Why business aviation ‘offers a lifeline for humanity’

Business and general aviation contributed $246.8bn to the US economy alone in 2020, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers report.

Since the earliest days of aviation, flight has been essential in connecting people, connecting communities and facilitating commerce, writes Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation.

For decades, the business aviation industry has been the cornerstone of the economy, of life-saving missions and of essential cargo transportation. Despite its critical role, the multi-faceted critical nature of business aircraft and their contribution to society often goes unknown by the general public.

The current state of the industry

The aviation industry plays a significant role in global connectivity. Business aviation provides access to locations that are often unreachable by commercial airlines, facilitating direct and efficient travel. However, the value of being able to fly is not universally acknowledged. Environmental and reputational concerns have sparked debates on the necessity of aviation.

There is a strong collective commitment by the industry to achieve a net zero future. During the past decade, the business aviation industry has made substantial strides in reducing its carbon footprint – the Environmental Protect Agency reports together we have achieved a 38% decrease in emissions in the US. One of the most promising avenues is the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which significantly reduces carbon emissions as compared to conventional jet fuel. Presently, all Cessna and Beechcraft turbofan and turboprop aircraft are compatible with SAF, underscoring our dedication to a more sustainable future. However, more work remains to be done. As an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), we are dedicated to supporting sustainability efforts, investing in research into alternative fuels such as battery technology, e-fuels, and hydrogen.

The reality of business aircraft in mission-critical roles

In recent years, the importance of the business aviation industry has become increasingly apparent. Its role in enabling businesses to continue operating and supporting the economy is crucial, especially during times of crisis. A striking example of this was during the Covid-19 pandemic when the global demand for life-saving medical equipment surged. Business aviation became more visible as the essential lifeline it is, delivering patients to hospitals, and critical medical supplies to communities, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.

The pandemic is just one instance where business aviation has proven invaluable. Every day, these aircraft are deployed for humanitarian missions worldwide. Whether transporting medical teams, monitoring detecting and predicting major weather events, delivering supplies after natural disasters or performing evacuations, business aviation consistently rises to meet the needs of those in crisis.

Case studies: Textron Aviation’s aircraft in action

The impact of business aviation is best illustrated through real-world examples. Consider the operations of Island Air, a charter operator that provides critical medical services to San Juan County in the state of Washington. With the San Juan Islands accessible only by water or air, Island Air’s aircraft average 300 air ambulance calls annually, ensuring that medical care reaches those who need it most when every second matters.

In the US, Stephanie and Erwin Greenberg are among the more than 2,500 pilots who volunteer to transport post-9/11 combat-wounded veterans and their families. Many of these veterans are amputees, facing significant challenges when flying on commercial airlines. Business aviation aircraft provide a more accessible and comfortable alternative, demonstrating the industry’s commitment to supporting those who have served.

Beyond medical missions, business aircraft play a crucial role in maintaining aviation safety. For instance, FCS Flight Calibration Services GmbH in Germany uses turboprops equipped with sophisticated flight inspection technology to routinely measure and calibrate vital communication, navigation and surveillance systems. These inspections ensure that airspace remains safe and reliable for all who fly.

Natural disasters also highlight the necessity of business and general aviation. The US Civil Air Patrol (CAP) regularly deploys single-engine aircraft for search and rescue missions and documenting damage from floods, tornadoes, blizzards and hurricanes. Their ability to fly at lower altitudes and slower speeds make them particularly effective in these situations.

The global benefits of business aircraft

The aviation industry, particularly business aviation, is integral to global survival and economic continuance. A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers in 2020 found that business and general aviation supports more than 1.1m jobs and contributes $246.8bn to the US economy alone. A necessary pillar in supporting the livelihoods of many, the industry not only plays a significant role in the US but does so on a global scale. Moreover, the versatility of these aircraft cannot be overstated.

Jets and turboprops equipped for time-critical missions can be rapidly modified for medevac, surveillance, flight inspections and training. This adaptability allows them to fulfil roles that commercial aircraft simply cannot accommodate, proving their necessity in times of crisis. Aircraft like the Beechcraft King Air, Cessna Caravan and Cessna SkyCourier demonstrate unmatched value by landing on shorter, rougher runways, making them indispensable in inaccessible locations.

Raising awareness: A collective responsibility

To raise awareness of the business aviation industry’s importance, we must focus on breaking down barriers to entry in flying. This effort is essential in inspiring and attracting a new generation of pilots and aviation professionals to join the industry. Open conversations and initiatives that make flying more accessible will help demystify the field and encourage more people to pursue careers in aviation.

At Textron Aviation, we are committed to making the industry more inclusive and accessible. Through our internship programmes, we invite the younger generation to explore careers in aviation, ensuring that the industry continues to thrive with fresh talent and innovative ideas.

The journey ahead

From philanthropic flights to being a critical enabler of economic growth, jobs and investment, business aviation plays a significant part in benefitting humanity. We must continue to ask ourselves: What more can the industry do to highlight its vital role in society? How can we inspire and clear the way for the next generation to take flight?

Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation.