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Nextant Aerospace is a United States–based company specializing in the remanufacturing of business jets.[1] Founded in 2007, Nextant is the first company to introduce the concept of aircraft remanufacturing to the business jet market.[1]

Nextant 400XT

[edit]
Nextant 400XT on a Tarmac.
Nextant 400XT Exterior.

The company's first product is the Nextant 400XT, a modified and modernized Beechjet 400A/XP that sells for approximately one-half the price of competing models with comparable features and specifications.[2]

The 400XT is equipped with 3,050-pound-thrust Williams FJ44-3AP Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADEC) turbofan engines[3] and a Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21™ integrated avionics suite. It also has multiple aerodynamic and airframe enhancements including a streamlined, conically lofted engine cowling along with a newly designed engine beam and mounting system that is significantly stronger when compared to the original installation.[4]

The aircraft offers options such as several alternative seating configurations, a Rockwell Collins Venue cabin management system, entertainment equipment, LED lighting[5] and Internet and satellite phone access.[6]

The aircraft has a 460 knot (850 kilometers per hour) cruising speed and a National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) IFR range of 2,005 nautical miles (3,713 kilometers) with four passengers.[7] Compared to the Beechcraft 400A, the upgrade increases range by 50 percent, improves fuel efficiency by 32 percent,[8] reduces climb times by one-third and reduces operating costs by 29 percent.[9] Noise compliance exceeds Stage IV requirements.[10]

The 400XT made its first test flight in March 2010.[9] Receipt of final certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was announced in October 2011.[11] Deliveries of the Nextant 400XT began that same month, with initial deliveries of a 40-aircraft,[7] $150 million order to private aviation company Flight Options LLC.[9]

An upgraded version of the aircraft, the Nextant 400XTi, was introduced in 2014. It now competes with an official modification called Hawker 400XPR, produced by Textron in collaboration with Sierra Industries.

At the October 2018 NBAA convention, Nextant introduced a baseline, $4.5 million 400XTe version to be delivered from 2019 for charter and utility operators, with a three-screen rather than a four-screen layout flight deck and without the VIP interior of the $5.4 million XTi, but an optional high-density seating for up to nine passengers.[12]

In 2017, Textron Aviation delivered first Hawker 400XPR, a factory-engineered and supported upgrade to 400XP which competes with Nextant 400XT.[13]

Remanufacturing process

[edit]
New cockpit

Nextant's aircraft remanufacturing program is distinguished from ones focused on the refurbishment or replacement of engines or other components by a factory-based, standardized process designed for serialized production.[9]

The 6,000 man-hour remanufacturing process takes all life-limited components to zero-time status, either through replacement or overhaul, resulting in a plane that is 88 percent new. The airframe itself, which is not life-limited, is the only significant remaining part.,[14][7] Consequently, the 400XT is considered to be a new type in the Aircraft Bluebook.[6]

As a result of the remanufacturing process, Nextant offers buyers of the 400XT a two-year whole aircraft warranty, pilot training with a uniform training curriculum and Level D full-flight simulator and a service network that includes nine centers in the U.S. and a tenth facility in Milan Linate, Italy.[7][15]

Operational history

[edit]
Retrofitted cabin

The 400XT can cruise at Mach 0.75-0.78 at FL430-450, pilots are comfortable flying it nearly five hours and typical missions are three hours. It burns 1,200 lb (540 kg) of fuel the first hour, dropping to 850–900 lb (390–410 kg) for the second at high speed, 750–875 lb (340–397 kg)/hr at Mach 0.73. Basic operating weights range from 11,000 to 11,100 lb (5,000 to 5,000 kg), full tanks payload is less than 500–600 lb (230–270 kg) but the average passengers are three, it can fly six passengers more than 1,500 nmi (2,800 km).[16]

In October 2013, Travel Management Co. announced it would convert all its 50 jets, boosting the order book to more than 100. By the end of 2014, Nextant had completed 50 aircraft and nearly 30 of 40 on order had been returned to Flight Options. Customers are achieving 95.8% dispatch reliability.[16]

