Jessie returns from Vienna (yes, strudel and opera made the highlight reel) as she and Preston dive into Flyhouse’s takeover of ESPN’s College GameDay/Monday Night Countdown sponsorship from Wheels Up, questioning whether splashy sports tie-ins drive real customers or just help close big deals. They cover a major legal win for buy-the-seat operators like JSX at Westchester, unpack Freakonomics’ deep dive on ATC privatization and the industry’s shaky talking points, and spotlight Epic Aircraft hitting 100 deliveries of the E1000—now a serious contender in the single-engine turboprop market. The pair also discuss Vista’s sale of Red Wing to Bel Air (rebranded as Jet Excellence) and its bet on Citation X operations, plus lighter moments in their “Mile High Madness” segment—debunking bad Instagram “King Air math,” laughing at home cockpit sims, and celebrating Preston’s revived office plant.Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: jessienaor Preston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: /prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6
In this episode, co-hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland, plus special guest Joseph LaRousso, discuss the recent developments in aviation connectivity, particularly the competition between Starlink and traditional providers like GoGo. They also delve into the critical issue of mental health in aviation, highlighting the passage of the Mental Health and Aviation Act and its implications for pilots seeking treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for legislative support and public education on mental health issues within the aviation industry.
SummaryIn this episode of the VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland welcome Kyle Patel, founder and CEO of Bitlux, to discuss the intersection of aviation and cryptocurrency. The conversation covers recent innovations in safety training for aviation, the implications of the Genius Act on stable coins, and the potential for crypto transactions in the aviation industry. The hosts also engage in a light-hearted segment called Mile High Madness, where they critique social media influencers in the aviation space. The episode emphasizes the importance of education in adopting new technologies and the need for operators to consider integrating stable coins into their payment systems.
SummaryIn this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various aspects of aviation, including the differences between private and commercial flying, the rise of eVTOL technology, the role of automation in aviation, and recent incidents involving pilot safety. They also touch on celebrity culture in private aviation and the challenges of solar-powered flight, concluding with a discussion on global aviation safety trends and the need for vigilance in the industry.Chapters00:00 Flying Private vs. Commercial Airlines05:19 FAA's Automation Framework Announcement10:14 Pilot Intoxication Incidents15:31 Solar-Powered Flight Records22:35 Understanding Aviation Incidents vs. Accidents
SummaryIn this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various topics related to corporate aviation, including the investigation of the NYPD's aviation unit, celebrity experiences with TSA, and a critical analysis of a New York Times editorial on private jets and air traffic control funding. They also touch on the implications of tariffs on aviation in Switzerland, which has caused Pilatus deliveries to halt, and explore gender dynamics in pilot performance.Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance:www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter):https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter):https://x.com/prestonholland6?
In this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest happenings in the aviation industry, including the extravagant new Gulfstream 450 of Paris Hilton, recent M&A activities such as Joby Aviation's acquisition of Blade Urban Air Mobility, and ongoing updates from the DCA hearings. The conversation highlights the implications of these events on the private jet industry and offers insights into corporate aviation market trends and challenges.Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In the July 29th episode of The VIP Seat, co-hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland dive into a surprisingly eventful week in private aviation. They open the show with a breakdown of the FAA’s new MOSAIC rules announced at Oshkosh, modernizing certification standards for light sport aircraft and sport pilots. The changes promise to foster innovation in business aviation but raise concerns about the rollback of certain aviation safety standards, particularly for more capable aircraft like the Cessna 182. Jessie emphasizes the FAA’s “safety continuum” and the need to monitor potential unintended consequences, especially in the eVTOL space, which is now more accessible under these new regulations.Jessie’s Links: Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor Preston’s Links: Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/ Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest happenings in the aviation industry, including the buzz at Oshkosh, Joby's breakthrough with hydrogen aircraft, FlexJet's significant PE investment, and a unique challenge by Mr. Beast. They also remember Felix Baumgartner, address FAA staffing and safety concerns, and delve into a juicy lawsuit involving Bruce Willis and aircraft maintenance.Chapters00:00 Oshkosh Aviation Event Highlights02:35 FlexJet's Major Investment and Market Position05:09 Mile High Madness: Celebrating Aviation Achievements08:59 Introduction and Tribute to Felix09:08 Joby's Hydrogen Aircraft Breakthrough11:50 Mr. Beast's Airplane Challenge15:09 FAA Staffing and Pilot Fatigue18:58 Bruce Willis Lawsuit and Aviation Contracts Link to Lawsuit: https://law.justia.com/cases/texas/fourth-court-of-appeals/2025/04-23-00095-cv.html Jessie’s Links: Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor Preston’s Links: Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/ Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
