Authors

Adam Dowley is an expert on air traffic management and business aviation operations to, within, and from Europe. He currently serves as Assistant Manager for the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. European Operations Centre in Stansted, United Kingdom. Adam, who first joined Universal in 2010, previously served as an Operations Performance Analyst with Manchester Airport. Adam has a bachelor’s of science degree in air transport management from Loughborough University. You can reach Adam at adamdowley@univ-wea.com.

Since the European Union first announced plans to implement its Emissions Trading Scheme (EU-ETS) in spring 2009, Universal® Supervisor of Regulatory Services Adam Hartley has established himself as an expert at helping operators comply with this complicated and ever-changing regulation. Adam’s passion is helping operators complete their emissions monitoring plans and he has established himself as the ”go-to” person on this topic. Adam’s expertise has earned him numerous invitations to speak both domestically and internationally at major industry events and conferences. Although he is best known for his EU-ETS knowledge, Adam’s expertise extends to other areas of regulatory compliance issues, such as TSA Waivers, Border Overflight Exemptions, all CBP/APIS notifications, the Universal Visa Waiver Program, and more. Adam has been featured in numerous industry trade publication produced and has contributed guest editorials to Professional Pilot, BART, World Aircraft Sales, and Altitudes. You can reach Adam at adamhartley@univ-wea.com.

UVair Fuel Sales Rep Allie Truesdell has more than eight years' combined experience working in the jet fuel industry in both sales and FBO operations, giving her vast knowledge on client needs and pricing trends. Some of Allie's specialties include advising her clients on fuel taxes, including European Union tax regulations. Prior to joining Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2010, Allie served as a Customer Service Manager and Operations Manager at several FBOs throughout the United States. Her experience also includes serving as a National Air Transportation Administration operations safety trainer, managing fuel farms and operations at an FBO-level. Allie, who holds a bachelor's of science in accounting & business management and a master's degree in accounting, has attended several industry trade shows including the National Business Aviation Association conference and the Citation Jet Pilots association conference where she was a featured presenter. You can reach Allie at alexandratruesdell@univ-wea.com.

Universal Aviation Brazil Country Manager Andre Camargo has more than 20 years’ experience in the aviation industry in both ground handling and flight operations management. Based in Sao Paulo, Andre is an expert on operations to and from Brazil. Andre holds both a law degree from the Universidade Cidade de Sao Paulo and an MBA from Fundação Getulio Vargas. He can be reached at andrecamargo@universalaviation.aero.

Barry Burton has nearly three decades of experience in the aviation industry and more than 10 with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. A 15-year veteran of the Royal Air Force, since joining Universal in 2000, Barry has gained experience in multiple roles, including Trip Support Services, Flight Planning, and UVair Fuel. Prior to joining Universal, Barry served as an Air Traffic Control, Operations and Mission Planner for two different charter airlines. Barry’s business aviation expertise has been recognized by industry associations and publications, and he has been asked to speak at the National Business Aviation Association’s International Operators Conference. Barry can be reached at barryburton@univ-wea.com.

Dr. Robert Baron is the President and Chief Consultant of The Aviation Consulting Group. He has over 24 years of experience in the aviation industry. As a consultant, he has assisted a multitude of aviation organizations in the development of their Human Factors, SMS, CRM, and LOSA training programs. Dr. Baron is also an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and teaches courses on aviation safety and human factors subjects. Dr. Baron can be contacted through his company’s Web site at www.tacgworldwide.com. This guest author’s views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Bobby D. Butler, Jr. is Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer and Director of Internal Audit of Universal. Bobby has extensive experience with compliance and international business issues and is a regular speaker on subjects such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act ("FCPA"), global anti-bribery, export controls, economic sanctions, anti-boycott, anti-trust and the like. Bobby is the former Chairman of the Board of International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) and a member of the Houston District Export Council. In addition, he holds membership positions with the Ethics and Compliance Officers Association, the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics, the Greater Houston Business Ethics Roundtable and the American Bar Association. He is adjunct faculty with the University of Houston and Houston Community College. In addition, he serves on the advisory boards for University of Houston's Supply Chain and Logistics Technology Degree Program and Houston Community College's Business Curriculum and Export Academy. Bobby is a certified Compliance and Ethics Professional and holds a Masters in Business Administration - International Business with honors from Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio, Texas. In addition, he holds a BA in Political Science from Loyola University, New Orleans, LA and completed a fellowship from Loyola's Institute of Politics. Bobby can be reached at bobbybutler@univ-wea.com.

BP Tan currently serves as Sales and Supply, Asia-Pacific Region, UVair® Fuel Program. Based in Singapore, BP joined UVair in 2009 as a fuel consultant, utilizing his knowledge of aviation fuel in both the sales and supplier spectrums to help increase UVair’s presence and value to clients throughout Asia. BP has a bachelor’s degree from the National University of Singapore and is currently working on an MBA in Aviation with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He can be reached at boontan@univ-wea.com.

Brian Myler is Director of Sales and Marketing at Ambassador Jet Center, an FBO located at Dallas Executive Airport (KRBD) in Dallas, Texas, and a member of the UVair FBO Network. Brian is experienced in business aviation operations can be reached at BMyler@ambassadorjetcenter.com. This guest author's views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Carol Martin is the Top Dog and CEO of Sit ‘n Stay Global, LLC, and developed the first set of standardized Pet Safety Protocols for pets flying in aircraft cabins. She began her career in aviation as a commercial flight attendant with Delta Air Lines where she founded the charitable foundation “Wings of Angels” to assist passengers who had to travel alone with special needs. Her Bachelor’s degree in Business and CPA allowed her to successfully build this program into a thriving system to help passengers navigate commercial travel with the help of airline volunteers. Upon making the transition to Corporate Flight Attendant in 2006, she saw the need to define the standard of care for pet passengers in General Aviation and developed clear, concise Pet Safety Protocols. She is an Instructor for the American Red Cross in Pet First Aid and CPR, has studied pet nutrition and behavior and is an advocate in the fight against K9 Cancer. Her company provides trained crew members who can provide world-class human and pet In-Flight service and she teaches In-Flight Pet Safety and First Aid to flight departments and aircraft owners who wish to learn these skills for their own operation. You may learn more about these services at: www.sitnstayglobal.com or e-mail Carol at: carol@sitnstayglobal.com. This guest author’s views are entirely her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Cody Coe joined Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2004, and has since established himself as an expert on international operations for both business jets and helicopters, specializing in ops to Venezuela, and Fiji to name a few. Cody currently serves as a Trip Owner on the Delta Team. He is also an expert in hotel accommodations, having previously served on the Universal Hotels Team. You can reach Cody at codycoe@univ-wea.com.

