The VIP Seat unpacks everything from hydrogen-powered helicopters to a Dulles people-mover slamming into a terminal. Jessie and Preston kick off the show addressing last week’s AI-generated newsletter chaos before diving into the newest NBAA Standard Operating Procedures and what standardized training could mean for Part 135 safety.
Then it’s into Mile High Madness, where Jessie finally solves a lifelong mystery: what the Airbus PTU (“the barking dog”) actually looks like. From there, the conversation shifts to hydrogen propulsion breakthroughs, including Unither’s fuel-cell Robinson R44 and why hydrogen may beat batteries for real-world range, noise reduction, and future operating costs.
The duo also unpacks the Dulles “mobile lounge” crash (one of sixteen accidents in the past decade) and wonders aloud why this relic still exists. And in M&A land, Freeman Holdings continues its buying spree, snapping up the sole FBO in Waco while quietly expanding both its Million Air franchises and its own Freeman Jet Center brand.
The episode wraps with a charge to listeners: keep spreading the love, bring a friend into the VIP Seat universe
On this Veterans Day edition of The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor is joined by guest co-host Tyler Flagg, Air Force veteran and founder of Flying Company, for a high-altitude look at the week’s biggest aviation stories.
From Archer Aviation’s bold $126M airport grab in Los Angeles to the FAA’s unprecedented private-jet restrictions during the government shutdown, Jessie and Tyler unpack what it all means for charter operators, pilots, and the future of eVTOL.
They dive into a troubling ASAP retaliation case (Link), fuel-supply risks that have California importing jet fuel from Russia via India, and the NTSB’s urgent alert over Learjet landing-gear failures.
Plus, a dose of Mile High Madness featuring an overworked (and very fictional) Newark air traffic controller who’s had enough: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJ4lNk3AmuK/?hl=en
Whether you’re a pilot, operator, or aviation geek, this episode covers the turbulence behind the headlines—and why safety culture, transparency, and innovation still matter most.
🎖️ Special thanks to our veterans for their service.
💼 Guest: Tyler Flagg, CEO of the Flying Company
#BusinessAviation #PrivateJets #AviationSafety #VeteransDay #eVTOL #Learjet #TheVIPSeat #Archer #FAA #Shutdown
In one of the most candid conversations ever recorded on The VIP Seat, Flexjet’s Kenn Ricci joins Jessie Naor and Preston Holland to unpack the billion-dollar legal showdown with Honeywell — and what it means for every operator, owner, and investor in business aviation. From the origins of “power by the hour” engine programs to the hidden monopolies and financial risks they create, Ricci breaks down why he believes the system is broken and how Flexjet’s fight could rewrite the rules for the entire industry.
In this week’s episode of The VIP Seat, Jessie checks in from Haifa while Preston battles a rainy Tennessee morning as they unpack a major shake-up in Textron’s electric aviation division, the surprising grounding risks facing Hawker operators, and Sikorsky’s unveiling of an autonomous Black Hawk. From “ICE Barbie’s” $200 million Gulfstream controversy to Embraer’s record-breaking backlog, this episode dives deep into the stories shaping private and business aviation. Tune in for insights, headlines, and a few laughs from your favorite cockpit-side commentators.
Fresh from the NBAA-BACE show in Las Vegas, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland recap one of the most eventful weeks in private aviation — from Bill Papariella’s record-breaking $1.7B Bombardier order and the launch of a new KKR-backed fractional program to Verijet’s Chapter 7 filing and Van Allen’s acquisition of Essex Aviation. They dig into the latest market trends, rising fuel costs, and new Argus audit standards — all with their signature blend of sharp analysis and Mile High Madness humor. Whether you’re an operator, broker, or aviation enthusiast, this episode is your fast pass to everything shaping the business aviation landscape right now.
Fresh from the NBAA-BACE show in Las Vegas, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland unpack one of the biggest weeks in private aviation — from Bill Papariella’s $1.7 billion Bombardier order and the rise of a new KKR-backed fractional program to Verijet’s Chapter 7 filing and Van Allen’s acquisition of Essex Aviation. They break down market trends, fuel prices, and the latest Argus audit changes, with a dose of Mile High Madness humor and insider insights. Whether you’re an operator, broker, or aviation geek, this episode will get you up to speed on everything shaping the biz-av industry right now.
This week on The VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland dive into a packed lineup shaping the future of business aviation. From SyberJet’s surprise relaunch of the stretched SJ36 light jet to Hop-A-Jet’s lawsuit against GE and Bombardier following last year’s Challenger 604 accident, the team breaks down what these moves mean for operators and manufacturers alike. Plus, Jessie and Preston react to Gulfstream’s long-awaited G300 reveal, the Leviate-Vault Aviation acquisition, and the latest FAA NextGen audit showing how the program has missed the mark, to say the least.
