Uganda Airlines Seeks Short-Term ACMI as A330s Remain Grounded

The Last Airworthy Douglas DC-8s The Douglas Aircraft Company, established in 1921 by Donald Wills Douglas Sr. in Southern California, played a foundational role in the development of American aviation. The company earned early acclaim through landmark achievements such as the first aerial circumnavigation and the production of iconic World War II aircraft, including the C-47 Skytrain and A-26 Invader. Following the war, Douglas continued to innovate with piston-engine airliners like the DC-6 and DC-7 before making a significant leap into the jet age with the introduction of the DC-8. This model became a cornerstone of global commercial air travel for decades. After merging with McDonnell Aircraft Corporation to form McDonnell Douglas, the company sustained production of the DC-8, which emerged as one of the most recognizable jetliners of its time. Today, only two Douglas DC-8 aircraft remain airworthy worldwide, a testament both to the aircraft’s robust engineering and the evolving dynamics of the commercial aviation industry. The Last Two Airworthy DC-8s The first of these surviving aircraft is OB-2231P, a 56-year-old plane originally delivered to Air Canada in February 1970. After serving as a passenger airliner, it was converted to cargo operations in 1982. Over the years, OB-2231P changed ownership multiple times, including a nearly twenty-year tenure with Astar Air Cargo, before being acquired by SkyBus Cargo Charters in December 2017. Currently, it operates regular short-haul cargo flights from Miami International Airport, primarily servicing routes to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. Recent flight tracking data confirms its ongoing activity, with round trips between Miami and Port-au-Prince lasting just under two hours. The second active DC-8, registered as 9S-AJO and now 55 years old, was first delivered to World Airways in March 1971. Throughout its operational life, it has flown under several operators, including Capitol International Airways, Viasa, Emery Worldwide, and Gestair Cargo. Since November 2011, it has been operated by Trans Air Cargo Service, based in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Flight tracking indicates that 9S-AJO continues to operate primarily out of Kinshasa, maintaining the DC-8’s presence in African cargo transport. Challenges in a Changing Industry The continued operation of these last airworthy DC-8s is particularly notable given the mounting challenges facing the aviation sector. Recent logistics reports highlight increasing pressures on operators, including tariffs, trade uncertainties, labor shortages, rising material costs, and volatile freight markets. These factors complicate the maintenance and operation of aging aircraft such as the DC-8, which depend on parts that are becoming increasingly scarce and require specialized technical expertise. Furthermore, the commercial airliner market is now dominated by Boeing and Airbus, as noted in a recent Forbes analysis. Airlines today are largely confined to selecting aircraft from these two manufacturers, leaving little room for legacy models like the DC-8. Both Boeing and Airbus are themselves grappling with production and supply chain difficulties, which continue to influence the competitive landscape and the strategic decisions of cargo and passenger carriers worldwide. Enduring Legacy Despite these challenges, the ongoing operation of OB-2231P and 9S-AJO highlights the DC-8’s enduring reliability and the adaptability of its operators. As the aviation industry confronts new obstacles and consolidates around a limited number of major manufacturers, these last flying DC-8s stand as living testaments to a transformative era in aerospace history.

Avelo Airlines Postpones Delivery of Embraer 195-E2 Aircraft to 2028 Avelo Airlines has announced a significant delay in the delivery of 50 Embraer 195-E2 aircraft, now scheduled to join its fleet in 2028 instead of the initially planned first half of 2027. The airline’s spokesperson, Courtney Goff, attributed the postponement to the need for additional time to upgrade internal systems and procedures, as well as to adequately train and certify crew members on the new aircraft type. Currently, Avelo operates exclusively with Boeing 737 aircraft. Strategic Fleet Modernization and Operational Challenges The $4.4 billion order for the Embraer jets, revealed in September, was part of Avelo’s broader strategy to modernize its fleet, reduce operational costs, and support future expansion. The deal also includes an option to purchase an additional 50 aircraft. However, the delay in delivery poses several challenges, including potential operational disruptions and customer dissatisfaction. There is also the risk of financial penalties associated with the postponed deliveries. Industry analysts warn that such delays may invite increased scrutiny from investors and customers, potentially undermining the airline’s reputation and financial standing. Competitors could exploit this opportunity by highlighting their own reliability and punctuality to attract Avelo’s customer base. Embraer’s Current Focus and Avelo’s Network Adjustments Embraer is currently concentrating on resolving issues within its E-Jet E2 program and expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific market. This strategic focus may limit the manufacturer’s capacity to promptly address Avelo’s specific concerns, potentially complicating the delivery timeline further. In parallel, Avelo recently announced plans to retire some Boeing 737-700 aircraft and discontinue certain deportation flights as part of efforts to streamline its network. The airline presently operates 26 nonstop routes from Tweed New Haven Airport. As Avelo manages the implications of this delay, it faces the dual challenge of mitigating operational impacts while maintaining market confidence to sustain its growth trajectory and customer loyalty.

