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Business Aviation’s First Sustainability Summit Highlights Focus Areas for Sustainable-Fuels Growth

Washington, D.C. – After a first-of-its-kind sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) summit that concluded today, business aviation leaders committed to redouble their focus on fostering the large-scale production and widespread adoption of SAF.

The summit was the latest in a series of efforts by the industry to encourage greater production and use of SAF, a cleaner-burning fuel that can reduce net lifecycle carbon emissions 50% or more compared to conventional jet fuel, and would help the industry go further, faster in reducing business aviation’s already low carbon footprint.

Specifically, the event focused on the following efforts:

• Encouraging federal and state policymakers to consider legislative incentives to help foster SAF use, and working with them to examine whether there are existing policies slowing the development of the SAF market.
• Further development of market-based programs, such as “book-and-claim,” which allows operators to purchase SAF, even where it is not available at the airport from which they are flying.
• Finding ways to further expand the infrastructure needed to meet SAF demand.

The summit gathered operators, legislators, regulators, fuel suppliers and others to determine how best and how quickly the production, supply, demand and use of SAF can be accelerated.

The sessions featured perspectives from government leaders, including Joel Szabat, Acting Undersecretary for Transportation Policy, U.S. Department of Transportation; Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), Chair, Subcommittee on Aviation, U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure; and Kevin Welsh, Executive Director, Office of Environment & Energy, Federal Aviation Administration. The summit included several major announcements from leading business aviation companies for promoting SAF use.

The organizers thanked platinum sponsors Bombardier Aviation, Embraer, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, and gold level sponsor Avfuel, for their generous investment toward the Virtual Summit, and their continued commitment toward this important initiative. 

The event was organized by the Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Fuel, which includes the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

The SAF Coalition’s work is supported by a steering committee that includes dozens of aviation businesses, representing every point in the SAF development-and-supply chain.

At the summit’s conclusion, coalition stakeholders provided their assessments.

CAAFI Executive Director Steve Csonka said, “I believe the summit clearly highlighted two key messages. First, after succeeding with all the foundational work on an SAF strategy, the entire civil aviation industry is clearly ready and willing to expand use of SAF, but it is in short supply, due to some fundamental challenges typical of any developing market.  Secondly, policymakers can assist by creating stable incentivizing policies, at both state and federal levels, or addressing policy bias, which currently impedes SAF expansion, and favors renewable diesel. We look forward to continued engagement on the topic.”

EBAA Secretary-General, Athar Husain Khan, said, “The vital question for the future of the business aviation industry is: how can we facilitate the transition to a more sustainable society? This summit shows that, despite being hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis, business aviation is more committed than ever to reducing its environmental impact and tackling the urgent threat of climate change.”

GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce said, “This summit brought general and business aviation stakeholders together to accelerate momentum and reaffirm commitments towards achieving our environmental sustainability goals. The manufacturing community continues to lead by example through coordinated sustainability initiatives which have a direct impact on reducing carbon emissions. We look forward to helping spur the increase in supply of, and demand for, sustainable aviation fuels.”

IBAC Director General Kurt Edwards said, “This summit was another concrete demonstration of our industry’s commitment to increase the use of SAF as a critical component of efforts to meet our long-term goal of cutting in half our carbon emissions by 2050, relative to 2005 levels.  Interest in using SAF among business aircraft operators is clear and, through events like this Summit, the SAF Coalition is showing leadership through collective action involving all stakeholders in the value chain to encourage its availability and use in greater quantities.”

“With this summit, we have taken a key next step to build upon the tremendous progress we have made on sustainability in just the last two years,” said NATA President and CEO Tim Obitts. “We are focused on accelerating SAF’s adoption and use, which requires us to grow supply and demand. This week’s discussion highlighted ways for us to do just that.”

NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said, “This summit is about more than fuels – it’s about the future, and the way we think of sustainability in the years to come. Our industry has always had innovation and a pioneering spirit as its cornerstones. We’ve reaffirmed that visionary outlook with this forward-looking set of objectives.”

The summit built upon previous industry initiatives aimed at promoting SAF use, including the first-ever public demonstration in January 2019 at California’s Van Nuys Airport – which highlighted the fuels’ viability, safety and ability to reduce aviation emissions. That demonstration was followed by a similar events in Europe and the U.K. 

In January 2020, the SAF Coalition announced two new carbon-reduction initiatives with the World Economic Forum that made SAF available for aircraft departing the event in Davos, Switzerland and initiated a book-and-claim program.

The coalition recently released Fueling the Future, an educational and informational resource about the practicalities of SAF development, industry adoption, and pending expansion of supply and use, primarily from the perspectives of the business aviation community. The guide describes in detail the pathways available to greater SAF availability.

More information about the SAF Coalition is available at futureofsustainablefuel.com.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Congressional Aviation Leaders, Agency Officials to Be Part of First-Ever Sustainable Business Aviation Fuels Summit

Washington, D.C. – The Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition) today announced that U.S. Reps. Garret Graves (R-La.) and Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), and Acting U.S. Under Secretary for Transportation Policy Joel Szabat will address the Virtual 2020 Business Aviation Global Sustainability Summit, being held Sept. 14-15.

The officials will join others from government, as well as manufacturers, producers, providers/FBOs and operators, to discuss how to increase the production, availability and use of SAF, the cleaner-burning alternative fuel which, on a gallon-per-gallon basis, often reduces net lifecycle CO2 emissions in excess of 50 percent, versus conventional jet fuel.  

Rep. Larsen chairs the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Aviation, and Rep. Graves is the ranking member for the same subcommittee. Acting Under Secretary Szabat provides leadership in the development of policies for the DOT.

The summit will take place on Monday, Sept. 14 from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. ET, and Tuesday, Sept. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Registration and more on the agenda can be found here.

About the Coalition

The SAF Coalition includes the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).

The coalition’s work is supported by a Steering Committee that includes dozens of aviation businesses, representing every point in the SAF development-and-supply chain.

The SAF Coalition recently released Fueling the Future, an educational and informational resource about the practicalities of SAF development, industry adoption, and pending expansion of supply and use, primarily from the perspectives of the business aviation community.

The guide and summit build on coalition efforts over years to educate industry leaders, policymakers and others on the benefits and viability of SAF, including at the World Economic Forum and previous events held at airports in Van Nuys, CA, Farnborough, UK, Geneva and Las Vegas.

More information about the SAF Coalition is available at futureofsustainablefuel.com.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Announces 2021 Executive Committee Leadership

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced its Executive Committee leadership team for 2021. The Executive Committee is comprised of members of GAMA’s Board of Directors, who provide strategic leadership for the association and lead its policy committees.

Nicolas Chabbert, Senior Vice President of Daher’s Aircraft division and CEO of Daher Aircraft and Kodiak Aircraft, will serve as Chair of the Board. Previously, Chabbert has served as Vice Chair and chair of the Safety Affairs & Accident Investigation Committee.

Michael Amalfitano, President and CEO at Embraer Executive Jets, will serve as Vice Chair. Previously, Amalfitano served as chair of the Communication Committee.

Maria Della Posta, President at Pratt & Whitney Canada, will serve as chair of the Communications Committee. The committee works to promote the general aviation industry and its benefits to the global economy and air transportation system. This will be Della Posta’s first time serving on the Executive Committee; she has served on the GAMA Board of Directors since 2015.

Tony Lefebvre, Chief Operating Officer of Signature Flight Support, will serve as chair of the Environment Committee. The committee works to develop and represent the industry’s views on public policy affecting aviation related environmental issues worldwide, including CO2 emissions reductions, sustainable aviation fuels, supersonic aircraft and the business aviation commitment on climate change. This will be Lefebvre’s first time serving on the Executive Committee; he has previously served as chair of the EPIC Infrastructure Subcommittee.

