Industry leaders in the business aviation sector are poised for a dynamic 2026, with significant leadership changes and strategic initiatives shaping the future of the market.
On December 19, 2025, Aviation Week highlighted key executives to watch, including Lisa Atherton, who will become President and CEO of Textron, and Jim Currier, named CEO of Honeywell Aerospace upon its expected spin-off. Additionally, Lor Izzard has been appointed Senior Vice President of Customer Support at Gulfstream, overseeing expanded service operations amid a growing fleet.
Leading aerospace startups also feature prominently. Stephen Maiden continues to steer West Star Aviation through a period of increased demand for maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, following its acquisition by Greenbriar Equity Group. Meanwhile, Chris Moore assumed the role of CEO at Gogo, one of the industry's prominent inflight connectivity providers, amid the rollout of new satellite broadband and 5G networks.
Further, Bill Papariella plans to launch Bond's fractional aircraft fleet in 2027, focusing on exclusivity in the market, while Stuart Simpson is driving Vertical Aerospace's development of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, with certification targeted for 2028. These developments reflect a sector investing heavily in innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth as it moves into the upcoming year.