China Commits to 120-Aircraft Airbus Order During Merz’s First Beijing Visit German Chancellor Friedrich Merz secured a significant commitment from Beijing on Wednesday for the purchase of up to 120 Airbus aircraft, marking the centerpiece of his inaugural visit to China. This agreement underscores Germany’s efforts to strengthen economic ties with its largest trading partner amid increasing global uncertainty, particularly in response to Washington’s escalating tariff measures. Strengthening Bilateral Relations Amid Geopolitical Shifts The announcement followed high-level meetings in Beijing with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, during which both sides also signed agreements addressing climate change and food security. The leaders expressed their intention to resume regular government-to-government consultations, which had been disrupted by the pandemic and political transitions in Berlin. Speaking after a dinner with Xi, Merz emphasized that “the Chinese leadership will be ordering a larger number of additional aircraft from Airbus,” highlighting the deal as evidence of the value of such diplomatic engagements. This visit occurs against a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics. The imposition of sweeping tariffs and unpredictable foreign policy under U.S. President Donald Trump has prompted several Western leaders—including Britain’s Keir Starmer, France’s Emmanuel Macron, and Canada’s Mark Carney—to pursue closer ties with Beijing. Trump himself is expected to visit China at the end of March, further illustrating the evolving international landscape. Economic Stakes and Trade Dynamics For export-driven Germany, the stakes are particularly high. China reclaimed its position as Berlin’s top trading partner in 2025, with bilateral trade reaching €251.8 billion, according to Germany’s Federal Statistical Office. The United States, which briefly surpassed China in 2024, fell back to second place as German trade with China grew by 2.1 percent while commerce with the U.S. declined by 5 percent. This divergence was driven by rising Chinese imports and weakening American demand for German goods. Merz, accompanied by a substantial business delegation including executives from Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes, framed the visit as essential for an economy that “needs economic relations all over the world.” Prior to his departure, he called for a “balanced, reliable, regulated and fair partnership with China.” President Xi reciprocated by expressing readiness to elevate bilateral ties and voicing support for European strategic autonomy, urging both sides to be “reliable partners that support each other.” Challenges Amid Growing Trade Imbalance Despite these positive developments, the deepening relationship is overshadowed by a record trade imbalance. Germany’s trade deficit with China reached €90 billion in 2025, quadrupling since 2020. This widening gap has raised significant concerns among German manufacturers, who warn of intensifying competition from China and the erosion of Germany’s industrial base. Industry leaders are pressing Chancellor Merz to adopt a firmer stance, citing the so-called “China shock” and advocating for strategic measures to reduce dependency on Chinese imports and safeguard domestic employment. Navigating these challenges, Merz seeks to strike a delicate balance: maintaining robust economic ties with China while pursuing policies aimed at de-risking and enhancing Europe’s competitiveness to rival both China and the United States. The Airbus deal thus stands as both a symbol of opportunity and a reminder of the complexities inherent in the Sino-German economic relationship.

