FlyExclusive appoints new safety director

FlyExclusive has appointed ATP-rated pilot and retired federal safety expert, Merton Cox as its new director of Safety. The US-based firm has also earned recertification of the Wyvern Wingman safety certification.  

“We recognise that the safety of our clients and our crews must always be our top priority,” said Tommy Sowers, president, flyExclusive. “We continue to exceed FAA standards by operating a Wyvern Wingman and ARGUS Platinum-rated fleet. Adding Merton to our team, with his extensive safety and training experience, reinforces our commitment to providing safe, reliable private jet experiences for those we serve.”  

In his role, Cox will have oversight of flyExclusive’s safety management system (SMS), including safety policy and risk management. His additional responsibilities include compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations; managing internal safety audit processes and facilitating external safety audits.

Prior to joining, Cox was a member of the Federal Senior Executive Service and served as the executive director of Safety, Training, and Standards for US Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations. 

In 2013, he was promoted to executive director of operations where he oversaw foreign and domestic homeland security operations, including drug interdiction and aviation counterterrorism operations. This involved utilising a fleet of more than 270 aircraft to provide more than 100,000 annual flight hours.