This week on The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland break down the return of illegal jet seat-sharing groups and the regulatory gray areas surrounding them. They discuss the risks for both passengers and sellers, and why the FAA needs to act. The episode also covers the impact of new aircraft tariffs on Canadian and Brazilian imports, concerns about rising maintenance costs, and troubling trends in global business aviation safety. From private jet WhatsApp groups to medevac IPOs and market softening, this episode covers the critical headlines shaping the industry right now.Chapters00:00 Intro02:43 The Rise of WhatsApp Groups in Private Aviation05:19 Legal Implications of Cost Sharing in Private Flights08:17 The Need for Regulatory Frameworks in Private Aviation11:20 Challenges in the Private Aviation Market13:39 Mile High Madness: JetSmarter and Social Media Drama16:20 Tariffs and Their Impact on Business Aviation21:26 Emerging Markets: Brazil's Business Aviation Landscape23:50 Safety Trends in Business Aviation30:51 M&A Activity in the Medevac Sector36:06 Understanding Book-to-Bill Ratios in AviationJessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various topics in business aviation, including a surprising $2 million sale of a charter certificate, the challenges faced by the FAA in certifying new aircraft, and the mystery surrounding a large order of Bombardier jets. They also touch on the recent upgrades to the air traffic control system, social media highlights from the aviation world, and the booming private jet activity in Florida and Texas. The conversation wraps up with insights into aircraft deliveries and ongoing supply chain issues in the industry.Chapters00:00 Intro01:50 Volato's Surprising Charter CertificatePrice05:32 The Impact of User Fees on FAA Certification08:17 Mystery Buyer of Bombardier Jets13:47 Funding for Air Traffic Control Upgrades18:54 Social Media Highlights and Trends20:53 Airline Experiences: Southwest vs. Spirit23:14 Private Jet Activity: American Exceptionalism26:28 Embraer's Recovery and Market DynamicsJessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
SummaryIn this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss their summer experiences, including a digital detox and a critique of the aviation film 'Plane.' They delve into the implications of the new aviation tax bill, the expansion of Dassault Falcon Jet's manufacturing in India, and the ongoing challenges of social media in aviation. The conversation also touches on the ADS-B privacy concerns, a charter flight lawsuit, and a light-hearted discussion about the B-2 Bomber and its operational costs.Chapters00:00 Summer Adventures and Digital Detox03:39 The Big Beautiful Bill: Tax Implications for Aviation09:42 Manufacturing Expansion: Dassault Falcon Jet in India14:46 Social Media Madness: Aviation Memes and Mishaps17:46 The ADS-B Battle: Privacy vs. Safety21:21 Legal Troubles in Charter Aviation22:53 Military Aviation: The B-2 Bomber and Its Legacy
This week on The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland cover a fast-moving week in business aviation, defense, and international controversy. From Israel’s F-35 range secrets to the aging Iranian air fleet, we unpack what air superiority really means in the Middle East. Jessie shares a firsthand reaction to the Paris Air Show’s controversial blacked-out Israeli booths, an action French courts have ruled against in the past. Plus:-Is Grant Cardone negotiating a jet purchase via Twitter?-Why FlexJet’s new interiors are breaking boring design norms-A zebra gets an aerial ride (yes, really)-Charter discrimination allegations at White Plains-Mental health and the FAA: Is $40M enough to shift the system?-The never-ending 1500-hour debate, and why it might not be the right measure of pilot safetyAviation news, hot takes, and some first-class rants: this is your weekly jumpseat for what matters in private flight.
This week on The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland unpack a major new acquisition in private aviation as Vital Farms founder Matt O’Hayer enters the jet charter market with his purchase of ATI Jet, now rebranded as Jetvia. They analyze the challenges of operating an aging fleet, explore a surprising drop in single-aircraft Part 135 operators, and discuss whether M&A activity is heating up again. Plus, they break down two major executive orders from the Trump administration on drone integration and supersonic flight, and whether the FAA can realistically meet the deadlines. As always, the episode wraps with Mile High Madness: from tire inflation by bike pump to celebrity jet reveals.