Joby Aviation Earnings Highlight Cash Runway Amid Air Taxi Development Financial Performance and Market Expectations Joby Aviation is poised to release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 financial results following market close on Wednesday, a critical juncture for the electric air taxi developer as it advances toward commercialization amid persistent cash burn. Analysts anticipate a loss of $0.226 per share on revenues of $16.18 million. While this represents a narrower loss compared to the previous quarter’s $0.48 per share deficit, revenue is expected to decline from $22.57 million. The Santa Cruz-based company’s shares currently trade at $9.72, approximately 20% below the $12.63 consensus price target, implying potential upside of around 30% should Joby meet its strategic milestones. However, Wall Street remains divided on the stock’s prospects. Among 11 analysts, two recommend a Buy, six Hold, and three Sell, reflecting skepticism about whether Joby’s $9.4 billion market capitalization is supported by realistic commercialization potential or driven by speculative enthusiasm. Notably, earnings per share and revenue estimates have remained stable in recent weeks, indicating a cautious investor stance awaiting clearer operational guidance. Key Themes for Investors Investors will focus on three primary areas during the upcoming earnings call. First, Joby’s cash runway and burn rate remain under scrutiny. The company bolstered its liquidity to approximately $2.8 billion in January through a $1.29 billion capital raise combining equity and convertible debt. Market participants will seek confirmation of the company’s estimated $135 million quarterly cash burn and updated projections for achieving positive cash flow, particularly as Joby scales manufacturing operations in Ohio. The sustainability of its financial resources until commercial launch is a central concern. Second, progress on certification and operational milestones will be closely examined. Joby entered the final 30% of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) certification process in February, a pivotal step toward initiating commercial flights. Investors will look for updates on certification status, involvement in the FAA’s eVTOL Integration Pilot Program, and the construction of its Dubai vertiport, which was reported to be 60% complete as of November. The company aims to inaugurate the world’s first integrated air taxi network in Dubai by 2026, though regulatory and operational challenges remain significant. Third, Joby’s strategic pivot toward medical logistics through a recent partnership with Strata Critical Medical introduces a potential near-term revenue stream via cargo transport. This initiative allows Joby to demonstrate operational capabilities in less complex missions ahead of passenger service launches, potentially mitigating risks and providing a proof of concept to support broader commercialization efforts. Challenges and Competitive Environment Beyond financial metrics, Joby faces substantial challenges in launching its aerial ridesharing service and capturing a share of the emerging urban air mobility market. The company must deliver aircraft that meet stringent performance and safety standards while navigating evolving regulatory frameworks. Securing additional capital and safeguarding intellectual property rights remain ongoing concerns. The competitive landscape is intensifying, with rivals such as Archer Aviation actively contesting Joby’s trade-secret litigation in court. Dependence on third-party suppliers and the possibility of further legal disputes add layers of complexity to Joby’s path forward. Outlook Joby’s third-quarter results underscored deep unprofitability, with losses more than doubling year-over-year and no immediate trajectory toward profitability. Nevertheless, the addressable market for urban air mobility remains substantial if regulatory and technological obstacles can be surmounted. As 2026 approaches—a pivotal year for Joby’s commercial launch—the forthcoming earnings report will provide crucial insight into whether the company’s significant cash reserves can sustain its ambitious plans or if the promise of urban air mobility will continue to elude realization.

U.S. Airforwarders Association Opposes 10% Import Surcharge, Citing Supply Chain and Geopolitical Risks Concerns Over Tariff Impact on Supply Chains The Airforwarders Association has expressed strong opposition to the Administration’s recent decision to impose a temporary 10% surcharge on imports, announced shortly after the President’s State of the Union Address. In a statement issued on February 25, 2026, the Washington D.C.–based trade group cautioned that broad tariff measures risk increasing uncertainty for U.S. businesses, despite recent legal clarifications provided by the Supreme Court. Representing companies involved in air cargo and logistics, the association highlighted that its members are already contending with volatile shipment volumes, pricing pressures, and complex compliance requirements. The introduction of sweeping tariffs without clear implementation guidelines threatens to further disrupt operations within supply chains that are already under significant strain. Air cargo providers, who typically plan capacity and pricing months in advance and operate on narrow margins, face heightened challenges in long-term planning, investment decisions, and demand forecasting as a result of sudden shifts in trade policy. Broader Risks and Geopolitical Challenges The association underscored that the risks facing supply chain and logistics managers extend beyond tariffs alone. Persistent issues such as trade uncertainty, labor shortages, rising material costs, and fluctuations in freight markets continue to exert pressure on the industry, with no immediate resolution in sight. The newly imposed surcharge adds an additional layer of complexity, particularly as businesses grapple with uncertainties surrounding tariff refunds following recent rulings. Geopolitical instability further exacerbates these challenges. The association pointed to escalating cartel violence in Mexico and increasing tensions in the Middle East as factors that intersect with domestic policy uncertainty, creating a difficult operating environment for U.S. importers, exporters, and logistics providers. These overlapping pressures demand adaptive strategies across global trade and logistics operations. In response to these concerns, the Airforwarders Association is calling on the Administration and Congress to establish consistent and transparent trade policies. The group argues that enhanced predictability and stability in trade frameworks are critical to bolstering U.S. economic competitiveness and supporting the long-term planning needs of businesses navigating an increasingly complex global trade environment.

