Business Aviation
Elevate Jet Gains FAA Certification for Large Aircraft Operations
Elevate Jet receives FAA Part 135 certification to operate large private jets, expanding capabilities in the US private aviation market.
Elevate Jet’s Certification for Large Aircraft Operations: Expanding Capabilities in the Private Aviation Sector
Elevate Jet, a boutique aircraft management firm and subsidiary of Elevate Aviation Group, has been granted a Large Aircraft operating certificate by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). This milestone enables the company to operate Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ), Boeing Business Jets (BBJ), and Embraer Lineage 1000 under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135 regulations. The certification marks a significant expansion of Elevate Jet’s operational scope and aligns with broader trends in the private aviation sector, where demand for large, long-range, and fuel-efficient aircraft continues to rise.
As the sister company to Private Jet Services Group (PJS), known for its VIP charter operations in entertainment, politics, and sports, Elevate Jet’s new capabilities will enhance the group’s integrated service offerings. The development also follows the company’s inclusion in the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program (SMSVP), placing it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators in the U.S. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the certification, its implications, and the context in which it was achieved.
Elevate Aviation Group: Corporate Structure and Historical Context
Founded in 1995 by Greg Raiff, Elevate Aviation Group began as a student travel company before evolving into a full-service aviation platform. The group’s transformation was catalyzed by the success of Private Jet Services Group (PJS), which emerged in 2003 to serve high-profile charter clients. In 2022, the company rebranded as Elevate Aviation Group, consolidating its subsidiaries into a vertically integrated enterprise that includes Elevate Jet, PJS, and Elevate MRO.
Each subsidiary plays a distinct role within the group. Elevate Jet focuses on aircraft management, acquisitions, and sales; PJS specializes in on-demand and programmatic charters; and Elevate MRO, developed through the acquisition of Keystone Aviation, provides maintenance and repair services. This structure allows for operational synergies, such as PJS utilizing Elevate Jet’s managed fleet for client charters, and ensures end-to-end service capabilities for clients.
Elevate Aviation Group’s financial and legal stability was underscored in 2023 when it secured a $29 million arbitration award against iAero Airways. This legal victory highlighted the group’s resilience and strategic clarity as it continued to expand its operational footprint and service offerings.
Elevate Jet’s Evolution
Elevate Jet has grown from a boutique aircraft management company into a certified operator of large aircraft. Based in Bedford, Massachusetts, the company has approximately 25 employees and reported annual revenues of $6.8 million. Its fleet has included a range of mid-size to long-range jets, such as the Bombardier Global Express, Falcon 7X, and Phenom 100. In early 2025, the company added a Challenger 650 to its fleet, further enhancing its capabilities.
Prior to receiving the large aircraft certificate, Elevate Jet operated under standard Part 135 certification, which limited the scope of aircraft and operations it could manage. The transition to large aircraft operations required rigorous FAA scrutiny and compliance with additional DOT regulations, particularly for aircraft with 60 or more passenger seats or equivalent payload capacity.
The certification process concluded with the issuance of FAA Order 2025-6-7 in June 2025, officially granting Elevate Jet the authority to operate large aircraft under Part 135. This milestone not only expands the company’s service offerings but also positions it to meet growing market demand for ultra-long-range and high-capacity private aviation solutions.
“Large aircraft are in increasing demand in the U.S. charter space. For decades, we’ve curated trips for presidential campaigns and entertainment clients who will benefit from these placements.”, Reid Oslin, VP Strategic Accounts, Elevate Jet
Certification Details and Regulatory Framework
The Large Aircraft operating certificate falls under FAA Part 135, which governs non-scheduled commercial air charter operations. Elevate Jet’s certification allows it to operate aircraft originally designed for more than 60 passengers or equivalent payload, such as the Airbus Corporate Jet and Boeing Business Jet. These aircraft are capable of transcontinental and intercontinental flights, offering enhanced range, cabin space, and comfort.
To obtain the certificate, Elevate Jet underwent a comprehensive multi-phase evaluation by the FAA. This included verification of U.S. citizenship, documentation of operational control, compliance with maintenance and safety standards, and successful completion of proving flights. The company also demonstrated its ability to manage the complexities of large aircraft operations, including crew training, maintenance oversight, and regulatory compliance.
