The Corporate Jet Investor Podcast

If it feels like people are throwing money at you, it’s probably too good to be true. Sellers have been motivated by easy money in past business cycles, and there’s a real danger of that happening again now. Jay Mesinger, CEO and President of Mesinger Jet Sales, says this goes all the way back to the days when aircraft sales were conducted via fax machine. The machine would ring and unsolicited offers would come streaming in. The same thing happened again with email after the COVID lockdowns ended. High demand and low supply are both good news and bad news. The shift in market balance causes prices to firm up (and sometimes increase), but it can also lead sellers to believe the entire process can be compressed. That forces everyone to work transactions in a much more difficult environment. Pre-buys get denied. Closings get rushed without proper due diligence — the kind that’s critical for such a significant long-term purchase. Suddenly, the value of professional representation starts to look less important. It sounds great if you’re a seller. But sellers can easily get caught up in the euphoria. Why pay for representation when buyers are lining up with offers? But wait — is this too good to be true? You bet it can be. Speakers include:Jay Mesinger, CEO, Mesinger Jet SalesMary Comazzi, Partner with Barnes & ThornburgDavid Norton, Partner, Shackelford, McKinley & NortonJoanne Barbera, Partner, Barbera & Watkins, LLC

Mike Swift, group vice president of sales responsible for Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia-Pacific at Gulfstream, takes us through the bright spots in his huge region.This includes increased momentum in China, why India's growth story is finally arriving, and why the Middle East and Africa keep delivering despite the headlines. Mike also unpacks what separates buyers across regions and his "long-term greedy" approach to the business. He also explains why Gulfstream's black curtains keep him excited about the future. 

Shawn Holstein, President/CEO and co-founder of Holstein Aviation, joined host Al to discuss the company's 16-year journey. Founded in 2010 by Shawn, his father Jim, and colleague Brad Stancil after leaving Hawker Beechcraft, Holstein has grown into a top-10 global brokerage built on integrity, objectivity, and deep industry relationships.Shawn discussed a slight market softening in mid-2025 but remains optimistic, expecting a strong Q4 driven by tax incentives and opportunistic buyers. The firm covers everything from turboprops to large-cabin jets, with a growing presence in Brazil and a toe in yacht brokerage.On AI, he predicts it will actually boost private aviation demand — as trust in digital communication erodes, face-to-face meetings become more valuable. His advice to newcomers: be patient, build your network, and don't expect quick wins. What keeps him going after 16 years? Seeing the look on a client's face when you deliver exactly what they need.

In our latest episode we welcome James Chitty, CEO and partner at Talon Air. Chitty has been in the aviation business for nearly two decades. He founded PlaneClear in 2008 and led it through to 2016 before partnering with Apollo Jets and then taking on the role of CEO at Talon Air following its acquisition in 2018. Three years later, Vista acquired a minority stake in Talon before Chitty, and his chief operating officer Nicholas Piazza led a buyout which officially closed on Jan 2nd this year. Chitty discusses his time in business aviation, what is new now the company is independent, his leadership style and what he requires of his team, challenges faced by the industry and much more besides. 

Mike Mikolay, founder of Mikolay Jets, has been selling aircraft for almost 30 years. He started as an intern at Beechcraft, helped launch Guardian Jet and then started his own advisory firm two-and-a-half years ago.Mike shares the highs and lows of going independent, why saying no to the wrong clients early on was critical, and how a long-time client's candid nudge gave him the push to finally do it. He also discusses the current seller's market, where near-new inventory remains scarce and demand shows no signs of cooling.Mike talks about building a personal board of directors, creating an in-house internship programme for his own kids, a cycling accident that forced him to reassess risk, and why patience is the most underrated skill in aircraft acquisition.

Emily Deaton, jetAVIVA, is CEO of one of the world’s largest aircraft brokers. But rather than getting involved in individual transactions, she leads of team of aircraft-type specialists. In this podcast, she explains why jetAVIVA uses this approach, how it makes hiring the right person harder and why customers benefit from it.She also discusses how jetAVIVA launched and why they want to grow slowly. 

