Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (ABACE) 2016:

The 2016 Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (ABACE) is taking place from the 12^thto the 14^th of April at the Shanghai Hawker Pacific Business Aviation Centre (SHPASC) in China. The ABACE is co-hosted by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA), and is in partnership with the Shanghai Airport Authority (SAA). This prestigious event is the region’s leading trade show in the business aviation industry, bringing together industry professionals, government officials, high-profile business leaders, key decision makers, and entrepreneurs.

The three-day event will provide international and local exhibitors a platform to enter the Asian aviation market in order increase their network, and to buy and sell their aircraft and services. Exhibitors can expect attendance from over 100 media representatives mainly from global publications, news outlets and the trade press to cover the event. There will also be an expansion to the educational sessions aimed to update stakeholders about the latest products and services, safety and international operating regulations associated with the General Aviation (GA), as well as the industry’s current trends and issues.

History of ABACE:

The very first ABACE was organized by the NBAA and took place on August 2005 at the Shanghai New International Exhibition Center (SNIEC). China’s business aviation market was still in its starting phase, but the Shanghai GA operation had been growing over 15 percent annually. The world’s largest business jet manufacturers saw great potential for future GA markets in all of Asia, but more particularly in China. The ABACE 2005 exhibition consisted of more than 30 demonstration flights to attract potential buyers and showcased 11 new business jets. The most expensive airplane at the exhibition was the “Global Express XRS” built by Bombardier Inc. valued at US$45 million at the time.

The next ABACEs took place in 2007, then 2008, both years the event was held in Hong Kong, China. In 2009, the NBAA canceled ABACE temporarily due to the recession. In 2010, the NBAA announced the return of ABACE to take place annually starting from 2012 at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, China,

On March 2012, ABACE was reintroduced and hosted at the joint venture operator’s Fixed Base Operations (FBO) and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, SHPASC in order to support China’s expanding business aviation community. The static exhibition showcased 27 aircraft and 150 exhibitors for over 6000 attendees. Some of the leading international manufacturers of private jets such as Airbus Corporate Jet, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier Aerospace, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation and many others took part in the exhibition. Agreements were then signed between the NBAA, the Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, and SHPASC to continue the exhibition on an annual basis for the next five years. The success of the event has led to more exhibitions and increase in the number of visitors, exhibitors and aircraft and products.

The 2015 ABACE had surpassed all previous exhibition records so far in every aspect. The expo has showcased 38 static aircrafts and contained 16 aircraft-chalets in which exhibitors can meet with clients in a more spacious and comfortable environment. There were 183 exhibitors who attended from 19 countries, from that, 81 participants were from Asia. All the major Business Jet manufacturers attended the event. The number of visitors resulted in over 8,500 people from 51 countries around the world.

Jetex invites you to our H120 booth at 2016 ABACE:

Jetex Flight Support is an internationally acclaimed trip support company. We are represented in more than 200 locations worldwide. Our service portfolio includes arranging in-house flights, permits, ground handling, fuel, and luxury FBOs, as well as world-class concierge services. We cater to business jets for corporate, commercial and personal air travel purposes. Jetex is a premium brand. We offer our clients only the best quality services with the most competitive prices.

Jetex has been a consistent ABACE exhibitor, and are also ready for this year’s expo. ABACE offers Jetex an opportunity to meet face-to-face and have personal interactions with our existing clients, as well as meeting and building relations with new potential clients. Jetex would like to invite everyone to visit us this year at ABACE at booth #H120. Drop by and find out how you can enjoy luxury and convenience when you travel with Jetex.

Cannes Film Festival first premiered in September of 1946 and was set out to rival the Venice Film Festival. What started out as more of a social event has become one of the most highly respected, and the most prestigious film festival in the world.

This crème de la crème of the film world is by invitation only and a visit to Cannes allows you to rub shoulders with the stars and experience the finest the area has to offer.

Experiences and Sights Like No Other

Imagine strolling along and seeing the palaces of La Croisette while catching sight of the yachts that glide across the bay, shopping at the finest couture shops, and visiting historic sites that are full of culture and visual display.

Not to be missed is the main promenade of La Croisette where the Estérel mountains are majestic among the addresses you’ll find fascinating. Check out the twin cupolas of the Carlton Intercontinental or the art deco of some of the seafront palaces where many famous people have rested their heads.

