Nathan, Lee, & Andy were joined by Mike Nichols from NBAA to talk about all things NBAA and what things will look like when we all get to come back together at conferences again. Mike also shared his passion and joy of flying his airplane, and his new way of giving back through Angel Flight. If you want to connect with Mike or our hosts, or learn more about Angel Flight or the NBAA check out the links below. Oh and be sure to checkout the new cover art on our LinkedIn page...I think it is befitting of us. Mike Nichols: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholsmike/ Lee Brewster: https://www.link ..read more

Episode 23 of Jet Blast was a very insightful conversation with Dr. Amy Grubb from the FBI. Yes she has the wind breaker, and yes Andy and Nathan were super envious of that little tidbit. Amy shared an often overlooked element of technology based change management, and that is the human element. We discussed strategies for making sure we take people with us when we implement tools and or processes. You will definitely want to have a pen handy to capture some of these nuggets that Amy shared. Please keep the feedback coming! We love hearing from our listeners. To engage with Dr. Amy Grubb direc ..read more

Jet Blast episode 21 coming at you with Greg Thibodeau president and founder of Great Lakes Turbines, Inc. Greg's aviation story is a perfect example of someone who sees a better path than the one they are on, so what else does one do but take the leap of faith and start your own business. Learn how Greg's experiences shaped his path to entrepreneurship. Some great advice on how to partner with your FAA inspectors. Greg also is one that aspiring aviation entrepreneurs can turn to for advice. Learn more about Greg and Great Lakes Turbines below.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-thibodeau ..read more

In episode 19 of the Jet Blast podcast Andy, Lee, and Nathan had an interesting discussion with Scott Ashton from Aerox. Scott shared in his words "eclectic" aviation background and how each of those experiences lead him to owning Aerox. We also talked about the challenges of leading and running small aviation businesses in the most drastic global downturn aviation has every seen. It really is all about the people. Scott is also a pivotal figure big supporter of the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT. The museum has some wonderful enrichment and educational programs that help improve ..read more

Episode 17 is all about being active in seeking solutions. Our friend Rick Ochs from Spirit Aeronautics joined us to talk about some of the things he is currently working on. One of the solutions Rick has developed has to do with some gotchas around maintaining aircraft with certain types of STC work, Rick has written several open letters to the FAA and engaged several alphabet groups to explore ways to address this issue. You will want to check on this episode if you are charged with maintaining aircraft at any level. Rick also leads the ASTM F46 committee which is working to develop a myriad ..read more

In Jet Blast episode 14 we ripped the bandaid off of a topic that needs broader discussion in business aviation. Lee, Andy, and I were joined by my very good friend Lindsay Ancora to discuss the concept of "aviation as a service." Since the beginning there have been essentially two paths for aircraft owners: 1) internal company flight operation, or 2) management company. With the services of companies like L/D Aviation, Jett Group, Thoroughbred Aviation, and others owners now have the choice and ability of a hybrid type of management arrangement that is truly a bespoke approach to managing avi ..read more

In episode 11 of Jet Blast we were joined by my friend Cameron Tipton from Flight Level Partners to talk aircraft appraisals. When it comes to appraising aircraft there seem to be more questions than answers in many cases. For example, why can't I just use my broker or salesman to render an opinion of value? What does it mean to be a certified appraiser? Listen in to  hear Cameron's take on this and find out what if he will tell us what he thinks the COVID discount is on aircraft? Thanks again for all the feedback and comments. You can leave us feedback on our show page: www.anchor.fm/jet ..read more

In episode 9 we were joined by Rob Hill from CCX Technologies to discuss cyber threats flight operations face today. Cybersecurity and the threats that drive this industry are just a part of the world we live in, and you guessed it the threats are only getting more sophisticated and common place. Whether it is a crew member grabbing a quick cell phone charge in the hotel, or a passenger with less than positive intentions cyber threats in aircraft are quite real. Most don't realize those threats extend beyond the cabin and the WiFi system. Tune in and learn why Andy is turning off his bluetooth ..read more

The Jet Blast team had their first repeat guest!!! We were able to work some time in with Jessie Naor of Grandview Aviation before she took off for a couple of events, including speaking at CJI London. When we first talked to Jessie way back in July of 2020 (why does that feel like a hundred years ago????) she was in the early stages of her industry involvement as an advocate for safe and legal charter operations. Since we had our first conversation, there were big changes at Grandview and she is now on the Board of Directors for NATA and the Executive Committee Vice Chair for the Air Charter ..read more

Business aviation is booming, and the hype around different players has garnered interest everywhere, including private equity, SPACs, and venture capital, to name a few. In this episode, we had the opportunity to chat with Michael Riegel and gain insight into the current state of the business aviation industry, what the influxes of cash will mean, and how to interpret the data to look past the hype. Unfortunately, Nathan’s airplanes got in the way this week, so Andy and Lee were on their own. After some goat and island talk, Michael dove in to give his perspective and answer questions a few u ..read more