In our latest episode we are joined by Florent Venturini, co-founder and managing partner of Ellipse Aviation.Venturini explains how he and his partner Pierre-Emmanuel de Tailly’s combined experience at Dassault, Textron and Gulfstream led them to create a brokerage focused on long-term ownership care, not just one-off transactions. Launched in December 2025, Venturini details Ellipse’s three differentiators: deep technical expertise, and innovation – including a free AI-powered valuation tool and EllipseShield, a buyer-side AOG charter protection programme. Venturini discusses today’s fragmented pre-owned market, where ultra-long-range jets remain scarce while other segments have softened. He also advises first-time buyers to avoid overbuying and to prioritise mission fit and operating economics. Plus much more besides. 

Johnny Foster returns for a second appearance to discuss a major milestone for OGARAJETS: the transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). After exploring private equity and other exit routes, Jonny chose the ESOP model to preserve the culture and legacy he and his father have built over 46 years. Some 30% of the company has now been transferred into a trust for employees, with more shares to follow over time. He also shares the team's emotional — and ultimately celebratory — reaction to the surprise announcement.On the wider market, Johnny is bullish on late-model aircraft through 2030, while flagging older legacy platforms as the segment carrying the most risk. He also hints at future growth through acquisitions, made more attractive by the significant tax advantages the ESOP structure provides.Thanks for coming back on again Johnny!

Sponsored by Mesinger Jet Sales In this Town Hall, we will piggyback on the last edition and take the value discussion to the Legal, Management, and Insurance areas of the transaction. In our January edition, we focused on the brokerage side of the transaction, welcoming Mike Dwyer from Guardian Jet and Chad Anderson from Jetcraft. We also delved into the maintenance side of the transaction, welcoming Mike Minchow from Duncan Aviation.As we stressed in the last edition, the costs across the different segments of the transaction shape the final value. We will continue in this edition to provide the right questions to ask the providers and help you listen for the right answers.Jay Mesinger is the CEO and Founder of Mesinger Jet SalesShawn McAteer, Director, Business Developmen at Jet AviationDavid Mayer, Aviation Attorney with Shackelford LawLance Toland, Founder at Lance Toland Associates Ltd

Dan Drohan, founder and CEO of Solairus, shares his remarkable journey from aviation enthusiast to building a leading aircraft management company. In this episode, he discusses Solairus' unique entrepreneurial culture, the challenges of scaling a business in the aviation industry, and his personal evolution as a leader. Listen here for insider insights into the private aviation sector and discover what it takes to build a thriving business from the ground up.Thank you Dan!

In this episode, we are joined by Jason Middleton, CEO and founder of Silver Air Private Jets. A former elite triathlete turned pilot, Middleton brings an "all-in" mentality to aviation. He shares how Silver Air survived the 2008 financial crisis through relentless focus, and why he prioritises specialisation over vertical integration.Middleton is a vocal critic of unregulated charter brokers, advocating for operator-level safety standards. He launched Flight Club to give clients transparency and control, a move driving over $100m in annual revenue. During Covid, he kept all staff on payroll, reinforcing his people-first culture. Middleton also emphasises stepping away from the office – whether surfing or hunting – to solve problems creatively.The conversation touches on leadership lessons, regulatory challenges, global operational risks, the importance of staying connected to the flight deck as a hands-on CEO and much more besides.

Stephen McCullough, Executive Vice President of Engineering, Product Development and Bombardier Defence, shares his deep passion for aviation and the sheer thrill of bringing aircraft like the record-breaking Global 8000 to life.With more than 36 years at Bombardier, Stephen offers a rare insider’s look into the high-stakes world of elite aircraft development - from pushing the boundaries of speed and performance to delivering unforgettable customer experiences. Driven by relentless engineering excellence and bold innovation, he’s one of the key minds behind some of the most exciting advancements in modern business aviation.Sharp, insightful, and genuinely enthusiastic about the future of flight, Stephen is exactly the kind of leader who makes us excited about where business aviation is heading next. 

