Surf Air Mobility has confirmed its intention to include Electra’s hybrid-electric eSTOL aircraft in its planned fleet. Under an agreement announced yesterday, the company has secured “preferred delivery positions” for 90 of the nine-passenger aircraft, which are expected to be able to take off and land in 150 feet.

Electra aims to certify its aircraft in 2028 under FAA Part 23 rules and expects to start flight testing a full-scale prototype in 2026. Surf Air plans to deploy these aircraft at its Southern Airways Express and Mokulele Airlines subsidiaries.

The two companies will work together to define the most suitable routes for the eSTOL blown-wing design, with Electra maintaining that sectors of between 50 and 500 miles will be the most cost-effective. Under the agreement, Surf Air may also lease the aircraft to other operators providing lift for its regional air mobility network. According to Electra, Surf Air’s “aircraft-as-a-service” approach to providing finance and support for smaller Part 135 operators will help new entrants refresh regional air service with new routes.

Surf Air is already working to convert Cessna Grand Caravans to run on a hybrid-electric powertrain it is developing. The operator has also committed to acquiring Regent’s 12-seat Viceroy electric sea glider.

Ready to soar to new heights in your career? Let's explore a topic that holds the key to unlocking your full potential: professional development.

In business aviation, it's easy to get lost in our specialized areas of expertise. But what if we could break free from the confines of our comfort zones? What if we could embark on a journey of unparalleled growth?

Enrolling in a professional development program is a definitive way to stretch ourselves. One such opportunity that I’m always happy to promote is NBAA’s Certified Aviation Manager (CAM), which I’ve completed. Another is the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, which offers corporate management certifications. And for those desiring academic credentials, an MBA speaks volumes. Just starting out in your career? Start small by joining a committee at the local or regional level.

One of my favorite adages is “Pressure makes diamonds.” Challenging oneself is a fantastic way to unlock one's true potential. Plus, it demonstrates to others that you have what it takes to be the best.

So as we kick off a new year, I encourage you to explore how you can elevate your career. Whether it's through a professional development course or volunteerism role, or both, embark on a journey to better yourself—and our industry.

Pro Star Aviation inked an agreement with SpaceX to become a Starlink-authorized dealer for business aviation and will offer these satcom installations at its Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (KMHT) MRO facility.

SpaceX recently received FAA supplemental type certificate (STC) approval for Starlink installations in the Bombardier Global Express, XRS, and 6000, and it holds an STC for the Gulfstream G650. Engineering work for the STCs was done by Nextant Aerospace, which is developing approvals for more business jet models, including the Embraer Phenom 300 (fourth quarter).

According to SpaceX, STCs are coming for the G450 and G550 next month, followed by the GIV and GV in the third quarter. STCs are expected for the Global 5000/5500, 6500, and 7500 in the second quarter and for the Beechcraft King Air 200/300 next month. STCs for other business aircraft are also on the list.

Yesterday, SpaceX unveiled two month-to-month plans: global 20 GB for $2,000 per month (plus $100/GB additional) and global unlimited for $10,000 per month. According to SpaceX, “These plans are month-to-month without long-term contracts. Switch between plans, pause, or cancel any time,” it said. Starlink hardware costs $150,000.

"Our team is dedicated to delivering excellence in every installation,” said Pro Star sales and marketing director Jeff Shaw, “and working with Starlink aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing connectivity solutions for business jet owners."

Yesterday at its monthly board meeting, the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) held a moment of silence for the deceased flight crewmembers of the Bombardier Challenger 604 that crashed on approach to Florida’s Naples Airport (KAPF) last Friday. “The Naples Airport Authority extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of captain Edward Daniel Murphy…and second-in-command Frederick Hofmann…who perished in the tragic accident,” said NAA chair Rick Ruppert. This is believed to be the first fatal jet accident at KAPF in its 80-year history, he noted.

“We also recognize [cabin] crewmember Sydney Ann Bosmans,” who survived, Ruppert added. “Their collective, decisive actions likely saved the lives of the two passengers and many more on the ground. Our thoughts are with them and those affected during this difficult time.”

Ruppert also thanked the air traffic controllers and first responders “who acted promptly when the pilots reported an emergency.” He said the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Collier EMS, city of Marco Island Fire Rescue, Greater Naples Fire Rescue District, Naples Airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighters in partnership with the city of Naples Fire Department, and North Collier Fire Rescue District were the local agencies arriving “almost immediately” on the scene.

The National Transportation Safety Board continues its investigation of the accident.

Air charter broker JetASAP's activity report for January 2024 shows a decrease in charter rates in the New Year. Its customers can book private aircraft charter flights via the JetASAP app.

The company reported an overall average per-flight-hour charter rate decline of 10 percent. Turboprops decreased 10 percent to average $4,386 per flight hour, while light jet rates fell 14 percent to $6,741 per flight hour. Midsize jet hourly rates dipped 5 percent to $8,502 per hour, while super-midsize jets decreased 13 percent to $10,734 per flight hour. Heavy jets fell 9 percent to $13,765 per flight hour.

"These decreased charter rates are typical as the aviation market adjusts coming out of holiday travel. Another adjustment JetASAP has experienced is the significant increase in participation from larger charter operators with 15 or more aircraft in their fleet," said company founder and CEO Lisa Sayer.

"The charter industry runs on smaller operators as 90 percent of them that participate in JetASAP operate 14 or less aircraft and 60 percent have less than four they use for charter. Most quotes coming through the app to our members were from the smaller operators until January."

Sayer added that the company's clients appear to be slowing down their demand for charter flights and the market is thus softening.