This article is based on an official press release from PlaneSense, Inc. and CaptainJet.

PlaneSense and CaptainJet Launch Strategic Transatlantic Collaboration

PlaneSense, Inc., a leading fractional aircraft ownership program based in the United States, has announced a significant expansion of its international service capabilities through a new collaboration with CaptainJet, a European luxury charter sourcing provider. Announced on December 16, 2025, this partnership aims to provide seamless, reciprocal private travel solutions for clients on both sides of the Atlantic.

According to the official press release, the agreement allows PlaneSense shareowners to access a vast network of charter aircraft when traveling within Europe. Conversely, CaptainJet clients visiting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean will gain access to the PlaneSense fleet, which consists of the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the Pilatus PC-24 jet. This move solidifies a growing alliance between PlaneSense and the broader Jetfly Group, CaptainJet’s affiliate, following an earlier partnership established in 2025.

Reciprocal Access for Global Travelers

The core of this collaboration is a reciprocal service agreement designed to simplify the complexities of international private aviation. For PlaneSense shareowners, the company has integrated a “PlaneSense Sourcing Solution” team that will coordinate directly with CaptainJet. This arrangement provides U.S. clients with access to CaptainJet’s network, which includes over 7,000 aircraft globally, ensuring availability even during high-demand periods in Europe.

For European travelers, the partnerships opens the door to the PlaneSense fleet. CaptainJet clients can now book flights on the Pilatus PC-12 and PC-24 aircraft operated by PlaneSense. These aircraft are renowned for their short-field performance, allowing access to smaller regional airports that are often closer to final destinations than major hubs.

Strengthening the “Pilatus Alliance”

This collaboration builds upon a previous agreement between PlaneSense and Jetfly, a European fractional operator and affiliate of CaptainJet. Both PlaneSense and Jetfly utilize fleets heavily focused on Pilatus aircraft. By partnering with CaptainJet, PlaneSense extends its reach beyond the specific fractional fleet of Jetfly, offering its owners a broader range of charter options to suit various mission profiles that might fall outside the scope of the fractional fleet.

Executive Commentary

Leadership from both organizations emphasized the client-focused nature of the deal, highlighting the demand for a unified booking experience across continents.

George Antoniadis, President and CEO of PlaneSense, Inc., stated in the press release:

“Working with the CaptainJet team allows us to greatly expand our footprint and assist our valued clients with their global travel needs.”

Yves Roch, CEO of CaptainJet, echoed these sentiments, noting the quality of the U.S. operator’s fleet:

“We’re proud to collaborate with PlaneSense, providing clients with exceptional private flights on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Strategic Market Context

AirPro News Analysis

The Asset-Light Expansion Model
This collaboration represents a distinct strategic approach compared to other major players in the private-jets sector. While competitors such as NetJets and Flexjet have pursued “organic expansion” or “acquisition” models, spending significant capital to buy aircraft and obtain operating certificates in Europe, PlaneSense is effectively building a virtual global fleet. By partnering with CaptainJet and Jetfly, PlaneSense secures immediate European market access without the heavy infrastructure investment required to establish a standalone European division.

The Short-Runway Niche
A critical differentiator for this alliance is the specific capability of the aircraft involved. Both PlaneSense and the Jetfly Group specialize in Pilatus aircraft (PC-12 and PC-24). These aircraft possess unique short-field capabilities, allowing them to land on runways as short as 3,000 feet, including grass and dirt strips. This opens up access to exclusive destinations, such as Courchevel in the French Alps or smaller Caribbean islands, that are inaccessible to the larger jets typically flown by competitors like VistaJet or Wheels Up. This “adventure access” segment remains a defensible niche that this partnership strengthens.

2025 Industry Trends
The timing of this deal aligns with broader 2025 trends where high-net-worth individuals increasingly demand “one-call” solutions. The post-pandemic travel boom has occasionally strained charter inventory; by aligning with a major sourcing agent like CaptainJet, PlaneSense mitigates the risk of inventory shortages for its clients abroad. This ensures that U.S. owners are not left to navigate a fragmented European charter broker market on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft will PlaneSense clients fly on in Europe?
Through CaptainJet, PlaneSense clients will have access to a sourcing network of over 7,000 aircraft, ranging from light jets to large-cabin aircraft, in addition to the Pilatus fleet available through the Jetfly affiliate partnership.

Can CaptainJet clients fly the PC-12 in the US?
Yes. The agreement specifically allows CaptainJet clients to book flights on the PlaneSense fleet, which includes the Pilatus PC-12 turboprop and the PC-24 light jet, known for their versatility and short-runway performance.