In addition to FAA requirements, the certification also involved DOT oversight due to the size and capacity of the aircraft involved. Elevate Jet’s adherence to these stringent standards reflects its commitment to operational excellence and safety, further evidenced by its SMSVP participation, which places it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators in the country.
Safety and Maintenance Infrastructure
Elevate Jet’s acceptance into the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program in January 2025 highlights its proactive approach to safety. The program evaluates operators across four pillars: Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, and Safety Promotion. Elevate Jet’s compliance with these standards demonstrates its readiness to manage the increased responsibilities associated with large aircraft operations.
Supporting its operational capabilities is Elevate MRO, which provides maintenance services from facilities in Denver and Salt Lake City. These facilities offer 24/7 AOG support, pre-purchase inspections, and Starlink internet installations, ensuring that Elevate Jet’s fleet remains mission-ready and technologically advanced. The integrated maintenance infrastructure is a key enabler of the company’s expanded operational scope.
Additionally, Elevate Jet’s pilot training programs exceed FAA minimums, with over 250 hours of type-specific instruction provided for large aircraft models. This investment in human capital ensures that flight crews are well-prepared to handle the complexities of long-range and high-capacity operations, further enhancing safety and reliability.
Market Context and Strategic Implications
The timing of Elevate Jet’s certification aligns with broader industry trends in private aviation. According to recent surveys, 93% of U.S. family offices plan to upgrade their aircraft within the next five years, citing operational cost reduction and newer, more fuel-efficient models as primary drivers. Large-cabin aircraft like the ACJ and BBJ are particularly appealing due to their spacious interiors and long-range capabilities.
Environmental considerations also play a significant role in shaping demand. Clients are increasingly prioritizing aircraft that can operate on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and models like the ACJ are compatible with up to 50% SAF blends. Elevate Aviation Group has responded to this trend by partnering with carbon offset providers such as Terrapass and committing to SAF adoption across its fleet.
From a competitive standpoint, Elevate Jet’s new certification enhances its value proposition within the Elevate Aviation Group ecosystem. PJS can now offer large aircraft charters directly through Elevate Jet, reducing reliance on third-party operators and improving service continuity. The certification also opens new revenue streams through structured leasing and demonstration flights, diversifying the company’s business model.
Fleet Modernization and Client Services
In parallel with the certification, Elevate Jet has undertaken a strategic fleet modernization initiative. This includes the retirement of older models, such as the Gulfstream G200, and the introduction of newer aircraft like the Challenger 650 and Global 7500. These changes reflect the company’s commitment to aligning its fleet with client expectations for performance, comfort, and sustainability.
Elevate Jet’s management services extend beyond aircraft operation to include financial reporting, maintenance coordination, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive approach appeals to corporate clients and high-net-worth individuals seeking turnkey aviation solutions. The company’s reputation for white-glove service and operational transparency further differentiates it in a competitive market.
Looking ahead, Elevate Jet is well-positioned to capitalize on continued growth in the private aviation sector. Its integrated service model, operational excellence, and strategic foresight provide a strong foundation for future expansion, both domestically and internationally.
Conclusion
Elevate Jet’s achievement of a Large Aircraft operating certificate marks a pivotal moment in its evolution and underscores its readiness to meet the demands of a changing private aviation landscape. By expanding its operational capabilities to include large-cabin, long-range aircraft, the company enhances its service offerings and strengthens its position within the Elevate Aviation Group.
This development also reflects broader industry dynamics, including rising demand for premium aircraft, increasing regulatory scrutiny, and growing emphasis on sustainability. As Elevate Jet continues to innovate and expand, it stands as a compelling example of how strategic investment in infrastructure, safety, and client service can drive long-term success in the aviation sector.
FAQ
Question: What does the Large Aircraft operating certificate allow Elevate Jet to do?
Answer: It allows Elevate Jet to operate aircraft originally designed for 60 or more passengers, such as Airbus Corporate Jets and Boeing Business Jets, under FAA Part 135 regulations.
Question: How does this certification impact Private Jet Services Group?
Answer: PJS can now offer large aircraft charters directly through Elevate Jet, enhancing service offerings and reducing reliance on third-party operators.
Question: What safety standards does Elevate Jet follow?
Answer: Elevate Jet is part of the FAA’s Safety Management System Voluntary Program, placing it among the top 2% of Part 135 operators for safety compliance.