Eric Allison, Head of Uber Elevate, will again serve as chair of the Electric Propulsion and Innovation Committee (EPIC). The committee works to create an environment conducive to efficient design, production, operation and maintenance of hybrid and electric propulsion aircraft, including eVTOLs. 

David Van Den Langenbergh, President of Aviation Services at Luxaviation Group, will extend his term as chair the European Leaders Steering Committee. The committee engages with senior European politicians and policymakers to advocate for the interests of general aviation in Europe including regulatory changes, policy initiatives and communications strategies. Previously, Van Den Langenbergh served as chair of the Airworthiness and Maintenance Policy Committee.

Tyson Weihs, Co-Founder and CEO of ForeFlight, will continue to serve as chair of the Flight Operations Policy Committee. The committee works to ensure that an adequate air transportation infrastructure is available for general aviation and addresses impediments to operations by general aviation aircraft.

Chuck Wiplinger, President and CEO of Wipaire, will again serve as chair of the Policy and Legal Issues Committee. The committee tracks and analyzes policy and legal issues affecting the general aviation industry, including developments in case law, litigation and business issues to develop strategies and manage risks. Previously, Wiplinger served as chair of the Technical Policy Committee.

Eric Hinson, CEO at SimCom International, will continue to serve as chair of the Safety Affairs and Accident Investigation Committee. The committee works to review, analyze and address policies, industry standards and regulatory activities related proactive safety improvements and aircraft accident investigation, including operations, training and equipage.

Jim Ziegler, Vice Chairman of Greenwich AeroGroup, will extend his term as chair of the  Security Issues Committee. The committee works to establish best practices for general aviation security and engages with government agencies on security policies and regulatory requirements.

Jeff Trang, Vice President of Engineering and Flight Operations at Airbus Helicopters Inc, will once again serve as chair of the Technical Policy Committee. The committee works with authorities on continuous improvement of certification and validation processes and to develop and implement effective standards and technical policies pertaining to the design, certification and production of general aviation products and components.

David Paddock, President at Jet Aviation, will serve as Immediate Past Chair. Paddock served as GAMA’s 2020 Chairman and previously chaired of the GAMA Communications Committee.  

The GAMA Executive Committee was elected by the Board of Directors during its Fall Board Meeting.

For more information about the GAMA Executive Committee, visit gama.aero.  

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Coalition Releases New Sustainable Aviation Fuel Guide as Industry Moves to Accelerate Use of Lower-Carbon Alternative

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition) today released a new informational guide detailing how industry leaders can incorporate sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into their operations and accelerate the adoption of low-carbon fuels, while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

The new guide, titled, Fueling the Future, serves as an educational and informational resource about the practicalities of SAF development, industry adoption, and pending expansion of supply and use, primarily from the perspectives of the business aviation community.

SAF blending components are made from bio-based or other circular-economy feedstock sources. On a gallon-per-gallon basis, these low-carbon components often reduce net lifecycle CO2 emissions in excess of 50%, versus conventional jet fuel. Industry innovators are additionally planning to produce SAF blending components with deeper reductions, and in some cases more than 100%, making the fuels carbon negative. SAF is a proven and trusted replacement for traditional jet fuel that will help lower the industry’s carbon footprint. SAF has been used continuously at select airports since 2016, and its production is expected to scale significantly during the next five years.

“The single-largest potential reduction in aviation’s GHG emissions — and the key to reaching our goals — will come about through the broad adoption of sustainable aviation fuel in place of the current conventional jet fuel,” the coalition concludes in the guide.

The SAF Coalition – which includes the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) – developed the guide.

The coalition’s Steering Committee includes dozens of aviation businesses, representing every point in the SAF development-and-supply chain, and all of which provided real-world expertise in the development of the guide. A list of SAF Coalition Steering Committee companies is provided on the group’s website homepage.

The SAF Coalition’s guide builds upon a host of initiatives to educate industry leaders, policymakers and others on the benefits and viability of SAF.

For example, in January 2020, the coalition introduced SAF for business aviation consumption at Zurich Airport, in conjunction with the World Economic Forum. Similar, previous events were held at airports in Van Nuys, CA, Farnborough, UK, Geneva and Las Vegas.

“It is very encouraging to see the continuously increasing interest from the business aviation community to use SAF to address sustainability goals,” commented Steve Csonka, CAAFI Executive Director. “Although a modest user of the worldwide production of jet fuel, their exuberant interest in acquiring supply will clearly help accelerate SAF production ramp-up, one of the entire aviation industry’s key needs. We hope this guide helps amplify the opportunity and response.”

“The second edition of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Guide is a testament to our continued efforts toward a lower-carbon future,” said EBAA Secretary-General Athar Husain Khan. “Raising awareness to further fuel the demand for SAF is crucial to overcoming challenges such as the large geographical spread required for our sector. This guide is an important tool to help us spread that message.”

“The increasing need for strong coordination and communication as supply of, and demand for, SAF continues to grow are key components of general and business aviation’s commitment to addressing climate change,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO. “This updated guide, which the coalition has worked hard to produce, outlines how we can make meaningful change in the promotion and usage of SAF. This is another example of how the industry is working to make meaningful strides toward achieving our environmental sustainability goals.”

IBAC Director General Kurt Edwards said, “This new edition of the guide reinforces our global commitment to sustainable aviation fuels, and provides a fresh resource to further educate the business aviation industry of this drop-in alternative jet fuel. SAF represents a critical measure to help the global industry meet its long-term goal to address climate change by halving carbon emissions by 2050 relative to 2005 levels.”

“We are thrilled to present this second edition of the SAF Guide,” said NATA President and CEO Timothy Obitts. “The coalition’s goal has always been to increase the production and use of SAF, and education through this guide is key to that mission. Many thanks to all those who put in a tremendous effort to make relevant updates and information available to the public.”

“We are proud of the steps this coalition has taken to demonstrate the business aviation community’s commitment to a cleaner future,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “We have made great progress on Sustainable Aviation Fuel in recent years. Our goal now is to increase SAF supplies as much as we can, as fast as we can, to make our sustainability goals a reality.”

Review the guide online and learn more about the business aviation community’s commitment to sustainability by visiting futureofsustainablefuel.com.

About The Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel

The Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition) is a coalition of leading international aviation groups including the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), the National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). The SAF Coalition’s work is supported by a Steering Committee that includes dozens of aviation businesses, representing every point in the SAF development-and-supply chain.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Applauds FAA’s Acceptance of Means of Compliance Consensus Standards

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) praised the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) today for its notice of availability (NOA) for Accepted Means of Compliance to part 23 general aviation airworthiness requirements. These FAA accepted consensus standards will enable and encourage safety and innovation in general aviation airplanes and further developments in advanced air mobility (AAM) and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

“All throughout the part 23 rewrite, GAMA championed the priorities of the general aviation industry. We applaud the FAA’s work to accept the latest set of important means of compliance standards.” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

This is the second NOA to support the new performance-based rules for part 23 normal category airplanes (Amendment 64). There has been an extended period of time since the last Accepted Means of Compliance document was published, which was in May 2018. 

“Going forward, the FAA needs to continue working to improve and standardize the acceptance process because it will support a regulatory environment which advances innovation and development of safety enhancing technologies. An effective process will also encourage other product improvements in general aviation airplanes and the development of AAM and eVTOL aircraft. As progress continues to be made, these standards will be used by GAMA and its member companies to guide the industry into the next exciting frontier. This effort is about being Future Ready for the opportunities that await this vital and vibrant industry,” said Bunce.