Welcome to another CJI Town Hall.This edition, kindly sponsored by Textron Aviation, will be exploring how customers should go about choosing the right aircraft for their respective missions. We have a great line up of speakers including:Duncan van de Velde, Vice President Aircraft Sales, Textron AviationBob Gibbs, VP Special Missions Global Sales, Textron AviationDave Connor, CEO, RVL GroupKindly Sponsored by Textron Aviation

In this episode, Daniel Kilkeary, Founder of The Aviation Office, discusses his journey from working in his family's aviation business to launching his own advisory firm. He shares insights on the evolving aircraft brokerage industry, the importance of senior-level expertise, and how he aims to provide a more personalised, high-touch experience for aircraft owners. 

This week, we are joined by Jeff Reis, CEO at My Flight. Jeff Reis, a 35-year veteran of business aviation, discusses how AI and automation can be applied in practice to enhance operations and the customer experience, without replacing the human touch that is essential in the industry. He shares insights on optimising websites for AI-driven search, using AI to improve pricing and availability, and integrating technology seamlessly into business processes.The conversation covers:The evolution of aviation technology and how early innovations laid the groundwork for today's AI applicationsBalancing automation with human expertise in high-touch industries where personal service mattersPractical AI strategies for improving customer service, pricing optimisation, and operational efficiencyThe importance of subject matter expertise in an AI-driven world—why deep knowledge and credibility still matterPreparing for AI-powered disruption in web search and customer interactions through strategic optimisationReal-world examples of how data analytics and AI can solve specific business pain pointsThank you, Jeff!

Corporate Jet Investor Town Hall: Navigating Tariff Opportunities and RisksFollowing a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the Trump administration's AIIPA tariffs, new Section 122 tariffs have been introduced with a notable exemption for civil aircraft imports. This creates a temporary window for aircraft buyers and sellers to operate in a zero-tariff environment. However, legal experts caution that uncertainty remains around potential future tariffs under Section 301 and Section 232 investigations. Industry participants are advised to strengthen contracts with tariff reimposition clauses and refund allocation provisions, while ensuring compliance processes are robust. The situation remains fluid, but the current aircraft exemption offers a strategic opportunity for the sector.Did Trump get Trumped...?

Join us as Ève Laurier, Head of Marketing Communications at Bombardier, reveals how the company transformed its brand and communications strategy over the past 5 years. Discover the secrets behind re-engaging stakeholders, delivering consistent luxury experiences, and navigating the evolving private aviation industry. From sustainability initiatives to digital marketing innovation, this candid conversation offers valuable insights into leadership, company culture, and strategic marketing. Whether you're in aviation or interested in brand transformation, you'll find lessons applicable to your own business journey. Thank you Ève!

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In this episode we are joined by Philip Kingsley-Dobson, co-founder of UK-based electric aviation charging infrastructure specialist Aerovolt.Aerovolt has just launched a carbon credit programme designed to support operators in reducing reported flight emissions, it is calling Electric Book & Claim. Kingsley-Dobson discusses the programme, the reasoning behind its introduction, why business aviation has a role to play in the rollout of electric flight and much more besides. 

Tune in to this week's episode featuring Moiz Sunwalla, the 22-year-old founder of Dubai-based private jet charter company Velari Jets. Moiz discusses how he aims to redefine luxury travel by providing a more personalised, high-touch service for ultra-high-net-worth clients. Moiz shares insights on the evolving private aviation industry and his vision for Velari Jets to be a trusted, niche player that builds deep client relationships, rather than chasing volume like larger firms. As a young entrepreneur, Moiz emphasises the importance of protecting reputation and using time efficiently in this industry.Thank you Moiz!

In this episode, Jared Fox, the CEO of Desert Jet, discusses his journey into the business aviation industry and the evolution of his company. Jared shares how his lifelong passion for aviation led him to various roles, from working at an FBO to managing aircraft operations and fuel distribution.He emphasises the importance of networking, building relationships, and developing a strong personal brand from an early stage. Jared also highlights the industry's obligation to better promote and expose the diverse career opportunities available beyond just piloting.Thank you Jared!

In the first Corporate Jet Investor Podcast episode of 2026, we hear from Aoife O'Sullivan on her background and how she got into aviation law, initially wanting to be a horse trainer before becoming a lawyer.Aoife is an internationally recognised aviation lawyer with expertise across private, corporate, and commercial aviation. She advises a global client base, primarily high-net-worth individuals and leads strategic advocacy efforts to promote and protect the interests of business and general aviation in the UK and internationally.Aoife explains the day-to-day work of an aviation lawyer, including the importance of face-to-face meetings, dealing with complex international transactions, and the increasing regulatory requirements around anti-money laundering and KYC.We discuss Aoife's role as the chair of the British Business and General Aviation Association, discussing the challenges the UK market has faced post-Brexit and her optimism about its future potential.Listen to the advice Aoife gives to the younger generations, interested in entering the business aviation industry, emphasising the need for a strong team and the diverse career opportunities available.Thank you Aoife for coming on the CJI Podcast and sharing your insights! 

CJI Town Hall | Picking your dream team: It's not about price, it's about valueSpeakers include:Jay Mesinger, CEO & President, Mesinger Jet SalesChad Anderson, CEO, JetcraftMike Dwyer, Owner, Guardian JetMike Minchow, President, Duncan Aviation2026 will bring to light a series of new series of Town Halls sponsored by Mesinger Jet sales and broadcast on the CJI Town Hall Network focusing on the fallacy of Price vs. Value/Cost."Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten” - Charles Rolls the aviation and automotive pioneer.Sponsored by Mesinger Jet Sales

Jamie Walker, Executive Chairman of Jet Linx Aviation, recently returned to a more active role after a 2-year break. Jetlink focuses on a local market approach, with private terminals or partnerships in over 20 locations. They have found success in acquiring and integrating smaller local charter operators. However, they have struggled with illegal charter competition in some markets. Walker emphasises Jet Linx's commitment to safety and quality, and their plans to continue growing their domestic footprint through organic expansion and strategic partnerships.

Speakers:Claudio D'Amico, Vice President of Strategic Market Engagement, Business Aviation, ViasatMichael Schrage, Research Fellow, MIT Sloan School of ManagementIn-flight connectivity providers have traditionally competed on peak network speed, even though the moments that truly define value — such as joining a board meeting without the connection dropping or watching crucial sporting moments without buffering — remain invisible to this single metric. This town hall will explore new research by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Sloan School that calls for a radical change in how business aviation in-flight connectivity is measured. It states the industry must move beyond measuring speed alone to focus on a broader range of metrics and translate the findings into simple measurements that passengers can instantly understand. Viasat has become the first provider to take action with the launch of a market-first concept for its premium JetXP in-flight broadband service. Designed with business aviation in mind, the new iQe (In-flight Quality of Experience) concept will redefine connectivity measurement by constantly monitoring a comprehensive range of network metrics and leveraging AI and advanced analytics to deliver a single, intuitive QoE score that instantly shows connectivity performance at a glance.

The challenges of attracting talent to the business aviation industry have not gone away. Especially for roles like pilots and mechanics. Neil Engerran, at Aircraft Commerce believes there may be a shortage of talent but there is also a shortage of attracting talent.Retaining talent, especially mechanics, can be difficult due to compensation differences compared to commercial aviation. Providing career development opportunities and making employees feel valued are important.There are cultural differences between business aviation and commercial aviation that impact the type of candidates that thrive in each environment. Assessing cultural fit is crucial when hiring.Owners of private aircraft often rely heavily on their pilots' input when selecting aircraft models, showing the importance of the pilot-owner relationship in business aviation.Advice for those looking to enter business aviation includes being proactive, getting exposure to the industry, and being honest about the demands of the work.Thank you Neil for sharing your insights!

Join us this week with Mark Hardman, the founder of the business aviation company RightJet. Mark and Alasdair discuss the company's growth over the past 5 years, including expanding their showroom presence in the UAE and focusing on providing a full suite of services - from aircraft sales and charter to management.Mark shares his extensive background in the industry, having started in aviation 40 years ago at Stansted Airport. He talks about the evolution of business aviation, particularly in the Middle East market, and how RightJet differentiates itself through a focus on ethics, transparency, and delivering exceptional service.Thanks for joining us Mark! 

"It's a relationship business"Ted Farid, Chairman at Jet HQ spoke to us this week about his 50+ year career in the business aviation industry. Ted touches upon the dramatic technological and global changes that the industry has undergone over his career, from the early days of Blackberries to today's ubiquitous connectivity. Evolution of aircraft design, shifting from engineer-focused to more customer-centric as business jets became viewed as "office in the air".Finally, Ted reflects on his favourite aircraft models and the most challenging periods, such as the 2008 downturn and COVID-19.

Memo Montemayor is the founder of EMCJet, a boutique aircraft brokerage and consulting firm based in Houston, Texas.EMC Jet specialises in larger business jets like the G650 and Gulfstream models. They also sell turboprops like the King Air. Memo has expanded the company with offices in Atlanta, India, and Thailand.Memo is very focused on building relationships and networking, sponsoring athletes and sports teams to connect with potential clients. This includes deals with Formula 1, the Houston Astros, and PGA Tour players.Memo emphasises the importance of professionalism and ethics in the sometimes shady aircraft brokerage industry. He is involved with the industry association GLADE to promote best practices.Despite the high-pressure nature of the business, Memo tries to maintain a work-life balance, playing golf 2-3 times per week and spending time with his family.

Anthony Tivnan, from Magellan Jets, discussed the company's aviation solutions, including on-demand charter, jet cards, aircraft sales and management, and a new fractional programme. Magellan has invested heavily in technology and AI to improve efficiency and the customer experience, such as integrating the Stellar platform, developing internal AI expertise, and automating various processes. Tivnan emphasised the importance of change management and education when implementing AI, as well as the challenges of balancing technology investments with maintaining a personal, high-touch service. He also shares insights on the evolving private aviation market, the rise of online booking platforms, and Magellan's focus on supply chain optimisation and client retention.Visit the Magellen Jets website here: https://magellanjets.com/ 

 Stewart Lapayowker, founder of Lapayowker Jet Counsel, fell into aviation law early in his legal career when a partner at his law firm asked him to handle a private jet transaction. This meant that he had to learn the industry from scratch. To prevent this happening to others, he has just published his first book: Buying a private jet? What you don't know'. His advice for first-time private jet buyers is to assemble the right team of experts and not try to handle the process themselves.You can read Stewart's book here: https://www.hatchards.co.uk/book/buying-a-private-jet-what-you-dont-know/stewart-h-lapayowker-esq/9798999278906

Fabian Bello, CEO of Journey Aviation and author of 'Remade in America', shares his personal story of immigrating to the US from Cuba as a child and the journey that led him to a successful career in business aviation. He discusses the challenges and rewards of running an aircraft management company, navigating the complex relationships with aircraft owners, brokers and passengers. Bello also reflects on the importance of managing expectations and being transparent with clients. Additionally, he touches on the cultural differences he experienced transitioning to life in America and how that shaped his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

This CJI podcast episode welcomes Phil Winters, Vice President of Western Aircraft and Chair of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA). Phil discusses IADA's role in setting standards for aircraft transactions, the evolution of the single-engine turboprop market, and the challenges facing aircraft manufacturers and dealers, including tariffs on Swiss-made aircraft. He shares his personal journey into aviation and aircraft sales, as well as insights on the differences between selling Piper and Pilatus aircraft. Phil also highlights the importance of the dealer-customer relationship and the value that IADA-accredited dealers can provide to aircraft buyers. 