Sources:
Photo Credit: Elevate
Business Aviation
F/LIST Expands Into Corporate Helicopter Interiors with Airbus Partnership
F/LIST broadens its aerospace interior offerings by entering the corporate helicopter market with Airbus, showcasing new tech at AIX 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from F/LIST.
Austrian high-end cabin interior specialist F/LIST has officially announced its expansion into the corporate helicopters sector. The strategic move, unveiled ahead of the Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) 2026 in Hamburg, Germany, positions the company as a comprehensive provider of premium interiors across the entire aerospace industry.
According to the company’s press release, F/LIST now seamlessly supports customers across a wide spectrum of environments, including corporate helicopters, business and private jets, commercial aviation cabins, and private residences. The expansion builds on the company’s existing portfolio, which also includes the F/YACHTING brand for the maritime sector and the HILITECH joint venture for lightweight composite technologies.
The announcement marks a significant milestone for the family-owned company, which employs over 1,210 people globally. By entering the rotorcraft market, F/LIST aims to provide a unified design and manufacturing resource for clients who operate across multiple high-end transport ecosystems.
Expansion into the Helicopter Market
Airbus Corporate Helicopters Partnership
F/LIST’s entry into the corporate helicopter interiors sector is anchored by a partnership with Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH). Industry reports from Vertical Magazine indicate that F/LIST recently designed and produced a bespoke cabinet for the new ACH140 helicopter, which debuted at Verticon 2026.
In the official press release, Michael Müller, Managing Director of F/LIST Aviation, emphasized the strategic logic behind the expansion.
“Expanding into the helicopter interiors sector is the logical next step for F/LIST. Many of our customers operate across multiple demanding interior environments simultaneously. With this addition, we can now support them throughout their entire ecosystem, in the air, on land, or at sea, and deliver the same level of creativity, technological innovation, advanced materials technology, and consistent craftsmanship in every space.”
Müller noted that this comprehensive approach provides customers with a single point of contact for all their interior acquisition needs. Following its commercial aviation debut at AIX 2025, the company’s presence at AIX 2026 (Booth 6B62) is designed to showcase its ability to create cohesive cabin experiences for every form of flight.
Technological Innovations at AIX 2026
Lightshifter and Real Wood Veneer
At AIX 2026, F/LIST is debuting several new technologies developed by its in-house innovation hub, F/LAB. The centerpiece of the company’s technological showcase is “Lightshifter,” a transformative innovation that integrates lighting directly into wood veneer surfaces. According to the press release, the technology allows flat wood surfaces to reveal illuminated design elements at the touch of a button. When deactivated, the veneer returns to its original appearance with no visible trace of the underlying lighting hardware.
Müller explained that Lightshifter responds to a growing demand for immersive and adaptable cabin environments, allowing designers to create striking bulkheads and feature walls without compromising weight or space.
Additionally, F/LIST is presenting its Real Wood Veneer 65/65 technology. The company states this is the industry’s first wood veneer fully compliant with commercial aviation heat release standards. The lightweight veneer is finished with a natural oil-based, low-VOC varnish and can be customized to reflect specific brand identities.
Stone Inlays and Lighting Collaborations
The company is also showcasing the F/LAB Stone Inlay, which integrates real stone into lightweight, certified applications for high-end cabins. Furthermore, F/LIST announced a collaboration with SCHOTT to reimagine reading lights. The SCHOTT Opal Reading Light series integrates F/LIST’s customizable natural surfaces, such as wood and stone, directly into the luminaire housing, allowing the lights to blend seamlessly into the cabin architecture or serve as distinct design accents.
AirPro News analysis
We believe F/LIST’s expansion into the corporate helicopter market reflects a broader trend in ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) and corporate transport: the desire for a unified aesthetic and technological experience across all modes of travel. By bridging the gap between business jets, commercial first-class suites, yachts, and now helicopters, F/LIST is positioning itself as a lifestyle brand rather than just an aviation supplier. The integration of smart materials like the Lightshifter technology also highlights the industry’s shift toward “hidden tech”—where advanced functionality is seamlessly embedded into natural, traditional luxury materials to save weight and preserve clean design lines.
Sources
Photo Credit: F/LIST
Business Aviation
Piper Aircraft Names SkyTech Aero Exclusive Dealer in Northeast US
Piper Aircraft appoints SkyTech Aero as exclusive dealer for sales and service in the Northeastern US, ensuring continuity after corporate changes.