The latest NOA accepts 35 published ASTM International new and revised consensus standards as the basis for means of compliance to 65 part 23 regulatory requirements for certification. The acceptance addresses several topics including simplified loads criteria, fuel and energy storage and delivery, safety assessment of systems, as well as a new standard on methods of addressing high-intensity radiated fields (HIRF) and indirect effects of lightning. The FAA encourages applicants to leverage new standards on design and installation of electric propulsion systems, and for electrical systems, electric equipment and electric power distribution for hybrid and electric propulsion on projects.

The general aviation industry continues to benefit from the ongoing work to support all aspects of part 23 airplanes. Success has been found from icing requirements, low speed flight characteristics, adoption of newer microprocessor technology and improvements on interaction between systems and structures. These standards are developed by an ASTM International committee on general aviation aircraft, comprised of over 400 industry and authority experts from the U.S., Europe and around the world. This recognition of updated and new standards demonstrates how the collaborative relationships between authorities and industry enables equipage of safety enhancing and innovative technologies into general aviation in a timely manner.

Currently, industry experts are continuing to diligently work on standards to help improve efficiency and maintain safety for fixed-wing airplanes. Simultaneously, ASTM International is supporting general aviation with airworthiness standards for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, airspace and infrastructure, as well as addressing the spectrum of autonomy. Future revisions of ASTM Standard F3264-19, “Standard Specification for Normal Category Aeroplanes Certification,” will include market ready technologies aligned with industry progress.  GAMA looks forward to continued and ongoing coordination with FAA and other authorities on the development and timely acceptance of consensus standards.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Arsenal of Democracy to Premiere V-E Day 75th Anniversary Video Tribute

WASHINGTON, D.C. – To commemorate the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (V-E) Day (May 8, 1945) the Arsenal of Democracy (AOD), in conjunction with the WWII 75th Commemoration Committee, will produce an online video tribute titled VICTORY IN EUROPE – VE DAY 75 YEARS LATER. The live-stream video tribute will honor this historic anniversary and pay homage to those who served on the frontlines and on the home front during World War II.

Award-winning broadcast journalist David Hartman and renowned aviation production expert Scott Guyette, of Sleeping Dog Productions, have come together to write and produce this remarkable project. The video will include interviews with WWII veterans, historical battle footage and current day footage of aircraft involved in WWII European theater battles, which is being provided courtesy of EAA Warbirds of America’s “Warbirds in Review”. The video is also being made possible, in part, by the support and participation of the Bob and Dolores Hope Foundation and the Friends of the National World War II Memorial.

VICTORY IN EUROPE – VE DAY 75 YEARS LATER will be broadcast on May 8, 2020, starting at 11:30 a.m. ET, when the Arsenal of Democracy Victory Commemoration WWII Flyover was originally scheduled to begin its aerial tribute over the National Mall. The video tribute will air on the AOD website (www.ww2flyover.org) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ww2flyover), and on the 75th WWII Commemoration website (www.75thwwiicommemoration.org), which provides on-going program and commemoration updates.

In March, the AOD Executive Planning Committee announced that the AOD Victory Gala and Flyover commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII would be rescheduled to take place in September. The AOD Victory Gala will take place at Signature Flight Support’s historic Hangar 7 at Ronald Reagan National Airport on Thursday, September 24th with all previously announced World War II veterans speakers reconfirmed. The warbird aerial tribute fly over the National Mall will take place on Friday, September 25th in conjunction with an accompanying ceremony at the National World War II Memorial. The week’s events will culminate with two seminal events. The first is an aerospace workforce and STEM-focused event, coordinated by the Air Line Pilots Association, and a static display of many of the warbird aircraft that participated in the flyover at the National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, on Saturday, September 26th. The second is the National Aviation Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, on the evening of Saturday, September 26th.

For more information about the Arsenal of Democracy events, please visit www.ww2flyover.org.

CLICK HERE to view official press release.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Aviation Manufacturing Industry Coalition Calls for Targeted and Temporary Support to Help Protect American Jobs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, a coalition representing the aviation manufacturing industry comprised of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA), the Aeronautical Repair Station Association (ARSA), the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced their collective support for the bipartisan Preserve Jobs in the Aviation Manufacturing Industry Act introduced by U.S. Representatives Ron Estes (R-KS) and Rick Larsen (D-WA), the companion bill to S. 3705, the Public-Private Partnership to Preserve Jobs in the Aviation Manufacturing Industry Act of 2020 introduced by U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Mark Warner (D-VA). Both bills would help protect jobs in the aviation manufacturing industry, its supply chains, and aircraft maintenance repair companies that have been devastated by the global drop in air travel. The impact of commercial and government sales on the workforce cannot be understated. Four jobs are created for every million dollars in direct sales revenue generated by the industry.

“The aviation manufacturing and maintenance industry continues to face stiff headwinds from the COVID-19 pandemic. We applaud and are deeply grateful to Representatives Estes and Larsen for their work to support the industry’s highly skilled workforce as well as Senators Moran and Warner for introducing similar legislation in the Senate. Given that general and commercial aviation are significant contributors to the U.S. economy, it is essential that both industry and government partner together to protect aviation manufacturing and maintenance jobs in this vital sector. I am very pleased to join with my fellow industry association leaders, and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, in supporting these legislative initiative to sustain our incredible aviation manufacturing workforce and companies during these uncertain times,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

“With global air travel down 86 percent from a year ago in June, the aviation manufacturing sector has continued to face a near-steady stream of aircraft order cancellations continually decreasing demand for maintenance and repairs. This, in turn, puts the skilled aerospace and defense workforce at risk, forcing significant layoffs and furloughs in companies large and small,” said AIA President and CEO Eric Fanning. “Steps taken earlier this year have worked, but more assistance is needed as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to harm people, communities, and economies worldwide. Representatives Estes and Larsen’s bipartisan bill would provide additional temporary and targeted support to help save American jobs and ensure the aviation and aerospace industry stands ready to support our communities and country through the crisis and recovery.”

“ARSA is extremely grateful to Representatives Estes and Larsen for introducing this important legislation. Pandemic-related economic disruptions have decimated America’s aviation maintenance industry and there’s very little light at the end of the tunnel,” said ARSA Executive Vice President Christian Klein. “The Estes-Larsen bill is a lifeline for an industry that’s seen revenues fall by roughly half and that may have lost more than 50,000 workers—a quarter of our workforce—in recent months. It will save jobs in the near-term—particularly in aviation-heavy states like Kansas and Washington—and help ensure that when the aviation sector begins to recover, repair stations will still have the technical talent they need to keep to keep the nation’s aircraft fleet operating safely.”

“The aerospace and defense workforce is a critical component of our national security. Uniquely skilled, the members of that workforce produce the best commercial and military equipment in the world. We cannot afford to lose them as they are key to the recovery of the sector and, just as importantly, developing the next skilled, cleared generation keeping us at the cutting edge,” said Gen. Hawk Carlisle, NDIA President and CEO.

“We applaud Reps. Larsen and Estes for introducing this innovative payroll support legislation. Saving this critical industry and the livelihoods of the men and women who have made the aerospace sector thrive for generations is our top legislative priority,” said IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. “The federal funding authorized by this bill will be used for the sole purpose of keeping working families on the job and off of unemployment. As the largest aerospace and defense union in America, we proudly endorse this much-needed legislation and hope it is passed swiftly with bipartisan support.”

