DC Aviation will be exhibiting at MEBA, Dubai 16-18 November 2008

DC Aviation is continuing on from its successful attendance at the EBACE by exhibiting at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA)between the 16-18 November 2008. After this year's successful premiere as an exhibitor at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, DC Aviation, Germany's main provider of private jets, is exhibiting for the first time at the Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) in Dubai. The MEBA ranks as one of the main exhibitions in the world for business aviation. It takes place for the third time at the Dubai Airport exhibition grounds from 16th to 18th November 2008. In the private aviation industry the Middle East sector ranks as one of the markets with the strongest growth, and thus rates as one of the most attractive. This is one of the reasons why we will be increasing our presence in the UAE in future. We are generally continuing to expand our international locations in order to offer our clients even greater service thanks to increased flexibility and exclusiveness on the spot, e.g. by stationing international fleets and key accounts. As a recent addition to the DC Aviation family, there will also be a presence from DC Aviation Ltd. in Malta. DC Aviation has plans to setup the first FBO in Malta in the next 12 months. DC Aviation is the only dedicated business jet handling company in Malta and will also act as a regional sales office for our ever expanding fleet of business aircraft. Both existing and potential clients are cordially invited to visit DC Aviation at this exhibitions. For an appointment you may contact me on stanley.bugeja@dc-aviation.com.mt

DC Aviation Ltd. - Launches new website

DC Aviation Ltd, the Maltese FBO in Malta has recently launched its website. http://www.dc-aviation.com.mt/. As the only dedicated business aviation company in Malta, DC Aviation is also the only FBO which provides a limo services on the ramp. DC Aviation allows gives its customer the option to book aircraft handling at Malta International Airport online through its website. We are informed that this was phase one of the website, and we are expect much revamped website as early as the first quarter of 2009.

27 June Empty Legs and Transient Aircraft

Aircraft	Passengers	Date	Sector
Legacy 600	1	27 Jun	Moscow - Bratislava
Falcon 2000	10	27 Jun	Available in Almaty
Citation Jet 3	7	27 Jun	Available in Verona
Challenger 300	9	27 - 28 Jun	Available in Ibiza
Hawker 800XP	8	27 - 28 Jun	Available in Dubai
Challenger 300	9	27 - 29 Jun	Available in Geneva
Lear 60	6/7	27 - 28 Jun	Available in St.Petersburg
Hawker 900XP	8	27 - 30 Jun	Available in Dubai
Falcon 2000	10	27 Jun	Available in Almaty
Citation VII	8	28 Jun	Available in Olbia
Citation XLS	8	28 Jun	Bahrain - Cambridge
Lear 31A	7	29 Jun	Stuttgart - Amsterdam
Lear 31A	7	30 Jun	Available in Amsterdam
Lear 45	8	30 Jun - 01 July	Available in Stuttgart
Lear 31A	7	01 - 02 Jul	Available in Cannes
Lear 31A	7	03 Jul	Cannes - Palma
Gulfstream 450	12	05 Jul	New York - London
Citation Sovereign	10	20 Sep	Available in Cairo

EBACE Day 2 - 21st May

Business Aviation Will No Longer Be Neglected, EC Official Says During today’s EBACE opening session, European Commission director for air transport Daniel Calleja pledged more “proportionate” rules for business aviation in the future, acknowledging that this segment of air transport has “too often been neglected in the past.” According to Calleja, “The EC this year is launching key initiatives to make aviation more efficient, safer and environmentally sustainable.” He recognized the importance of general and business aviation, stating, “Almost one-fifth of Eurocontrol aircraft movements and two-thirds of EASA type certificates are for general or business aviation.” The EC thinks aviation needs “better,” as opposed to more, regulation, Calleja asserted. He promised the EC would make sure future safety regulations apply to business aircraft in a proportionate way. Another challenge Calleja sees concerns the international nature of the industry. “We want a level playing field,” he said, a sentiment echoed by NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “The U.S. requires a 10-day notice for business flights from Europe. Yet, when we [Americans] face similar requirements in emerging countries, we find it unacceptable,” Bolen said. “We need to get our house in order.” Record EBACE Attendance Total Continues to Climb May 21, 2008 The record-setting attendance total for the 8th Annual European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2008) continues its climb. By noon on the second day of the show, EBACE2008 had registered 13,137 Attendees. That was an increase over the first-day count of 12,483 Attendees, which was higher than the total attendance for any previous year's show. EBACE2008 has shattered other previous records, with more than 440 Exhibitors, an all-time high, displaying the latest products and services across a total of 1,958 booth spaces, a 38 percent increase over last year. The Static Display of Aircraft on Geneva International Airport also has a highest-ever total of 60 state-of-the-art business aircraft and three aircraft mock-ups. For the latest EBACE2008 news, podcasts, photos, presentations and more, visit www.ebace.aero/. And don't forget anyone wanting to discuss operating and managing Business Jets from Malta can call for an appointment.

EBACE Day 1 - 20 May 08

EBACE2008 Concludes First Day With Record-Setting Attendance May 20, 2008 The first day of the 8th Annual European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE2008) closed with an attendance level higher than any overall, three-day attendance total for any previous year's show. EBACE2008 had 12,483 Attendees registered by the end of the day, a 10 percent increase in Attendees for the entirety of last year's EBACE event. EBACE2008 has shattered other previous records, with more than 440 Exhibitors, an all-time high, displaying the latest products and services across a total of 1,958 booth spaces, a 38 percent increase over last year. The Static Display of Aircraft on Geneva International Airport also has a highest-ever total of 60 state-of-the-art business aircraft and three aircraft mock-ups. For the latest EBACE2008 news, podcasts, photos, presentations and more, visit www.ebace.aero/news.

Embraer extends business jet Lineage at EBACE Embraer has unveiled the latest addition to its executive jet family. The Lineage 1000 is an ultra-large business jet derivative of the Embraer 190.

LHT adds finishing touches to CL850 Lufthansa Technik is in the final stage of completing the first Bombardier Challenger 850 executive jet interior installation. The aircraft - one of 17 scheduled for completion over three years, and one of five at LHT's facility - is due for delivery this summer. LHT was named a completion centre for the CL850 at last year's EBACE and the first aircraft arrived in Hamburg in September 2005. The aircraft has a range of 2,095nm, with a high speed cruise of Mach 0.80.

Ebace 20 - 22 May - Geneva

Europe’s leading companies continue to find the competitive advantage that is gained through the use of Business Aviation, Europe’s engine for growth. European companies are prospering as their employees overcome distances between various locations throughout Europe (and the world), save time in congested airports, maintain security and optimize their time when they must travel to grow business. EBACE2008, in Geneva May 20, 21, 22, is the flagship forum for the European business aviation community to find products and services from the world’s top vendors. Also at EBACE, the European regulators and government officials who make decisions that directly affect business aviation operations in Europe and around the world meet face to face with the companies who are using aviation to facilitate their business. EXHIBIT/SHOW HOURS: TUESDAY, MAY 20 10h00 – 18h00 Exhibits in Halls 5, 6 and 7, and Static Display of Aircraft Open WEDNESDAY, MAY 21 09h00 – 17h00 Exhibits in Halls 5, 6 and 7, and Static Display of Aircraft Open THURSDAY, MAY 22 Exhibits in Halls 5, 6 and 7 Open 09h00 – 16h00 Static Display of Aircraft Open 09h00 – 15h00 We will be at EBACE from the 20th to the 22nd May, anyone who would like to meet to discuss, future trips to Malta, the potential of the Maltese register and AOC, feel free to drop me a line. In the meantime I will try to post some notes on my experiences at the show, while in Geneva.

EBACE 20 - 22 May Geneva, Switzerland

EBACE is the most important European business aviation event, and is held every year in Geneva, Switzerland. The event is set in an extensive exhibition space with stands for all the major international partners in business aviation in ‘Geneva PALEXPO’, located right next to Geneva international airport. In addition, an extensive open-air exhibition is also mounted on airport land. On the fringes of EBACE, numerous briefings, press conferences and workshops are also held in the adjoining conference facilities. EBACE 2008 – the place to be for anyone interested in this extremely fast-growing aviation sector – will be held this year from Tuesday 20 to Thursday 22 May. As in previous years, we will be visting at the fair.

EBACE can thus be regarded as a key European contact point for the ever-growing business aviation activities. We find that EBACE is a very good place to meet new potential customers, operators and get a better feel of concerns and upcoming buzz in this market. One can find more info at www.ebace.aero.

Any one interested in a one to one meeting on the advantages of operating, registering and managing a business jet from Malta is welcome to set an appointment. Simply drop us an e-mail on info@sierra-aviation.com.

GAMA RELEASES FIRST QUARTER SHIPMENTS

Yesterday, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) announced first quarter shipment and billings figures. Total industry billings were up 16.1 percent to $5.3 billion, an all-time high for the first quarter, while total shipments were down by 7.5 percent."This past quarter's overall industry billings remain impressive, with the turbine segments showing dramatic increases. The trend of increasing market share occurring outside of North America continues for most manufacturers. It is apparent, however, that current uncertainty in the U.S. economy is having an affect on some of the offerings in the piston spectrum of aircraft,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA president and CEO. “Last year, 67 percent of piston deliveries were to the North American market, making this segment the most susceptible to softness in the U.S. economy. However, as worldwide markets continue to expand, we see more capability to insulate manufacturers from the economic dynamics of any one specific region."Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 399 units compared to 554 units delivered in the first quarter of 2007, a 28.0 percent decrease. Turboprop shipments increased from 79 units in the first quarter last year to 85 units in 2008. Business jet shipments totaled 297 units in the first quarter of 2008, a remarkable 40.8 percent increase over the 211 units delivered in the first quarter of 2007. FIRST QUARTER SHIPMENTS OF AIRPLANES MANUFACTURED WORLDWIDE

