CEOs Address Concerns About Aircraft Certification And Technology

Why It Matters

Accelerated, smoother certification enables faster deployment of safer, more fuel‑efficient aircraft, boosting industry profitability and environmental performance.

Key Takeaways

• Industry prioritizes innovation to meet customer demand for efficiency
• CEOs report certifying three aircraft last year, two more this year
• Streamlining FAA, Transport Canada, EASA interactions reduces certification delays
• Bilateral regulator agreements remain critical for global market access
• Faster certification translates into safer, fuel‑efficient products reaching market

Summary

The video features senior airline executives addressing concerns around aircraft certification and emerging technologies. They emphasize that continual innovation—improving fuel efficiency, connectivity, speed, and safety—is central to meeting customer expectations and sustaining revenue growth.

The CEOs note that their firms have recently certified three new aircraft and plan to certify two more this year, underscoring a proactive product pipeline. They argue that smoother certification processes, better design‑to‑regulation alignment, and enhanced ODA (Organization Design Authority) functions are essential. Gamma, a key industry facilitator, is highlighted for mediating dialogue with the FAA, Transport Canada, EASA, and other authorities to resolve pain points.

A memorable quote from the discussion is, “The better that process goes, the better we bring those safer, more innovative, more fuel‑efficient products to market.” Executives also stress the importance of maintaining bilateral agreements with regulators to capitalize on cross‑border opportunities.

The implications are clear: streamlined certification accelerates time‑to‑market, reduces costs, and delivers safer, greener aircraft to airlines, ultimately strengthening competitive positioning and shareholder value.

Original Description

On the sidelines of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association annual industry press briefing, Ron Draper, GAMA Chairman and Textron Aviation president and CEO, and James Viola, GAMA president and CEO, answer questions from Lee Ann Shay about aircraft certification concerns.