Aviation View | April 2021

2 AVIATION VIEW APRIL 2021 Welcome to Aviation View! From growing up as an Air Force brat, to sitting in the cockpit of an F-15 Strike Eagle, to soaring engine-less over farm country in a glider, to buzzing the Wright Brothers National Memorial in a Cessna with my Dad (who flew in B-17s) where it all started in Kill Devil Hills, NC, once you have aviation in your blood, the view from “up there” and the exhilaration of flight will stay with you forever. That’s why I’m thrilled to announce our exciting new Business View publication –Aviation View– and invite you to come aboard with us for a 30,000’ view and in-depth lead features that celebrate the triumphs, challenges, and achievements of the everyday heroes in this high-flying industry. Those that continue to pave the way for advancement and success, while sharing their passion for flight and service to our communities, no matter the turbulence. While there were temporary cancellations of large-group aviation events and air shows last year, like the famous EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, airports and their personnel have been diligent in utilizing the time to complete numerous Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs). The improvements include everything from terminal building expansions and renovations, new runway, taxiway and apron construction/rehabilitations, to safety improvements, new hangar construction, and on-site development – welcoming all those who are actively expanding their aviation and aerospace horizons, as well as other industrial corporate footprints. Business aviation continues to see steady up-ticks in operations through privately owned aircraft, fractional ownership, and chartered services. As a result, the needs of the business and leisure traveler are being met by fastidious Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) with expanded operations that excel in exemplary safety and hygiene protocols, travel efficiency, fueling, maintenance, catering, and concierge services for seamless travel from Point A to Point B. Commercial passenger numbers are on the rise in numerous markets, as commercial airlines continue to restore popular pre-COVID routes, while adding new, direct flights to several business and leisure destinations – furthering the rebound of economic development in the cities, counties and states that they serve. The months ahead continue to look promising, with the U.S. Transportation Security Administration recording over one million passengers per day going through TSA checkpoints across the country in multiple consecutive days in March of this year. This push has also contributed to a resurgence in aviation-critical jobs, including commercial and private pilots, aviation consulting, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO), baggage handling, screening, air cargo service, and airport construction. On the technology front, expect to see further development and implementation of emerging technologies that will continue to facilitate the passenger experience and airport navigation, such as biometrics and beacons, robotics and artificial intelligence at strategic touchpoints and high-traffic areas, and the use of electric aircraft for commuter air taxi service that promote sustainable, responsible, and carbon-free aviation. Air cargo operations are soaring to new heights with increased demand, personnel, and ground operations, including the creation of multiple new distribution centers of the world’s leading online and retail companies to meet the ongoing surge of retail and essential goods to the consumer. As we embark on this exciting journey into the greatest days of 2021 and beyond for our industry, you are cleared for take-off, as you join us to go “wheels-up” into a future full of exciting destinations, innovation, resiliency, and the indomitable spirit of the love of aviation. Happy landings! Paul Payne Director of Aviation & Research DI RECTOR ’ S NOTES WWW. BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE .COM Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US Editor in Chief Lorie Lee Steiner Director of Aviation&Research Paul Payne Research&Sales Directors Thomas Hiley Matt Savelli ContributingWriters Brett Anningson Michael Reschke Director of Production Vicki Lewis Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Creative Director Todd Calfee Vice President of Business Development Matthew Mitchell CGO Alexander Wynne-Jones Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink