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• Amy Wilder
Solairus Aviation plans to acquire Clay Lacy Aviation’s aircraft management and charter businesses in a deal that would expand Solairus’ managed fleet to more than 500 aircraft, including nearly 200 available for charter. The transaction would create one of the largest managed private-aircraft platforms in the U.S.
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Solairus Aviation plans to acquire Clay Lacy Aviation’s aircraft management and charter businesses in a deal that would expand Solairus’ managed fleet to more than 500 aircraft, including nearly 200 available for charter. The transaction would create one of the largest managed private-aircraft platforms in the U.S.
The Bahamas is retroactively billing some aircraft operators for flights dating back to May 2021, with fee increases ranging from 300% to 700%. The move creates unexpected cost exposure for operators and raises operational and compliance concerns over the country’s aviation-fee collection practices.
High activity
Preowned business-jet transactions rose 11.2% in the second quarter of 2026, with heavy jets leading the market’s rebound. The increase signals renewed activity in the secondary business-aviation market, though the available data does not specify transaction value, aircraft volumes by segment, or the drivers behind the recovery.
The National Business Aviation Association welcomed changes to the radio altimeter rule that push compliance deadlines and introduce a rebate program. The revisions give operators additional time to address affected equipment while providing financial support for upgrades tied to the rule’s implementation.
Wheels Up reported mixed second-quarter results as it continued working toward net profitability, while membership in its Signature private-flight group doubled during the first half to more than 1,200. The figures highlight both expanding customer participation and the ongoing challenge of converting growth into sustainable earnings.
Swiss semi-private aviation startup PeakJet has completed its first commercial flight, operating between Zurich and Palma de Mallorca. The platform allows travelers to book individual seats on private-jet flights, offering an alternative to full-aircraft charter for the route and potentially other markets.
Global Jet Luxembourg has added the group’s first production Global 8000, expanding its business-jet fleet with Bombardier’s flagship aircraft. The aircraft is based in Luxembourg, according to the company’s announcement, marking a new addition to Global Jet’s managed-aircraft portfolio.
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