Piper Aircraft has officially named SkyTech Aero as its exclusive authorized dealer for new aircraft sales and service coordination across the Northeastern United States. The announcement, made on April 13, 2026, ensures continuity for Piper owners in the region following a major corporate transition within the local aviation market.
According to the official press release, the newly formed, Rhode Island-based SkyTech Aero will cover a vast territory that includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. The dealership is spearheaded by aviation veterans who previously managed Piper sales under the legacy Skytech, Inc. banner.
This strategic appointment was timed just ahead of the 52nd Annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida, signaling Piper’s commitment to maintaining a strong, uninterrupted presence in a critical North-America market.
The Rebirth of a Legacy Dealership
The formation of SkyTech Aero represents a unique pivot in the general aviation sector. Industry background provided in the research report notes that the original Skytech, Inc., founded in 1976, had represented Piper Aircraft since 1980. However, on January 1, 2026, Skytech, Inc. was fully acquired and integrated into Pilatus Aircraft USA Ltd.
Because Pilatus and Piper compete in specific general aviation segments, former Skytech, Inc. executives chose to spin off and establish the brand-new SkyTech Aero. This move allows them to preserve their four-decade relationship with Piper Aircraft and its dedicated customer base without corporate conflict.
Leadership and Expertise
The new entity is led by Principal and Founder John Foster, formerly the President and CEO of the original Skytech, Inc. He is joined by Tony Sammartino, serving as President of the Sales Division, and Aircraft Sales Assistant Caden Eversole. Together, the team brings over 50 years of combined experience, particularly with the Piper PA-46 series, which includes modern M-Class models like the M700 FURY, M500, and M350.
“We’re proud to continue our long relationship with Piper in this new chapter. Our team has always believed in the strength of the Piper’s product line and the dedication of the customers who fly them. We look forward to bringing that same commitment to pilots across the Northeast and helping grow Piper’s presence in this dynamic aviation community,” Foster stated in the press release.
Seamless Service and Market Momentum
A primary goal of this new dealership agreement is to provide a seamless experience for current and future Piper owners. To guarantee immediate and reliable maintenance coverage, SkyTech Aero has partnered with two approved Piper Service Centers in the region: Shoreline Aviation in Marshfield, Massachusetts, and Northeast Air in Portland, Maine.
Piper Aircraft leadership expressed strong support for the continuity this veteran team provides to the Manufacturers network.
“Following the former SkyTech, Inc. ownership transition in the same region, it was a natural fit to continue our long-standing relationship with John Foster and other former Skytech, Inc. team members when they expressed interest in establishing a new Piper dedicated presence in the Northeast… We’re genuinely excited to continue this strategic alliance,” said Ron Gunnarson, Piper’s Vice President of Sales, Marketing, Customer Support and Quality.
AirPro News analysis
We view this development as a highly strategic maneuver by Piper Aircraft to protect its market share in the Northeast. By retaining the exact personnel who have successfully sold hundreds of PA-46 models over the decades, Piper mitigates the disruption typically caused when a dual-dealer is acquired by a competitor. Furthermore, announcing this Partnerships at the SUN ‘n FUN 2026 season opener capitalizes on Piper’s recent market momentum, which includes a reported 20% year-over-year Delivery increase in 2024 and its status as the first general aviation manufacturer to certify the Garmin Emergency Autoland system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What territory does SkyTech Aero cover for Piper Aircraft?
According to the press release, the exclusive territory includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.
Why was SkyTech Aero formed?
The original Skytech, Inc. was acquired by Pilatus Aircraft on January 1, 2026. Former executives spun off to create SkyTech Aero to maintain their exclusive, long-standing relationship with Piper Aircraft.
Where will Northeast Piper owners get their aircraft serviced?
SkyTech Aero is coordinating service through approved Piper Service Centers, specifically Shoreline Aviation in Massachusetts and Northeast Air in Maine.
Sources
Photo Credit: Piper Aircraft
Business Aviation
NATA and ERAU Launch AI Symposium for Business Aviation 2026
NATA, Tuvoli, and ERAU announce the first AI Symposium for Business Aviation in 2026 to explore practical AI applications in aviation safety and operations.
This article is based on an official press release from NATA.
The business aviation sector is preparing for a landmark gathering focused on the future of AI. The National Air Transportation Association (NATA), in partnership with aviation fintech company Tuvoli and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), has announced the inaugural AI Symposium for Business Aviation (AISBA).