Universal Manager of Weather and Flight Planning Curtis Ford has more than four decades of experience as a meteorologist, including nearly 30 years in the United States Navy where he retired as a Lieutenant Commander. Curtis’s background includes meteorology assignments across the globe from Antarctica to Alaska. Curtis, who has been with Universal since 1996, leads a team of more than 50 meteorologists and flight planners. He can be reached at curtisford@univ-wea.com.

An FAA-Licensed Dispatcher, Christine Vamvakas is an expert in all areas of trip support services, including TSA Waivers, international visa requirements, aircraft fuel ranges, operations in Greece, and charter operations throughout Europe. A native of Greece, Christine is fluent in Greek and has more than a decade's experience working in trip support services with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Having served as Master Trip Owner and Team Lead for Universal's Charter Management Team, Christine has facilitated thousands of international trip legs and uses that experience in her role as Universal's Thought Leadership Manager. Her expert commentary has been included in multiple business aviation publications. You can reach Christine at christinevamvakas@univ-wea.com.

Dave Weil is the CEO and Founder of Flight Dept Solutions, LLC, where he and his team create customized solutions related to aircraft acquisitions, operational support, and cost savings. His career in aviation spans more than two decades serving in senior executive positions with prominent business aviation companies, including 10 years at TAG Aviation USA where he was CFO and Executive Vice President. He also led TAG’s expansion into Asia and served as the first Managing Director for TAG Aviation Asia. Dave possesses a CPA and MBA and is a former Chairman of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Tax Committee. He can be reached at dweil@flightdeptsolutions.com or 650.619.5232, or you can connect with Dave on LinkedIn. This guest author’s views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Dean Andrew Kantis is the CEO/Founder of Micro Jet Network, Inc.a Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based online portal that matches both buyers and sellers of aircraft who want to share in the costs of ownership. Kantis helps them find the aircraft that best fits their specific budget and needs. His experienced group then helps them form partnerships and find experienced pilots efficiently through an integrated online marketing business model which Kantis himself designed. Kantis, who founded Micro Jet Network in 2006, is a licensed aircraft consultant/broker, is and an expert in selling very light jets, including the Eclipse 500, Citation Mustangs, and the Embraer Phenom 100's/300's. In 1999, Kantis experienced complications to his eyesight following LASIK surgery and is still searching for a cure. Kantis can be reached at dk@microjetnetwork.com. This guest author's views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Delmark Muir is an expert on operations and ground support to Costa Rica. Since joining Universal Aviation in 2006, Delmark, who is fluent in Spanish and English, has served as Managing Director Universal Aviation Costa Rica, where he leads all ground support activities at San Jose and Liberia. You can reach Delmark at delmarkmuir@univ-wea.com.

Dimitra Kiriakopoulou is the Operations and Customer Care Director for Universal Aviation Greece. Based in Athens, Dimitra has nearly a decade in the business aviation industry and with Universal Aviation Greece. An expert in business aviation operations to Greece, Dimitra is fluent in Greek, Italian, and English. Dimitra can be reached at dimitrakiriakopoulou@univ-wea.com.

Dmitry Konovalov is an expert on operations, permits and ground support for business aviation in Russia. Dmitry, who has more than 13 years’ experience in business aviation, currently serves as General Director, Universal Aviation, Eastern Russia. Based in Khabarovsk, Russia, Dmitry is fluent in Russian and English. An active member of the Russian Business Aviation Association, Dmitry has a degree from Pacific State University. You can reach Dmitry at dmitrykonovalov@univ-wea.com.

Drew Barnes has more than a decade combined experience working as a corporate dispatcher and in Trip Support Services with Universal. He currently serves as a Master Trip Owner on the Delta Team and has facilitated more than 16,000 trip legs. A former Dispatch Supervisor for Altria Corporate Services, Inc. (the parent company of Philip Morris and Kraft Foods) and Manager of Scheduling and Dispatching for Kraft Foods, Drew is known for mirroring his clients’ sense of urgency and using his experience to ensure every detail from crew scheduling and duty issues to visa requirements and passenger logistics is handled correctly. Drew can be reached at drewbarnes@univ-wea.com.

An expert on operations to Asia, Edmond Yuen has more than 10 years' experience in business aviation. Edmond, who currently serves as Head of Universal Trip Support Asia, is based in Hong Kong and is fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English. Prior to joining Universal, Edmond served eight years as an Operations Manager for a major Asian charter company. Edmond's expertise in operations is recognized throughout the business aviation industry and he is frequently requested to speak on panels at events such as the Asian Business Aviation Conference and Exposition as well as by industry publications. Edmond, who is a private pilot, can be reached at edmondyuen@univ-wea.com

Emily Zhao has worked in the aviation industry since 2004 and is an expert in flight operations within China, including permits, arranging third-party suppliers, ground support and more. Prior to joining Universal Aviation China, Emily, who is based in Guangzhou, China, worked in the operations department for a Japanese airline. Fluent in Mandarin and English, Emily attended the Civil Aviation University of China where she majored in automation. Emily can be reached at emilyzhao@univ-wea.com.

Fred Towers has nearly 30 years of experience in aircraft operations in corporate aviation. He currently serves as Service Enhancement Program Specialist for Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. and is based at Universal's Teterboro, NJ office. An outstanding teacher and orator, Fred has helped countless flight departments and operators around the world maximize the value of a company aircraft as a business asset through his comprehensive and educational presentations and courses. Fred began his career in aviation with the U.S. Air Force's Air Weather Service in 1969 before becoming flight controller for Transamerica Airlines. Fred transitioned into business aviation in 1981. Since that time, he has served in roles with Lockheed Jetplan, working at its International Flight Services desk where he assisted clients with international trip planning and arrangements; with Wayfarer Ketch Corporation as Lead Scheduler/Dispatcher for 16 years; and with General Electric Corporate Air Transport as Lead Dispatcher, before joining Universal in 2002. In addition, Fred has a 28-year history of participation with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). He has been a member and Chairman of NBAA's International Operators Committee as well as one of the original members of NBAA's Scheduler and Dispatcher (S&D) Committee. A career highlight for Fred occurred in 2010, when he was awarded NBAA's annual Outstanding Achievement & Leadership Award. Fred can be reached at fredtowers@univ-wea.com.