The first reconditioned aircraft sold for $4.2 million and 2013 400XTi aircraft sold for just under $5 million, commanding in 2014 between $3.2 million and $4.2 million second hand (80 to 84% resale value). In 2014 its closest competitors used were the Embraer Phenom 300 with similar range but a longer cabin and a more maintenance friendly design, commanding $7 to $8.5 million second hand; the smaller cabin cross-sections Cessna CitationJet: 10-year-old CJ3s are just over $4 million but are slower, CJ4 aircraft go for $6.7 million for 2010 models to more than $9 million for 2014 models; or the Learjet 40XR but its weight, runway performance and fuel consumption are worse.[16]

Nextant G90XT

[edit]

The $2.8 million Nextant G90XT is a remanufactured Beech King Air with its PT6A-135s replaced by single lever Czech GE H75s, a Garmin G1000 cockpit and a new cabin. Improved metals and 3D aero compressor enable a direct climb over FL250 and 275 to 280 kn (509 to 519 km/h) cruise, up to 17 kn (31 km/h) faster than a C90GT, while having 10% better fuel burn, 10% longer overhaul interval, and lower maintenance costs. It has a 1,000 nmi (1,900 km) range at full fuel with a single pilot and three passengers, 100 nmi (190 km) less for each additional passenger: below single-engine turboprops, like the Socata TBM and the Pilatus PC-12, but with a FL220 single engine altitude. The pre-production model max cruise is 263 kn (487 km/h) while burning 616 lb (279 kg)/hr at FL240, ISA+2 °C and 9,000 lb (4,100 kg), lowering to 317 lb (144 kg)/hr at a 199 kn (369 km/h) long-range cruise.[17]

604XT Next Gen Flight Deck

Nextant 604XT

[edit]

The Bombardier Challenger 604–based 604XT was launched in 2017 with a Rockwell Collins ProLine Fusion flightdeck up from a ProLine 4. In October 2018, 100 flight test hours were logged, for certification and introduction planned for the fourth quarter. The second phase introduces a redesigned cabin and a wing extension boosting its range by up to 500nmi, for an 18- to 24-month certification timeframe.[18]

By November, Nextant had secured the US STC for the avionics upgrade, before an early December first delivery. Of the over 300 Challenger 604s, 25 installations were pre-sold. The redesigned cabin and aerodynamic enhancements to increase range by 500nmi (925 km) to over 4,500nmi will follow.[19]

As of October 29, 2019, Constant Aviation has delivered 23 Production 604XT's with the Nextant Next Gen Flight Deck. Constant Aviation expects to have completed 30 deliveries by the end of 2019 with significant backlog into 2020. Challenger 604 operators are seeing the advantage of improved low visibility operations and advanced features in the 604XT Flight Deck, such as integrated SXM Weather and the advanced Multiscan Weather Radar.

Nextant management

[edit]

Nextant was founded in 2007 by aviation entrepreneur Kenneth C. “Kenn” Ricci, who serves as the company's chief executive officer. Ricci also is a principal of Directional Aviation Capital, a private investment firm which is solely focused on aviation investments.[20] Ricci also serves as chairman of Flexjet, LLC, the second-largest private aviation company in the U.S.[21]