Whether you fly, manage, or follow private aviation, this episode connects the dots between technology, regulation, and the people shaping the skies.
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: jessienaor Preston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: /prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6
In this episode of The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland dissect the biggest stories impacting private aviation today. We cover Flexjet's bold 300-aircraft order of Otto Aviation's innovative Phantom 3500 and explore Mexico's new regulations affecting charter flights. Additionally, we’ll discuss the recent shake-ups at the FAA under the DOT headquarters and how these changes may affect business aviation operations. Tune in for exclusive insights on illegal charter enforcement, new brokerage developments, and enjoy our fun segment, Mile High Madness, where we chat about the lighter side of aviation. Don't miss this essential listening for anyone involved in or interested in private jets and executive travel!
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: jessienaor Preston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: /prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6
Jessie returns from Vienna (yes, strudel and opera made the highlight reel) as she and Preston dive into Flyhouse’s takeover of ESPN’s College GameDay/Monday Night Countdown sponsorship from Wheels Up, questioning whether splashy sports tie-ins drive real customers or just help close big deals. They cover a major legal win for buy-the-seat operators like JSX at Westchester, unpack Freakonomics’ deep dive on ATC privatization and the industry’s shaky talking points, and spotlight Epic Aircraft hitting 100 deliveries of the E1000—now a serious contender in the single-engine turboprop market. The pair also discuss Vista’s sale of Red Wing to Bel Air (rebranded as Jet Excellence) and its bet on Citation X operations, plus lighter moments in their “Mile High Madness” segment—debunking bad Instagram “King Air math,” laughing at home cockpit sims, and celebrating Preston’s revived office plant.
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: jessienaor Preston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: /prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6
In this episode, co-hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland, plus special guest Joseph LaRousso, discuss the recent developments in aviation connectivity, particularly the competition between Starlink and traditional providers like GoGo. They also delve into the critical issue of mental health in aviation, highlighting the passage of the Mental Health and Aviation Act and its implications for pilots seeking treatment. The conversation emphasizes the need for legislative support and public education on mental health issues within the aviation industry.
In this episode of the VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest developments in business aviation, including M&A news, the impact of sustainable aviation fuel projects, and innovative safety measures like the EMAS system. They also explore the launch of AeroVenture's new marketplace for business jets and highlight pilot safety initiatives. The conversation is filled with humor and insights into the aviation industry, making it a must-listen for aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Summary
In this episode of the VIP Seat, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland welcome Kyle Patel, founder and CEO of Bitlux, to discuss the intersection of aviation and cryptocurrency. The conversation covers recent innovations in safety training for aviation, the implications of the Genius Act on stable coins, and the potential for crypto transactions in the aviation industry. The hosts also engage in a light-hearted segment called Mile High Madness, where they critique social media influencers in the aviation space. The episode emphasizes the importance of education in adopting new technologies and the need for operators to consider integrating stable coins into their payment systems.
Summary
In this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest developments in private aviation, including mergers and acquisitions, strategic moves by companies like Wheels Up, and the implications of Homeland Security's decision to acquire its own aircraft. They also explore innovative drone delivery services and advancements in AI for aviation maintenance, while paying tribute to industry figures like Kirk Hawkins.
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance:www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: / jessienaor Preston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter):https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: / prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter):https://x.com/prestonholland6
Summary
In this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various aspects of aviation, including the differences between private and commercial flying, the rise of eVTOL technology, the role of automation in aviation, and recent incidents involving pilot safety. They also touch on celebrity culture in private aviation and the challenges of solar-powered flight, concluding with a discussion on global aviation safety trends and the need for vigilance in the industry.
Chapters
00:00 Flying Private vs. Commercial Airlines
05:19 FAA's Automation Framework Announcement
10:14 Pilot Intoxication Incidents
15:31 Solar-Powered Flight Records
22:35 Understanding Aviation Incidents vs. Accidents
Summary
In this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various topics related to corporate aviation, including the investigation of the NYPD's aviation unit, celebrity experiences with TSA, and a critical analysis of a New York Times editorial on private jets and air traffic control funding. They also touch on the implications of tariffs on aviation in Switzerland, which has caused Pilatus deliveries to halt, and explore gender dynamics in pilot performance.