Gavin Naude has more than 29 years of aviation experience and is an expert on all aspects of aviation insurance. Gavin, who currently serves with specialist aviation brokerage firm, Luftfahrt-Versicherungslösungen AG (LFV), is based in Zurich, Switzerland. Prior to joining LFV in 2005, Gavin, an aircraft owner and pilot, helped establish a large and successful aviation brokerage in South Africa, as well as having been involved in setting up a very successful underwriting company in Australia. Gavin can be reached at Gavin.naude@lfv-ag.ch. This guest author's views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Georgia Pappas has more than six years’ experience with Universal Aviation Greece and is an expert on ground support operations throughout Greece and Europe. In her current role in Customer Relations, Georgia’s responsibilities include flight coordination in Universal Aviation Greece’s Athens headquarters, ramp supervision of ground support services, and collaborating with agents at all ground support locations throughout Greece. Fluent in Greek and English, Georgia, who is based in Athens, has represented Universal Aviation at global industry events, including the European Business Aviation Conference and Exposition. Georgia can be reached at georgiapappas@univ-wea.com.

Since joining Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2001, Senior Trip Owner Giancarlo Gelpi has earned a reputation as a subject matter expert on all areas of trip support services, particularly obtaining challenging permits. Giancarlo, who has facilitated more than 8,000 global trip legs in his career, is known for his calm, steady demeanor and sense of humor which has helped him build a rapport with civil aviation officials around the globe on behalf of his clients. He has also shared his expertise on international operations with many industry publications. Giancarlo can be contacted by e-mail at GiancarloGelpi@univ-wea.com.

With more than three decades of experience in business aviation and ground support, Gonzalo Barona, Managing Director, Universal Aviation Spain, is an expert on all aspects of operations to Spain. Gonzalo, who is based in Madrid, has been with Universal since the 1970s and has coordinated ground support and logistics for thousands of operations in that time. Gonzalo can be reached at gonzalobarona@univ-wea.com.

An original member of the Universal Trip Support Services Team Europe, Master Trip Owner Greg Linton is known for being a solutions-oriented problem solver. He’s known for being an expert on operations around the globe, particularly to Europe, Africa, and China. Since joining Universal in 2000, Greg has facilitated more than 9,100 trip legs. He has represented Universal at numerous industry tradeshows and conventions including the European Business Aviation Association Conference & Exhibition and the National Business Aviation Association Conference. Greg has also been interviewed and contributed articles to many industry publications. Prior to joining Universal, Greg served as an aircraft maintenance administration supervisor in the United States Marine Corps. Greg holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation management. He can be reached at greglinton@univ-wea.com.

Hiroshi “Higashi” Higashiyama, Representative Director of Universal Aviation Japan, has over 17 years of experience in the aviation industry in ground support and operations and is an expert on operating to Japan. Higashi’s expertise has earned him numerous invitations to speak both domestically and internationally at major industry events and conferences such as the National Business Aviation Association Conference. Higashi, who is based in Tokyo, along with the staff of Universal Aviation Japan, provided around the clock services for business aviation clients and humanitarian flights operating into Japan following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2011. He is also a member of the Japanese Business Aviation Association and works closely with local government officials to help improve business aviation infrastructure, processes, and procedures throughout Japan. He can be reached at hiroshihigashiyama@universalaviation.aero.

James Burkhalter is an accountant with expertise in transactional taxes, including value added taxes applied to business aviation operators for aircraft handling, maintenance, supplies, aircraft importation, and fuel. James served at Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. from 2010 until 2013 and at the time of his departure he held the position of Senior Transaction Tax Analyst.

A lifelong aviation enthusiast with nearly 15 years in the field, pilot and flight instructor Jason Davidson is an expert in all areas of flight planning. Jason, who joined Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2005, has spent time on the Universal portfolio teams facilitating trips and providing quality assurance and project management duties to further improve systems within Universal. He currently serves as Flight Planning Technical Specialist, and plays a critical role in preparing the Flight Planning Team and clients for all aspects and changes regarding flight planning such as ICAO 2012. Jason has a Bachelor of Science degree in aviation from the University of North Dakota. He can be reached at jasondavidson@univ-wea.com.

Based in London, Jason Hayward, General Manager for Universal Aviation UK, is an expert on ground support and operations into the United Kingdom. He’s been with Universal since 1997 and has more than 17 years’ experience combined in aviation handling and operations. A native of the UK and veteran of the Royal Air Force, Jason has been instrumental in helping establish Universal Aviation offices around the globe. Jason is also an expert on coordinating operations and handling for special events and was Universal’s point person for the 2012 London games. He’s shared his insight on operations and special events with many industry publications. He can be reached at jasonhayward@univ-wea.com.

Jason Smith has more than two decades of combined aviation experience in both trip support and ground handling and currently serves as a Master Trip Owner on Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.’s Large Aircraft Team. Jason’s areas of expertise include working with high-profile diplomatic VIPs, including heads of state, royalty, ministers and ambassadors. Since joining Universal in 1999, he has facilitated more than 10,000 trip legs. Some of his specialties include coordinating with customs and immigration for diplomatic clearances, and coordinating ground handling for large-cabin aircraft. Prior to joining Universal, Jason served more than 12 years at Raytheon Aircraft Services FBO. Jason can be reached at jasonsmith@univ-wea.com.

A former corporate pilot and United States Air Force veteran, Captain Jason Starke is an expert on aviation safety and operations. He currently serves as Safety Management and Integration (SM&I) Operations Manager for Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Jason has more than 21 total years of aviation experience and led his previous company's SMS and Emergency Response Plan implementation. As a pilot, he maintains currency with the Hawker 800A and Challenger 601 aircraft and assists with simulator instruction on those aircraft. He has also flown the King Air 90, CE-421, Citation I, and Citation II, V, VII. He is a member of the NBAA Safety Committee, has served as a presenter on SMS at industry events, and holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Meteorology and a Master’s Degree in Aviation with specializations in safety and operations. Jason can be reached at jasonstarke@univ-wea.com.

Air Culinaire Worldwide Vice President of Client Services Jennifer Walton has more than two decades of experience in the food and beverage industry and is an expert in all areas of in-flight catering. Since joining the Air Culinaire Worldwide team in 2003, Jennifer has been instrumental in the growth of the company which offers in-flight catering for business aviation. Jennifer has a bachelor’s of science degree in business administration from The Ohio State University. She can be reached at jenniferwalton@airculinaire.com. Air Culinaire Worldwide, a Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. company, serves in-flight catering to hundreds of airport locations across the globe. Since 2000, business and private aviation operators have relied upon the organization. With 16 owned-and-operated kitchens and hundreds of associate catering partners on six continents, business aviation organizations receive the total in-flight catering experience from one resource, Air Culinaire Worldwide.