For something a bit more tranquil, take a boat ride (just 15-20 minutes away) to îles de Lérins which includes île Ste-Marguerite and île St-Honorat, where you can visit a fifth century monastery or simply enjoy the sand and sun. You can find boats leaving to the islands from Cannes by heading to the western side of the harbor.

Exquisite Food and Exciting Nightlife

Cannes is also the home to a diverse choice of restaurants. From European and French to bistros and fusion – you can really experience it all. Some of the local and visitor favorites include:

• Jean-Luc Pelé. This artisan bakery is the ideal place for swanky food at reasonable prices. Keep in mind that reasonable does not mean a trade-off in quality or innovate food because the Foie gras macaroons are just one of the mouth-watering foods you’ll find.
• PhilCat. Looking for a waterfront date? This sandwich and salad eatery has a terrace looking out over the sea where the food is delectable and the view can’t be beat.
• Restaurant La Palme d’Or. This fine dining establishment is located right at the Grand Hyatt Cannes Hotel Martinez. With two Michelin stars and culinary creations that delight the taste buds, you can choose from such dishes as Dublin Bay Prawn and The Mangetout Pea, The Belly of Tuna, and The Allaiton Lamb Triple A Greffeuille Aveyron.

The Cannes Film Festival

Even if you’re not part of the invite list to Cannes, you’ll enjoy this Mediterranean destination during the festival. All of the who’s who in Hollywood will be there and whether you meet someone famous or not, the entire town is abuzz with excitement and glamour.

There are plenty of public events at Cannes, even a way that you can join in on the festival itself. Stop by the Cannes Tourism Office and pick up the ticket information and schedule for Cinéma de la Plage. This outdoor film screen allows the public to see Cannes Classics as well as the Out of the Competition films. You’ll be able to take a picnic and enjoy the beach at Plage Mace, then watch the films under the starry skies once it gets dark.

Of course, there are plenty of vendors set up at the festival grounds so check out some of the posters and souvenirs from the movies.

You might spot a few of the Hollywood elite at the Intercontinental Carlton Cannes so consider staying there if you book early.

Getting There

To get to the Cannes Film Festival, the nearest airport is Aéroport Cannes Mandelieu (LFMD). LFMD welcomes only private flights and has 21 main parking slots with 50-60 remote parking slots.

Jetex Provides Luxury Travel

Jetex is the premier luxury travel management business that you can depend on. As a private aircraft owner, you want top-notch service and a one-stop solution on your visit to the Cannes Film Festival and our benefits are limitless.

Trip Planning You Can Count On

With Jetex, you do not have to worry about short notice or last-minute operations. Even with the most minimal of notifications, our success is due to our attention to every detail. Here are just a few things you can rely on us to provide:

• 24/7 Worldwide Support. No matter where you are from or what time it is, our staff is at your service.
• A Global Network. Whether it is securing permits and permissions or operations, we have unparalleled global support with quick service and a personalized experience.
• Full Flight Planning. When you need your flight planned, you want every detail taken care of and that is exactly what you get. Our flight planning includes a trip kit, runway analysis, ATC filing, graphical weather charts, route validation, weather and NOTAMS, approach plans, and every flight plan is computerized.
• Dependability. Nothing is more frustrating than trying to find a parking spot or getting prior permission required on a moment’s notice. We ensure that you not only get a slot that is suitable and reserved on time but we also handle the prior permission required (PPR).

Concierge Service – A Personal Experience

Jetex offers a wealth of concierge services that include:

• Meet and Assist. Immigration, passport control, and customs can sometimes be a hassle – if not downright intimidating. Jetex offers a VIP option for any airport and handles everything so you can set your mind at ease.
• Booking a Hotel. Let us find you the best hotels at the finest locations.
• VIP Transportation. No matter what time of day or night, our staff is ready to find you exactly what you want when it comes to transportation. Need a limousine? We can provide one just like many other places can. Is your preference a world-class chauffeured Rolls Royce instead? We will arrange one for you just as easily.
• Airport Transfers. Our chauffeur services are professional, courteous, and of the utmost luxury and standard.
• Fine Dining. Never worry again about the restaurant you choose for you and your guests because instead, our concierge services ensures you a meal you won’t forget with ambiance you’ll appreciate.
• Car Rental. Just like with all of our services, 24/7 assistance is guaranteed and we’ll make sure you find the right rental for your needs that fits your lifestyle and budget.
• Visa Assistance. Our concierge is happy to help you out with all things involving immigration and visas.
• Air Ticketing. Real-time price quotes are right at your fingertips.
• Travel Insurance. When you’re jet setting around the world, you do not want to have to worry about travel insurance preparations and you don’t – we have it covered.
• Tours and Guides. Visiting the most exciting places has never been easier with our concierge serve. Visit and see the world – exactly how it was meant to be viewed.

