principal at Flying Smart. “With its convenient location and expertise, this will facilitate maintenance for the French Piper fleet from the Archer up to the new M700 FURY.”

Over the past 50 years, Troyes Aviation has built a reputation for its flawless service delivery and the innovative approach of its leadership, ensuring a competitive edge in the premium general aviation market. The management’s commitment to continuous innovation includes maintaining the latest aircraft models, providing ongoing training for their staff, and leading their operations in a dynamic, pragmatic, and human-centered manner, always prioritizing client satisfaction.

“We are excited to grow our worldwide service provider network with the addition of Troyes Aviation. Our goal is to provide customers and owners with exceptional ownership experience, ensuring they have the technical support and expertise needed to maintain their aircraft” said Ron Gunnarson, VP of Sales, Marketing & Customer Support at Piper Aircraft. “We are always looking for ways to innovate and support customers around the globe, and are grateful to Flying Smart and David Fabry for forming this new service center partnership.”

About Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Piper Aircraft Inc., headquartered in Vero Beach, Fl., offers aviators throughout the world efficient and reliable single and twin-engine aircraft and is the first general aviation aircraft manufacturer in the world to certify Garmin Autoland. The single-engine M-Class series – the M700 FURY, M500, and M350 – offers businesses and individuals elegant performance, value and a superior ownership experience. The Personal Class, Archer LX and Archer DLX balance proven performance, efficiency, and simplicity in a piston-powered aircraft. The Trainer Class Pilot 100i, Archer TX, Archer DX, and Seminole aircraft form the most complete technically advanced line of pilot training aircraft in the world. Piper is a member of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association.

Source: Piper Aircraft
Photo Credit: Piper Aircraft (shown as meta image)

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