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Nextant Aerospace

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Nextant Aerospace is an American aerospace engineering and specializing in the of business jets, transforming used aircraft into modernized, zero-time airframes through FAA-certified processes that incorporate advanced engines, , and structural enhancements for improved performance and efficiency. Founded in 2007 by Kenneth C. Ricci and headquartered in , , Nextant pioneered the concept of aircraft in the business sector, becoming the first to receive FAA certification for such processes on light jets. The initially focused on overhauling and upgrading components for , commercial, and , offering services including structural repairs, overhauls, non-destructive testing (NDT), and engineering certifications. Key milestones include the 2011 FAA certification and first delivery of its flagship Nextant 400XT, a remanufactured 400A/XP equipped with Williams FJ44-3AP engines, reduced operating weights, and Collins Pro Line 21 , which offered approximately 50% lower direct operating costs compared to the original Beechjet equivalents. The upgraded 400XTi was introduced in 2013. Subsequent developments encompassed the G90XT , derived from the 90 with GE Catalyst engines for enhanced speed and range, certified in 2018, and the 604XT, a large-cabin upgrade of the Bombardier Challenger 604 featuring Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion . In 2018, Nextant expanded its facilities and secured U.S. military contracts for T-1A and C-26D aircraft modifications, while also integrating into the Directional Aviation portfolio. In 2025, it became part of Technical Services, leveraging over 2.4 million square feet of space to support more than 1,500 aircraft annually and earning 25 FAA Diamond Awards for maintenance excellence. Recent innovations include supplemental type certificates (STCs) for high-speed satellite connectivity installations on Bombardier Global series and Gulfstream G450/G550 jets, enabling global in-flight broadband and positioning Nextant as a leader in connectivity upgrades; in 2025, additional STCs were achieved for Praetor and Legacy jets, and Chairman Kenn Ricci received the Lifetime Entrepreneur Award.

History

Founding and early years

Nextant Aerospace was established in 2007 by Kenneth C. "Kenn" Ricci, positioning it as the pioneering company to introduce to the market. This innovation aimed to address the high costs of new acquisition by repurposing existing airframes, drawing on Ricci's deep-rooted experience in private . From its inception, the company's core vision centered on cost-effective transformations of used business jets into zero-hour airframes, incorporating and technologies to restore structural integrity and enhance performance without the full expense of manufacturing new planes. Headquartered in , , Nextant directed early resources toward of these processes, investing significant effort over the initial years to refine techniques that would set new standards in the industry. This foundational work emphasized and economic efficiency, transforming pre-owned aircraft into modern equivalents suitable for demanding operational environments. Ricci's background as chairman of , LLC—a leading provider of fractional jet ownership—provided critical expertise that shaped Nextant's strategic direction and operational capabilities. His prior successes in management and charter services, including founding Corporate Wings in 1981, informed the company's emphasis on high-quality, reliable solutions tailored to the needs of business clients. This expertise enabled Nextant to navigate the complexities of from the outset, fostering a culture of innovation grounded in practical industry knowledge.

Key milestones and product launches

Nextant Aerospace achieved its first major with the of the 400XT, a remanufactured light based on the Hawker 400XP, which completed its initial flight in March 2010. This test flight marked the beginning of the company's innovative approach to remanufacturing, leveraging existing airframes with modern upgrades to enhance performance and efficiency. Following extensive testing, the (FAA) granted certification for the 400XT in October 2011, enabling commercial operations. The first customer delivery of the 400XT occurred in October 2011, marking the entry of Nextant's remanufactured jets into the market. In 2014, Nextant introduced the upgraded 400XTi variant, incorporating further enhancements such as improved engines for better range and , building on the success of the original model. This iteration solidified Nextant's position in the light jet segment by offering operators a cost-effective alternative to new while maintaining high standards of safety and technology. Shifting focus to turboprops, Nextant completed the first flight of the G90XT, a remanufactured 90 with GE H75 engines and advanced , in January 2015. After rigorous certification testing, the FAA issued final approval for the G90XT in February 2018, allowing deliveries to commence and expanding Nextant's portfolio into multi-mission utility aircraft. Nextant launched the 604XT program in May 2017, targeting the large-cabin market with a remanufactured 604 featuring a Pro Line Fusion suite. The program progressed rapidly, culminating in the first delivery in December 2018, which demonstrated the company's capability to modernize legacy platforms for extended service life. In , Nextant entered the sector by securing contracts for modernization, including a subcontract with Field Aerospace for the U.S. Air Force's T-1A Jayhawk trainer fleet and a upgrade for the U.S. Navy's C-26D aircraft. These agreements, announced in early , highlighted Nextant's growing expertise in government applications. Concurrently, the company expanded operations by relocating to a new headquarters facility in , , to support increased production and engineering demands.