Government relief has proven effective at helping keep employees on payroll during the crisis. A recent study found that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) alone saved between 1.5 and 3.5 million jobs. The bipartisan bills propose a public-private partnership between government and industry to help prevent further layoffs. The Estes-Larsen bill is cosponsored by Representatives Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Tom Cole (R-OK), Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Kim Schrier (D-WA) and Salud Carbajal (D-CA). The Moran-Warner bill is cosponsored by Senators Pat Roberts (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Roy Blunt (R-MO), and Doug Jones (D-AL). Both bills provide an innovative path forward for the aviation manufacturing and maintenance industry. Congressional leadership must now come together in support of this critical manufacturing sector and workforce.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

WWII Aerial Tribute Taking Flight over National Mall and Potomac River

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Friday, September 25, an aerial tribute commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II will take place over the National Mall and Potomac River. Organized by the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover, the aerial tribute will include over 65 WWII era airplanes flying in historical sequence formations representing the significant battles of WWII and ending with the missing man formation.

“The 75th anniversary of the end of World War II is such a seminal event that Congress passed legislation, which was promptly signed into law by the president, directing its official commemoration. Our mission is to fulfill the objectives of that law while fully taking into account the COVID-19 related protocols that must be responsibly implemented to carry out such a tribute.  We can’t drive tanks down Constitution Avenue nor place ships in the Tidal Basin, but through extraordinary coordination with multiple federal agencies, we can fly warbird aircraft through the heart of our nation’s Capital to honor the sacrifices of those who came together three quarters of a century ago as one, to defeat fascism and preserve our freedoms,” said Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member.

The flyover, which was originally scheduled to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE-Day (May 8), was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Arsenal of Democracy Flyover, which also organized the 2015 aerial tribute in recognition of the 70th anniversary of VE-Day, is urging spectators to follow local guidance in regards to social gatherings and distancing, and encourages people to safely enjoy the tribute anywhere along the planned flight path – starting from around the American Legion Memorial Bridge, moving southeast down the Potomac River, along the National Mall and then south towards Alexandria, Virginia.

“Our country owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who made incredible sacrifices to defend our country,” said John Cudahy, President and CEO of the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS), and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member. “For all of those involved in this event, it has been a genuine honor to help recognize our Greatest Generation on this 75th anniversary.”

The aerial tribute will also be live streamed on the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover website (ww2flyover.org) and Facebook page (facebook.com/ww2flyover). The live stream will include special programming, including interviews with veterans and heroes, starting at 10:00 AM ET. Live coverage of the first formation approaching the National Mall with detailed narration will start at approximately 11:30 AM ET. Local spectators can also utilize this live feed to hear narration while watching along the planned flight path. It is estimated that the aerial tribute over the National Mall will last approximately one hour.

To complement the aerial tribute, the Smithsonian Institution’s Air & Space Magazine has put together a special webpage dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII. The webpage includes the history and stories of WWII aircraft, many of which are participating in the aerial tribute. The dedicated website can be found at airspacemag.com/flyover.

“We are proud and humbled by the large number of pilots and aircraft owners who have dedicated their time and aircraft to pay homage to our World War II veterans. It truly is fulfilling to see the reactions and emotions that overcome our nations’ heroes when they see the aircraft they flew or worked on over 75 years ago fly overhead,” said Mike Ginter, Airboss for the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover and Executive Committee member.  

The Arsenal of Democracy Flyover was organized to be as part of the commemorative programming events authorized in the 75th Anniversary of World War II Commemoration Act, which was signed into law in January 2019. The bill encouraged commemorative programs to honor World War II veterans, highlight the service of those who served on the home front during the war, recognize the contributions of U.S. allies, remember the horrors of the Holocaust and educate the public about the history of these events.

“The Commemorative Air Force is dedicated to educating, inspiring and honoring through flight and living history experiences,” said Hank Coates, President of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member. “We’re proud to be part of the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover and to help ensure we recognize and remember the enormous sacrifices of our nation’s heroes.”

The planning committee has been working closely with federal and local government officials, aircraft operators and volunteers to establish the safest ways to carry out this tribute. Gatherings of air and ground crews, as well as support volunteers, at the staging bases will be closely screened, monitored and limited, therefore participating aircraft will not be available for public tours.

Organizers of the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover include the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, (GAMA), the Commemorative Air Force (CAF), the International Council of Air Shows (ICAS) and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA).

For more information regarding the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover, visit ww2flyover.org.

CLICK HERE to view the official press release.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

European Aviation Unites in Calls for Support for Green Recovery from COVID-19 

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – With the gradual restarting of passenger air transport in the coming weeks, leaders from over a dozen air transport associations representing Europe’s aviation sector today issued an urgent call for EU leaders to prioritise specific decarbonisation initiatives in their allocation of future COVID-19 recovery funding. European aviation continues to reel from the sudden collapse of the air transport system over the last months and is amongst the sectors most heavily impacted. But these challenges are compounded by the need to meet ambitious climate change goals going forward. Ensuring an accelerated deployment of existing decarbonisation solutions and adequate investments to bring new technologies forward will be key – investments which should be at the heart of the EU’s COVID-19 recovery strategy. In the meantime, existing financial instruments, such as loans, could also be made available to provide urgent relief.

Europe’s aviation sector is committed to contributing to the recovery of European economies in line with the Green Deal objectives, and to the benefit of all. The sector therefore calls on policymakers to include smart measures to support Europe’s civil aviation sector during its recovery. This requires ensuring that aviation climate action is eligible for funding under the mechanisms foreseen by Next Generation EU and the new Multi-annual Financial Framework (MFF).

“As we begin the recovery process from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that the aviation industry continue to make strides towards achieving our environmental sustainability goals. If properly structured, these investment measures would further general and business aviation industry efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve its environmental performance,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

A combination of public and private investment is necessary to allow air transport leaders to speed up work to decarbonise the sector - in line with the EU goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Specific proposals include:

1. Boosting the production and uptake of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) in Europe  through a dedicated and stable set of policy measures and public investment plans. Such measures would notably be welcomed within the “ReFuel EU Aviation-Sustainable Aviation Fuels” initiative and include:

• Direct capital investment (or ownership) in SAF production facilities, enabling the necessary de-risking required to debt finance projects as well as the execution of off-take contracts with aircraft operators;
• Making Europe the centre of excellence for the development and production of SAF through the construction and funding of commercial scale SAF projects from globally approved technology pathways.

2. Implement a green incentive scheme for airlines and aircraft operators to replace older aircraft (fixed wing and helicopters) with more modern and environmentally friendly aircraft. Use public funds dedicated to the recovery to provide such incentives to aircraft operators. On average, new aircraft models are 20% - 25% more fuel-efficient and produce less noise compared to previous generations. Such an incentive scheme would speed up the green transition towards the EU’s shorter term ambition of 2030.

3. Increase public funding and public co-funding rates for Civil Aviation Research & Innovation (Clean Aviation and SESAR): Use resources from the recovery funds to inject additional capital beyond the amount that will be provided through the MFF and Horizon Europe, in particular. European disruptive technologies and innovative fuels, including hydrogen, can generate deep and long-term emissions reductions towards the EU’s Climate Neutrality in 2050.

4. Continued investment in the European Air Traffic Management system (ATM): Enhance the benefits of the Single European Sky and temporarily provide 100% public funding for the deployment of SESAR technologies with proven sustainable and environmental benefits. Such funds should benefit all stakeholders that will need to contribute to the deployment of new technologies, including airports, airspace users and air navigation services providers.

5. Investment in sustainable airport and heliport infrastructure: Ensure funding eligibility of projects related to energy efficiency, renewable energy and electrification (e.g. improving the energy efficiency of terminal buildings, renewable energy generation on-site, supply of electrical ground power to aircraft on stand, electrification of ground vehicle fleets, etc.) 

Air transport associations calling for green recovery support from COVID-19 include Aerospace & Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD); Airlines International Representation in Europe (AIRE); Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE); Airlines for Europe (A4E); European Regions Airline Association (ERA); Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO); European Helicopter Association (EHA); European Business Aviation Association (EBAA); European Travel Commission (ETC); Ceemet – European Tech & Industry Employers; General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA); International Air Transport Association (IATA); and International Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association – Europe (IAOPA Europe).