Jetex is a professional service with personal attention to providing you an experience like no other. Our travel management is an upscale, one stop experience providing 24-hour, year round in-house arrangements. Our rates are competitive with a lightning-fast confirmation time.

We are recognized by all travel industry suppliers, accredited by IATA, and a member of the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE). If you are ready to fulfill your travel plans with luxury and memorable experiences, contact us and we’ll be more than happy to answer all of your questions.

The Players Championship is one of the premier events on the PGA Tour. In fact, its status is now such that many now refer to it as the “Fifth Major.” Like the Masters, this important tournament is held at the same venue every year. The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, hosts the championship in mid-May.

For devoted fans that love to follow the world’s best, The Players Championship is an ideal way to bridge the gap between April’s Masters and June’s United States Open. Plus, May is an ideal month to visit Florida’s Atlantic Coast in the Jacksonville/St. Augustine Area.

The Players Championship: A Quick History

While the origins of the British Open date to the 19th century and the Masters to the 1930s, The Players Championship is a relative newcomer to premier tournament golf. Jack Nicklaus, the most prolific Major winner of all time, won the inaugural event in 1974. He also prevailed in 1976 and 1978, thereby becoming the only three-time winner of this prestigious tournament. Tiger Woods is one of five professionals to have won here twice. He prevailed in both 2001 and 2013.

The Stadium Course became the permanent home of The Players in 1982. The winner, Jerry Pate, celebrated by tossing course designer Pete Dye and PGA Tour Commissioner Deane Beman into the lake bordering the 18th hole. He then dove into the water hazard himself.

In 2015, Rickie Fowler claimed victory in illustrious fashion by playing the final four holes at five-under par, a feat that no one had ever accomplished on the PGA Tour. He required only 11 swings to play the final four holes, including the intimidating 17th, to make it into a three-way playoff in which he prevailed.

The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass

Although it is not as long as many tour layouts, the Stadium Course boasts a 155 slope rating, one of the highest in the country. The par-72, 7,215-yard course also sports a prodigious 76.8 course rating. From the back tees, you could bogey every fourth hole on average and still be a scratch golfer. Unlike the very private Augusta National, both courses at TPC Sawgrass are available for public play. The Valley Course is worthy of an enthusiast’s attention as well. Since 2013, it has hosted the Web.com Tour Championship. Water comes into play on every hole at the Valley Course.

Nonetheless, the instant most golf enthusiasts hear “Sawgrass,” an image of the island green at the 17th on the Stadium Course comes to mind. This confounding par-three has instantly turned potential winners into losers and vice versa. The Sunday hole location is often so close to the water that “going for the pin” is not even an option. Swirling winds often require that a player swing at just the right moment. The difference between a par and a double-bogey is often nothing more than a brief gust of wind.

Should a player prevail on the island green, he must still negotiate the demanding 462-yard, par-four 18th where water on the left escorts golfers the full length of the hole. A right-handed player with a case of nerves may very well pull-hook a drive into a watery grave, costing him thousands in prize money or perhaps even the championship itself.

Ticket and Hospitality Packages

The Stadium Pass includes far more than the usual PGA tour grounds ticket. Enjoy access to about 20 public venues on-site along with rope-side access to the players you most want to follow. Single-day passes are available any day from Tuesday to Sunday. For those planning on an extended stay in the Ponte Vedra Beach area, the weekly Stadium Pass is the perfect option.

Visitors interested in an upgraded tournament experience should consider one of the three hospitality packages: The Turn, The Greenside Lounge and The Players Cub:

The Players Club All Access – Enjoy private space in the clubhouse and in private suites overlooking the 17th and 18th greens. The all-inclusive package includes gourmet cuisine prepared by top, nationally-known chefs. Also included in this VIP package is a $500 shopping experience at the pro shop. Once you purchase an all-access pass, you’ll receive a unique identifying number that guarantees an opportunity to purchase the same tickets every year. Players Club passes are available for single tournament rounds as well.

The Greenside Lounge – This package includes full tournament access and greenside seating off the ninth green. The lounge features HDTVs, soft seating and for-purchase premium food and drink options.

