TAXI OUT WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE BUSINESS AVIATION INDUSTRY
A new premier FBO option is opening: Big Island Jet Center at Kailua-Kona’s Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (PHKO) in Hawaii. It’s set to begin welcoming guests starting December 14—following a soft opening the week before—just in time to wish pilots and passengers a warm Mele Kalikimaka. Located at the south end of the runway in a chic temporary terminal, the complex offers a large patio to accommodate passengers and crews with both indoor and outdoor lobby amenities, in addition to the airport’s only private fuel farm and general aviation ramp, which at nine acres is capable of supporting aircraft up to an Airbus A319. Along with full FBO services, Big Island Jet Center partners with local hotels, resorts, and activity centers to provide exclusive access to discounted rates. West Star Aviation, which provides MRO services to the business aviation industry, has announced that it has acquired Jet East . Jet East provides MRO services as well and focuses on supporting fractional and managed fleet operators. Capabilities include an expansive AOG mobile repair technician network, line maintenance operations, heavy maintenance facilities, and other complementary services. “I’m extremely happy to welcome the Jet East employees to West Star. Both West Star and Jet East are remarkable companies with strong and unique cultures,” said Jim Rankin, CEO of West Star Aviation. Said Stephen Maiden, CEO of Jet East: “I am thrilled about this new chapter for the combined company of West Star and Jet East. With the official close, we are provided a unique opportunity to enhance our capabilities and expand our offerings to better serve the needs of the aviation industry. As we turn our attention toward the exciting task of strategic integration, we remain committed to our customers so there is no disruption to the service that we provide. I am proud of what has been accomplished and excited about the future.” Aircraft management firm Elite Air has added two new Bombardier Challenger 3500s to its charter fleet, continuing the legacy of the Challenger line to its customers. Elite Air has managed Challengers since the 2000s, according to the company. Bombardier delivered the first of the 3500s to Elite in October 2022. A direct update to the popular Challenger 350, the new super midsize 3500 features the most comfortable and tech-driven cabin so far, according to Elite Air. The platform also features a 3,400 nm range and excellent balanced field performance and steep approach capability, as well as a top speed of Mach 0.83. The two aircraft will be based at Orlando International Airport (KMCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (KORL) in central Florida.
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