Aircraft Category	2007	2008	CHANGE
Pistons	554	399	-28.0%
Turboprops	79	85	+7.6%
Business Jets	211	297	+40.8%
Total Shipments	844	781	-7.5%

GAMA is an international trade association headquartered in Washington, DC representing over 60 of the world's leading manufacturers of general aviation aircraft, engines, avionics and related equipment. GAMA's members also operate fleets of aircraft, fixed based operations, and pilot training and maintenance training facilities. For additional information, visit GAMA’s website at http://www.gama.aero/.

Tax Implications in Biz Aviation

Malta is not yet synonymous with business aviation, but the business aviation industry my well look a little deeper in what this tiny island in the middle of the Mediterranean has to offer, other than the great weather and historical places. Over the years Malta made a name for itself as a low tax country, first by offering offshore legislation as far back as 1988 and of late, since Malta became a full member of the European Union, by offering a unique infrastructure whereby international trading companies can benefit from unique fiscal framework within the European Union. As airports become more congested and successful businesses experience growth and offer their services to a global audience, the more business aviation will increase. In a recent EU publication it was estimated that since 2002 the business and general aviation rate of increase was almost twice as high as that of scheduled airlines, percentage wise. In spite of the current air of economic doom and gloom, which invaribly will effect economic growth and business profitability, there is a school of thought that maintains that the current airline woes will just make business aviation more attractive, especially with the advent of VLJ's which make the service more affordable to a wider spectrum of businesses and individuals. With this growth in utilisation of business aircraft, the industry has started to attract greater attention from regulatory institutions, but also the more knowledgable end user, business traveler, is strating to frown upon the so called low-tax operations in so called flag of convenience countries. This is where Malta is in a league of its own. Malta was the first country to adopt JAR-OPS as its legislation, and today offers, JAR-OPS 1 Air Operating Certificates, soon EU OPS 1, as EASA takes over from JAA, thus Malta is no flag of convenience, but has a respected aviation authority within the European framework. The trade secret is that the Maltese government has legislated fiscal laws acceptable to the European Union, but not just, as Malta has in excess of 50 double taxation treaties, whereby one can have a tax effecient(low tax) infrastracture, not considered as tax evasive by the European Union. In essence non resident shareholders, individuals or organisations who setup a Maltese company for trading internationally, although the company is taxed at 35% on its pofits, on decleration of dividends, the non resident shareholders are refunded 6/7 of the tax paid. There are various scenarios possible of how one, whether an operator, an owner, a broker, a management organisation can benefit from the Maltese formula. We have put together a team of consultants with various expertise from airworthiness to financing, from legal to tax advise for individuals or organisations who want to investigate these opportunities further. A tax efficient infrastructure, does not neccessarily mean a Maltese Operating certificate, there various scenarios available which would allow an organsation to maintain its current AOC and country of register yet still benefit from the Maltese fiscal incentives. As oil prices and labour cost continue to increase, a tax efficient infrastructure could give an operation the competitive edge or a business the opportunity to become more efficient and own a business jet.

