WESTERN AIRCRAFT ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF KINDRA MAHLER AS MARKETING MANAGER

Western Aircraft, a subsidiary of Greenwich AeroGroup, has announced the appointment of Kindra Mahler as marketing manager for its aircraft sales, aircraft management and charter divisions, led by Vice President Phil Winters.

Mahler brings 17 years of aviation industry experience to Western Aircraft. She joins the company from Fargo Jet Center in Fargo, North Dakota, where she advanced aviation marketing initiatives while contributing operational insight through years of involvement in charter flight operations. Her expertise includes branding and design management, integrated campaigns, event strategy, social media management, communications and client engagement, all designed to drive growth across the business aviation sector.

“Kindra brings a long history of aligning marketing with operational goals in the aviation industry,” Winters said. “Her background in aviation marketing will strengthen our efforts to expand reach, drive new opportunities, and deliver value to our customers.”

“I am excited to join Western Aircraft and focus on strategies that increase visibility, support sales growth, and expand market presence,” Mahler said. “It’s a privilege to be part of a team with such a strong reputation for excellence in aircraft transactions, operations, and customer service.”

With Mahler’s appointment, Western Aircraft continues to invest in the growth of its aircraft sales, aircraft management and charter business. The company remains committed to delivering innovative solutions, deepening customer relationships, and supporting growth across its full range of aviation offerings.

WESTERN AIRCRAFT ANNOUNCES KEY ADDITIONS AND ROLE CHANGES

Western Aircraft, a Greenwich AeroGroup company, recently announced several new appointments and role changes within its team.

David Harsay has joined Western Aircraft as regional sales manager, supporting the MRO sales and marketing team. Harsay has accumulated over 20 years of experience in aviation sales, including 12 years at Dassault Falcon Jet and earlier roles at Cutter Aviation, Gulfstream, and Bombardier. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, he will oversee Falcon and Gulfstream MRO sales in Southern California (except San Diego County), Nevada, and Texas.

Brock Marshall has joined Western Aircraft as regional sales manager for Pilatus PC-12 and Beechcraft King Air aircraft. He possesses more than 20 years of aviation maintenance and operations experience and most recently has been serving as director of maintenance for DriveTime/Carvana. His background includes positions with Duncan Aviation, Jet Now Executive Charter, Executive Aircraft Maintenance, and Cutter Aviation. Marshall holds an FAA A&P license and multiple manufacturer maintenance certifications.

Shannon Edick has transitioned from regional sales manager to maintenance program coordinator for Pilatus PC-24 and Piper aircraft. Edick joined Western Aircraft in 2015 and has held roles as work order coordinator, planner, MRO quoter, and Pilatus maintenance sales manager.

Matthew Rainier has been promoted to Gulfstream service manager at Western Aircraft. He previously held the position of assistant chief inspector with Western. Rainier has more than 20 years of aviation maintenance experience, including 10 years specializing in Gulfstream aircraft. His career includes leadership positions at Gulfstream Aerospace, SpaceX, Embraer, Alsalam Aerospace, and service in the U.S. Air Force and Florida Air National Guard. He holds an FAA A&P license and is completing a master’s degree in project management from Keller Graduate School of Management.

Chris Duncan has joined Western Aircraft as interior modification manager. He has 17 years of aviation industry experience, including management roles at Signature TechnicAir and HAECO Americas, and interior completions experience at Dassault Falcon Jet. Duncan’s background covers commercial, commuter, cargo, and business jet aircraft interior refurbishment, paint, and completions.

Collins Aerospace Appoints Western Aircraft as an Authorized De-icing Service Center

Western Aircraft, a premier provider of aviation services and a subsidiary of Greenwich AeroGroup has been appointed as an Authorized Goodrich De-icing Service Center by Collins Aerospace, an RTX business. This designation enables Western Aircraft to offer installation, maintenance, and support for Collins Aerospace’s state-of-the-art de-icing solutions.

“We are honored to be named an Authorized Goodrich De-icing Service Center by Collins Aerospace,” said John Kochel, director of parts and logistics at Western Aircraft.“This designation reflects our dedication to providing unparalleled service and support to our customers. By joining Collins Aerospace’s expanding network of service providers, we can offer enhanced ice protection solutions that ensure safety and performance during challenging weather conditions.”

The Goodrich line of de-icing systems from Collins Aerospace has set the standard for reliability and innovation in ice protection. These products are essential for the safe and efficient operation of aircraft in icing conditions, enabling operators to maintain performance and protect their investment in high-performance aviation equipment.

Western Aircraft maintains a substantial customer base from the United States and Canada and boasts an extensive history of working on diverse types of airframes including Citation, Embraer, Falcon, Gulfstream, King Air, Pilatus, Piper and Kodiak aircraft.