Integration with Flexjet and recent expansions

In 2019, Nextant Aerospace, already part of the Directional Aviation portfolio since its founding, deepened its alignment with —another Directional Aviation company—through expanded collaboration on aircraft upgrades, with a target of delivering 30 Nextant 604XT units by the end of the year, representing nearly 10% of the global Challenger 604 fleet. This milestone underscored Nextant's growing role in supporting 's fleet modernization efforts. By 2021, the integration advanced further when Nextant received FAA approval for the Challenger 604 Pro Line Fusion Software Version 2 upgrade, which enhanced safety and pilot awareness through features like FMS-calculated thrust and V-speed functionality; installations were offered free to existing operators to encourage widespread adoption. The formal integration of Nextant into Flexjet Technical Services, announced in April 2025 as a fully integrated global maintenance and product support infrastructure, leveraged Nextant's core expertise to expand service lines across 's operations, including engineering, completions, and modifications. This structure positioned Nextant as the engineering arm of , enabling streamlined upgrades for a broader range of . In August 2024, Nextant introduced inflight connectivity STC installation kits for select in-service Bombardier , such as the Challenger series, in partnership with and Bombardier, marking a key expansion into high-speed connectivity solutions. In March 2024, Nextant received FAA supplemental type certification for high-speed satellite connectivity installations on Gulfstream G450 and G550 . Building on this momentum, Nextant achieved FAA supplemental type certificates in November 2024 for connectivity kits on the Bombardier Global 5000 and 5500, allowing installations that provide high-bandwidth for global operations. Ongoing deliveries continued into 2025, with Nextant inducting its 15th Pro Line Fusion 604XT for upgrades in the first half of the year, demonstrating sustained demand. As a leader in , Nextant contributes to a market valued at $456.7 million in 2021, projected to reach $932.5 million by 2031 at a of 7.2%, driven by demand for cost-effective modernization amid rising air travel.

Products

Nextant 400XT series

The Nextant 400XT series represents Nextant Aerospace's flagship light program, developed through a comprehensive process applied to existing Beechjet 400A and Hawker 400XP . This approach involves stripping the to its basic structure, inspecting and repairing components to zero-hour condition, and installing modernized systems, resulting in a "like-new" at a fraction of the cost of a comparable new-build jet. The program debuted with the original 400XT model, which achieved its first flight in March 2010 and received FAA supplemental type certification in October 2011, enabling deliveries to begin in 2013. The core enhancements across the series include two FJ44-3AP turbofan engines, each producing 3,052 pounds of thrust with full-authority digital engine control () for improved efficiency and a 5,000-hour overhaul interval that reduces costs by up to 27% compared to the original TFE731 powerplants. The aircraft features a Pro Line 21 suite with four LCD displays, dual attitude heading reference systems, and ADS-B Out compliance, enhancing situational awareness and safety. Performance highlights include a high-speed cruise of 460 knots , a long-range cruise of 406 knots, and a maximum range of 2,003 nautical miles with four passengers, supported by a service ceiling of 45,000 feet. Several variants have evolved from the base 400XT to address market demands for enhanced comfort, efficiency, and affordability. The 400XTi, introduced in , builds on the original with aerodynamic refinements for extended range, a redesigned squared-oval cabin offering 3 inches more shoulder room and 2.5 inches more headroom via a flat-floor configuration, advanced soundproofing for Category IV noise certification, and upgraded interiors including plusher seating and optional full-service galleys accommodating up to eight passengers. Priced around $5 million at launch, the 400XTi emphasizes luxury and operational versatility for executive travel. In October 2018, at the NBAA-BACE convention, Nextant unveiled the 400XTe as an entry-level variant targeted at and operators, retaining the 400XTi's core performance specifications but with a baseline configuration to achieve a $4.5 million , with deliveries planned to start in 2019. This model prioritizes cost accessibility while delivering the series' zero-hour benefits, including substantially lower acquisition and operating costs—estimated at 40-50% savings over new light jets in its class—along with reduced direct operating expenses due to the efficient engines and . As of July 2025, the 400XTi program has achieved significant milestones, including over 100,000 flight hours, operations in 13 countries, and 20% of the global Beechjet 400 fleet under contract for .