Airlines vs Business Aviation

Boeing have admitted to a furher delay with the delivery of their first Dreamliner, now scheduled for the last quarter of 2009. Low Cost carriers seem to be hitting financial difficulties, the FAA investigation in maintenance procedures of some of the major US carriers have resulted in more than 1,500 scheduled flight cancellations. With the air of doom and gloom, the US and possibly even the UK heading towards an economic slowdown possibly even a mild recession, the airline industry is surely not going through a rosy period. On the other hand, business aviation seem to be continuing to experience growth, especially in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Farnborough predominantly business aviation airport, increasing movements, Embraer recently launching new business jets, Lufhansa purchasing business jets and setting up their own corporate aircraft wing. Jet Alliance experiencing growth through their Austrian airlines partnership. So what is happening? The aviation industry is a heavily regulated industry and requires huge amounts of capital to set-up and maintain an operation. New equipment has not exaclty become cheaper, the oil crisis has not really aided the industry, and as ticket prices became cheaper, it was in my opinion inevitable that the airline industry would struggle. As the major hubs became more congested, unprofitable routes dropped, new security measures at all major airports resulting in long queues and discomfort for the frequent traveller, the continued economic growth of the Asian markets, all this provided a platform for the growth of the business aviation. As more users afforded, and this is a key word, afforded, to buy business jets, the operating costs, even with the increase in oil prices, came down, this is especially true in Europe and Asia. This made a business jet charter flight more affordable to more high net worth individuals and corporations. The major difference between the airline industry and business aviation are the end users, the end user is not shopping around for the cheap ticket, forcing the airline to operate with negative margins, but the corporate jet user either affords the business jet or queues at Heathrow's spanking new so far dysfunctional Terminal 5, or with struggling Alitalia. The airlines problems are the business aviation strengths; SAVING EMPLOYEE TIME. Business aircraft can have longer ranges, flying non-stop between airports, which the end user wants to go to, not that the airline chooses, based on slots, costs, etc. Flying into London City, a short drive or helicopter flight from that meeting. INCREASING PRODUCTIVITY EN-ROUTE. Rather than writing off travelling time, studies have shown productivity on business aircraft is actually higher than in the office. Choosing with whom you fly allows for onboard meetings. EFFICIENT, RELIABLE SCHEDULING. The near total flexibility inherent in business aircraft is a powerful asset. Business determines the schedule - not the airlines. REDUCING HOURS AWAY FROM THE OFFICE AND HOME. Both business and the individual benefit when family time is not lost to non-productive travel. ENSURING INDUSTRIAL SECURITY. Use of business aircraft reduces travel visibility and eliminates unwanted and unnecessary interruptions. HIGH PERSONAL SAFETY, in a society threatened by terrorism, choosing whom you fly with has become of significant importance. INCREASING ENTERPRISE. Business aircraft allow opportunities especially those in remote regions to be more readily considered and acted upon. Studies have put access to business aircraft in the top three drivers for business relocation decisions. PROJECTING A POSITIVE CORPORATE IMAGE. As studies continue to show increased profits for corporations using business jets, we are now experiencing a scenario where using a business aircraft shows a company to be progressive with a keen interest in efficient time management and high levels of productivity. As long as the economic slowdown does not significantly impact mainland Europe, as long as the economic growth in countries such as Russia, China and India is maintained, I expect business aviation to stay on course and continue to grow.

History of Maltese Business Aviation

In some of my earlier posts, I have mentioned that the Maltese Department of Civil Aviation has issued the first AOC to a foreign based Lear 60XR. Further to the interest that the Maltese infrastructure is soliciting in the Business Aviation community, I thought that I expand a little further on this niche industry in Malta. Due to Malta's strategic geographical location, this island at the heart of the Mediterranean has always played an important role in international trade, even before the advent of the aircraft, in fact Malta has always played an important role in the maritime trade. Having been a colony of all the major empires, Phonecian, Roman, Arab, Knights of St. John, French and the British Colony, Malta has played an important part in the history of the Mediterranean. Having been a colony of the British Empire during World War II, Malta was introduced early first to military and then to commercial aviation. Malta had its aircraft register established in the sixties. Because of Malta's strategic importance, maritime industry, as well as our association and influence by the United Kingdom, although not a Geneva, London or Paris, Malta always had a steady flow of private and general aviation aircraft passing through. As Malta started to aspire to become a member of the European Union, and established itself as a respectable and stable democracy, with sound legal and financial legislation framework in the early nineties, Malta started seeing a number of business entrepreneurs who flew to our shores in their business jets. One can describe Capt. Lino Xuereb as a pioneer in this industry, having been the first person to set-up a company with a business jet based in Malta. Capt Xuereb got the first busness aircraft in the early nineties, a Citation II, which served both the local community of businessmen and individuals and corporations in the surrounding Mediterranean countries. Having got the first Maltese AOC with a business jet on its licence, Capt Xuereb never looked back, today he is the most experienced Maltese business jet pilot, and still is flying and running the only company with a business jet, a Lear 60, based in Malta. On the otherhand, myself at Sierra Aviation, established in 2002, Sierra Aviation, which todate remain the only company dedicated to business aviation services. As Malta became a full member of the EU, adopted the Euro and is a member of JAA/EASA, I feel Malta has a lot to offer to the business aviation community. Malta is not only strategically located in the heart of the Mediterranean, offering a bridge between Europe and North Africa, but our 300 days of sunshine (no icing conditions), relatively low labour cost(in comparison with mainland Europe), excellent fiscal infrastructure within an EU environment, and of course internationally recognised aircraft operating infrastructure such as JAR OPS 1/EU-1. If one is shopping for an aircraft register Malta has a lot to offer, aircraft can be operated commercially and privately (Isle of Man on aircraft in the private category are allowed), freedom of movement (Swiss registered aircraft are not allowed to fly between Moscow and France, and are restricted with regards to internal flight in some EU countries), excellent fiscal benefits and yes why not great weather.

Why Charter a Business Jet?