The Turn – This package allows access to a climate-controlled tent covering more than 10,000 square feet. Outside, there’s a large patio with a full bar. Inside, take a break from the action at the Grey Goose 19th Hole Lounge. Consider a signature drink like the Sawgrass Splash. Take in the action on numerous TVs simultaneously displaying six or more broadcasts. One end of the facility offers great views of the 9th green, while the other end overlooks the 18th green and fairway.

Other Area Attractions

Of course, the Atlantic Ocean beckons, just a few hundred yards from The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass. And, the golf course is just one part of the TPC Sawgrass Resort. Elegant suites, multiple pools, beachside dining and a full array of spa services await those that stay here.

The beaches in the area are a major attraction. For example, at low tide, Mickler’s Landing Beach is a wide, typically uncrowded stretch of sand that is perfect for an early morning stroll as the sun steadily climbs above the horizon. Listen to the unceasing sound of waves rolling ashore from the east as grand, waterfront mansions appear to the west.

Just south of TPC Sawgrass you’ll find the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve. Choose from hikes along miles of beaches and sand dunes or stroll along trails meandering through the woods, mangroves and salt marshes. A visit to this tranquil haven contrasts beautifully with the excitement of The Players Championship.

St. Augustine is only a short distance south of TPC Sawgrass. The community, founded in 1565, lays claim to being the oldest city in the country. Revel in the community’s Spanish Colonial architecture as it transports you to a different place and time. The 17th century Spanish fortress, Castillo de San Marcos, features cannons, drawbridges and panoramic views of the St. Augustine Inlet.

Getting to The Players Championship

The Players Championship is a worthy destination whether you own a private plane or are interested in your very own private jet getaway. Flights land at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) or Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST). The former is about 33 miles northeast of TPC Sawgrass, while the latter is about 28 miles south of the course. Downtown Jacksonville is just 18 miles northeast of the TPC Sawgrass Resort.

Plan a memorable trip to a top PGA tour event that has quickly acquired a reputation as one of the world’s premier competitions for the world’s best golfers. While you’re there, enjoy a wealth of other opportunities that the Jacksonville Beaches area offers.

For friendly and professional assistance in planning your luxury trip to The Players Championship, look to Jetex. We offer a one-stop solution for every one of your luxury travel needs, including all of your booking, transportation, aircraft and concierge requirements. Please contact us today!

From the Cuban side, there are no restrictions. The restrictions are set by the US Government.
Previously, Private (FAR Part 91) and Charter (FAR Part-135) operators of N-registered aircrafts were required to
obtain an export license from BIS for the flight to Cuba. This requirement has now been removed, and now private
and/or charter operators can fly to Cuba without the need to apply for a BIS or OFAC license provided the purpose
of the flight is to carry authorized travelers between the U.S. and Cuba. FYI, Private (FAR Part 91) operations of
aircraft from the U.S. will no longer require an advance “temporary” sojourn license from Department of Commerce
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)

a. Flight has to perform the trip based on the 12 approved purpose of travel to Cuba. (see below)

b. Landing permit is needed in Cuba. (lead time is 3-5 working days) To process the landing permit, CAA Cuba requires:

• Complete flight details including schedule.
• Aircraft certificates: noise, airworthiness, insurance and registration.
  Flight crew license and medical certificates are not mandatory but are sometimes requested by CAA Cuba.
• The actual purpose of flight into Cuba. Indicating Private Business or Business Flight on our requests are always questioned for the true and actual purpose of flight before approval for the permit is issued. (ie. business meeting with ABC company, etc)
• The local sponsor name and contact number in Cuba is also required by the Cuban CAA for verification.c. Aircraft and crew can stay for a period of no longer than 7 days (see parking information below)d.The previous ruling for aircraft operating to Cuba to operate to and from 22 approved US airports has been removed.

Parking

Concerning parking at MUHA, as per the authorities in Cuba, they don’t have any restrictions as to how long a N-registered would like to remain on-ground. The new regulation allowing a N-registered aircraft to park in Cuba is set by the US government which is not more than 7 days. Here is the link to the recent changes as posted by the U.S. Department of Treasury (Under point “Travel”)

12 Approved Purpose of Travel to Cuba

1. Family visits
2. Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
3. Journalistic activity
4. Professional research and professional meetings
5. Educational activities
6. Religious activities
7. Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
8. Support for the Cuban people
9. Humanitarian projects
10. Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
11. Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
12. Certain export transactions that may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.