Nextant G90XT

The Nextant G90XT is a remanufactured developed by Nextant Aerospace, utilizing the airframe of the C90A to deliver a modernized platform for business and regional operations. Through Nextant's process, the G90XT incorporates updated engines, , and interior enhancements, transforming the legacy into a more efficient and technologically advanced while retaining the proven reliability of the King Air series. This approach allows owners to upgrade existing C90A or acquire new-production equivalents at a fraction of the cost of building from scratch. Development of the G90XT began in 2013 as Nextant's first foray into turboprop remanufacturing, announced in partnership with GE Aviation for engine integration. The prototype achieved its first flight in January 2015, marking a significant milestone in validating the redesigned nacelles and electronic controls. Following an extensive program exceeding 200 hours, the aircraft received final FAA certification in 2018, enabling production deliveries and positioning the G90XT as an accessible entry-level for operators seeking enhanced performance without the expense of a new-build model. Key specifications include a base price of approximately $2.8 million for recent models, reflecting the value of over new construction. The aircraft is powered by two GE H75-100 engines, each delivering 750 shaft horsepower with flat-rated performance for high-temperature operations, and features the world's first Electronic Engine Control (EEC) system for single-lever power management, reducing pilot workload and improving by up to 10% compared to legacy configurations. are centered on an integrated with three 10.4-inch LCD displays—two primary flight displays and one —coupled with the GFC 700 for precise and capabilities in adverse conditions. Performance highlights include a maximum cruise speed of 280 knots and a range of up to 1,285 nautical miles with full (or approximately 1,000 nautical miles with four passengers), supported by modernized airframe modifications such as new composite propellers and reduced drag for better climb rates and short-field operations. The G90XT targets cost-conscious operators in regional and markets, offering a quieter cabin with premium and finishes, lower operating costs around $800 per hour, and a two-year whole-aircraft warranty covering the , engines, and . By from serviceable C90A airframes, Nextant achieves up to 30% savings and extended service life, making it an ideal upgrade for King Air owners transitioning to digital cockpits and electronic engine controls without sacrificing the aircraft's versatile utility. The G90XT remains part of Nextant's active product lineup as of 2025, with the program offered through Technical Services following integration.

Nextant 604XT

The Nextant 604XT is a remanufactured large-cabin derived from the 604 , featuring a comprehensive upgrade program that modernizes its , performance, and interior for extended operational life. Nextant Aerospace launched the 604XT program in May 2017 at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE), with the first test flight occurring on September 12, 2017. By October 2018, the program had accumulated over 100 flight test hours, paving the way for FAA supplemental type certification (STC) approval of the enhanced in November 2018. Central to the 604XT's upgrades is the integration of the Pro Line Fusion suite, which replaces the original Pro Line 4 system with a three-display configuration, synthetic vision, moving maps, and optional MultiScan for superior . This enhanced complies with forthcoming regulatory mandates, such as the 2020 ADS-B requirements, while providing predictive weather analysis and threat detection to improve safety and pilot workload management. Software upgrades further bolster these capabilities, including enhancements to data presentation and automation that increase pilot awareness during critical flight phases. The first customer delivery took place in December 2018 to Toby Neugebauer of , , marking the entry of the 604XT into service. Production ramped up swiftly, with Nextant forecasting completion of 30 units by the end of 2019 and a substantial backlog extending into 2020; by October 2019, 23 aircraft had been delivered through partner Constant Aviation. These modernized systems extend the Challenger 604's service life in the large-cabin segment, offering a 4,524 range, 468-knot cruise speed, and direct climb capability to 410, while maintaining the original airframe's proven reliability. In recent years, additional options like the Safe Flight AutoPower system have been integrated to further reduce crew workload and enhance performance. As of 2025, the 604XT program continues with ongoing deliveries and upgrades; in the first half of 2025, the 15th Pro Line Fusion cockpit installation was initiated, and production of Flight AutoPower kits has accelerated to meet demand. In August 2025, the FAA approved Software Version 2 for the Pro Line Fusion, enhancing safety and pilot .