Research conducted by the London Business School shows that companies with business aircraft performed 11.3% better than the industry average. Another performance study undertaken in America by Arthur Andersen, came to the same conclusion: "On average, among the 766 companies studied each year, those that acquired business aircraft experienced greater sales growth in the years following the purchase than those that did not."Three years after purchase, aircraft buyers achieved an average sales increase of 8.5 percent. Business aircraft not only bring financial success to their operating companies, but also contribute to national and regional economies." In a fast moving world, in this era of globalisation, large airports have become congested, scheduled airlines run on anything but a schedule, and road traffic to from these airports has become a nightmare, this not to mention the security aspect, where it is a known fact that all major European airports are feared to have become threatened by terrorisim, inflicting rigorous security checks which inevitably lenghten the check-in process as well as restrict the average passenger when it comes to what items one can take onboard. Chartering a business jet not only saves one time and increases productivity, give back a huge amount of control on an individual’s/organisation schedule, but it gives back peace of mind, unparalled levels of comfort and flexibility. When one charters an aircraft, one has total control from the most important things, such as which aircraft to fly in, which airport to fly to or from but also the trivial yet important aspects of one’s journey such as confidentiality, exclusivity, catering, inflight entertainment, all of which exceed even the best first class on the most reputable of airlines.

First Business Jet Manufacturer Visits Malta

April, 4th July 2008, Malta International Airport. Malta is fast gaining ground in the business aviation scene. Late in 2007, the first JAR-OPS AOC was issued for a company which will operate a Lear 60XR in Moscow. Last Friday, we experienced another first in this niche industry. Embraer, a Brasilian aircraft manufacturer, through the Executive Aircraft arm, landed in Malta with a Legacy 600. In collaboration with Sierra Aviation the aircraft was shown to a number of businessmen residing in Malta, both local and foreign. Christophe Fantapie, regional sales director for Embraer Executive Jets, stated that he definitely sees Malta's potential as very competitive institution where one could register, operate or manage a business jet. In view of Malta's now world renowned yacth register and Malta's maritime history, Embraer also sees the potential to showcase its executive aircraft. The existing Legacy 600, shortly the lighter Phenom 300 and Phenom 100 which will be released to service this year and next respectivley, Embraer offers high end business jets at very competitive prices, also banking on its experience as an aircraft constructor. Embraer boasts of a 99.98% dispatch reliability on its Legacy 600. A record which is second to none. Although Embraer, is expected to launch small mid size jet at EBACE in Geneva this year, once Embraer has demo aircraft of available in Europe for either of its Phenom line, Malta is sure to be on the agenda.

Malta, Fiscal Incentives, Business Aviation and Embraer

Malta a country with a population of just under 400,000, with one of the lowest GDP's in Europe surely cannot be a huge market for business jet aircraft? Here is the surprising part, Malta joined the EU in 2004 and the Eurozone in January 2008, and in the last weekend of March it has become also a Schengen Country. I here you say, "So?". Malta has a unique tax infrastructure approved by the EU whereby, anyone could take tax residence at very interesting fiscal incentives not only for individuals but also for organisations. A foreign individual who takes tax residence in Malta, is taxed at 15% on the income brought into Malta, whilst 0rganisatons who set up a real office in Malta, although still attract a corporate tax of 35%, the foreign shareholders are refunded 30% of the tax within 20 days. Malta is the first EU country to licence online gaming companies and has one of Europe's largest Super Yacth registry. Combine all of that with a legal framewaork based on British and European laws, English is not a second language but an official legal language together with Maltese, and the let's not forget the 300 days of sunshine all year round, Malta has seen a huge influx of high net worth individuals, organisations and foreign investment. Sierra Aviation, had forseen this potential back in 2002, and became the first company and is still todate the only company which is dedicated to business aviation. As the number of these individuals and organisations grow, and as Malta's profile through its EU connection continues to come to the forefront the more such people will travel to the island of Malta and call it home. Embraer is the first manufacturer to recognise this and will on the 4th April demo its flagship aircraft the Legacy 600 at Malta International airport. If you happen to be in Malta and are in the market for a new business jet contact Sierra Aviation for an appointment.