In this episode, David Dixon reflects on his remarkable 50-year career in aviation, which began with selling small piston aircraft in Africa before transitioning to business jets, including a 33-year tenure at Bombardier. He explores the evolution of the business jet market, highlighting the distinct challenges and opportunities in Asia compared to North America and Europe, where infrastructure limitations and cultural nuances significantly influence sales strategies. Dixon contrasts his experience selling standardised new aircraft at Bombardier with the complexities of the pre-owned market at Jetcraft, where each plane has a unique history and condition. He also shares how business aviation serves as an economic indicator, with demand fluctuating in tandem with broader market confidence. For newcomers, Dixon emphasises the importance of thoroughly understanding aircraft capabilities and customer needs, rather than focusing solely on price and specifications. Even after five decades, his passion for the industry remains strong, and he has no plans to retire as long as he finds the work both challenging and rewarding.

Craig Picken is an executive recruiter, ICF-trained executive coach, writer, and speaker who specialises in the business aviation and aerospace industry. With over 400 executive-level searches completed since 2008, he focuses on placing senior leadership, sales, and operations talent with top OEMs, aircraft operators, financial institutions, and MRO providers. Craig is unique in the industry - he has flown aircraft, sold them, and successfully run profit-and-loss operations in aviation businesses.Craig Picken shares his unique journey through the business aviation industry, starting with his decorated career in the US Navy, followed by leadership roles at Gulfstream and Bombardier, and eventually founding his own executive search firm focused on aviation and aerospace. He outlines his relationship-focused approach to executive recruiting, emphasising alignment between candidate and company culture, and encourages professionals to proactively invest in their own development through coaching, education, and industry engagement.Hear more of Craig and his executives on his Aerospace Executive Podcast at: https://www.podbean.com/pw/pbblog-ncahu-266e14

In this episode, Dustin Cordier - Founder of StepZero Coaching, a coaching platform for business owners - shares how he helps leaders grow their businesses with intention, clarity, and long-term purpose. Drawing from his background in the Air Force, banking, and aircraft sales, Cordier now focuses on supporting family-owned and entrepreneurial companies, especially within the aviation industry.He talks about the importance of planning for the future - whether that means preparing to pass a business on to the next generation or getting ready for a potential sale. Rather than focusing solely on short-term income, Cordier encourages building lasting value through systems, structure, and strong leadership.Cordier also reflects on the challenges business owners face in areas like succession planning, talent retention, and developing a reliable sales pipeline. He highlights the role of company culture and core values in attracting and keeping the right people. When it comes to buying an aircraft, he advises treating the process more like acquiring a business than a vehicle, stressing the value of working with knowledgeable brokers, attorneys, and accountants.Throughout the conversation, Cordier’s passion comes through for helping aviation business owners build companies that are both sustainable and resilient - able to grow and succeed well into the future.Thank you Dustin!

The Corporate Jet Investor podcast features Ben Shirazi, Founder and owner of Smart Jets, who shares his extensive experience in the business aviation industry. Ben discusses his early start in the family business, selling his first aircraft before turning 18, and the evolution of his ventures - Smart Jets for aircraft brokerage and VIP Completions for cabin retrofitting. He emphasises the importance of trust, value-driven acquisitions, and the increasing demand for advanced connectivity and customised interiors in private jets. Ben also touches on the cyclical nature of the industry, the impact of tax incentives like bonus depreciation, and the challenges of hiring skilled labour in completions. Offering advice to first-time buyers, he emphasises the importance of understanding operational costs and maintenance forecasts. The conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities and rewards of the business aviation world.Thank you Ben!