A Universal employee since 2007, Jerri Banks has more than a decade of aviation experience. A former trip owner and team lead, Jerri currently serves as Team Manager for Universal's ELATE teams, including the Echo and Large Aircraft Teams and Team Europe. An expert on international operations and security, Jerri has coordinated more than 3,000 international trip legs in her tenure with Universal. Jerri, who completed Six Sigma training, can be reached at jerribanks@univ-wea.com.

Jessica Hosmer has been with Universal since 2007 and currently serves as a Senior Trip Owner on the Charter Management Orange Team. She has facilitated more than 3,600 trip legs in that time, including many to Europe and Asia. Jessica is particularly adept at securing short-notice permits and hard-to-obtain slots. Jessica, who has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Spanish, also enjoys being a part of the Universal team that volunteers with Impact a Hero, a nonprofit organization that provides emotional and financial support to wounded U.S. military veterans. Jessica can be reached at jessicahosmer@univ-wea.com.

Since joining Universal in 1985, Quality Control Specialist Jim Emerson has facilitated more than 21,000 trips and reviewed and quality controlled even more. Jim is an expert on identifying and developing solutions to prevent the common mistakes and issues that can arise on complex, multi-leg international trips. Jim, who is a Green Belt in Six Sigma, previously served in roles at Universal in Meteorology, HF Radio, Flight Following, Flight Planning and as a Master Trip Owner. Jim can be reached at jimemerson@univ-wea.com.

With more than 18 years in business aviation, Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Permits Manager John McClelland has acquired permits for operators traveling to almost every country in the world. A former officer in the U.S. Navy, John has managed a number of the company’s Trip Support teams since first joining Universal in 1994. He was also instrumental in helping train and launch new Universal teams, including the European Operations Center, Asia Permit Office, and ELATE teams. John, who has a bachelor’s of science degree in aerospace engineering from Texas A&M University, can be reached at johnmcclelland@univ-wea.com.

John Perry is an expert on all aspects of international operations, specializing in facilitating trips to special events and negotiating fuel prices. He currently serves as the Team Lead on the Delta Team with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Since joining Universal in 1999, he has facilitated more than 8,500 trip legs. John has also represented Universal at industry tradeshows such as the National Business Aviation Association’s Schedulers & Dispatchers conference. John can be reached at johnperry@univ-wea.com.

Juan Muniz, Senior Mexico Permits Coordinator with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc., is an expert on Mexico operations and permits. Juan has helped operators obtain hundreds of charter and private permits, using his knowledge of the process and close working relationship with Mexican civil aviation authorities and airport officials. Juan’s knowledge also extends to other regulatory issues such as: TSA Waivers, Border Overflight Exemptions, all CBP/APIS notifications, Universal’s Visa Waiver Program, European Union Emissions Trading Scheme, and more. Juan can be reached at juanmuniz@univ-wea.com.

Sheng “Jimmy” Young is an expert on operations to and ground support in China. He currently serves as Country Manager, Universal Aviation China in Beijing and has more than 14 years of experience in trip support services with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. A native of China, Jimmy is fluent in Mandarin Chinese. Prior to becoming Country Manager in 2008, Jimmy served as a Master Trip Owner at Universal corporate headquarters in Houston, Texas.In addition to facilitating thousands of trip legs and handlings in his tenure, Jimmy has also provided his expertise to many leading business aviation industry publications. You can reach Jimmy at jimmyyoung@universalaviation.aero.

Katherine Scheer-Perry has been with Universal since 2002 and since that time has facilitated approximately 4,500 trip legs in the European, South American, and Atlantic regions and is an expert on arranging charter flights around the globe. Katherine is cross-trained in many departments within Universal’s trip support division, giving her insight and knowledge into all areas of the trip planning process. She also has extensive experience and knowledge of Regulatory Services, permits, hotel accommodations, crew transportation, catering and security. Katherine can be reached at katherineperry@univ-wea.com.

With more than two decades of experience at Universal and even more as an air traffic controller in the United States Air Force, Master Trip Owner Keith Foreman has extensive experience in business aviation operations. Keith, who has facilitated more than 19,000 trip legs, is also an expert on the Middle East, having lived in the region for several years in the past. Keith’s reputation and knowledge has earned the praise of industry associations such as the National Business Aviation Association, where he is regularly asked to give presentations on regional operational issues in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Keith, who has an associate’s degree in aeronautical science, is also frequently interviewed in a variety of industry publications both domestically and internationally. Keith can be reached at keithforeman@univ-wea.com.

Kim Showalter, President and Chief Operating Officer of Showalter Flying Service, has more than 25 years of experience in the aviation industry in ground support and is an expert on operating to Orlando Executive Airport (KORL). Kim’s expertise on operations at KORL has earned her numerous invitations to share her knowledge in many business aviation articles. Kim, who is based in KORL, along with the staff of Showalter Flying Service, provides around the clock services for business aviation clients operating into KORL. She currently sits on the Phillips 66 Dealer Council and also served a two-year stint as the Chair of the Business Management Committee of the NATA. She can be reached at kim@showalter.com. This guest author’s views are entirely her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Larry Williams is an expert on charter operations and currently serves as a Senior Trip Owner on the Charter Management Team with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Larry, who holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation science, has facilitated more than 1,300 trip legs to the region since joining Universal in 2007. Larry has been a featured speaker at the annual Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference and is currently working to complete his pilot’s license. Larry can be reached at larrywilliams@univ-wea.com.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the aviation services industry, most of which is in the regulations arena, Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Manager of Global Regulatory Services, Laura Everington is recognized as one of the business aviation industry’s preeminent authorities on all U.S. and international regulations. In her role, Laura and her team serve as liaisons to all the key regulatory bodies, including Customs and Border Protection, Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Aviation Administration, all of which regularly consult her for her opinion on rules creation. A naturally gifted orator, Laura, who joined Universal in 1990, is one of the industry’s most requested and respected speakers. By her own estimate, she has presented at more than 100 industry events around the globe on a variety of regulatory topics. She has also given countless interviews to the most read and respected business aviation trade publications. Laura, who is an acting member of the National Business Aviation Associations Security Council, can be reached at lauraeverington@univ-wea.com.