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Welcomes New Associate Membership

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced the addition of Hyundai Motor Group’s Urban Air Mobility Division as an Associate Member Full.

“We welcome Hyundai Motor Group’s Urban Air Mobility Division to GAMA. It is exciting to see automotive manufacturers enter the advanced air mobility sector of the aviation industry. The innovative technologies that are coming out of this rapidly growing sector are propelling general and business aviation into the future,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO

The Urban Air Mobility Division of Hyundai Motor Group is helping define a new category of mobility for the world’s communities. It is developing a smart, people-centered electric vertical take-off and landing (EVTOL) air vehicle, tailored to the urban and regional mobility needs of tomorrow’s cities. In January, Hyundai and Uber Elevate announced their partnership to develop air taxis together.

For more information about GAMA membership criteria visit gama.aero.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Opens Registration for 2021 Aviation Design Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on National Aviation Day (U.S.), the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced that registration for the 2021 Aviation Design Challenge has opened. This annual competition promotes aviation jobs and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in U.S. high schools through aviation-focused curriculum and a virtual fly-off.

“National Aviation Day is about celebrating the history and promoting the future of aviation. It is fitting that on this day we open registration for GAMA’s ninth annual Aviation Design Challenge. This valuable program provides students with the opportunity to learn about the science of flight, the mechanics of creating aircraft and the career opportunities available in the general aviation industry,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

The Aviation Design Challenge is open to the first 150 schools that register to participate. Registered schools will receive free “Fly to Learn” curriculum, which is aligned with national STEM standards, to facilitate the learning of flight and airplane design principles. Teachers can guide their students through the curricula in approximately four to six weeks through in-person and/or virtual settings. The teams will then modify an airplane design and complete a mission in a virtual fly-off using X-Plane software, which is a comprehensive and powerful flight simulator for personal computers.

Completed challenge submissions will be scored by GAMA judges based on the fly-off and other performance parameters. The winning team will receive an all-expenses-paid general aviation experience. The second-place team will receive a STEM Lab Camp provided by Redbird Flight Simulations, an industry leading manufacturer of aviation training devices and tools.

Since its inception in 2013, the Aviation Design Challenge has reached over 3,500 students, from over 400 high schools, spanning 47 states and Washington, D.C. Past winners and entrants of the Aviation Design Challenge have gone on to pursue careers in aviation.

To register and to learn more about the challenge, please visit the GAMA Aviation Design Challenge webpage. Registration closes on December 17, 2020, or once all available slots are filled.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Dear GAMA Members, 

I am pleased to announce the availability of the first issuance of the GAMA “Standards Applicability and Acceptance Tables” (A&A Tables) and the launch of a “Voluntary Consensus Standards” webpage. These publicly available resources will help increase awareness about industry standards development activities. Both the A&A Tables and website information are found at https://gama.aero/facts-and-statistics/consensus-standards/. 

A&A Tables 
These tables were assembled to assist in rapidly identifying standards by category, technical area, applicability, standards development organization (SDO) or committee. Ultimately, we want to assist you in finding what you need for certification projects across multiple platforms with having to expend resources on duplicating standards development. Additionally, the tables provide several filter mechanisms to sort and identify by EASA and FAA regulations.

Voluntary Consensus Standards Webpage 
This new resource provides guidance about how the aerospace industry leverages voluntary consensus standards, approaches to leveraging their platforms, adoption by authorities around the world as well as Standards Development Organizations (SDO) activities and resources. Beyond overviews of the SDO’s relevance to aviation, we provide additional resources relevant to advancing your organizations initiatives. 

Both of these resources will evolve over time, with updates to standards, issuances of new authority policy and suggestions from users. A&A Table updates are planned to at least be semiannual. We strive to have the webpage and its contents be a go-to tool for the community, updated in real-time. 

I would like to thank our friends in the standards community for assisting with the development of the A&A Tables; the first ever publicly available database of its kind! 

Suggestions to improve the usefulness of these resources are welcome by contacting standards@gama.aero. 

Christine DeJong Bernat
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Director, Global Innovation and Policy
General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA)
1400 K Street NW, Suite 801
Washington, DC 20005
Direct: +1.202.637.1388 / Mobile: +1.202.236.7580

To view a copy of this memo on GAMA's Members Only website:
https://gama.aero/my-dashboard/committees/rpi

GAMA Welcomes FuelsEurope’s Pathway to Climate Neutrality

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) welcomes FuelsEurope's recently unveiled pathway to climate neutrality by 2050 by EU refiners. GAMA has been advocating for such efforts to broaden the availability of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).  

“The availability of SAF is a challenge to its widespread use. It is encouraging to see FuelsEurope put forth a worthy commitment from refiners to increase the supply of SAF. Working together, we can make meaningful change in the promotion and usage of SAF in Europe and around the world,” said David Paddock, GAMA Chairman and President, Jet Aviation.

“The business aviation industry is ready to continue leading in the use of SAF as part of our commitment to minimise the environmental impact of our operations. We look forward to working with the European Commission, FuelsEurope and other stakeholders to develop the SAF supply chain and market,” said Nicholas Chabbert, GAMA Vice Chairman and Senior Vice President – Airplane Business Unit, DAHER.

“There is a clear and growing demand for SAF from the business aviation industry. Being able to adequately supply SAF to the industry is a key component of our environmental sustainability goals. The pathway that FuelsEurope has laid out will assist in making the use of SAF a viable reality,” added David Van Den Langenbergh, Chairman of GAMA’s European Leaders Steering Committee (ELS) and President – Aviation Services, Luxaviation.

“There is an unmet demand for SAF, and it is reassuring to have FuelsEurope’s support to expand the supply of SAF in Europe and around the world. It is vital that we continue working together to make alternative fuels the standard choice throughout the industry,” said Sébastien Albouy, member of GAMA’s European Leaders Steering Committee (ELS) and Chief Technical Officer, ABS Jets.

“Dassault and aircraft manufacturers are committed to reducing business aviation's carbon footprint. We are therefore encouraged by FuelsEurope's promotion of carbon emissions reduction through SAF usage,” said Dassault Aviation Chairman and CEO Eric Trappier.

“Widespread use of alternative fuels is a key pillar to the business aviation community’s commitment on climate change. Increasing the availability and use of SAF in Europe and elsewhere is a major priority for GAMA’s Environment Committee. We look forward to working with FuelsEurope and others to reduce carbon emissions and improve the environmental performance of business aviation,” said David Coleal, Chairman of GAMA’s Environment Committee and President, Bombardier Aviation.

“We welcome FuelsEurope’s commitment to increase the supply capacity for SAF. We have already successfully demonstrated the compatibility of SAF with our aircraft and engines. The next step is to build the supply and demand to make its use widespread, which makes the activities of FuelsEurope all the more important. It is impressive to see such a strong global commitment from all sectors of our industry for SAF,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

GAMA and its member companies are committed to advancing the environmental and sustainability benefits of SAF. The general and business aviation industry has been among the earliest adopters and promoters of SAF and is a partner of choice in efforts to increase the uptake of SAF in Europe and the world.

For more information about FuelsEurope’s pathway to climate neutrality by 2050 by EU refiners, visit fuelseurope.eu.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

MEDIA ADVISORY: Experts Across Supply Chain to Address First-Ever Business Aviation Sustainability Summit

Washington, D.C. – Business aviation leaders will convene September 14-15 for a first-of-its-kind Virtual 2020 Business Aviation Sustainability Summit to discuss pathways to accelerate the market for sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), the cleaner-burning alternative fuel that, on a gallon-per-gallon basis, often reduce net lifecycle CO2 emissions in excess of 50%, versus conventional jet fuel.  

