As KCAC Aviation celebrates its 50th anniversary, we revel in all we have accomplished through the years, while looking toward the future. In the past decade, we have seen business double, been awarded “Dealer of the Year” from Pilatus Aircraft three of the past five years, achieved diamond certification for our maintenance department, and much more. We have grown our locations at the Olathe-based Johnson County Executive Airport and the Spirit of St. Louis Airport. Throughout all these years, our mission to provide efficient business aviation options to our partners has remained constant.
With these accomplishments setting our course, I’m excited for the future of our business and the aviation industry as a whole. Here are a few key trends I see impacting aviation over the next several years:
The Introduction of the PC-24
These are exciting times for business aviation in general, and KCAC Aviation is fortunate to represent the next game-changer, the Pilatus PC-24 Super Versatile Jet. It will feature the largest cabin in its class, the best overall performance in its category and operate more cost efficiently than any other jet in its price range. We are looking forward to our first delivery in 2017.
In addition to the fact that we have already sold our available incoming PC-24 inventory, Pilatus recently reported in Flying Magazine that they have closed the order book for the time being with more than 80 orders.
Increase in Aircraft Management
With the introduction of the PC-24, in addition to the excitement created for that new aircraft, we are experiencing even more interest for our PC-12 and Piper products. With demand increasing and supply limited, the need for access to these aircraft is reaching critical mass. Based on this trend, I anticipate more owners utilizing our Aircraft Management options, which help alleviate the cost of ownership while at the same time providing access to those who need a plane. It is the quintessential win-win for both aircraft owner and the individual in need of charter services.
Commercial Airline Headaches Continue
It is safe to say that issues with commercial travel are not a new trend, but it certainly shows no signs of slowing down over the coming years. In 2016 alone, we have seen lines and delays in airports that have potentially cost companies millions of dollars in lost business and lost time. We have also seen a continuation of the long term trend of fewer and fewer airports receiving service from commercial carriers. Today, business aviation serves more than ten times the number of airports that receive commercial airline service. Your business expansion plans don’t need to be limited to fewer than 500 communities nationally if you utilize private aviation. As businesses search for ways to fix these problems, they undoubtedly will look into both ownership of a private aircraft as well as charter.