Western Aircraft Surpasses $2 Billion in Aircraft Sales

Western Aircraft, a subsidiary of Greenwich AeroGroup, celebrated a significant achievement in late December as its aircraft sales team surpassed $2 billion in total sales. This accomplishment underscores the company's success since becoming a Pilatus dealer in 1996.

“All of us at Pilatus Aircraft are proud of the Western Aircraft sales team’s achievement of this major milestone,” said Tom Aniello, vice president of marketing for Pilatus Business Aircraft. “Since joining the Pilatus Authorized Sales and Service network in 1996, Western Aircraft has perennially been one of the top dealers in the world for PC-12 and PC-24 business aircraft. They have established strong relationships supporting our mutual customers and do an outstanding job representing the high standards of the Pilatus brand in the northwestern United States.”

In addition to Pilatus aircraft, the Piper product line has been another significant contributor to the achievement. Western Aircraft is also an authorized sales and service center for Piper.

“We are thrilled for Western Aircraft as they achieve this incredible sales milestone,” said Ron Gunnarson, vice president of sales, marketing and customer support for Piper Aircraft. “As Piper’s Authorized Piper Dealer and service provider in the Northwest United States, Western truly embraces an unwavering commitment in delivering exceptional quality, service and customer experience.”

While a small number of other aircraft types also contributed to the achievement, the majority of sales are attributed to Pilatus and Piper products, both new and preowned.

“This milestone is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team at Western Aircraft,” said Phil Winters, vice president of aircraft sales and charter management for Western Aircraft. “We are grateful to our customers for their trust and loyalty over the years. Our commitment remains focused on delivering exceptional service and ensuring that every buyer enjoys an outstanding ownership journey, from the initial purchase to years of operation.”

DANIEL LAFRANCE RETIRES FROM PROFESSIONAL AVIATION ASSOCIATES

Professional Aviation Associates, a Greenwich AeroGroup company, announced that Vice President and General Manager Daniel Lafrance has decided to retire.

Lafrance has held his current position since December 2018, after spending over nine years as vice president of sales and marketing at Greenwich AeroGroup, the parent company of Professional Aviation Associates. Prior to that, he served as an aviation consultant after his departure from Bombardier Aerospace, where he spent 21 years, ending in the position of vice president of service sales and marketing.

“For over a decade, Daniel has been a cornerstone of our success and growth,” said Jim Ziegler, vice chairman of Greenwich AeroGroup. “From his leadership at Greenwich AeroGroup to his pivotal role at Professional Aviation Associates, Daniel has exemplified dedication, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to our values. His contributions have left an indelible mark on our organization, and we wish him nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

In conjunction with Lafrance’s retirement, Professional Aviation is pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Goodner as senior director – site manager for the Atlanta-based company. Greg brings more than 20 years of aerospace and aviation leadership experience to his new role, most recently serving as director of business relations for Perfekta Inc., a Verus Aerospace company.

Prior to Perfekta, Greg held various leadership roles including executive vice president of operations at Global Parts/VSE Aviation, and manager of spares and components service sales at Bombardier Aerospace. His extensive experience in strategic management, operations, and customer relations makes him a valuable addition to the Professional Aviation team. In his new role, Greg will oversee the daily operations of the Atlanta site, focusing on enhancing customer service, operational efficiency, and strategic growth for Professional Aviation Associates.

WESTERN AIRCRAFT APPOINTS CHRIS CHAVEZ AS NEW AVIONICS SALES MANAGER

Western Aircraft announced that Chris Chavez accepted the role of Avionics Sales Manager.

Mr. Chavez joined Western nearly three years ago as an Avionics Technician and most recently worked as an Avionics Tech 3. Prior to joining Western, he served in the United States Marine Corps for five years as both an Avionics Technician and a Quality Assurance Representative

In his new role, Mr. Chavez will be responsible for developing and closing opportunities for avionics upgrades and installations for Western Aircraft’s thriving avionics business.

WESTERN AIRCRAFT NOW A STARLINK DEALER AND INSTALLER

Western Aircraft, a subsidiary of Greenwich AeroGroup, has officially become an authorized dealer and installer for Starlink, the satellite-based internet service developed by SpaceX. Starlink's technology enables inflight 4K video calls, streaming, online gaming, and secure virtual private network (VPN) connections. With more than 6,000 satellites in low Earth orbit and more being launched regularly, Starlink boasts the largest satellite constellation in the world.

"We are thrilled to add Starlink to our repertoire of connectivity solutions for our customers," said Kerry Heiss, director of sales and marketing for Western Aircraft. "This partnership allows us to provide another tailored solution to meet our customers' inflight connectivity needs."

Western Aircraft currently offers Starlink for Gulfstream G650/G550/G450 and GV aircraft and Beechcraft King Air 200 and 300 series models. Additional Starlink STCs are currently in development that Western Aircraft will be able to offer in the future.