Lex den Herder has been with Universal since 1977 and has more than 35 years of experience in flight operations, ground handling operations, customer support, and sales and marketing in business aviation. Lex currently serves as Vice President, Government and Industry Affairs for Universal, where he has been instrumental in helping educate government and civil aviation authorities around the world on the advantages of business aviation and how they can make their country's operating environment more business-aviation friendly. Lex played a key role in the recent decision by the Indian Government to reduce the lead time needed to obtain landing and overflight permits. Lex relies on his network of global contacts built over the last three-plus decades, including corporate operators, Civil Aviation Authorities, government officials, and ground handling organizations to influence positive changes in operating requirements on behalf of the industry. Lex is a member of the National Business Aviation Association's International Operator's Committee and is a frequent speaker at industry associations around the world. A licensed FAA Dispatcher, Lex is a graduate of the Tulane University – Houston's Freeman School of Business and the Rice University Executive Education Program. You can reach Lex at lexdenherder@univ-wea.com.

Livia Bongers is an expert in ground support, customer service and flight coordination in Brazil with more than six years’ experience in business aviation. Livia currently serves as a Customer Service Representative at Universal Aviation Brazil – Sao Paulo. Livia, who is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Dutch, has a bachelor’s degree from Methodist University of Piracicaba – Brazil. You can reach Livia at liviabongers@univ-wea.com.

Universal Aviation Italy Managing Director Lorena Carraro is recognized as one of the world’s foremost experts on business aviation operations to Italy and Europe. Since joining Universal Aviation in 1986 she has helped manage and grow the company’s presence throughout Italy, which now includes four locations providing service to the entire country. As acting Vice President of the Italian Business Aviation Association, Lorena, who splits her time among Universal Aviation Italy’s locations, is instrumental in working with government officials on legislation and regulations that maximize the industry’s potential throughout Italy. In addition to her business aviation experience, Lorena is fluent in Italian, English, and French. Under her leadership, Universal Aviation Italy locations are frequently listed as some of the best FBOs in Europe as ranked by users of popular industry publications. Lorena can be reached at lorenacarraro@universalaviation.aero.

Lupe Jensen, Senior Mexico Permits Coordinator with Universal, has more than two decades of experience in business aviation and is an expert on operating to Mexico and obtaining permits for both charter and private aircraft. Since joining Universal in 1991, Lupe, has helped hundreds of operators navigate Mexico’s complex permit rules for corporate aviation. Prior to her current role, she served as a trip owner, coordinating logistics for operations around the world. Lupe, who is fluent in Spanish, can be reached at lupejensen@univ-wea.com.

UVair Senior Fuel Sales Representative Malinda Jones has more than a decade's worth of experience in the highly competitive jet fuel industry in both sales and fuel management. Malinda, who joined Universal in 2009, is an expert on all aspects of arranging fuel setups from finding the best price, to confirming the fuel release is sent, to invoicing. Prior to joining Universal, Malinda, who is moderately fluent in German, held roles in jet fuel with a business aviation logistics provider, FBO, and fuel management company. Malinda can be reached at malindajones@univ-wea.com.

Universal Aviation India Manager, Operations, Manav Chopra is an expert on navigating the complexities of business aviation in his native country of India. Manav, who has been with Universal since 2007, has experience in business aviation, focusing on operations to and ground support in India. Manav has a bachelor’s of science degree from Indira Gandhi National Open University and is fluent in English, Hindi and Punjabi. He can be reached at manavchopra@universalaviation.aero.

Marcia Taue has more than a decade’s experience in aviation and is an expert in ground support coordination throughout Brazil, with a special emphasis on operations to São Paulo–Guarulhos International Airport. Marcia currently serves as Operations Manager for Universal Aviation Brazil – São Paulo. Prior to joining Universal Aviation, Marcia worked in ground support for a major commercial airline at Guarulhos. Fluent in both Portuguese and English, Marcia has a degree in business aviation from Braz Cubas University. You can reach Marcia at marciataue@univ-wea.com.

Mark Christensen is the Flight Planning Quality Manager for Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. An FAA licensed aircraft dispatcher, Mark has more than 20 years of experience in aircraft operations and aviation training. His experience includes coordinating aircraft operations as a Senior Meteorologist and managing the training for the Meteorology and Flight Planning departments at Universal. He previously served as a Senior Meteorologist and as an on-the-job training supervisor in the U.S. Air Force. Mark can be reached at markchristensen@univ-wea.com.

Mark Hudson is an expert on arranging charter flights for business aviation, particularly obtaining difficult permits. An FAA Licensed Dispatcher, Mark currently serves as a Senior Trip Owner on the Universal Charter Management Team. Since joining Universal in 2002, he has facilitated more than 6,000 global trip legs, and specializes in last-minute requests. Mark can be reached at markhudson@univ-wea.com.

A former Air Traffic Controller with more than 35 years' experience in aviation, Universal Supervisor of Technical Planning Mark Miller has facilitated thousands of flight plans since joining Universal in 1990. Prior to joining he served as Air Traffic Control Facility Chief and Battalion Training Manager for Korea Aviation Development and Research Command. Mark, who is fluent in Korean, is a member of the Federal Aviation Administration's Collaborative Decision Making group, the ICAO 2012 Flight Plan Filers group, as well as the New York and New Jersey Port Authority / Tracon group. Recognized within the industry for his expertise, he has shared his knowledge of aviation and flight planning with several industry trade publications. Mark can be reached at markmiller@univ-wea.com.

Marshall Weber is an expert on Customs and Border Flight Exemptions, cabotage rules for Europe and Canada, and obtaining landing permits around the world. He currently serves as a Master Trip Owner on our Charter Management Team. A retired First Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy, Marshall has facilitated more than 18,000 trip legs since joining Universal in 2000. Marshall can be reached at marshallweber@univ-wea.com.

Mat Sanson is an expert on business aviation operations to Australia, with a special focus on Australian ports and procedures. Matt, who is based in Sydney, currently serves as Ports Coordinator for Universal Aviation Australia. Prior to his current role, Mat, who is also an expert in regulatory compliance and operational safety and investigations, served as an Operations Officer for Universal Aviation Australia. Matt has a bachelor's degree in aviation management from the University of New South Wales and is currently studying to receive his master's degree in science and technology. He can be reached at mathewsansom@univ-wea.com.

Mauro Camargo is an expert on regulations for operations to, from and within Brazil and is the founder of the first Brazilian company dedicated to providing business aviation trip management services. Based in Sao Paulo, Mauro has more than two decades of business aviation experience in flight operations and ground support. Mauro currently serves as the Director of the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Brazilian Operations Center, CAVOK. Prior to founding CAVOK in 2000, Mauro served as Flight Operations and Ground Handling Manager for a major OEM. Mauro is fluent in Portuguese and English and has a solid understanding of Spanish. He has shared his expertise on business aviation in Brazil in multiple trade magazines, including daily publications at the Latin America Business Aviation Conference and Exposition (LABACE). Mauro can be reached at maurocamargo@univ-wea.com.