Embraer Demos Legacy 600 in Malta

Legacy 600

In today's article, prior to the visit by Embraer visit to Malta on the 4th April 2008, we have a look in more detail at the Legacy 600 which will be landing in Malta on Thursday evening. The Legacy 600 jet provides premium comfort and privacy for up to 16 passengers in three distinct seating areas. Interior standard features include first-class leather seats, a plush divan, an elegant credenza, and spacious tables for dining or meetings. The aircraft also has a fullsize galley for hot and cold meals, a full-width aft lavatory, wardrobe and storage cabinet, and an entertainment system with DVD players and satellite telecommunications. Optional High Speed Data (HSD) and Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) capabilities allow customers to browse the Internet, access e-mails and transfer files. The 240-cubic-foot (6.8-cubic-meter) baggage compartment of the Legacy 600 is one of the largest in the industry and is easily accessible during flight, for greater passenger convenience. The aircraft cruises at a speed of up to Mach 0.80 and has a range of 3,250 nautical miles (6,019 km or 3,740 miles) with eight passengers and NBAA IFR reserves. This range, bolstered by superior passenger and luggage capacity, enables customers to fly nonstop from New York (U.S.) to London (U.K.); from London or Geneva (Switzerland) to Dubai (United Arab Emirates); from Singapore (Singapore) to Beijing (China) or to Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea); and from Jakarta (Indonesia) to Melbourne (Australia) at lower operating costs than competitive aircraft with a similar cabin size. Additionally, the Legacy 600 is one the only super mid-size jet certified to operate into and out of the London City and Cannes-Mandelieu airports. The twin-engine business jet is based on the successful ERJ 145 regional jet family platform that has accumulated over 12.5 million flight hours on 1,000 aircraft. With a platform designed to endure an average of 2,500 hours per year, low operating cost, and a track record of over 99 percent dispatch reliability, the Legacy 600 offers luxurious comfort and delivers high utilization and high availability. Priced at US$ 25.41 million, based on January 2008 economic conditions, in the baseline configuration, for FAA certification, 131 Legacy jets currently operate in 23 countries. Also available in Shuttle and Shuttle High Capacity (HC) configurations, the Legacy is designed to provide comfort and functionality. The Legacy Shuttle accommodates from 16 to 19 passengers in business class comfort. The Shuttle HC version enhances owner productivity and comfortably seats as many as 37 passengers in a superior airline-quality interior. If you are in the market for purchasing a business jet and you will be in Malta, this is an excellent opportunity to have a close inspection of this magnificent aircraft. Drop us an e-mail to schedule an appointment.

Embraer Legacy will be visting Malta

EMBRAER LEGACY 600 On the 4th April 2008, Embraer is expected to make a visit to Malta with a Legacy 600. Embraer a Brazilian manufacture would be the first business jet manufacturer to demo a business jet in Malta. Other than the Legacy 600 a heavy jet, Embraer also manufacture smaller jets uch as the Phenom 100 and the Phenom 300. However Embraer are not only business jets manufacturers but also manufacture airliners jets. In this series of 2 articles we will investigate in detail the Legacy 600 in anticipation of the demo flight expected in Malta on Thursday, 4th April, 2008.

Embraer delivered 36 Legacy 600 executive jets in 2007, surpassing the 30 aircraft the Company had projected in January 2007. This represents a 33% increase over 2006 and 80% over 2005 deliveries. The first Legacy 600 entered service in 2002 and more than 130 have been delivered to 23 countries. The jet is currently available for delivery in mid-2009, and the list price for contracts signed after March 31, 2008, will be US$ 26.93 million. “The Legacy 600 enjoys a growing global demand for its stylish comfort and amenities that deliver a premium travel experience,” said Luís Carlos Affonso, Embraer Executive Vice President, Executive Jets. “Its superior performance in the most demanding environments, the low operating cost and Embraer’s broad support network further drive customer satisfaction.” Last January, the first Legacy 600 with an enhanced interior was delivered to a European customer. The new interior had been displayed at the last National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) annual meeting and convention, in Atlanta, U.S., in September. The taller cabin (6 feet or 1.82 meters) offers more headroom and the slimmer valance provides an even more spacious feel to the cabin. The redesigned two-tone leather seats, with a seamless berthing feature for sleep or relaxation, enrich the comfort and space in three distinct zones, a unique feature in the super mid-size category. Noise abatement improvements enhance cabin sound proofing, and auxiliary audio input makes cabin sound integration possible. The galley now has more spacious compartments, retractable tables and a larger water reservoir for more convenient in-flight service. Optional items include a wine chiller and multiple oven combinations, including microwave. The baggage compartment is equipped with supports for storage of miscellaneous items, such as the tow bar.

Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 4

In the final part of this series of articles we give you a hint on the what's next. So where would one start? Sierra Aviation was established in 2002 as a business aviation service company. As the only dedicated business aviation company in Malta, Sierra Aviation’s main line of business is namely; o Aircraft Charter Brokers o Aircraft Handling at Malta International Airport o Aircraft Sales and Leasing o Aviation Consultancy o Aircraft Management Sierra Aviation can provide a number of services to owners/operators who may wish to exploit the great opportunities which Malta can offer to the international business aviation community. Namely Sierra Aviation can be the co-ordinator between the foreign party and the Maltese authorities, providing constant follow-up from the day go to the day that the aircraft is registered in Malta, and/or an Air Service Licence and Air Operator Certificate is obtained. For owners, Sierra Aviation can provide aircraft management. Through our numerous international partners, we can provide an unprecedented support that commensurate with the best in the industry at a fraction of the cost. Our staff, experienced in business aviation, and with local knowledge, in so far as, personal familiarization with the Civil Aviation Authority, the Airport Authority, the local Government, as well as the local labour market, company formation legislation will make sure that each customers requirements are met efficiently, safely, and legally.

Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 3

In this article we will treat the labour conditions in Malta and typical charges related to operating a business jet on the Maltese Register. As per statistics published in 2006, Malta had the 10th cheapest labour cost in the private sector from all European Union Countries. At just under 10 Euro per hour, Malta is cheaper than Portugal, Slovenia, Cyprus, Greece and Spain. More importantly the rate of salary increase was the second lowest from the 10 countries with the cheapest labour cost, at under 3.5%. That said, aviation being a very specialized industry, salaries in this sector are higher than the average, and with big players, such as Air Malta, Lufthansa Technik, and Servisair Globe Ground already established in Malta, there is already a healthy pool of aviation trained personnel, in all the major areas, such as Flight and Ground Operations as well as with Technical staff. Malta has two flight schools and the Local Government has assisted Lufthansa Technik amongst other ways by means of a collaboration between The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology, and Lufthansa for the training and development of their local employees. A company operating a Challenger 605 and a Lear 60 XR will pay the authority just over 36,000.00 Euros for the first issue of an AOC and then barely over 16,000.00 Euros per annum for renewal fees. Hardly forbidding charges. More importantly an aircraft registration and/or AOC should be obtained within 90 days. This is achievable in Malta, as the Department of Civil Aviation is still relatively young and can give interested parties undivided attention. Assuming the owners/operator provide all the necessary information and documents. Other costs involved would be the setting up a company structure to own the aircraft and or apply for the Air Operating Certificate. These costs are estimated to be in the region of 2,000 to 5,000 Euros per annum, depending on the level of actual presence of the company on the island.

Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 2

Air Operating Certificate.

Yesterday we sarted this series of articles investigating the Maltese legislation relative to operating a business jet using the Maltese infrastructure. in this post, Part 2 of this series, we will talk about the requisites to obtain an AOC.

Strictly speaking an owner who is operating his aircraft for his own use, will not require an AOC, as the aircraft will be operated in the private category, however this scenario can be very restrictive, as it is at best unclear whether employees of the owner and sub-contractors can legally use the aircraft, as it can be argued that the aircraft will be operated for gain, and hence an AOC will be required. Further more if the aircraft is given under management to a third party company, even if the aircraft is not available for third party charter, the third party company managing the aircraft must obtain an AOC. Simply put, an aircraft can be operated in the private category without an AOC, however to obtain an AOC, the company must also have an ASL. The applications for the AOC and ASL, should be submitted together to the Director of Maltese Civil Aviation. In order to apply for an AOC, a company must demonstrate ownership of an aircraft, or a lease agreement for an aircraft. An aircraft need not be registered to be operated by a Maltese AOC, however the registered aircraft must have a European Union and JAA country registration. The reverse is also true, ie a Maltese registered aircraft can be operated on a European Union and JAA AOC, however both of these scenarios are not preferred by the Maltese Department of Civil Aviation. Similar procedures are required by the company applying for an AOC as for company applying for an ASL. The process for obtaining an AOC, ASL and registration of aircraft should take from three to six months, subject to demonstrating to the Maltese Department of Civil Aviation full compliance to JAR OPS 1.

Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 1

In a number of articles we will try to identify why Malta can be an interesting avenue where one could register a business jet. The first part of these series of articles deals with a brief introduction about aviation in Malta and a brief outlook of the Maltese Fiscal system.

Having been a colony of Great Britain for 164 years (1800-1964), and then continued to serve as a base for Britain's Armed Forces for a further 15 years, Malta was introduced to the world of aviation from a very early start. From the construction of the first airfield to the ravages of World War Two, the build up for the Suez canal, through four hi-jacks, and on to today's Malta International Air show, Malta has seen almost all the uses an aircraft can be put to. The Malta Department of Civil Aviation records show that when the Maltese aircraft register was opened in 1969 introducing the Maltese register prefix 9H, the first aeroplane to be registered, 9H-AAA was in fact a Cessna 172. The next two aircraft on the register were also general aviation aircraft, as were many others that followed. The aircraft were largely owned and operated by Maltese general aviation pilots. Today, the local general aviation fleet includes a wider variety of aircraft types and categories ranging from microlights to single engine private planes and public category aircraft available for rental. A small fleet of training aircraft is operated by two flying schools.

Malta has an excellent climate, is strategically located at the centre of the Mediterranean and has one of the last 24 hour airports in the European Union. It has one of the longest runways in Europe with practically no slots issues. Local business and the Maltese government are only now starting to fathom that there could be a great potential for managing and operating business aviation aircraft from Malta, offering very competitive licencing fees, in an English speaking country in an EASA/JAA environment. This combined with excellent tax structures for foreign investors, whereby, although corporate tax is fixed at 35%, foreign shareholders are refunded 30% within 14 days.

Business Jet Handling in Malta (LMML)

As the business community discovers Malta, not only as a country of sun, sand and fun, but also as a small european country with sound financial and advantageous fiscal infrastructures, we will continue to experience an increase in business jets landing at Malta's only international airport (LMML).

