Author Archives: Vincent Wigmans

Acquiring an aircraft, whether for private, corporate, or commercial use, is a complex and high-stakes investment. Unfortunately, many first-time buyers enter the market without the requisite technical knowledge to make informed decisions. This lack of expertise can lead to significant financial burdens, operational downtime, and unexpected maintenance liabilities. Engaging a technical consultant during the acquisition … Continued

The aviation industry is facing a crisis in the availability of European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 66 certified aircraft mechanics, particularly in the private aviation sector. Having worked for years in an EASA Part 145 maintenance environment as a postholder, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges and transitions within the industry. With many seasoned … Continued

In 2008, the aviation world witnessed the fall of a very light jet air taxi bubble. Back then, operators crafted ambitious business plans that envisioned fleets of 200 Cessna Citation Mustangs to meet client demand. The market, however, failed to materialize as expected, leaving behind valuable lessons that seem eerily relevant today. Fast forward to … Continued

When buying or selling an aircraft, one of the most crucial yet often overlooked aspects is the importance of aircraft maintenance records. These records serve as the aircraft’s “pedigree,” detailing its operational life, maintenance history, modifications, and compliance with aviation regulations. In many cases, buyers and sellers, particularly those new to aviation transactions, do not … Continued

In the realm of private aviation, the allure of owning a sleek, modern jet is undeniable. However, there’s a certain charm and practicality in considering the purchase of an older private jet. While the idea of a brand-new aircraft may be tempting, here are the top 3 reasons why buyers opt for an older model … Continued

In the fast-paced world of aircraft sales, where high stakes and large sums of money are involved, it’s not uncommon to encounter peculiar characters engaging in questionable practices. From mysterious brokers operating through Gmail accounts to deposit scams designed to exploit the urgency of a supposedly time-sensitive deal, the aircraft sales industry has its fair … Continued

An engine program, such as Eagle Service Plan (ESP) from Pratt & Whitney and Total Assurance Plus (TAP) from Williams International, play a crucial role in the business aviation industry by providing comprehensive support and maintenance services for aircraft owners and operators. This support will be delivered based on an hourly fee per engine. While … Continued

When it comes to the complex world of aircraft sales and purchases, there are many hurdles to overcome. Three significant challenges that often arise during these transactions are the difficulties in securing a slot in an aircraft maintenance facility for a pre-buy inspection and navigating the intricate landscape of aircraft part supply. Furthermore, obtaining engineering … Continued

Introduction Avgas The aviation industry has long relied on Avgas 100LL (Low Lead) as the primary fuel for piston-powered aircraft. However, concerns about environmental impact and health risks associated with leaded fuels, have led to the development of unleaded alternatives. Two of these alternatives are Avgas UL91 and UL94, designed to offer similar performance while … Continued