#9 CJI Podcast - Can Şaşmaz, Falcon Luxe "We will be the biggest business aircraft operator in the world"
This week we were in the UAE for Corporate Jet Investor Dubai. One of the standout sessions was with Can Şaşmaz, CEO of Falcon. Şaşmaz joined Falcon - the aviation business of Alex Investments in 2024. Falcon is aiming to grow all parts of its business - aircraft charter (Falcon Luxe), FBOs (Falcon Elite), maintenance (Falcon Technic) and trip planning (Falcon Flight Support). But it is not looking for small growth. Şaşmaz wants Falcon to be the world's biggest business aviation. By 2030.
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CJI Podcast - Selling Aircraft: Luiz Sandler, Jet Match - "Each aircraft is like an individual"
Luiz Sandler, the founder of Jet Match, takes us through the complexities of doing deals in Brazil (the world's second largest business jet market). Sandler started his business aviation career at Embraer and also sold new aircraft for Gulfstream.He never thought he would end up as a salesperson and warns that it is a tough business: "Life is more about dealing with frustration than dealing with success."Sandler discusses: the differences between selling new and pre-owned aircraft; how selling to entrepreneurs made him want to launch his own business; and why he did not staying as an airline pilot.
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CJI Podcast - Selling aircraft: Alireza Ittihadieh - "When people are cute and clever, I am cuter and cleverer."
Alireza Ittihadieh founded Freestream Aircraft 33 years ago. In this open podcast he criticises rival aircraft brokers for undervaluing their expertise. "The dealer side is still rewarding but today, unfortunately, broking has become nothing more than a commodity," he says. "Today some companies treat you like you are providing toilet paper to the company."Ittihadieh now focuses on dealing large business jets - buying them and then making a margin when you sell them on. He believes that there are just a handle of dealers who can really buy aircraft (not everyone will agree). He also admits that he can get heated when negotiating aircraft: "It is all about mutual respect."
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CJI Town Hall - Tariffs Episode 67 - How the new US Tariffs will hit Business Aviation
The recent changes in trade tariffs have sparked significant discussion in the aviation industry, particularly regarding cross-border aircraft transactions. In this insightful panel discussion, industry experts break down the implications of these new tariffs and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and operators.Key Discussion Points:Are Canadian aircraft now exempt or facing new challenges?How will tariffs be applied to European-made aircraft, and what are the compliance requirements?Could counter-tariffs impact U.S.-manufactured aircraft in international deals?Additional considerations for leasing, financing, and cross-border transactions under the new tariff regime.Featured Speakers:Shawn Dinning, Dallas Jet International – Market impact on aircraft sales and acquisitionsDavid Hernandez, Vedder Price – Legal and transactional perspectivesTobias Kleitman, TVPX – Title, escrow, and tax implicationsEhsan Monfared, YYZLAW – Canadian aviation law and cross-border considerationsWhether you're an operator, lessor, financier, or legal advisor, this session provides critical insights to navigate the evolving tariff landscape.Watch now to stay informed and prepared for the changing dynamics in aircraft transactions!
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CJI Podcast - Selling aircraft: Don Dwyer, Guardian Jet "love it and crush it"
Don Dwyer, co-founder of Guardian Jet and aviation sales veteran, on his decades of experience with manufacturers like Mooney and Hawker Beechcraft. He discuss the evolution of aircraft sales, emphasizing client relationships and trust-building. Guardian Jet's consulting model is explored, focusing on data-driven reports that help clients navigate purchases. The conversation highlights cultural differences between manufacturers like Gulfstream and Dassault, showing how brand identities shape buyer decisions.Current market trends are analysed, including order backlogs, deposit structures, and OEM strategies. Dwyer offers career advice for aspiring professionals, stressing adaptability and relationship-building as keys to success. Don's enduring passion for aviation shines through, demonstrating the dedication required in this competitive field.The episode provides valuable insights into both the business and human sides of aircraft sales, from tactical deal-making to long-term industry dynamics. Dwyer's perspective reveals how deep expertise and client-focused service continue driving success in business aviation.
Welcome to the Corporate Jet Investor Podcast where we bring together some of our friends and colleagues from across the world of business aviation. Hosted by Alasdair Whyte and brought to you by the team at Corporate Jet Investor. Winner of best digital offering in the 2020 Aerospace Media Awards. Connect with us at www.corporatejetinvestor.com Producers: Hannah Burton, Oscar Henderson, Louisa Whyte
Ireland