Joby to Offer Air Taxi Rides Through Uber App in Dubai Joby Aviation’s shares experienced a rise in premarket trading on Wednesday following the company’s announcement of plans to introduce air taxi rides in Dubai via the Uber app later this year. This initiative, branded as Uber Air, will enable users to book Joby’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft as a new mode of transportation. Each air taxi ride will be complemented by an Uber Black vehicle for pickup and drop-off, integrating ground and air travel seamlessly. Regulatory Approvals and Timeline Adjustments Before the service can commence, Joby must obtain regulatory approval for its air taxis from authorities in the United Arab Emirates. Initially, the company anticipated launching passenger flights in Dubai by late 2025 or early 2026. However, this timeline has been revised, with UAE regulators now expecting certification by the third quarter of this year, according to a November report by The National. In the United States, Joby’s progress toward certification has been more measured. The company entered the final phase of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) certification process last year and is expected to provide an update on its certification timeline during its fourth-quarter earnings report, scheduled for release after market close on Wednesday. Expansion and Industry Challenges The planned Dubai launch represents a significant expansion of Joby’s collaboration with Uber, building on last year’s integration of Joby’s Blade helicopter and seaplane services into the Uber app. Despite this progress, the initiative faces considerable challenges. Regulatory hurdles remain formidable in both the UAE and the US, and Joby’s ability to meet stringent performance and production targets will be crucial as it scales operations. The competitive landscape in the emerging air taxi sector is intensifying. Archer Aviation, a rival startup, is currently embroiled in a trade-secret lawsuit filed by Joby, underscoring the legal and competitive pressures within the industry. Furthermore, market acceptance of air taxi services remains uncertain. Initial offerings in Dubai will focus on airport transfers, resorts, and business districts, but consumer demand at scale has yet to be proven. As Joby advances toward aircraft certification and production ramp-up, the success of its Dubai launch will hinge on navigating regulatory, technical, and market challenges. The deepening partnership with Uber positions Joby as a leading player in urban air mobility, though the journey to commercial service remains complex and uncertain.

Airbus Balances SAF Expansion and A350 Orders Amid Counterfeit Parts Concerns Advancing Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Fleet Renewal Airbus is currently navigating a multifaceted challenge as it pushes forward with its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives while securing significant aircraft orders. The company recently entered into a multi-year agreement with Air bp to supply SAF and related services across Germany and Spain, underscoring its commitment to reducing emissions and supporting the aviation industry's broader decarbonization goals. Concurrently, Air Canada has placed a substantial order for the A350-1000, reinforcing Airbus’s strong position in the widebody aircraft market and aiding the airline’s long-haul fleet renewal strategy. Counterfeit Engine Parts Raise Operational Concerns Despite these positive developments, Airbus faces mounting concerns over counterfeit engine parts discovered in components used on some of its aircraft. This issue has prompted regulators and airlines to conduct thorough safety assessments, leading to industry-wide inspections and, in certain cases, temporary groundings of affected aircraft. The situation highlights the vulnerabilities inherent in Airbus’s extensive supplier and maintenance network, which can impact operational integrity and the company’s reputation, even when Airbus itself is not directly implicated in the fraudulent activities. Market Impact and Competitive Landscape These challenges arrive at a critical juncture for Airbus. The company’s share price (ENXTPA:AIR) currently stands at €182.84, reflecting a 13.9% increase over the past year and a near doubling over five years. However, recent market sentiment has turned cautious, with the stock declining 7.0% in the past week, 11.6% over the last month, and 10.2% year to date. Investors are closely monitoring how Airbus manages the balance between growth opportunities—such as expanding SAF production and fulfilling A350 orders—and the operational risks posed by supply chain vulnerabilities. The market’s reaction may intensify scrutiny of Airbus’s capacity to meet ambitious production targets and deliver on its SAF commitments. The company’s efforts to integrate SAF align with broader airline decarbonization strategies, positioning Airbus in direct competition with Boeing and, increasingly, Embraer on shorter routes. Meanwhile, competitors may seek to capitalize on Airbus’s current difficulties by highlighting their own progress in SAF adoption and aircraft reliability. Adding further complexity, Asia-Pacific airlines continue to drive global growth despite ongoing supply chain constraints. This regional momentum could influence Airbus’s market position as it strives to maintain its competitive edge while managing both production challenges and reputational risks. As Airbus advances, the interplay between sustainable growth, operational integrity, and market perception will be pivotal. Regulatory responses, airline procurement decisions, and competitor strategies will collectively shape how investors and industry stakeholders assess Airbus’s ability to fulfill its commitments in an evolving aviation landscape.