Experts along every point on the value chain – manufacturers, producers, providers/FBOs, operators, government leaders and others – will discuss and determine how to increase the production, availability and use of SAF. Members of the news media are invited to attend.

The forum is being hosted by the Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition), which just released Fueling the Future, an educational and informational resource about SAF development, industry adoption and expansion of supply and use. The guide builds upon initiatives to educate industry leaders, policymakers and others on the benefits and viability of SAF in conjunction with the World Economic Forum and previous events held at airports in Van Nuys, CA, Farnborough, UK, Geneva and Las Vegas.

Additional Background

Business aviation has been working to increase the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which can cut flight emissions by as much as 80 percent. The industry’s efforts are led by the Business Aviation Coalition for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF Coalition), which includes the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI), European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). The SAF Coalition’s work is supported by a Steering Committee that includes dozens of aviation businesses, representing every point in the SAF development-and-supply chain.

More information about the SAF Coalition is available at futureofsustainablefuel.com.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Welcomes Expanded Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement on Pilot Training

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) commends the signing of two new annexes to the EU-U.S. Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement on Cooperation in the Regulation of Civil Aviation Safety. These new annexes reach agreements on pilot licenses and flight simulation training devices.

“The signing of these two new annexes mark a significant milestone in the ongoing work to improve aviation safety and streamline acceptance of pilot licensing and training. We applaud the work done between the EU and the U.S. to finalize and reach agreement on these long-awaited annexes. GAMA has been at the forefront of advocating for the harmonization of license validations and recognition of flight simulator certifications,” said  Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO. “We will continue to work for growth and advancements within the general and business aviation industry and look forward to expanding bilateral aviation safety cooperation.”

The new pilot licensing annex will allow for reciprocal conversions of certain FAA pilots certificates and  EU Part-FCL licenses. The new flight simulation training annex provides for validation of Flight Simulation Training Devices for reciprocal use in pilot training in the EU and U.S. 

For more information about the annexes, visit the European Commission’s website and the Federal Aviation Administration’s website.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Announces 2020 Aviation Design Challenge Winners

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced that the team from Riverwood International Charter School in Sandy Springs, Georgia, is the winner of the 2020 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge. The team from Harkness Career and Technical Center in Cheektowaga, New York, is the second-place winner.

“As we have been each of the eight years of our Aviation Design Challenge, we are extremely proud of our winners as well as all the schools who submitted entries. The COVID-19 pandemic created unforeseen and difficult challenges for the students and teachers, and we were impressed with innovative approach teams took to collaborate virtually and finish the competition,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO. “We look forward to rewarding our winners with unique aviation experiences in the coming weeks that will continue to promote the importance of Aerospace STEM education as well as expose these young people to the vast opportunities that await them in aviation.”

Over 80 high schools entered the 2020 GAMA Aviation Design Challenge, spanning 35 states. During the first part of the challenge, teams use complementary “Fly to Learn” curriculum to learn the principles of flight and airplane design, which is developed in alignment with national STEM standards. During the second portion of the competition, teams apply their knowledge to modify an airplane design and complete a mission in a virtual fly-off using X-Plane software, which is a comprehensive and powerful flight simulator for personal computers. Judges score the teams based on performance parameters, a checklist of steps involved in the demonstration flight and a video submission in which the team summarized what they learned.

Members of the first-place team from Riverwood International Charter School include Coleman Alvarez, Lucas Daniels and Jessica Keen. Their design included a substantially increased wingspan, winglets, retractable gear and two additional propeller blades. This was the school’s first time participating in the challenge. They will receive a one-of-a-kind general aviation experience including a tour of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation; demonstration flights by Cirrus Aircraft; a tour of a Signature Flight Support FBO; virtual experiences including live demonstrations and career panel discussions presented by Dassault Falcon, ForeFlight and Garmin; and much more.

The Riverwood International Charter School team was taught by John Friske. He had the following to say about his students:

“Jessica, Coleman and Lucas all strived to expand their knowledge base from the day we started, working tirelessly to learn new and challenging material.  They embraced the Design Thinking Process and Engineering Design Process that I teach and did everything that I asked of them with a smile and positive attitude.  It was so much fun watching them have a blast creating everything from a supersonic prop-driven rocket to a 300 ft. wingspan Sportsman that we couldn’t even get to stall!  I couldn’t be more proud of them!”

Members of the second-place team from Harkness Career and Technical Center include Madison Baer, Vincenzo Ciffa, Anthony Mathewson, Nate Pajak, Jacob Robinson, Andrew Schlabach, Olivia Thornton and Gavin Wieszala. The team was taught by Aviation Design Challenge veteran Thomas Leach. Their entry included redesigning the fuselage of their aircraft, increasing the propeller diameter, converting to a taildragger, increasing the span and AR, adding speed brakes and increasing flap deflection. Harkness Career and Technical Center has placed in the top of the challenge for the last three years, including winning the 2018 challenge. They will receive a two-day Redbird Flight Simulations STEM Lab Camp.

Thomas Leach, teacher of the team from Harkness Career and Technical Center, had the following to say about his students:

“The students in the Aviation Technology class at Harkness Career & Tech Center in New York State worked through some interesting and challenging times this year which were different than any other. They started the challenge in the classroom and, with school closing in early March, switched to online instruction. Some transitioned well to work from home as teams and continued to figure out how to work together to finish the challenge strong. One student, mentioned that this made him see how dedication and effort are required in online work as a team. Additionally, he mentioned how this challenging project made him better understand other areas of interest in the industry. The team that finished the challenge had their ups and downs and gained many new experiences. It was great to mentor them and ultimately see them complete the competition this year.”

The 2020 Aviation Design Challenge sponsoring companies include Bombardier Business Aircraft, Cirrus Aircraft, Dassault Falcon, Embraer, ForeFlight, Garmin, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Hartzell Propeller, Redbird Flight Simulations, Signature Flight Support, Textron Aviation and Wipaire. Sponsors provide financial support for the prizes as well as in-kind donations.

Learn more about the organizations involved in organizing the competition, visit gama.aero, flytolearn.com and x-plane.com.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

MEDIA ADVISORY: WWII Arsenal of Democracy Flight Over Washington DC Delayed

Due to weather conditions, the Arsenal of Democracy Flyover, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, was unable to perform today’s flyover as planned. We plan to perform the aerial tribute on Saturday, September 26 with the first formation approaching the National Mall at approximately 11:30 AM ET. The route and participating aircraft will stay the same. The livestream of the aerial tribute will begin airing at 10:00 AM ET on www.WW2Flyover.org

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Aerial Tributes Commemorating 75th Anniversary of the End of WWII to Proceed

WASHINGTON, D.C. – To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, aerial tributes in Hawaii and Washington D.C. will take place in August and September. After lengthy discussions and coordination with federal and local officials, the 75th WWII Commemoration Executive Committee has made modifications to planned events in Oahu and the Washington D.C./Northern Virginia area to address health protocols established by state, county and local officials as they pertain to public gatherings.

“Commemoration events are in place to pay tribute and thank our veterans of World War II, the Greatest Generation, for their service and sacrifice on behalf of the United States,” said Mike Carr, President and CEO of the Battleship Missouri Memorial. “We have worked very hard to ensure this important anniversary would not go unnoticed and look forward to recognizing those who fought for our ultimate freedom. A special evening is planned on Pier Foxtrot 5, where the USS Missouri is berthed, on September 1, honoring our guests of honor. At 9:02 the next morning, the official 75th Commemoration Ceremony will take place on board the ship — where dignitaries from 10 nations gathered in 1945 to sign the Instrument of Surrender, formally ending WWII.”