With experience in operations, UVair Senior Fuel Sales Coordinator Michelle Smith is an expert on business aviation fuel best practices. Since joining Universal in 2005, Michelle has provided operators advice on negotiating the best price, understanding aviation fuel taxes, and avoiding common pitfalls when uplifting fuel. Michelle has represented UVair at industry events and conferences such as the National Business Aviation Association annual conference, International Operators Conference, Citation Jet Pilots Convention, Pilots Association Convention, and TBM Owners and Pilots Association convention. Michelle can be reached at michellesmith@univ-wea.com.

Mike Hutchinson has more than 34 years in the aviation industry, including the military, United Nations, civil, and business aviation sectors. Mike served at Universal from 2011 until 2013 and at the time of his leaving held the position of Universal Aviation, Regional Director, Operations, Asia-Pacific Region.

Universal Aviation China Operations Coordinator Nancy Liu is an expert on ground support in China and has more than seven years’ experience in the aviation industry in both the commercial and business aviation sectors. Fluent in both Mandarin and English, Nancy has won several industry awards for her customer service skills. Nancy studied international business at the School of Technology Management in Shanghai and English at Hangzhou University of Electronic Science and Technology. Nancy can be reached at nancyliu@univ-wea.com.

Based in the United Kingdom, Neil Pope has nearly three decades of experience in the catering industry. He currently serves as Operations Director for Bond and Butler, which is a partner in Air Culinaire Worldwide’s Paris kitchen. Neil began his career in catering as a Commis Chef before working his way up to Executive Chef for Compass Group, Leisure Division, where he was responsible for stadia and exhibitions. There he managed the kitchen operations of 23 units, including premiership football (soccer) clubs and two national stadiums. On a busy day he would oversee catering of up to six units for as many as 20,000 people. Neil studied catering at Thames Valley University and is a former member of the Academy of Culinary Arts as well as the Adopt a School Program, where he visited schools, introducing food to children. Neil can be reached at neilpope@airculinaire.com. Air Culinaire Worldwide, a Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. company, serves in-flight catering to hundreds of airport locations across the globe. Since 2000, business and private aviation operators have relied upon the organization. With 16 owned-and-operated kitchens and hundreds of associate catering partners on six continents, business aviation organizations receive the total in-flight catering experience from one resource, Air Culinaire Worldwide.

Since joining Universal in 2007, Regulatory Specialist Olivia Thompson has become a resource for clients on a host of complex regulatory issues including: Transportation Security Administration waivers, the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme (EU-ETS), Safety Management Systems (SMS), visa procurement, Customs and Border Protection policies, and more. Olivia has a bachelor’s degree in international management and economics and an MBA in management from Sam Houston State University. She can be reached at oliviathompson@univ-wea.com.

Orlando Cantu is a former Air Traffic Controller in the United States Air Force, and is an FAA-Licensed Dispatcher. Orlando Cantu served at Universal from 1997 until 2012 and at the time of his leaving held the position of Team Lead for Universal’s Foxtrot Team with Trip Support Services.

Rajan Mehra is an expert on business aviation operations to India. He currently serves as Managing Director, Universal Aviation India. Rajan played a key role in the recent decision by the Indian Government to reduce the lead time needed to obtain landing and overflight permits. Rajan, who is based in New Delhi, has spoken at numerous industry events representing business aviation. You can reach Rajan at rajanmehra@univ-wea.com.

Richard Setchfield is a 13-year veteran of the Royal Air Force and served with the UK Ministry of Defence. Richard served at Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. European Operations Centre (EOC) and Universal Aviation UK ground support location in Stansted, United Kingdom, for more than 14 years and at the time of his leaving held the position of Team Leader at the EOC.

Rick Mann is an expert on international routings and permit issues. He currently serves as the Team Lead for the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Charter Management Teams. Rick has more than two decades of aviation experience and versatility, including five years as an air traffic controller in the U.S. Navy. Since joining Universal in 1991, Rick has facilitated approximately 18,000 global trip legs. Rick can be reached at rickmann@univ-wea.com.

An expert on avionics and aircraft communications, Rick Vlahovich is the Product Manager for UVdatalink, the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Global VHF and SATCOM ACARS data link communications solution. Rick has been with Universal since 2001 and has more than two decades of experience in aviation, including 13 years with a major aircraft manufacturer as an avionics systems design engineer for 747s, 757s and 767s, and as a lead engineer for hardware and software integration and testing on the International Space Station. Rick, who has an electrical engineering degree from Gonzaga University, is a certified product management professional and has shared his expertise with several business aviation industry publications. Rick can be reached at rickvlahovich@univ-wea.com.

Robert Moya, a former U.S. Marine Corps meteorologist, currently serves as a Team Lead on the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. ELATE Team. Robert is an expert in Latin America ops as well as obtaining permit requests for difficult countries around the world, including Syria, Cuba and North Korea. Since joining Universal in 1999, Robert has facilitated approximately 9,600 trip legs. Robert has also represented Universal at industry tradeshows such as the National Business Aviation Association annual conference and the Schedulers & Dispatchers conference. Robert can be reached at robertmoya@univ-wea.com.

Roger Cox served as Managing Director for Universal Aviation Australia from 2006 to 2012. Prior joining Universal, he worked as a charter and corporate pilot and flying instructor, and had logged more than 5,500 flight hours.

Air Culinaire Worldwide Senior Vice President of Culinary Operations Roger Leemann has more than three decades of experience in the food industry, the majority of which have been spent in the aviation catering sector. Roger, who has been with the Air Culinaire Worldwide team since 2001, is an expert in aviation catering menu development and training for business aviation operators. In addition to his work training Air Culinaire Worldwide’s chefs, Roger frequently works with pilots and flight attendants, educating them on how to prepare food in-flight, what to expect in packaging, and best practices for in-flight catering. Roger can be reached at rogerleemann@airculinaire.com. Air Culinaire Worldwide, a Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. company, serves in-flight catering to hundreds of airport locations across the globe. Since 2000, business and private aviation operators have relied upon the organization. With 16 owned-and-operated kitchens and hundreds of associate catering partners on six continents, business aviation organizations receive the total in-flight catering experience from one resource, Air Culinaire Worldwide.

Master Trip Owner Russell Hess is an expert on international operations, specializing in operations to Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Since joining Universal in 2000, Russell has facilitated more than 5,300 trip legs. With previous experience on Universal’s Hotel Accommodations team, Russell is also an expert on securing last-minute bookings during special events and holidays. Russell can be reached at russellhess@univ-wea.com.

