Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Last Saturday morning, what started as my usual calm and quiet time quickly shifted into something extraordinary. My phone just wouldn’t stop buzzing with messages – it turns out, our Asia-Pacific team had achieved something remarkable at the 2023 Asian Business Aviation Association’s Icons of Aviation Banquet!

Our Hong Kong-based Trip Support Services Asia and the region’s local ground handling teams were named the winner of the “Best Operational Support Services, 2023” award. This is a remarkable testament to our collective commitment and expertise.

Additionally, Hiroshi “Higashi” Higashiyama of Universal Aviation Japan was named AsBAA’s “Trailblazer of the Year.” Higashi’s exceptional leadership, especially during Japan’s critical reopening phase, has set new benchmarks in our industry. His hands-on approach and the successful launch of the new General Aviation Terminal at RJCC in Hokkaido are shining examples of his visionary leadership.

This moment of pride is not ours alone. It belongs equally to you, our dedicated customers, who stood by us when the skies were quiet, and business aviation was at a standstill throughout the region. Your unwavering trust fueled our commitment to never lose faith in the region’s potential. Even during the pandemic’s peak, we continued investing in our team and services, ensuring we were ready for the industry’s rebound – and it’s here now!

These awards symbolize our joint perseverance and unwavering commitment. Your support and partnership were the bedrock of our resilience, and together, we’ve emerged stronger.

The return of the AsBAA IOA event, after a hiatus since 2019, marks not just the revival of a cherished gathering but also signifies the resurgence of our industry in Asia-Pacific. It’s a beacon of hope and a testament to our industry’s strong comeback.

As we look to the future, these achievements remind us of the strength of our collaboration and the spirit that defines our industry. Your partnership has been instrumental in our journey, and we are thrilled to continue this path together, facing and overcoming challenges, and sharing in more successes.

Thank you once again for your steadfast trust, support, and partnership.

Greg