“The 75th anniversary of the end of World War II is a historic milestone and it is important that we recognize the service and sacrifice of our heroes, from the battlefield to the home front. After a tremendous amount of thoughtful planning, we will be able to continue with our rescheduled VE-Day aerial tribute of World War II aircraft over our nation’s capital. Recent flyovers around the country have uplifted spirits and we aim to do the same while honoring our Greatest Generation. Rest assured that the health and safety of our participants and spectators, especially our WWII veterans, is of utmost importance as we continue working to put on this memorable event,” said Pete Bunce, President and CEO of the General Aviation Manufactures Association (GAMA), and Arsenal of Democracy Executive Committee member. 
  
The 75th Anniversary of World War II Commemoration Act was signed into law last year to establish a commemorative program to honor World War II veterans, highlight the service of those who served on the home front during the war, recognize the contributions of U.S. allies, remember the horrors of the Holocaust and educate the public about the history of these events. The flyover events in Hawaii and Washington D.C. were established as part of the commemorative program. Originally, the Washington D.C. flyover was to take place on May 8, in conjunction with VE-Day (Victory in Europe Day) 75-year anniversary events but was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hawaii events are to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the Japanese surrender on board the USS Missouri (VJ-Day). The window to honor these commitments for the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II is closing and those that this special commemoration is meant for are getting older in age. Recent flyovers during the pandemic have been done in a responsible and safe manner and the planned aerial tributes of World War II warbirds in Hawaii and Washington D.C. aim to do the same. 
 
Planning committees for both events are working closely with federal and local government officials, aircraft operators and volunteers to find the best and safest ways to carry out these tributes. With safety in mind and following the guidance of health officials, the Arsenal of Democracy Victory Gala in Washington D.C. that was scheduled for the evening before the flyover, will not take place. Gatherings of air and ground crews as well as support volunteers at the staging bases will be closely monitored and limited, and participating aircraft will not be available for public viewing prior to the events.

The commemoration events will begin in Honolulu on August 29 with educational programs and tributes that honor our veterans. A dinner will be held on September 1, followed, the next day with a public ceremony to be held at the Battleship Missouri Memorial. The events will require tickets to control the number of people in attendance. The public is encouraged to visit 75thwwiiCommemoration.org for the latest information and tickets.
 
The Arsenal of Democracy, Washington D.C. flyover will take place on Friday, September 25, and include over 60 aircraft from across the U.S. and Canada that will fly down the Potomac River across the National Mall in a historic sequence representing the significant battles of World War II. The aircraft will be over the National Mall at approximately 11:30 AM EST, and the entire flyover will last approximately one hour. Spectators will be able to view the aircraft from several points along the route and watch a live streamed broadcast, complete with narration. Look for additional information on the September 25 flyover at WW2Flyover.org.  
 
CLICK HERE to view the official press release.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Publishes Second Quarter 2020 Aircraft Shipments and Billings Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its report of general aviation aircraft shipments and billings through the second quarter of 2020 (June 30). Piston, turboprop, business jet and helicopter deliveries declined across all segments during the first six months of 2020 as compared to the same period of 2019.

“It should come as no surprise to anyone that the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the general aviation industry and its global operations in the second quarter. During those months, while the global aerospace supply chain was significantly degraded and national, state and local pandemic restrictions changed routinely on both sides of the Atlantic, many companies supplemented their activities to support the health care response with the manufacture and distribution of personal protective equipment. With facilities conducting operations in a ‘new normal’ work environment, what has been very encouraging is that the supply chain has begun to stabilize and robust screening procedures and innovative work station COVID-19 mitigation protocols have resulted in very few virus transmission incidents,” said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce. “While continued mandated and voluntary restrictions on international business travel are producing stiff headwinds, flight activity for business aviation has appeared to return to around 85 percent of pre-pandemic levels in U.S. domestic airspace, while piston, turboprop and rotorcraft flight activity has actually increased. Many travelers have also opted to explore the utility of general and business aviation for the first time, which we hope will translate into future customers for the incredible and versatile products and services our industry has to offer.”

Aircraft shipments through the first six months of 2020, when compared to the same period in 2019, saw piston airplane deliveries decline 13.3%, with 497 units; turboprop airplane deliveries decline 34.2%, with 152 units; and business jet deliveries decline 26.7%, with 244 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the second quarter of 2020 was $7.9 billion, a decline of approximately 20.2%.

Turbine helicopter deliveries for the first six months of 2020, when compared to the same period in 2019, saw a decline of 37.1%, with 188  units; and piston helicopter deliveries saw a decline of 45.2%, with 63 units.

First Half Aircraft Shipments and Billings

GAMA’s complete 2020 second quarter report can be found at gama.aero.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Members Step Up to Fight COVID-19 Pandemic

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Over the last month, many General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) member companies have taken steps to help their communities fight against COVID-19. GAMA members have donated and began producing personal protective equipment, while others have offered to transport medical personnel and supplies.

“It is inspiring to see the support that our members are providing to their communities and neighbors during this pandemic,” GAMA president and CEO Pete Bunce said. “The general aviation industry has a rich history of helping others in times of need and they are stepping up to pitch in during these uncertain times. We are seeing our members, from all around the world, adapt their operations to produce masks, shields, gowns and ventilator parts and provide flights to aid in the medical response. It is moments like these that bring a sense of pride for what our industry does to help one another.”

Select examples of GAMA members working to help their communities fight the COVID-19 pandemic include:

• Appareo – producing emergency ventilators.
• Autonodyne, LLC (sister company of Avidyne Corporation) – producing ventilator masks and face shields.
• Avfuel Corporation – producing face mask ear hooks and face shield headbands.
• Bell – producing hand sanitizer.
• Boeing Business Jets – producing and transporting medical supplies.
• Bombardier Aviation – donated supplies, making financial contributions, producing face shields and collaborating on a ventilator production project.
• CAE SimuFlite  – producing ventilators.
• Cirrus Aircraft – donated supplies, producing face shields and developing blowers for Powered Air Purifying Respirators.
• Collins Aerospace – donated medical supplies and manufacturing face shields.
• Daher TBM – providing airlift resources in transporting healthcare personnel and medical supplies.
• Daher Kodiak – providing transportation of ventilators from manufacturer to hospitals.
• Dassault Aviation – donated masks, producing protective visors and providing aircraft to assist rapid transport of healthcare personnel.
• Duncan Aviation – producing masks and gowns.
• Embraer – producing masks and parts for ventilators and providing aircraft to assist in humanitarian aid missions.
• Epic Aircraft – producing masks.
• FlightSafety International, Inc – producing 3D printed respirator components.
• Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation - donating medical supplies and making financial contributions.
• Hartzell Propeller, Inc.– donated masks and producing clips for face masks.
• Honeywell - Business & General Aviation – producing N95 face masks.
• Kaman Corporation – donated N95 masks and made financial contributions.
• L3Harris Technologies – making financial contributions and donating medical supplies.  
• Piper Aircraft, Inc. – donated N95 masks and producing face shields.
• Rolls-Royce – producing face shields.
• Signature Aviation – donating hanger space for storage of medical supplies.
• Signature  TECHNICAir – producing masks.
• Tamarack Aerospace Group – producing 3D printed face masks.
• Textron Aviation – donated N95 masks and manufacturing face shields and masks.
• TRU Simulation + Training – donated N95 masks.
• Universal Avionics Systems Corp. – providing non-profit group with assembly line space to manufacture face shields and masks.
• Wisk Aero – producing face shields.
• Woodward, Inc. – developing ventilators.
• World Fuel Services – providing fuel and logistics support for humanitarian and medical supplies flights.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA and EUROCAE Sign Cooperation Agreement

BRUSSELS, BELGIUM – The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE) have agreed to work together on developing aviation industry standards. The Memorandum of Understanding, signed today, enables the two organisations to address issues such as hybrid electric propulsion, VTOL, cybersecurity, and will speed up the implementation of new technologies.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) provides a framework for cooperation between the two organisations. These include exchanging information, sharing expertise and best practices, and cross-participation in working groups. As a first step, GAMA joined EUROCAE as a Full Member earlier in 2020 in recognition of the efforts of both organisations to enhance aviation and promote strong cooperation in developing industry standards.