With nearly two decades of facilitating hotel reservations, thousands of hotel rooms, and a worldwide network of contacts, Universal Travel Consultant Ruth Mendez is an expert on hotel accommodations. Ruth utilizes her expertise to book clients at hotels that match their specific needs as they travel around the globe. Always customer focused and attentive to detail, Ruth draws on her hotel industry experience and knowledge to successfully secure rooms that may otherwise be difficult to obtain. She also serves as her clients’ go-to person for local expertise such as attractions, hotel security and proximity to airports. Specializing in group bookings, Ruth is able to leverage her long-term hotel relationships to negotiate preferred rates for large groups that are not available to the general public. Ruth can be reached at ruthmendez@univ-wea.com.

Saad Farid has more than a decade’s experience in business aviation and is an expert on United States regulatory and Customs issues such as Border Overflight Exemptions and the Visa Waiver Program. He currently serves with Universal as a Master Regulatory Services Specialist on the Global Regulatory Services Team. Saad, who is a private pilot, has shared his regulatory expertise with industry associations such as the Texas Corporate Aviation Schedulers & Dispatchers group. Saad can be reached at saadfarid@univ-wea.com.

Universal Aviation France Managing Director Sandrine Jackson has nearly 25 years' experience with Universal and is an expert on operations in France. Under Sandrine's leadership, Universal Aviation's Paris location at Le Bourget is consistently ranked in industry surveys as one of Europe's best FBOs. Sandrine, who is based in Paris, first joined Universal in 1989. She can be reached at sandrinejackson@universalaviation.aero.

Air Culinaire Worldwide Vice President of National Sales and Executive Chef Saverio Mongelli has more than a decade of experience with in-flight catering, including more than six years as Executive Chef of Air Culinaire Worldwide in New York. He is an expert in catering safety, operations, packaging, menu selection, and international ordering. Saverio graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, N.Y. in 1994 and served in a variety of roles in fine dining restaurants in New York City before joining Air Culinaire Worldwide. Some of his previous positions in the culinary industry include national and international sales, client management, contract negotiations and the management and development of the sales team. Saverio can be reached at savmongelli@airculinaire.com. Air Culinaire Worldwide, a Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. company, serves in-flight catering to hundreds of airport locations across the globe. Since 2000, business and private aviation operators have relied upon the organization. With 16 owned-and-operated kitchens and hundreds of associate catering partners on six continents, business aviation organizations receive the total in-flight catering experience from one resource, Air Culinaire Worldwide.

Sean Raftery has more than 30 years of aviation experience, including over 18 with Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Based in Stansted, United Kingdom, Sean was an airman in the Royal Air Force where he worked in air traffic control and squadron operations. In 2002, he was appointed Managing Director of Universal Aviation UK and in 2010 took on the additional responsibilities as Managing Director of Ireland as well. Under Sean’s leadership, Universal Aviation UK and Universal Aviation Ireland, with FBO locations at Dublin and Shannon, have continued to grow and add new services, including the European Operations Centre and a new fuelling into plane business in Dublin. Sean has also been instrumental in Universal Aviation continuing to upgrade its facilities and recently led efforts in Dublin to relocate the location to a new, larger facility while in Stansted he oversaw the complete refurbishment of Universal Aviation Stansted in time for the 2012 Summer Olympics. Well respected within the business aviation industry, Sean has worked closely with government officials to develop and implement industry leading Health and Safety practices and was highly instrumental in influencing the UK government for fairer and better immigration procedures for visiting business jet passengers. Sean can be reached at seanraftery@universalaviation.aero.

Dr. Shari Frisinger is President of CornerStone Strategies LLC. Her expertise lies in the behavioral situational awareness are of human factors, and links the skills necessary to handle conflict and crisis with safety and a higher level of team interaction. She is an adjunct professor and has presented CRM/HF programs to numerous flight departments and other aviation companies. Shari can be reached at 281.992.4136 or www.cornerstonestrategiesllc.com. This guest author's views are entirely her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. Product Manager, Weather and Mobile Solutions, Shawn Rampy has more than seven years' experience in the mobile/wireless space and managed the nation's first network to bring local news, weather and sports video content to mobile devices. With a bachelor's of science degree in meteorology and more than 16 years' as a Senior Aviation Meteorologist with American Airlines and other global airlines, Shawn is an industry expert on developing mobile aviation and weather applications. He was awarded the Seal of Approval from both the American Meteorological Society and the National Weather Association. You can reach Shawn at shawnrampy@univ-wea.com.

Universal Aviation Bermuda Office Manager Sheldon Steede has nearly 30 years of aviation experience and is an expert in operations to Bermuda. Based in St. George, Bermuda, Sheldon is an expert on all aspects of aircraft handling and safety and is a National Air Transportation Association Safety 1st Certified Advanced Line Supervisor. Prior to joining Universal Aviation, Sheldon spent several years in ramp management at L.F. Wade International Airport. Sheldon is also a qualified aircraft firefighter and an active member of the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). Sheldon can be reached at sheldonsteede@universalaviation.aero.

Having worked in the aviation industry since 1998, Universal Aviation Italy – Rome Ciampino Station Manager Sonia Carmesini is an expert on operations and ground handling in all regions of Italy. Prior to becoming Station Manager, Sonia, who is fluent in Italian, French, and English, held operations roles in both business and commercial aviation. You can reach Sonia at soniacarmesini@univ-wea.com.

Stephen Clark is a Marketing Manager for Immaculate Flight, a United States-based aircraft detailing corporation. Stephen has more than six years' of aircraft cleaning and detailing experience, as well as business aviation operations support, including travel planning, security, and ground asset procurement. Additionally, Stephen has experience with onsite coordination in support of VIP and athletic teams, Part 121 operations management, and Load Master and Deice Instructor qualifications. In his free time, Stephen, who has a bachelor's of science aviation administration degree from Utah Valley University, volunteers as a Wing Leader with Angel Flight West, a nonprofit organization that provides free air transportation in response to medical and other compelling human needs. Stephen can be reached at sclark@immaculateflight.com. This guest author's views are entirely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Steve Arbogast has nearly 30 years’ experience in aviation meteorology. After eight years of active duty service in the U.S. Navy he joined Universal in 1989. He currently serves as Senior Aviation and Flight Planning Supervisor at Universal headquarters in Houston. Steve has attended and spoken at many business aviation and FAA-related seminars and workshops, including volcanic ash workshops. Steve has provided his aviation meteorology expertise to NBAA and leading business aviation industry publications such as Professional Pilot, Aviation International News, BART and Altitudes. Steve, who is a certified FAA dispatcher, has maintained his relationship with the U.S. Navy and is currently serving as a Command Master Chief in the Naval Meteorology Reserve Program. He can be reached at stevearbogast@univ-wea.com.

