Business Aviation Fights Back

As a result of the media “feeding frenzy” regarding business aviation in the USA, manufacturers are endeavouring to present a more balanced picture in the press. The highly publicised arrival by multiple business jets of major auto-manufacturer representatives at a hearing seeking a massive publicly funded bail-out, resulted in what has been labeled as a “knee-jerk” reaction by President Obama’s administration. While an amendment requiring corporations in line for a hand-out to sell off their business aircraft fleets was rescinded by congress, President Obama has made it clear that those corporates must be willing and able to disclose and justify their expenses, including the use of corporate aviation assets. The focus on business aviation had led to a general populist anger at what is perceived as profligate waste, ignoring the many positive and productive aspects of corporate aviation.

Citibank was singled out for scrutiny after it was revealed that it was due to take delivery of a new $US50 million Dassault Falcon 7X after receiving $US45 billion from the relief fund. Citibank reported that the new jet was to replace older, less efficient aircraft that were being disposed of, and that no relief funds were being used for the purchase, but was forced to cancel the new aircraft in the face of a public outcry.

In response to the overall negative situation, organisations and manufacturers have commenced action to protect the business aviation industry. The National Business Aviation Association said in a letter sent to President Obama last week, “Instead of discouraging companies from accepting and using business airplanes or any other strategic business asset, policy-makers should be looking for ways to increase general aviation manufacturing jobs, promote economic development in communities without commercial airline service, and facilitate productivity and efficiency at companies trying to do more with less.”

Then, on 11 February, Cessna announced its own initiative addressing what it termed the mis-information surrounding the use of business aviation. Jack Pelton, the company’s Chairman and CEO, commented that business aviation provided the means to enable business leaders and managers to work at their peak in their efforts to turn their companies and the economy around. Pointing out that around 85 percent of aircraft used by businesses are used by small or medium-sized companies, and that the large majority of the passengers are middle managers and technicians, Pelton commented, “The reality of business aviation is a far cry from the misconception of CEOs flying in large luxurious airplanes.” He described business aircraft as tools of industry: “Most of these aircraft are fairly Spartan, designed for business, with a cabin about the size of a minivan or SUV interior.”

With claims that general aviation contributes more than $150 billion annually to the US economy, Cessna’s campaign will commence by running advertisements with pro-business themes encouraging operators to keep flying business aircraft, demonstrating leadership in the face of economic challenge. The campaign, targeting national business newspapers, magazines and aviation trade publications, will be supported by a communications initiative.