In this episode of the Corporate Jet Investor podcast, Alasdair Whyte chats with Garett Jerde, founder of JetHQ, about his unexpected journey from aspiring airline pilot to launching one of business aviation’s fastest-growing brokerages. Garrett explains how an internship at Raytheon Aircraft ignited his passion for corporate aviation, leading him around the world - delivering aircraft, navigating economic turbulence, and ultimately founding JetHQ in Dubai at the age of 28. He discusses his early entry into international markets, the thrill of complex cross-border deals, and the guidance of industry veteran Ted Farid, who then played a vital role in JetHQ’s early expansion. Now overseeing a global team of 42, Garrett shares the value of knowing your strengths and why he still thrives on the challenge of selling jets. For him, every day brings new opportunities disguised as problems - that's what keeps him going and he wants to encourage the next generation and as many people from across the globe as possible.Thanks Garett for your insights! 

This recorded Corporate Jet Investor Town Hall session dives into bonus depreciation for business aircraft, featuring insights from tax and aviation experts Ryan D’Amour (MySky), Angel Hook (Hook & Christensen), and David Shannon (Lewis Brisbois). The panel explains how the 100% first-year tax deduction works, emphasising that it should only factor into purchases when the aircraft is truly needed for business—not as a standalone incentive. Key considerations include strict IRS compliance (like meeting annual 25-50% business-use thresholds), avoiding pitfalls like passive income limitations or improper documentation, and planning for future tax implications upon resale. The discussion also covers timing (delivery and first flight must occur by year-end), structuring deals correctly, and why early consultation with aviation-savvy CPAs and attorneys is critical. With bonus depreciation now permanent, the experts predict a surge in Q4 transactions but caution against rushed decisions without proper tax and operational planning.

Brad Harris, president and CEO, Dallas Jet explains how he puts "make offer" on listings to make potential buyers contact his firm and start communicating. In this interview, he explains how he started selling jets, why he loves building relationships and why AI will aid, but never take over aircraft sales.Harris also explains how Shawn Dinning - now senior partner at Dallas Jet - got his job.

Jason Zilberbrand, President of VREF the aircraft valuation company, believes the pre-owned aircraft market is changing . He sees demand slowing, financing getting harder, high interest rates, and rising operational costs and geo-political uncertainty hitting values. Zilberbrand also delves into his personal path from promoting punk concerts in college to working at JSSI, the company his father launched, launching a brokerage, and eventually acquiring VREF. Thank you Jason!

Luiz Sandler, the Founder of Jet Match, takes us through the complexities of doing deals in Brazil (the world's second largest business jet market). Sandler started his business aviation career at Embraer and also sold new aircraft for Gulfstream.He never thought he would end up as a salesperson and warns that it is a tough business: "Life is more about dealing with frustration than dealing with success."Sandler discusses: the differences between selling new and pre-owned aircraft; how selling to entrepreneurs made him want to launch his own business; and why he did not staying as an airline pilot.

Alireza Ittihadieh founded Freestream Aircraft 33 years ago. In this open podcast he criticises rival aircraft brokers for undervaluing their expertise. "The dealer side is still rewarding but today, unfortunately, broking has become nothing more than a commodity," he says. "Today some companies treat you like you are providing toilet paper to the company."Ittihadieh now focuses on dealing large business jets - buying them and then making a margin when you sell them on. He believes that there are just a handle of dealers who can really buy aircraft (not everyone will agree). He also admits that he can get heated when negotiating aircraft: "It is all about mutual respect."