Magnetic Trading Expands Teardown Operations with Acquisition of Two A320-214 Aircraft Magnetic Trading has announced the acquisition of two Airbus A320-214 aircraft from Stratton Aviation, reinforcing its long-term strategy focused on airframe teardown and parts trading. The aircraft, currently located at Brunswick Executive Airport in the United States, are slated for disassembly at Stratton Aviation’s on-site maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility. The teardown process is anticipated to take several weeks to complete. Strategic Response to Market Demand and Challenges This acquisition occurs amid a surge in demand for used serviceable material (USM), driven by increased global flight activity and an aging fleet of aircraft worldwide. The aviation industry’s persistent need for cost-effective and reliable component supply has intensified interest in teardown operations. However, the sector faces significant challenges, including constrained MRO capacity and a rising demand for spare engines. These pressures, coupled with potential volatility in engine values, are influencing the strategic approaches of companies engaged in aircraft teardown and parts trading. Airina Kacienaite-Krake, managing director of Magnetic Trading, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, describing it as a pivotal evolution for the company. She noted that while parts trading has long been integral to their business, this initiative represents a shift toward a more advanced trading model. By directly managing teardown projects and overseeing the repair and sale of parts to end customers, Magnetic Trading aims to enhance supply chain control and strengthen its market position. Strengthening Partnerships and Industry Implications The collaboration between Magnetic Trading and Stratton Aviation exemplifies a deepening partnership that leverages Stratton’s local teardown capabilities in the United States alongside Magnetic Trading’s global trading and distribution network. Christian Mejia, sales director of Magnetic Trading USA, highlighted the significance of this cooperation, stating that the project marks a major milestone for the Magnetic Group. He underscored its potential to improve customer support and stimulate growth across the Americas. This development also reflects broader trends within the aviation sector. The recent teardown of some of the youngest A320neo aircraft, aged just 3.5 and 4 years, has highlighted the intensity of the current engine market. This activity has heightened interest in teardown operations and prompted industry players to reassess production rates and future fleet strategies. Nonetheless, experts caution that resolving ongoing technical issues could result in declining engine values and lease rates, adding complexity to market dynamics. As Magnetic Trading advances its teardown initiatives, the company is positioning itself to navigate the evolving aftermarket landscape, where supply chain constraints and shifting market conditions continue to shape strategic decision-making.

Can AI Improve Passenger Flow at Heathrow Airport? Heathrow Airport, Europe’s busiest aviation hub, is undertaking a significant digital transformation aimed at reshaping airport operations for the future. In a strategic move, the airport has appointed Netcompany as its primary digital operations partner, underscoring a commitment to developing resilient, European-led digital infrastructure. The AIRHART Platform and Digital Integration Central to this collaboration is AIRHART, Netcompany’s Airport Operations Orchestration Platform, which will serve as Heathrow’s new digital backbone. This platform is designed to integrate real-time data, operational systems, and AI-driven insights into a cohesive framework. The objective is to facilitate smarter decision-making, enhance proactive situational awareness, and bolster operational resilience across the airport’s complex environment. André Rogaczewski, CEO and Co-Founder of Netcompany, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “As the busiest airport in the European network and a cornerstone of the UK’s critical infrastructure, Heathrow requires a partner and a platform built for resilience, security, and growth. Our platform is designed exactly for this—harnessing AI and real-time data to strengthen operations today while unlocking new opportunities for tomorrow.” Challenges and Industry Context The integration of AI at Heathrow reflects broader trends and challenges within the aviation sector. While AI holds promise for streamlining passenger flow and improving operational efficiency, its deployment faces regulatory and infrastructural hurdles. Heathrow’s CEO, Thomas Woldbye, has highlighted the necessity of a third runway to achieve any significant increase in passenger capacity—a project that remains a long-term prospect. Market responses to AI adoption in critical infrastructure have been varied. Some technology firms have experienced stock declines amid concerns that AI could disrupt established business models. Meanwhile, airports such as Zurich acknowledge the pressures AI may impose over time but do not currently view it as a major threat to their core operations. Complementary Infrastructure Developments Heathrow’s digital initiatives are being pursued alongside substantial investments in physical infrastructure. The airport is constructing a new pier to enhance capacity and operational efficiency, while also deploying advanced security scanning technologies aimed at improving the passenger experience. By integrating AI and real-time data analytics, Heathrow aims to establish a new standard for digital innovation in the airport industry. However, the realization of these benefits will depend on successfully navigating regulatory complexities and ensuring that digital advancements are aligned with ongoing infrastructure development.