Services

Remanufacturing process

Nextant Aerospace's remanufacturing process transforms pre-owned business jets into zero-time airframes by overhauling the entire aircraft while retaining the core structure, resulting in an aircraft that is approximately 88% new in components. This FAA-certified methodology, pioneered by the company since its founding, involves a comprehensive 6,000 man-hour workflow that disassembles, inspects, and upgrades the airframe, engines, avionics, and systems to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer standards. The process begins with airframe disassembly, often referred to as "deletion," where the is stripped to bare metal, removing about 90% of the existing equipment, wiring, and life-limited parts for thorough evaluation. This is followed by detailed component inspection using non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques, certified to Level 2 and 3 standards, to identify , , or ; faulty elements are repaired or replaced with OEM-approved or Nextant-developed (PMA) parts exceeding 2,000 in inventory. New engines and are then integrated—for instance, turbofans or GE H75 engines paired with Pro Line Fusion systems—along with reengineered elements like aerodynamic nacelles and pylons for enhanced efficiency. The is reassembled, subjected to rigorous ground and , and certified to zero-hour status by the FAA, ensuring full airworthiness as a new variant. Technological innovations in the process include the use of advanced composite materials in redesigned engine mounts and digital engineering tools for precise and certification, which streamline upgrades and improve performance metrics like cruise speed by 15-20 knots in models such as the G90XT. These FAA-approved techniques enable substantial cost savings—often 40-50% lower acquisition costs compared to equivalent new builds—while reducing operating expenses through more efficient powerplants and modern . Quality assurance is embedded throughout, with every remanufactured undergoing extensive validation testing to surpass original standards, backed by a two-year , updated pilot training programs, and integration into a global service network. This ensures reliability equivalent to factory-new jets, with life-limited components reset to zero time. By extending the of established airframes with cutting-edge technology, Nextant's process has redefined business aviation, making high-performance jets more accessible and sustainable in the pre-owned market, with over 70 deliveries of variants like the 400XT series as of mid-2025 demonstrating its commercial viability.

Engineering modifications and certifications

Nextant Aerospace provides specialized services focused on supplemental type certificates (STCs) and aftermarket modifications for and , enabling upgrades that enhance connectivity, performance, and compliance with regulatory mandates. These services build upon the company's expertise in remanufacturing to deliver tailored solutions for commercial and government clients. A key area of Nextant's engineering work involves developing STCs for advanced inflight connectivity systems. In November 2024, Nextant became the first to receive FAA certification for its Starlink Connectivity Installation Kits on Bombardier Global 5000 and Global 5500 aircraft, allowing seamless integration of high-speed satellite internet to support global operations and passenger demands. This STC, designated ST04612CH, applies to all serial numbers of these models and ensures electromagnetic compatibility with onboard systems. Similar certifications have been obtained for Starlink installations on other platforms, such as Gulfstream G650 and G650ER models, expanding high-bandwidth connectivity options across fleets. Nextant also specializes in software and enhancements to improve flight safety and operational efficiency. For the 604, the company secured FAA approval in August 2021 for Pro Line Fusion Software Version 2, which introduces features like (FMS)-calculated thrust and , predicted performance data, a vertical situation display for better , B1 CPDLC for international communications, and RNP AR .3 approach capabilities. This upgrade, available at no installation cost to existing Pro Line Fusion operators, aligns with FAA safety initiatives by reducing pilot workload and enhancing precision in challenging environments. In the military sector, Nextant delivers custom and services for specialized platforms. The company holds an STC for the Pro Line 21 Suite on the U.S. Air Force T-1A Jayhawk trainer, approved in May 2019, supporting the avionics modernization program for the fleet of 178 and associated trainers. Additionally, Nextant has advanced upgrades for the U.S. Navy C-26D, including successful test flights in 2019 for enhanced navigation systems that improve mission reliability and interoperability. As the engineering arm of Technical Services, Nextant provides high-value repair and modification solutions integrated into the broader Flexjet ecosystem, offering end-to-end support for connectivity installations, structural alterations, and compliance certifications across a global network of facilities. This role enables Flexjet clients to access proprietary STCs and rapid-turnaround for sustained aircraft performance and safety.