The recent changes in trade tariffs have sparked significant discussion in the aviation industry, particularly regarding cross-border aircraft transactions. In this insightful panel discussion, industry experts break down the implications of these new tariffs and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and operators.Key Discussion Points:Are Canadian aircraft now exempt or facing new challenges?How will tariffs be applied to European-made aircraft, and what are the compliance requirements?Could counter-tariffs impact U.S.-manufactured aircraft in international deals?Additional considerations for leasing, financing, and cross-border transactions under the new tariff regime.Featured Speakers:Shawn Dinning, Dallas Jet International – Market impact on aircraft sales and acquisitionsDavid Hernandez, Vedder Price – Legal and transactional perspectivesTobias Kleitman, TVPX – Title, escrow, and tax implicationsEhsan Monfared, YYZLAW – Canadian aviation law and cross-border considerationsWhether you're an operator, lessor, financier, or legal advisor, this session provides critical insights to navigate the evolving tariff landscape.Watch now to stay informed and prepared for the changing dynamics in aircraft transactions!

Don Dwyer, co-founder of Guardian Jet and aviation sales veteran, on his decades of experience with manufacturers like Mooney and Hawker Beechcraft. He discuss the evolution of aircraft sales, emphasizing client relationships and trust-building. Guardian Jet's consulting model is explored, focusing on data-driven reports that help clients navigate purchases. The conversation highlights cultural differences between manufacturers like Gulfstream and Dassault, showing how brand identities shape buyer decisions.Current market trends are analysed, including order backlogs, deposit structures, and OEM strategies. Dwyer offers career advice for aspiring professionals, stressing adaptability and relationship-building as keys to success. Don's enduring passion for aviation shines through, demonstrating the dedication required in this competitive field.The episode provides valuable insights into both the business and human sides of aircraft sales, from tactical deal-making to long-term industry dynamics. Dwyer's perspective reveals how deep expertise and client-focused service continue driving success in business aviation.

Jay Mesinger, CEO and founder of Mesinger Jet Sales discusses trends and challenges in the business aviation industry. With over 50 years of experience in the aviation industry, Jay is a published Aviation Journalist and Industry Leader. He is a member of the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA); a member of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Leadership Council; a member of Gulfstream’s “Key Player” team; and a member of the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA). In addition, he is a member of the Colorado Aviation Business Association (CABA).We discuss President Trump's first 100 days, giving out mobile phones to customers and the early days of sales videos. Thank you Jay for your expertise and insights!

Brian Proctor, president and CEO, Mente Group discusses how being shot in a random incident led him to focus on growing his business. Proctor shares insights on the business aviation industry's evolution, noting a generational shift as older leaders retire and new ones emerge. He also discusses market trends post-Covid, emphasising the increased value of business aviation for time efficiency and safety. Proctor touches on industry consolidation, rising operating costs and the challenges of capital efficiency. Whilst expressing excitement about future opportunities, including OEM innovations and the need to attract new talent to the industry. Overall, he sees a dynamic period ahead for business aviation, with potential for significant growth.

Janine Iannarelli, president, Par Avion talks about how she turned down a role in advertising to research business jet owners. She explains how she moved into business jet sales – both as a broker and dealer – before launching her own company.Janine tells Alasdair Whyte that owners should not chase transactions and that there is always another aircraft out there.She discusses being a woman in a male dominated field, lessons from showjumping and why failure was never an option.

What do tariffs mean for aircraft transactions.This Emergency Town Hall will look at how the tariffs will affect both new and pre-owned aircraft transactions. Speakers:Jonathan Epstein, Holland & KnightEhsan Monfared, YYZlawTobias Kleitman, TVPXHear more topics like this at CJI Miami 2025 - November 4-6, 2025 | Fontainebleau Miami BeachBook your spot HERE 

In this second this episode of the CJI Podcast, we chat with Johnny Foster, President & CEO of OGARAJETS.OGARAJETS has grown over 44 years but remains a family business with core values. Johnny tells us more about joining the business and how they work to maintain these values established by his father and retain the trust of their clients.Johnny tells Alasdair Whyte why transparency is so important as a broker, why the company needs to grow and why a commitment to excellence was key when planning to take the reins as leader of OGARAJETS.Johnny (and his trademark bowties) joined the  company in 1991, was appointed President in 2005 and took on full management and ownership in 2013. Thank you Johnny!