Jessie’s Links:
Private Aviation Safety Alliance:www.FlyingPrivate.org
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor
Preston’s Links:
Prestige Aircraft Finance:https://prestigefinance.com/
Private Jet Insider (Newsletter):https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland
X (Formerly Known as Twitter):https://x.com/prestonholland6?
In this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest happenings in the aviation industry, including the extravagant new Gulfstream 450 of Paris Hilton, recent M&A activities such as Joby Aviation's acquisition of Blade Urban Air Mobility, and ongoing updates from the DCA hearings. The conversation highlights the implications of these events on the private jet industry and offers insights into corporate aviation market trends and challenges.
Jessie’s Links:
Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor
Preston’s Links:
Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/
Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland
X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In the July 29th episode of The VIP Seat, co-hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland dive into a surprisingly eventful week in private aviation. They open the show with a breakdown of the FAA’s new MOSAIC rules announced at Oshkosh, modernizing certification standards for light sport aircraft and sport pilots. The changes promise to foster innovation in business aviation but raise concerns about the rollback of certain aviation safety standards, particularly for more capable aircraft like the Cessna 182. Jessie emphasizes the FAA’s “safety continuum” and the need to monitor potential unintended consequences, especially in the eVTOL space, which is now more accessible under these new regulations.
Jessie’s Links:
Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor
Preston’s Links:
Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/
Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland
X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In this episode, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss the latest happenings in the aviation industry, including the buzz at Oshkosh, Joby's breakthrough with hydrogen aircraft, FlexJet's significant PE investment, and a unique challenge by Mr. Beast. They also remember Felix Baumgartner, address FAA staffing and safety concerns, and delve into a juicy lawsuit involving Bruce Willis and aircraft maintenance.
Chapters
00:00 Oshkosh Aviation Event Highlights
02:35 FlexJet's Major Investment and Market Position
05:09 Mile High Madness: Celebrating Aviation Achievements
08:59 Introduction and Tribute to Felix
09:08 Joby's Hydrogen Aircraft Breakthrough
11:50 Mr. Beast's Airplane Challenge
15:09 FAA Staffing and Pilot Fatigue
18:58 Bruce Willis Lawsuit and Aviation Contracts
Link to Lawsuit: https://law.justia.com/cases/texas/fourth-court-of-appeals/2025/04-23-00095-cv.html
Jessie’s Links: Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor Preston’s Links: Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/ Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonholland X (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
This week on The VIP Seat, Jessie Naor and Preston Holland break down the return of illegal jet seat-sharing groups and the regulatory gray areas surrounding them. They discuss the risks for both passengers and sellers, and why the FAA needs to act. The episode also covers the impact of new aircraft tariffs on Canadian and Brazilian imports, concerns about rising maintenance costs, and troubling trends in global business aviation safety. From private jet WhatsApp groups to medevac IPOs and market softening, this episode covers the critical headlines shaping the industry right now.
Chapters
00:00 Intro
02:43 The Rise of WhatsApp Groups in Private Aviation
05:19 Legal Implications of Cost Sharing in Private Flights
08:17 The Need for Regulatory Frameworks in Private Aviation
11:20 Challenges in the Private Aviation Market
13:39 Mile High Madness: JetSmarter and Social Media Drama
16:20 Tariffs and Their Impact on Business Aviation
21:26 Emerging Markets: Brazil's Business Aviation Landscape
23:50 Safety Trends in Business Aviation
30:51 M&A Activity in the Medevac Sector
36:06 Understanding Book-to-Bill Ratios in Aviation
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en
In this episode, hosts Jessie Naor and Preston Holland discuss various topics in business aviation, including a surprising $2 million sale of a charter certificate, the challenges faced by the FAA in certifying new aircraft, and the mystery surrounding a large order of Bombardier jets.
They also touch on the recent upgrades to the air traffic control system, social media highlights from the aviation world, and the booming private jet activity in Florida and Texas. The conversation wraps up with insights into aircraft deliveries and ongoing supply chain issues in the industry.
Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:50 Volato's Surprising Charter CertificatePrice
05:32 The Impact of User Fees on FAA Certification
08:17 Mystery Buyer of Bombardier Jets
13:47 Funding for Air Traffic Control Upgrades
18:54 Social Media Highlights and Trends
20:53 Airline Experiences: Southwest vs. Spirit
23:14 Private Jet Activity: American Exceptionalism
26:28 Embraer's Recovery and Market Dynamics
Jessie’s Links:Private Aviation Safety Alliance: www.FlyingPrivate.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaorPreston’s Links:Prestige Aircraft Finance: https://prestigefinance.com/Private Jet Insider (Newsletter): https://prestonholland.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonhollandX (Formerly Known as Twitter): https://x.com/prestonholland6?lang=en