“GAMA looks forward to working closely with EUROCAE to further the development of industry standards. Through this collaboration, both GAMA and EUROCAE will be able to promote the important interests and activities of the aviation industry and our members. This partnership will help advance the exciting future development of the global general and business aviation industry,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

GAMA is already actively involved in the EUROCAE Working Group on VTOL and will join other working groups in the future.

EUROCAE is the European leader in the development of worldwide recognised industry standards for aviation. EUROCAE develops standards by industry/members for the industry needs that build upon the state of the art expertise of our  members and address the global aviation challenges, are fit for purpose to be adopted internationally and support the operational, development and regulatory processes.

EUROCAE Secretary General, Christian Schleifer-Heingärtner, said, “We see a great opportunity work with GAMA, to complement each other’s working structure and to collaborate on the many areas of common interest. GAMA, as the voice of the general aviation community, will be able to raise the perspective of the general aviation manufacturers in the standards development process. Strengthening the cooperation with associations like GAMA is a key objective of EUROCAE to further enhance the spectrum and quality of the EUROCAE activities and resulting standards, where we see many more opportunities the GA community can benefit from."

This collaboration is not intended to replace the individual contribution of EUROCAE and GAMA member organisations to EUROCAE and GAMA activities, but rather to encourage their respective members to strengthen their engagement in the work of EUROCAE and GAMA.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Publishes First Quarter 2020 Aircraft Shipments and Billings Report

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its report of general aviation aircraft shipments and billings for the first quarter of 2020. Piston, turboprop, business jet and rotorcraft deliveries declined across all segments during the first quarter of 2020 as compared to the first quarter of 2019.

“While the year started off strong, the health and safety restrictions put in place to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic began to significantly impact global operations, supply chains and deliveries towards the end of the first quarter. Companies rapidly implemented a wide range of health protocols in accordance with local, regional and national level guidance to keep production, maintenance and training activity churning. Many companies then supplemented ongoing activities with the production and transport of health care materials needed by front line health care workers and communities across the globe. These actions serve as a testament to the adaptability and resilience of our industry’s incredible workforce who will play such a pivotal role in our recovery process,” said GAMA President and CEO Pete Bunce.

The first quarter of 2020, when compared to the first quarter of 2019, saw piston airplane deliveries decline 11.7%, with 219 units; turboprop airplane deliveries decline 41.8%, with 71 units; and business jet deliveries decline 19.1%, with 114 units. The value of airplane deliveries through the first quarter of 2020 was $3.4 billion, a decline of approximately 21.3%.

Turbine helicopter deliveries for the first quarter of 2020, when compared to the first quarter of 2019, saw a decline of 18.3%, with 85 units; and piston helicopter deliveries saw a decline of 43.9%, with 37 units.

GAMA’s complete 2020 first quarter report can be found at gama.aero.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Member Companies to Participate in FAA General Aviation Town Hall

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, June 18, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) member companies will be participating in a General Aviation Town Hall hosted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The town hall will include two panels of industry leaders discussing the impacts, challenges and experiences of the general aviation industry during the  COVID-19 public health emergency. GAMA member company representatives participating in the panels include David Dalpiaz, Vice President of Flight Services, Jet Aviation; Ron Draper, President and CEO, Textron Aviation; Aaron Hilkemann, President and  CEO, Duncan Aviation; and Tony Lefebvre, President and COO, Signature Aviation.

The town hall will be streamed live on the FAA’s Facebook and YouTube pages from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

GAMA Statement on Aircraft Safety and Certification Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A U.S. Senate and House compromise aircraft safety and certification bill was part of the omnibus federal government funding bill passed by Congress. The Aircraft Certification, Safety and Accountability Act addresses issues uncovered in the Boeing 737 MAX investigations and reports. General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) President and CEO, Pete Bunce, issued the following statement regarding the bill: 

“In the aftermath of the Boeing 737 MAX accidents, GAMA engaged with aviation stakeholders to examine the issues raised by these accidents and find solutions to improve the safety and strength of the aviation system.  Many of the provisions included in the Aircraft Certification, Safety and Accountability Act, bolster efforts long championed by GAMA. For the last several years, we have been working with the FAA and the international aviation community to implement safety management systems for manufacturers, which we were pleased to see included in the bill.

“The compromise bill also addresses other important issues identified by Congress and various technical and expert groups that have reviewed the MAX and related processes and are generally consistent with GAMA’s certification and safety priorities. These include increasing resources for the FAA safety workforce and oversight activities, improving safety decision-making for new technologies, and facilitating the FAA’s international engagement in safety harmonization and improvements. We appreciate that Congress, particularly the leadership of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, sought our input on these and other safety improvements and worked with us to address other challenges in an effective manner.  GAMA will continue its ongoing work with the FAA and other aviation regulators to ensure this legislation improves the safety and resiliency of the aviation system through successful implementation of safety management systems, needed investments and changes in safety oversight, and strong international engagement on key safety training and harmonization efforts.”

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.

Industry Groups Release Guidance on Aircraft Leasing Best Practices

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of a comprehensive industry response to federal concerns over illegal charter flights – including those conducted under so-called “sham dry lease” arrangements – the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and other leading industry groups today announced the publication of the “General Aviation Dry Leasing Guide,” which breaks down key regulatory information related to the proper use of leases and how improper use, whether intentional or inadvertent, can lead to illegal operations.

The free “General Aviation Dry Leasing Guide” was assembled by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Experimental Aircraft Association, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Helicopter Association International, National Air Transportation Association and National Business Aviation Association.

Nearly all general aviation flights – including those conducted under dry leasing arrangements – take place in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and other applicable laws. Aircraft dry leases are commonly used in the industry, and when properly implemented, they are compliant with the regulations. In simplest terms, a dry lease is one in which the lessor simply provides an aircraft, leaving it to the lessee to obtain crewmembers, and also to assume operational control of a flight.

That said, the FAA’s increased scrutiny over illegal charter flights using “sham dry leases” to disguise the true commercial nature of a flight – which has taken shape largely under the agency’s Safe Air Charter initiative – has led aircraft owners and lessors to seek greater clarity on the arrangements, in order to fully ensure proper compliance.   

Written by veteran industry experts, the “General Aviation Dry Leasing Guide” offers a detailed breakdown of the best practices for proper use of dry leases, clarifying how aircraft owners can derive benefits from the arrangement, while enhancing the industry’s vigilance against practitioners of illegal charter.

“We came together as an industry to develop the General Aviation Dry Leasing Guide so that general and business aviation aircraft owners and operators can have a better understanding of the intricacies of dry leases. To maintain the health of our industry, it is important that we all continue operating in a safe and compliant manner,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.

Information covered in the publication includes an overview of the different types of dry leases, the difference between dry and wet leases (which involve the provision of crewmembers), as well as how “operational control” is determined, and how to maintain compliance when considering maintenance, authorization and insurance requirements. It also includes 22 frequently asked questions that clearly and specifically address common causes of confusion for both operators and consumers.

Download your copy of A Guide to General Aviation Dry Leasing today.

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GAMA is an international trade association representing over 100 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation airplanes and rotorcraft, engines, avionics, components and related services. GAMA's members also operate repair stations, fixed based operations, pilot and maintenance training facilities and manage fleets of aircraft. For more information, visit GAMA's website at www.GAMA.aero.