Approved U.S. Ports of Entry for Flights to and from Cuba

CBP has determined that the 22 airports listed below are suitable to accommodate flights traveling between the United States and Cuba:

• Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Atlanta, GA
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin, TX
• Baltimore-Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport, Baltimore, MD
• Boston Logan International Airport, Boston, MA
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL
• Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, Dallas, TX
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Fort Lauderdale, FL
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Houston, TX
• John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York, NY
• Los Angeles International Airport, Los Angeles, CA
• Key West International Airport, Key West, FL
• Miami International Airport, Miami, FL
• Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, Minneapolis, MN
• New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport, New Orleans, LA
• Oakland International Airport, Oakland, CA
• Orlando International Airport, Orlando, FL
• Palm Beach International Airport, West Palm Beach, FL
• Pittsburgh International Airport, Pittsburg, PA
• San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Southwest Florida International Airport, Ft. Myers, FL
• Tampa International Airport, Tampa, FL
• Washington Dulles International Airport, Washington, D.C.

On January 28, 2011, DHS published a final rule in the Federal Register entitled “Airports of Entry or Departure for Flights to and From Cuba.”
The final rule amended DHS regulations to allow additional U.S. airports that are able to process international flights to request approval of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to process authorized flights between the United States and Cuba.

With the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) launching this week in Geneva, Jetex takes an inside look at the trends and challenges of the European market.

With all the talk being on the surging North American market, it might be easy to forget about Europe. But despite some recent challenges, the European Business Aviation market remains alive and well – a point driven home by the latest analysis and forecasts.

For example, according to the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA), the state of business aviation in Europe can be summarized as ‘continuing to climb’. This sentiment is made clear in this year’s edition of its Annual Review of Business Aviation in Europe.

Trend Spotter

In terms of industry trends, one key indicator highlighted in the EBAA report is conservative growth. Despite ending 2014 with a disappointing flight activity growth rate of .7%, overall business aviation fared better than other segments of the air transportation sector. According to the report, a key reason behind this low level of activity was external factors, including economic and political pressures. “If no earth-shattering events were to occur in 2015, business aviation should be the first to benefit from some economic stability, although forecast for growth remain conservative,” says the report.

Despite these challenges, the EBAA says that Europe’s fleet continues to climb. For example, as of 2001 the European fleet consisted of 1,517 aircraft. As of 2014 this number had more than doubled, checking in at 3,301 aircraft. The report demonstrates that this growth has been relatively incremental over the past decade.

On top of this, the European fleet remains one of the world’s youngest, with 50% of all aircraft being less than 10 years old. In terms of aircraft type, the trend from 2005 to 2014 has been high growth in Ultra Long Range and Very Light Jets, with a decline in Entry Level and Midsize Jets and, significantly, a decline in Turboprops, which has traditionally been the segment’s workhorse. This suggests that the market may be shifting towards long-haul, heavy aircraft operations becoming the industry’s bread and butter.

Another trend highlighted in the report is that of location. According to data collected, the activity of the European fleet is shifting in terms of location. A clear example of this is happening here in Geneva. What has long been Europe’s second busiest European airport for business aviation, since 2011 it has seen a decline in its departure figures. Similar declines have been seen in Zurich and major Italian airports. On the other hand, the UK’s Farnborough and Luton airports, along with France’s Nice, have all seen increases in departure activity.

What can be taken away from this is that business aviation continues to struggle to access major mixed-mode airports, feeding into the trend that the list of Top Ten European airports for business aviation is going through a major reshuffle.

Crunching the Numbers

Diving further into the state of the European market, according to the latest Honeywell Global Business Aviation Outlook all economic indicators point to stabilization – if not growth – in the region. According to the report, last year Europe’s purchase expectations jumped to 31%, bringing it back in line with the 30 to 33% levels seen in the three surveys before 2013.

Meanwhile, according to the most recent Bombardier Market Forecast, Europe remains the second largest market for business aviation. Led by the currently improving external environment and reduced fiscal austerity, the moderate economic recovery across Europe should continue in the short- and medium-term and stabilize in the long-term.

Noting that the European business jet fleet accounts for approximately 10% of the worldwide business jet installed base, Bombardier concludes by saying that Europe is expected to remain one of the main markets for new business jet deliveries between 2014 and 2033, at 3,575 unit deliveries, seeing significant fleet growth equivalent to a CAGR of 6% over the forecast period.

See You at EBACE!

This week’s EBACE will likely serve as a ‘straw poll’ indicator of how the industry views the European market, both today and in the coming years. Be sure to visit Jetex at booth G089 in Geneva! To arrange a meeting, contact us at marketing@jetex.com.