Organization

Leadership and management

Kenneth C. "Kenn" Ricci serves as the founder, Chairman, and of Nextant Aerospace, a role he has held since establishing the company in 2007 as part of Directional Aviation Capital, the investment firm he principals. With over four decades in aviation, Ricci previously founded Corporate Wings in 1981, an aircraft management and charter operator, and played a pivotal role in developing , the program now integrated within Directional Aviation's portfolio. His expertise spans aviation operations, with more than 6,000 personal flight hours, and he has been recognized for entrepreneurial achievements, including the Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award in 2017 for his contributions to business aviation innovation. The executive team at Nextant Aerospace comprises seasoned professionals with deep expertise in remanufacturing, , and sales, supporting the company's focus on transforming pre-owned into modern, efficient platforms. Key leaders include Tony Kurpely, , who oversees operational aspects of remanufacturing initiatives; Mark O'Donnell, Executive , responsible for and strategic partnerships; Randy Znamenak, of Sales, driving global market expansion; Kevin Himelright, Director of and , leading technical modifications and ; Shawn Ehrhart, Director of (NDT), ensuring quality in component repairs; and Bob Leonard, Director of Commercial and Government Programs, managing specialized customer solutions. This structure emphasizes specialized roles in remanufacturing processes, drawing from backgrounds in and services to maintain Nextant's competitive edge. Nextant's management philosophy, shaped by Ricci's "Management by Trust" approach, prioritizes building employee empowerment and long-term success to foster innovation and operational efficiency, as highlighted in features from The Wall Street Journal and Inc. Magazine. This philosophy integrates closely with Directional Aviation's ecosystem, leveraging synergies across affiliates like Flexjet for fleet enhancements and Constant Aviation for maintenance support, enabling cost-effective remanufacturing that delivers new-aircraft performance at reduced acquisition and operating costs—often 40-50% lower than comparable new jets. Under Ricci's strategic direction, the leadership has driven key product launches, including the pioneering Nextant 400XT series in 2011, which introduced business jet remanufacturing to the market, and the G90XT, certified in 2018, featuring advanced electronic engine controls for enhanced performance. These decisions have facilitated expansions, such as nationwide maintenance programs in partnership with Constant Aviation launched in 2016, solidifying Nextant's position in sustainable aviation solutions while aligning with Directional Aviation's broader growth in private jet services. Recent efforts include FAA-certified Starlink installations for Bombardier Global series and Gulfstream G450/G550 as of 2024.

Facilities and operations

Nextant Aerospace's headquarters and primary manufacturing facility are located at 18601 Cleveland Parkway in , , serving as the central hub for its and operations. This site, situated at Cuyahoga County Airport, includes hangars and specialized shops for assembly, component repair, and overhaul. In 2018, the company relocated to a new headquarters at this location and established an in-house repair and overhaul shop, significantly expanding its operational infrastructure to support advanced processes. The facility enables comprehensive in-house capabilities, including airframe assembly, , and FAA for upgraded models such as the 400XTi, G90XT, and 604XT. These operations emphasize high-value repair, non-destructive testing, and integration of modern technologies to transform used business jets into zero-time airframes. Nextant collaborates with key suppliers, including for FJ44-3AP engines in the 400XTi, GE Aviation for H80 turboprop engines in the G90XT, and (formerly ) for Pro Line 21 and Pro Line Fusion avionics suites across its programs. As the engineering arm of , Nextant integrates its and modification services with Flexjet's global maintenance network to deliver enhanced aircraft to fractional ownership and charter customers. The facility continues to handle large-cabin projects, such as the Challenger 604XT flight deck upgrades. For example, in 2019, it inducted its 15th aircraft for these upgrades, with plans for 30 completions that year, alongside work on multiple units. It also produces engineering kits, including FAA-certified connectivity installations for Bombardier Global 5000/5500 aircraft and Safe Flight AutoPower systems for 604XT enhancements, supporting expanded global following its merger with Air Services.

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