Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority (AFAC) this week implemented a ramp inspection program for business aircraft that will last until January 15. According to Universal Aviation Mexico, the program is intended to ensure compliance with operational safety procedures within the country.

The comprehensive inspection will apply to all aircraft operations—international and domestic flights, scheduled and nonscheduled flights, cargo operations, and commercial aircraft.

At the time of inspection, original documents (not copies) for the aircraft and crew must be on hand, including landing permits; current aircraft registration and airworthiness certificates—for U.S.-registered aircraft, AFAC will verify documentation with the FAA; crew licenses with appropriate ratings; current medical certificates; insurance policies; maintenance logbooks; minimum equipment lists; noise certificates; weight and balance sheets; radio certificates; and flight manuals.

Universal Aviation noted that noncompliance may result in the detention of the aircraft and/or monetary fines for incomplete or expired documents. Final decisions on penalties will be at the discretion of the inspecting officer.

The global trip support provider advises a full review of documentation before departure to ensure that all are current. Crewmembers should be briefed on the requirements and they should expect to factor in time on the ground to allow for the ramp inspections.

Fontainebleau Aviation—a division of Skyservice Business Aviation—today announced the opening of its second FBO in South Florida. With a presence at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (KOPF) since 2011, the company celebrated its first expansion with a debut at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (KFLL), where it is now one of four service providers on the field.

“We’re incredibly pleased to add Fontainebleau Aviation to KFLL’s portfolio of fixed-base operators,” said Mark Gale, CEO and director of aviation for the Broward County Aviation Department. “The premium flight-related offerings of this new facility will further enhance KFLL’s standing in the luxury business aviation sector.”

Fontainebleau's complex includes a 10,000-sq-ft terminal with an arrival canopy and expansive lobby, an executive suite with a conference room that accommodates up to 20 people, a pilot lounge, and a concierge. Its 80,000-sq-ft hangar can shelter the latest ultra-long-range business jets and has 15,000 sq ft of tenant offices with direct hangar access. The company is now accepting hangar lease agreements at KFLL.

“The collaboration between Skyservice and Fontainebleau has introduced a new genre of FBO services, redefining standards and expectations,” said Skyservice president and CEO Benjamin Murray. “We are laser focused on emerging client needs and providing a new direction in delivering an exceptional luxury lifestyle business aviation experience.”

Airwolf Aerospace has received a supplemental type certificate (STC) from Brazil's civil aviation authority (ANAC) for the installation of its True Blue Power TB17 lithium-ion batteries in various helicopter models. This certification follows FAA approval.

This STC approval applies to several helicopter models, including Airbus H125/AS350, AS355, EC120, and H130/EC130; Bell 206A/B and 206L/L1/L3/L4; Enstrom 480B; and MD 369/500.

The TB17 lithium-ion battery, which is TSO-certified, offers several advantages compared to traditional battery systems. It is up to 63% lighter than traditional batteries, which increases a helicopter’s useful load. It also provides faster, more reliable engine starts, with a higher voltage for improved performance.

It also features rapid charging capability, achieving a full charge in four to 10 minutes after engine start. It has a longer lifespan than traditional batteries, with an average of eight years before replacement is needed, and features a two-year reduced maintenance cycle. The battery also has an automatic built-in heater, allowing it to function in extremely cold weather.

A resourceful approach to brokering aircraft transactions has helped Dubai-based charter operator Jet Luxe gradually build up clientele for its "ownership-lite" Invictus program that provides an alternative to traditional jet cards and fractional ownership. Invictus offers clients with aircraft on demand and the benefits of full ownership, such as dedicated in-flight ambassadors and guaranteed availability, without the high fixed expenses and hidden costs typically associated with owning a business jet.

Founder and CEO Gabriel Madrid said 75 percent of the company's business is charter, and this year it has already arranged around 3,000 flights around the world through its global network. Jet Luxe’s charter fleet includes a Global 6000, Gulfstream V, Bombardier Global XRS, and Hawker 800A.

“The remaining 25 percent of our business is focused on helping clients achieve an 'ownership' status, which includes our Invictus program,” he told AIN. “The fleet is the one we advertise plus whatever we found to be optimized from the market.”

With offices in Hong Kong, the UK, Morocco, the U.S. and Mexico, the company has made the UAE the focus of its business because of rising private wealth in the country and strong demand for private aviation.

AEG Fuels has expanded its AEG Connect branded dealer network with the addition of JetSet FBO, one of three service providers at Wiley Post Airport (KPWA) in Oklahoma City. Among its amenities are a pilot lounge with snooze room and showers, business center, conference room, refreshment bar, and crew cars. Open 24/7/365, the facility also has an FAA Part 145 aircraft repair station with AOG capability.

“Becoming part of the AEG Connect Network reflects our commitment to delivering an unmatched experience for our customers,” explained JetSet executive director and manager Candy Lovin. “With the support of AEG Fuels, we look forward to providing even greater value and service excellence to the aviation community.”

The AEG Connect Network officially launched in late 2022. These latest additions bring it to 23 locations worldwide.

“JetSet FBO exemplifies the qualities we look for in AEG Connect members: outstanding service, attention to detail, and a focus on creating value for customers,” said Kurt Brulisauer, AEG’s s-v-p for general aviation. “We are excited to have them join as part of the network and look forward to supporting their continued success.”

Metrojet Limited, a provider of business aviation services in the Asia-Pacific region, announced the retirement of its CEO, Gary Dolski, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Dave Yip, the company’s COO, will assume the role of acting CEO on the same date.

Dolski joined Metrojet in April 2017 as managing director of aircraft management and charter and was appointed CEO later that year. Over his tenure, he spearheaded key initiatives, including the development of the Metrojet Engineering Clark maintenance and hangar facility in the Philippines and the expansion of Metrojet’s MRO operations in both Hong Kong and Clark. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the company through challenging periods, such as the global pandemic and regional geopolitical disruptions.

Dave Yip brings more than 20 years of experience in commercial and business aviation to his new role. With a strong background in aircraft management and maintenance, Yip’s leadership is expected to support Metrojet’s growth and innovation objectives.

“Dave’s expertise and vision will be instrumental as we continue to expand our services and deliver exceptional value to our aircraft management and maintenance clients,” said Metrojet vice chairman David Tong.

Established in 1997, Metrojet offers aircraft management, charter, maintenance, and consultancy services.

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