SummaryIn this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various topics in the private aviation industry, including the allegations against AeroVanti's founder, the implications of social media takes on private aviation, controversies surrounding P. Diddy and his G550, and a recent tax ruling affecting Flight Options. The conversation highlights the complexities and challenges within the industry, as well as the importance of understanding the nuances of private aviation.Chapters01:25 AeroVanti's Legal Troubles04:37 The Nature of Private Aviation Sales09:18 Mile High Madness: Social Media Insights17:27 Diddy's Plane for Rent: Controversies and Media Perception21:48 Flight Options Tax Ruling and Its Implications
The VIP Seat is back for Season 2—with a brand new co-host! Jessie Naor welcomes industry insider Preston Holland as the show’s permanent co-pilot. Together, they bring honest (and sometimes spicy) takes on all things private aviation.This episode kicks off with Kenny Dichter’s return to center stage via Real Jet and a deep dive into his new ventures, legacy, and the ever-blurry line between luxury lifestyle and aviation. Jessie and Preston also launch their new weekly segment “Mile High Madness”—highlighting the best (and weirdest) private jet posts from social media.Other hot topics:✈️ The Global 8000’s supersonic sneak🧰 Upgrading from a Global 7500 to 8000—worth it?🛩️ Gulfstream vs. Bombardier market share🚁 Is Archer Aviation really ready for the 2028 Olympics?🇺🇸 Should the U.S. president fly a 30-year-old jet—or a gifted Qatari 747-8?🌍 Why EBACE might be due for a location change👀 What VIPs really want at jet expos (hint: it’s not standing in line next to a hungover broker)If you’re in private aviation, aviation-curious, or just want a no-BS breakdown of what’s buzzing in the skies, you’re in the right seat.🧳 Subscribe now and meet us every Tuesday morning for the commute.
In this episode of the VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest developments in business aviation, including M&A news, the impact of sustainable aviation fuel projects, and innovative safety measures like the EMAS system. They also explore the launch of AeroVenture's new marketplace for business jets and highlight pilot safety initiatives. The conversation is filled with humor and insights into the aviation industry, making it a must-listen for aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike.
SummaryIn this episode of the VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Greg Jarrett discuss the latest trends in business aviation, including the impact of AI on marketing spend, technological innovations in helicopter operations, and the recent changes in FAA leadership. They also delve into the challenges of aviation safety and liability, the role of ADS-B in tracking aircraft, and the advancements in environmental monitoring technology.
SummaryIn this episode, Jessie Naor and Cat Wren discuss the latest developments in business aviation, including the introduction of innovative flying boat technology, new helicopter models at Verticon, and the challenges faced by air traffic controllers. They also address safety concerns at DCA airport, the launch of a non-profit aimed at improving aviation safety, and the growth of ENG in the transplant aviation sector.Lookup operators and accidents at www.FlyingPrivate.org
SummaryIn this episode of the VIP seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest developments in private aviation, including legal issues surrounding charter brokers, Trump's call for bonus depreciation, the implications of the ongoing trade war, and the challenges faced by airlines like Southwest. They also explore the impact of bonus depreciation on the industry, the struggles of the eVTOL sector, and the exciting updates regarding the HondaJet Echelon program.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Private Aviation News00:38 Legal Issues in Private Aviation03:37 Understanding Charter Broker Dynamics07:13 The Trade War and Its Implications11:04 Manufacturing and Supply Chain Concerns14:40 The Changing Landscape of Airlines18:31 Conclusion and Future Outlook18:59 Industry Challenges and Layoffs20:38 Bonus Depreciation and Its Impact23:48 The Future of eVTOL and Investment Trends29:30 Helicopter Safety and Consumer Awareness31:02 HondaJet Echelon: A New Era in Light Jets
Signup for our 3-sentence or less newsletter at www.theVIPseat.comSummaryIn this episode, Jessie Naor and Tim Wade discuss the current state of aviation safety, the complexities of general aviation, and the impact of recent incidents on public perception. They delve into the statistics highlighting the safety of flying compared to driving, the challenges faced by electric aviation companies, and the role of political influences on innovation in the industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of sustainable aviation fuel and the bittersweet end of the G650.Chapters03:07 Understanding Aviation Safety Statistics05:47 The Complexity of Aviation Operations08:33 The Role of Culture in Aviation Safety11:13 Current Issues at the FAA14:21 Technological Challenges in Air Traffic Control17:05 The Struggles of Electric Aviation Companies19:53 Political Influences on Aviation Sustainability22:48 The Future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel25:16 Farewell to the G650