A4A Leadership Engages at ATCA Aviation Innovation Summit Amid Industry Shifts Airlines for America (A4A) leadership played a prominent role at the Air Traffic Control Association’s (ATCA) Aviation Innovation Summit held last week in Washington, D.C. The event convened a diverse group of industry stakeholders to deliberate on the Trump Administration’s ambitious plans for air traffic control (ATC) modernization. This summit took place amid rapid technological advancements and shifting market dynamics, with major manufacturers such as Airbus and Boeing facing increased production demands and critical aircraft decisions as 2026 approaches. Emphasizing the Urgency of ATC Modernization A4A President and CEO Chris Sununu participated in a panel titled “From Innovation to Dominance: How the U.S. Will Lead the Next Aviation Revolution.” Sununu characterized the Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS) initiative as “the overhaul of overhauls,” highlighting the administration’s unprecedented commitment after decades of stagnation. He noted that previous administrations had failed to address the need for modernization, stating, “This has not been done in twenty to thirty years, and administration after administration just kicked the can and did absolutely nothing on this kind of stuff. So, the fact that the Trump Administration is doing something, they’re thinking innovatively, I think that’s the most exciting part. There’s just so much potential there.” The summit also underscored the $12.5 billion downpayment secured by President Trump and Secretary Duffy to modernize the U.S. ATC system, a move anticipated to bolster the nation’s standing in aviation safety. Sharon Pinkerton, A4A’s Senior Vice President of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, emphasized Secretary Duffy’s unprecedented commitment during the “Operational Excellence: Setting the Foundation for BNATCS” panel. As the leader of the Modern Skies Coalition—a consortium of over 50 organizations spanning industry, government, and labor—Pinkerton highlighted the coalition’s sustained efforts to advance comprehensive proposals before Congress. She remarked, “We’re all together in this Modern Skies Coalition, and we’ve been able to stay together for over a year and a half now, putting in some serious proposals and ideas to the Senate Commerce Committee and House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, and we’re committed to continuing that work. We’re actually seeing real results.” Navigating Industry Competition and Funding Challenges The push for modernization coincides with increased scrutiny of emerging innovations within the aviation sector, including the disruptive potential of the Airbus A321XLR and evolving production strategies among competitors. Embraer, for instance, is focusing on expanding E2 sales rather than launching new airliner programs, while ATR aims to grow its presence in the Asia-Pacific regional market. These competitive pressures intensify the urgency for the United States to sustain its leadership in aviation technology and safety. Paul Rinaldi, A4A’s Senior Vice President of Operations and Safety, addressed the critical need for ongoing investment during the panel “The Future of Aviation: Collaboration, Culture, and the Courage to Change.” He stressed that the system requires stable and predictable funding to support continuous advancement and modernization. “Our system needs stable, predictable funding to advance and modernize, not just once, but continuously,” Rinaldi said. “We have to fund this system because it’s an economic engine. It’s a jobs machine for our country. It’s 5 percent of our GDP. We have to keep it growing.” Throughout the summit, discussions extended beyond technological innovation to include challenges such as managing generational differences in business aviation and developing new frameworks for enterprise-level risk management. A4A leaders consistently emphasized that modernization is vital for operational efficiency, resilience, and safety, ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of a rapidly evolving global aviation industry.