SUMMIT AVIATION SECURES NEW DIRECTOR OF MILITARY SALES

Summit Aviation is proud to announce the appointment of Dan Robinson as the new director of military sales. In this role, Mr. Robinson will oversee Summit’s military sales operations, catering to both domestic and international government clients.

Mr. Robinson brings a distinguished background as a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, with over two decades of experience in aviation operations, aerospace, foreign military sales, and diplomacy. His previous tenure as a U.S. Diplomat in Southeast Asia focused on foreign policy, foreign military sales, and security cooperation. Additionally, his specialized training in CH-47 and C12 aircraft adds significant value to Summit Aviation.

"Dan's extensive military and aerospace background, combined with his leadership skills and deep understanding of MRO, make him an important contributor to our team,” said Tom Lark, vice president and general manager for Summit Aviation. “We are confident that he will assist Summit in the direction of significant growth and success in our military sales efforts."

Prior to joining Summit Aviation, Mr. Robinson held significant sales and leadership roles at GBG Group and its subsidiary IDology and JTEK Data Solutions, leveraging his vast military and civilian experience to drive success.

Mr. Robinson has a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Towson University, an MBA from Auburn University, and a Management Certificate from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.

He will be based in Huntsville, Alabama.

SUMMIT AVIATION PIONEERS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Summit Aviation Inc., a Greenwich AeroGroup company, is proud to announce its achievement as the first Delaware employer to register Apprenticeship Standards with the Delaware Department of Labor, Division of Employment and Training, Office of Apprenticeship. In addition, Summit has successfully completed an Apprentice Agreement, marking the company as the first in Delaware to introduce the Aviation Maintenance Mechanic Registered Apprenticeship program.

The newly established apprenticeship program will provide hands-on training opportunities and professional development for aspiring aviation professionals. Summit Aviation has taken a significant stride forward in supporting a more empowered workforce. One in which real-time experience combined with a career pathway lays the groundwork for aviation innovation within the region.

“Our foray into the aviation industry is another example of our Registered Apprenticeship program finding opportunities to place Delawareans in different spaces, particularly those in underrepresented communities,” said Secretary of Labor Karryl Hubbard. “We know the aviation industry pays high wages for skilled workers. This innovation helps Delaware compete as we develop the next generation of aviation workers.”

Ralph Kunz, Vice President and General Manager of Summit Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm about this initiative, "We are thrilled to be leading the way in Delaware by offering the first Registered Apprenticeship program in aviation maintenance,” he said. “This apprenticeship program will provide valuable career opportunities and professional development for individuals who are passionate about aviation and eager to contribute to this dynamic industry."

Summit Aviation's commitment to nurturing talent is exemplified by the appointment of Ms. Abigail "Abby" Holloway, a recent graduate from Bohemia Manor High School, as their first-ever Aircraft Maintenance Registered Apprentice. As part of the program, Ms. Holloway will attend the Polytech School of Aviation Maintenance to complete the Registered Related Technical Instruction (RTI) program. This comprehensive curriculum will equip her with the necessary knowledge and expertise to excel in the aviation maintenance field. Through this hands-on experience and classroom instruction, she will develop a solid foundation to thrive in her role at Summit Aviation.

Kunz added that, “Summit Aviation recognizes the importance of investing in the next generation of aviation professionals. By establishing this apprenticeship program, Summit aims to bridge the skills gap, foster career growth, and cultivate a highly skilled workforce in the aviation industry.”

Pictured above left to right: Michelle Susi, Summit Aviation; Joe Olivere, Delaware Department of Labor; Abby Holloway, Lynn Trent, Summit Aviation and John Morris, Polytech School of Aviation Maintenance

WESTERN AIRCRAFT ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGES TO SUPPORT GROWTH

Western Aircraft, a leading provider of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services, today announced changes to its leadership structure to better support its employees and customers as the business continues to grow.

Jody Harris, who has served as Director of Aircraft Services for the past seven years, will transition to the newly created role of Director of Operations Logistics. In this expanded role, Mr.Harris will continue to provide leadership for MRO Engineering, Quality Assurance and Planning, and will add leadership for the Parts Logistics, Warehouse and Facilities teams.

Brody McKenna, who joined Western Aircraft two years ago as the Avionics Department Manager, is promoted to Director of MRO Operations. He will be responsible for the Jet, Turboprop, Avionics, Interiors, and Structures departments.

According to Austin Shontz, Western Aircraft’s General Manager, the company is better positioned for the future. “As with any growing organization, there are periodic changes necessary to ensure we are managing our work, people and customers with the appropriate amount of support,” he said. “I am confident these moves will serve us well in the months and years to come, and I’m especially pleased to have the opportunity to work directly with these two key leaders as we take the business forward.”

Mr. McKenna brings more than 18 years of aviation experience to his new position.

“I am honored to be given the opportunity to lead such a talented team of professionals,” he said. “I look forward to continuing the strong culture of excellence in maintenance, repair, and overhaul services that Western Aircraft has become well known for in its more than 65 years in business.”