As an ex-British colony Malta is no surprise to the savvy British business man. Maltese are hard working and english is one our two national languages. Therefore it is no surprise the the first business jets landing at Malta International airport were from the UK. Businessmen, investing in the Maltese bouyant property market, enjoying the sailing boats berthed at one of the many marinas on the island or even setting up their own business using the Maltese infrastructure.

Malta (LMML or MLA) is not yet on par with other major European cities, such as the London airports, Swiss and French airports, but business and general aviation traffic has since 2002, (when Sierra Aviation was formed) always been on the increase.

Since our inception at Sierra Aviation, we had identified business aviation as a niche market where we could offer our services to these area of aviation which had until then been ignored. Without having our own FBO, we probably handle the majority of business jets coming to Malta. We have built a reputation over the years guaranteeing efficiency, security and service. We are the only handler who offer limo service next to the aircraft, payment of services right in the cockpit. In recent years although aircraft have longer ranges, we have seen an increase in operators choosing Malta LMML for a technical or fuel stop, because of the quick turn arounds possible. One must also say that Malta International Airport is open 24 hours, and Jet A1 in Malta is amongst the cheapest in Europe.

So whether you are passing through Malta for business or pleasure, whether you are an aircraft owner, an operator or a broker, don't take my word for it and next time round request Sierra Aviation's handling. For information on how to book your handling, visit our website, http://www.sierra-aviation.com/. You can even book online.

Malta: Not just an island in sun

Malta is a small island in the centre of the Mediterranean having a population of less than 400,000 people, famous for its sun, sea, history and culture, but not just. Joined the European Union in 2004 and at the start of 2008 became part of the Eurozone as Malta adopted the Euro. As the manufacturing industry sought greener pastures in Eastern Europe and the Far East, and with the emerging tourist markets again in Eastern Europe giving Malta a good run for its money, Malta had to seek alternative sectors wherefrom to attract foreign investment. An island bereft of any natural resources, except for maybe its weather, Malta betted on the service industry, especially in Information and Communication industries. One such success was becoming the first European country to offer a licence to online gambling sites, similarly with the yacht register and call centres. Malta has two major advantages on the rest of Europe; a. its tax infrastructure and b. the language. The former was an important part of Malta’s negotiation for the accession into the EU, whereby the Maltese government based on the island’s socio/economic standing with respect to the rest of the EU successfully negotiated a very favourable tax rate for foreign investment in the island, where in effect a foreign shareholder was taxed at only 5% on the revenue. The latter being the language, which Malta wisely had after its independence from the UK in 1964, kept the English language as its national language together with Maltese, which means that all of Malta’s laws are in both Maltese and English and the whole population is fluent in the English language. Which brings us to what to date is probably one of Malta’s best kept secrets. Sierra Aviation, the islands only dedicated business aviation company, realised that Malta was sitting on a gold mine. As the business jet owners community continued to increase on the European continent, and with ever stringent regulations for the operation of such business jets especially in Europe, Malta gives the opportunity to business jet owners to register their aircraft, management companies to obtain world recognised JAA/EASA operating licence from an English speaking EU country, with a 5% tax rate and double taxation with agreements with most EU countries, low labour cost, and amongst the lowest authority fees in Europe. With support of the Maltese Government, and the Department of Civil Aviation, Stanley Bugeja CEO of Sierra Aviation reckons that it is only a matter of time before Malta would become renowned for the safest, yet cheapest business jet operating licence infrastructure in Europe. Malta should have the first non Maltese owned but Maltese registered aircraft and operating licences as early as the first half of 2008. If you are a business jet owner, Malta offers probably the best European tax infrastructure and lest we forget best weather all year round in Europe.

Business Aviation from Malta

1. Malta: Not just an island in sun
2. Business Jet Handling in Malta (LMML)
3. Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 1
4. Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 2
5. Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 3
6. Managing and Operating a Business Jet on the Maltese Register - Part 4
7. Embraer Legacy will be visting Malta
8. Embraer Demos Legacy 600 in Malta
9. Malta, Fiscal Incentives, Business Aviation and Embraer
10. History of Maltese Business Aviation
11. Tax Implications in Biz Aviation
12. EBACE 20 - 22 May Geneva, Switzerland

Business Aviation Articles

1. Embraer Legacy will be visting Malta
2. Embraer Demos Legacy 600 in Malta
3. First Business Jet Manufacturer Visits Malta
4. Why Charter a Business Jet?
5. History of Maltese Business Aviation
6. Airlines vs Business Aviation
7. Tax Implications in Biz Aviation
8. GAMA RELEASES FIRST QUARTER SHIPMENTS
9. EBACE 20 - 22 May Geneva, Switzerland
10. DC Aviation will be exhibiting at MEBA, Dubai 16-18 November 2008