Is this a merger?
No. This is a strategic collaboration between two independent companies. PlaneSense remains a privately held U.S. company, while CaptainJet operates as a Swiss-based charter sourcing provider affiliated with the Jetfly Group.

Sources

• Business Wire (PlaneSense Press Release)

This article is based on an official press release from Bombardier.

Bombardier Global 8000 Secures FAA Certification, Claiming Title of World’s Fastest Business Jet

On December 19, 2025, Bombardier announced a significant milestone in civil aviation history: the flagship Global 8000 business jet has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certification. This approval clears the path for the aircraft to be registered and operated by United States customers, a critical demographic for the ultra-long-range jet market.

According to the company’s official statement, this certification follows approval from Transport Canada, which was granted earlier this year on November 5, 2025. The aircraft has officially entered service, with the first unit delivered to Canadian entrepreneur Patrick Dovigi, a long-time Bombardier client and the founder of GFL Environmental.

Marketed aggressively as the “world’s fastest business jet,” the Global 8000 introduces a top speed of Mach 0.95 and a range of 8,000 nautical miles, figures that Bombardier states set a new standard for the industry.

Certification and Entry into Service

The FAA certification marks the final regulatory hurdle for the Global 8000’s entry into the American market. While the aircraft had already secured Canadian certification, the US approval is vital for commercial viability given the volume of business jet ownership in the region. European certification via the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) remains pending.

The entry into service (EIS) was commemorated with the Delivery to Patrick Dovigi. In press materials, Bombardier highlighted this handover as a testament to the aircraft’s readiness for immediate global operations.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The Global 8000 is defined by performance metrics that push the boundaries of subsonic flight. Bombardier reports that the aircraft is capable of a top speed of Mach 0.95 (approximately 729 mph), making it the fastest purpose-built business jet currently in service.

During the development phase, the airframe demonstrated capabilities exceeding its operational limits. A modified Global 7500 test vehicle, utilized during the Global 8000’s research program, successfully broke the sound barrier.

“During development, a test vehicle… broke the sound barrier, reaching Mach 1.015 in a dive, accompanied by a NASA F/A-18 chase plane.”

, Summary of Bombardier testing data

Beyond speed, the aircraft offers an operational range of 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 km). This range allows for non-stop connections between major global city pairs, such as Dubai to Houston, Singapore to Los Angeles, and London to Perth. The aircraft is powered by GE Passport 20 engines, each producing 18,920 lbs of thrust, designed to balance high-speed performance with fuel efficiency.

Cabin Innovations and Passenger Wellness

Bombardier has emphasized passenger health and comfort as key differentiators for the Global 8000. The aircraft features a cabin altitude of 2,900 feet when flying at 41,000 feet. According to manufacturer specifications, this is the lowest cabin altitude in the industry, a feature intended to reduce passenger fatigue and jet lag.

The cabin also integrates the Soleil Lighting System, which Bombardier describes as the industry’s first circadian rhythm-based lighting technology. This system utilizes Dynamic Daylight Simulation to adjust light intensity and warmth based on the destination’s time zone, aiding in the management of circadian rhythms during long-haul flights.

Additional interior features include:

• Nuage Seats: A patented seating architecture with a “tilt-link” system for a zero-gravity position.
• Bombardier Pũr Air: A hospital-grade HEPA filter system that refreshes cabin air every 90 seconds.
• Smooth Flĕx Wing: An aerodynamic design engineered to dampen turbulence and allow access to shorter runways (takeoff distance is listed at 5,760 ft).

AirPro News Analysis: The Ultra-Long-Range Landscape

The certification of the Global 8000 intensifies the competition in the ultra-long-range segment, primarily against the Gulfstream G800 and the Dassault Falcon 10X.

From a technical standpoint, Bombardier has secured the speed advantage. While the Gulfstream G800 matches the Global 8000’s 8,000 nm range, its top speed is listed at Mach 0.925. Similarly, the Dassault Falcon 10X offers a wider cabin (9 feet 1 inch compared to the Global 8000’s 8 feet) but trails in both range (7,500 nm) and top speed (Mach 0.925).

We observe that Bombardier is leveraging a unique retention strategy for this model: an upgrade path. Existing owners of the Global 7500 can retrofit their aircraft to meet Global 8000 performance specifications through a service bulletin. This protects the residual value of the previous flagship and prevents current customers from defecting to competitors while waiting for new delivery slots, which are reportedly backlogged into 2026 or 2027.

With a list price estimated between $78 million and $82 million, the Global 8000 is positioned at the very top of the market, trading on its “fastest” superlative to attract buyers who prioritize time savings and engineering prestige.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top speed of the Bombardier Global 8000?

The aircraft has a top operational speed of Mach 0.95, making it the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde.