Scheduled to take place from September 14 to 16, 2026, in Daytona Beach, Florida, the event is billed as a first-of-its-kind initiative for the aviation business community. According to the official press release, AISBA will convene industry leaders, operational professionals, technology experts, educators, and students to explore the practical and responsible implementation of AI across aviation businesses.
The program is designed to center on real-world use cases, focusing on efficiency, decision-making, Safety, workforce support, and overall business performance.
The Organizers: A Coalition of Industry and Academia
Fostering Workforce Readiness
The collaboration between NATA, Tuvoli, and ERAU highlights a strategic effort to align commercial aviation needs with academic research and technological innovation. NATA represents the commercial interests of aviation businesses, emphasizing the need for responsible AI adoption to improve performance and support the future workforce.
Tuvoli, a Boston-based fintech and software company founded in 2018, brings a critical business-to-business (B2B) perspective to the symposium. According to industry research data, Tuvoli has processed over $2 billion in charter payments, providing a digital platform that manages quoting, booking, trip management, and secure payment processing for charter brokers and Commercial-Aircraft operators. Their involvement demonstrates how digital infrastructure can streamline legacy industry workflows.
ERAU, hosting the event near its main campus in Daytona Beach, has a strong history of integrating AI into its curriculum and research. The university previously hosted university-wide AI Summits in 2024 and 2025, exploring the technology’s impact on education, cybersecurity, and aerospace.
“The interaction will help strengthen understanding of how innovation is being applied in aviation businesses while supporting stronger connections between industry and the next generation of professionals,” NATA stated in the official announcement.
Moving Beyond Theory: Practical AI in Aviation
Enhancing Safety and Cockpit Communications
A core focus of the upcoming symposium is the real-world application of AI, particularly in safety-critical environments. Background research on ERAU’s recent initiatives illustrates how AI is already being tested to solve legacy aviation challenges. For example, researchers are developing AI systems to transcribe and translate complex pilot-controller radio communications. This technology aims to act as a “smart co-pilot,” reducing misunderstandings caused by cockpit noise, accents, and jargon.
“We see an opportunity here for another leap forward to help controllers and pilots have safer radio communication,” said Andrew Schneider, Assistant Professor and Director of the Speech and Language AI Lab at ERAU.
Predicting Flight Risks and Pilot Training
Machine learning models are also being deployed to analyze flight simulator data, specifically targeting “Pilot-Induced Oscillations” (human error overcorrections) that can lead to in-flight loss of control, a leading cause of commercial aviation fatalities.
“This project looks at how we can monitor pilot behavior before getting into those conditions, and, if there is a mechanism that can monitor pilot behavior, then we can predict what the pilot should do to avoid PIOs,” explained Dr. Hever Moncayo, Professor of Aerospace Engineering at ERAU.
Beyond predictive safety, AI is being implemented to generate detailed flight training debriefings with personalized feedback and to simulate high-stress emergencies, better preparing students before they enter real-world operations. As Dr. Bert Zarb, Vice Provost at ERAU, noted during a previous summit, the industry’s challenge is no longer whether to use AI, but rather how to use it effectively and properly.
AirPro News analysis
The launch of AISBA signals a critical maturation point for the business aviation sector. Historically, the industry has viewed artificial intelligence primarily through the lens of aerospace engineering and manufacturing. However, this symposium underscores a pivot toward operational and B2B logistics modernization. By addressing legacy inefficiencies, such as manual charter booking processes and decades-old radio communication standards, the industry is acknowledging that digital infrastructure is just as vital as physical infrastructure. Furthermore, the emphasis on “responsible implementation” highlights the sector’s awareness of the cybersecurity and reliability hurdles that must be cleared before AI can be fully trusted in high-stakes, safety-critical environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the AI Symposium for Business Aviation (AISBA)?
AISBA is a first-of-its-kind event designed to bring together aviation industry leaders, tech experts, and academia to discuss the practical and responsible application of artificial intelligence in business aviation.
When and where is the event taking place?
The inaugural symposium is scheduled for September 14-16, 2026, in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Who is organizing AISBA?
The event is a collaborative partnership between the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), aviation fintech company Tuvoli, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU).
Sources:
NATA Official Press Release
Photo Credit: NATA
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