Steve Woods is an expert on aviation fuel and taxes and fees related to Jet-A1 uplifts. He currently serves as Director, Sales & Supply, Europe, Middle East, Africa, & Asia-Pacific, UVair, and has more than 12 years’ experience with Universal. A native of the United Kingdom, prior to joining the UVair Fuel team, Steve served in management positions in both Trip Support Services and ground handling at Universal, giving him an overall breadth of knowledge of all areas of flight operations. One of Steve’s specialties is his understanding of the complicated and varying differences by country of value added taxes throughout Europe, as he played an integral role in launching the UVair European Fuel Services Limited in 2009. Steve can be reached at stevewoods@univ-wea.com.

Susan C. Friedenberg started her aviation career in 1970. She spent the first 15 years of her aviation career flying for American Airlines and then Capitol Air. She has been a corporate flight attendant for the last 27 years, flying both as a contract flight attendant with a coast-to-coast clientele list and as a full-time flight attendant for the Coca-Cola Company, DuPont Aviation, and American Standard Companies. In 1999 Susan started her own training company called "The Corporate Flight Attendant Training Program," teaching her training course in Long Beach, California and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She also conducts in-house training classes including food safety awareness courses for clients, globally and domestically. Susan does consulting within the business aviation industry/community and also does contract flying. She is committed to raising the standards within business aviation where it pertains to the third crew member. She has been a proactive advocate for Corporate Aviation Flight Attendants and lack of FAA regulations where it is applicable to the third crew member on private aircraft. Her professional mission in life is to have the United States Congress implement and pass legislation requiring professional flight attendants on all business aircraft of a specific weight level and seating capacity, in addition to all business flight attendants being required to have corporate-aircraft-specific emergency training and attend yearly recurrent training. Susan has been an active sitting member on the NBAA Flight Attendant Committee in Washington, DC for 17 years. She held the position of Scholarship Chairperson for the Flight Attendant Committee for two years. In that time, she raised $44,650 in educational scholarships for the corporate flight attendant. She served as the NBAA Flight Attendant Committee Vice Chairperson for one year and represented Contract Flight Attendants throughout the United States on this committee for five years. She now serves on this committee as an esteemed advisory consultant. Susan was awarded volunteer of the year for 2011 by Women In Corporate Aviation for raising $25,000 in scholarship awards. Susan is highly respected and considered an expert in business aviation. She speaks at various conferences globally on many topics reflective of the professional role of the business aviation flight attendant. Susan can be contacted through her Company Web site, via LinkedIn, or by e-mail. This guest author’s views are entirely her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc.

Thierry Mona has more than 30 years’ experience in the culinary arts and is fluent in French, Russian and English. He holds a professional certificate from Ferrandi C.C.I. De Paris France (French Institute of Culinary Arts). Thierry served as General Manager at Air Culinaire Worldwide’s Paris, France location until the end of 2012. Air Culinaire Worldwide, a Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. company, serves in-flight catering to hundreds of airport locations across the globe. Since 2000, business and private aviation operators have relied upon the organization. With 16 owned-and-operated kitchens and hundreds of associate catering partners on six continents, business aviation organizations receive the total in-flight catering experience from one resource, Air Culinaire Worldwide.

Tonie Gorham has more than two decades of experience in trip support services and currently serves as a Master Trip Owner on Universal’s Delta Team. Since joining Universal in 1989, she has facilitated more than 18,000 trip legs, including operations to all areas of the globe. A former Air Traffic Controller in the United States Air Force, Tonie is known for her ability to react quickly to situations that require attention. In addition to her daily trip support work, Tonie is also proud to have been a part of a team to travel with Operation Smile, a flying hospital that provides effective reconstructive surgery for children born with facial deformities in underprivileged countries. Tonie can be reached at toniegorham@univ-wea.com.

Vicki Matso, Senior Fuel Sales Representative with the UVair Fuel Program, has nearly a decade spent working in the jet fuel industry. Vicki, who joined Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2007, currently serves as Senior Fuel Sales Representative for Florida. An expert in all areas of fuel operations, two of Vicki’s specialties include educating air ambulance operators about the tax exemptions in place for their flights and the exemptions available for operators flying international routes in Canada. In addition to her duties covering Florida, Vicki is also responsible for assisting with Universal Fuels, which provides jet fuel for UVair clients in the commercial, government, and military segment. Vicki currently serves on the board of the South Florida Business Aviation Association and is a member of Women in Aviation and Girls with Wings. Additionally, she is in the final year of completing her bachelor’s degree in aviation management from Lynn University and is also working on earning a private pilot’s license. Vicki can be reached at victoriamatso@univ-wea.com.

Vivian Han is a ground support specialist for Universal Aviation China. Vivian, who is based at Universal Aviation China headquarters in Beijing, is an expert on all aspects of operating to Beijing International Airport (ZBAA), including ground support, permits, customs, ground transportation, visas, arranging maintenance, local hotels and entertainment options. Vivian is fluid In both Mandarin and English. She can be reached at vivianhan@univ-wea.com.

Walter Lindo is Managing Director of Universal Aviation Venezuela which has its main ground handing office in Caracas and supports flight operations throughout Venezuela. Walter is an expert on business aircraft operations in Venezuela and can be contacted at walterlindo@univ-wea.com.

Yuka LaTulippe is an expert on corporate travel as well as product development for business aviation. Since first joining Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. in 2006, Yuka has served in a variety of positions, including Associate Product Manager for UVTripPlanner, where she ensured timely publication and accuracy of the comprehensive pre-flight reference. She currently serves as Manager, Travel Management, where she develops strategies to identify traveler cost savings for Universal clients. Yuka, who graduated summa cum laude from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, is a member of Women in Corporate Aviation and will be a featured speaker at the National Business Aviation Association 2013 Schedulers & Dispatchers Conference on the topic of vetting third-party suppliers. Yuka can be reached at yukalatulippe@univ-wea.com.

Yvonne Chan has nearly two decades of experience in business aviation and is an expert on ground and flight operations in Singapore. Yvonne, who first joined Universal in 1992, currently serves as Country Manager for Universal Aviation Singapore, where she has been instrumental in helping Universal Aviation establish other locations in the Asia-Pacific region. Based in Singapore, Yvonne is fluent in English, Mandarin and several local dialects. Yvonne can be reached at yvonnechan@universalaviation.aero.