What is the range of the Global 8000?

It has a range of 8,000 nautical miles (14,816 km), capable of connecting cities like London and Perth non-stop.

How much does the Global 8000 cost?

While final pricing depends on configuration, industry estimates place the list price between $78 million and $82 million USD.

Can Global 7500 owners upgrade to the Global 8000?

Yes. Bombardier offers a service bulletin that allows Global 7500 owners to retrofit their aircraft to match the Global 8000’s performance specifications.

Sources: Bombardier, Aviation International News, FlightGlobal, Simple Flying

This article summarizes reporting by AP News.

Retired NASCAR Star Greg Biffle and Six Others Killed in North Carolina Plane Crash

Retired NASCAR driver and champion Greg Biffle was killed on Thursday morning when a private jet registered to his company crashed while attempting an emergency landing in Statesville, North Carolina. According to reporting by AP News and local authorities, the crash claimed the lives of all seven people on board, including Biffle’s wife, his two children, and three family friends.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m. ET at Statesville Regional Airport (SVH), located about 45 miles north of Charlotte. The aircraft, a Cessna 550 Citation II, was bound for Florida before intending to continue to the Bahamas. Authorities confirmed that the plane encountered an issue shortly after takeoff and was attempting to return to the runway when the tragedy occurred.

This event has sent shockwaves through the racing community, particularly in the Charlotte area where Biffle was a beloved figure. Beyond his racing accolades, Biffle had recently garnered national attention and praise for his humanitarian efforts in Western North Carolina.

Crash Timeline and Details

According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records and local reports, the twin-engine business jet, identified by tail number N257BW, departed Statesville shortly after 10:00 a.m. ET. The flight plan indicated a destination of Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport (SRQ).

Shortly into the flight, the crew reported an emergency, specific details of which are currently under investigation, and requested a return to Statesville. Reports indicate that weather conditions at the time were governed by Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), with low visibility ranging from 1.75 to 5 miles and a low cloud ceiling. Heavy drizzle was also reported in the vicinity.

The aircraft attempted to land on Runway 28 but crashed short of the tarmac. It reportedly crossed a road and a perimeter fence before erupting into flames. Emergency responders arrived on the scene to find no survivors.

Victims and Tributes

Authorities and family representatives have identified the seven victims aboard the aircraft. The passengers included Greg Biffle (55), his wife Cristina Grossu Biffle, their young son Ryder Biffle, and Biffle’s daughter Emma Biffle.

Also on board were Craig Wadsworth, a longtime member of the NASCAR community and close friend of Biffle, as well as family friends Dennis Dutton and his son, Jack Dutton. A joint statement released by the families expressed their profound grief.

“NASCAR is devastated by the tragic loss of Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, daughter Emma, son Ryder, Craig Wadsworth, and Dennis and Jack Dutton.”

— Official NASCAR Statement

A Racing Legend and Humanitarian

Greg Biffle was a titan in American motorsports. Over his career, he secured 19 NASCAR Cup Series victories and was named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers in 2023. He holds the distinction of being the first driver to win championships in both the Busch (now Xfinity) Series and the Craftsman Truck Series.

AirPro News Analysis: A Legacy Beyond the Track

While Biffle’s statistics on the track are Hall of Fame-worthy, his recent actions defined his character for a broader audience. Following Hurricane Helene in late 2024, Biffle utilized his personal helicopter and piloting skills to fly hundreds of supply and rescue missions into isolated areas of Western North Carolina.

At a time when government resources were stretched, Biffle’s private efforts provided a lifeline to stranded residents. This “unsung hero” narrative makes his sudden loss in an aviation accident particularly poignant. The irony that a man who saved so many through aviation was lost in an air tragedy will likely be a central theme as the community mourns.

Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched a “Go Team” to the crash site to lead the investigation. Investigators will focus on recovering the flight data recorders, analyzing air traffic control communications, and examining the wreckage of the 1981-built airframe.

Key factors likely to be scrutinized include the mechanical status of the legacy aircraft, the nature of the emergency reported by the crew, and the challenging weather conditions present during the attempted return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was piloting the aircraft?
While Greg Biffle was a licensed pilot, it has not been officially confirmed who was at the controls at the time of the crash. Unverified reports suggest Dennis Dutton may have been a pilot, but the NTSB will determine the official crew roles.

What caused the crash?
The cause is currently unknown. The NTSB investigation will determine probable cause, a process that typically takes 12 to 18 months. Early reports cite an emergency return during low-visibility weather.

Was the plane owned by NASCAR?
No. The aircraft was registered to GB Leasing, a company owned by Greg Biffle.

Sources:
AP News,
Federal Aviation Administration,
NASCAR