Managing the financial aspects of aircraft ownership can often feel as complex as flying the jet itself. At Pinnacle Aviation, we make it simple. Leveraging over 35 years of expertise in the aviation industry, we provide a comprehensive range of services designed to ease the burden of aircraft ownership. From managing operational costs to ensuring financial transparency, our experienced accounting team is dedicated to delivering peace of mind.

Whether you’re overseeing a corporate jet or a private aircraft, our streamlined financial solutions give you clarity, accuracy, and confidence, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your business or enjoying your travels.

Meet the Pinnacle Aviation Accounting Team

Paula Talbot, our Director of Finance at Pinnacle Aviation for over 18 years has had the honor of working with our incredibly talented team to provide financial clarity to our aircraft owners. They understand that every client has unique needs, and they pride themselves on ensuring that your financial process is as smooth and reliable as the aircraft you fly.

Our team doesn’t just crunch numbers. They’re here to simplify the financial complexities of aircraft ownership, ensuring transparency and precision in everything they do. By monitoring and categorizing expenses, meeting financial obligations on time, and delivering custom budgetary reports, they give you the tools and information you need to make effective decisions.

Above all, our commitment to excellence inspires us to consistently elevate our services, setting us apart in the aviation industry.

The Pinnacle Advantage: Beyond the Numbers

What makes Pinnacle Aviation’s financial team exceptional? It all comes down to our meticulous approach, attention to detail, and commitment to serving you with professionalism:

• Comprehensive Financial Management 

From tracking every expense to managing timely payments, our accounting service covers all facets of aircraft financial management. You’re not just hiring a service; you’re gaining an experienced team focused on proactively managing your financial operations.

• Tailored Budgetary Reporting 

We create easy-to-read, customized budget reports that reflect your aircraft’s unique usage and operational costs. Transparency is a priority, and we ensure you have a detailed breakdown of every cost, giving you full visibility into where your money is going.

• Streamlined Monthly Billing 

Say goodbye to juggling multiple invoices. At the end of each month, all transactions and expenses are consolidated into a single, clear invoice, reducing your accounting workload to writing just one check.

• Commitment to Transparency and Excellence 

At Pinnacle Aviation, transparency is our core principle. Every cost is carefully accounted for and categorized. Our expert team ensures full compliance with best financial practices, giving you confidence in the numbers.

Key Features of Our Financial Solutions

Lower Costs with Meticulous Oversight 

Owning an aircraft comes with significant operating expenses, but that doesn’t mean they should soar unnecessarily. We carefully review and scrutinize every transaction to ensure all expenditures are justifiable and competitive. This commitment helps keep your costs low while maintaining the highest levels of service and safety.

Seamless Integration for a Stress-Free Experience 

Because financial clarity shouldn’t come at the expense of your time, we utilize the latest tools and technology to provide real-time insights and remote access to your financial data. Our user-friendly system helps you stay updated, whether you’re at the office or in-flight.

Building Trust with Aircraft Owners

At the heart of Pinnacle Aviation’s financial services is a dedication to fostering long-term relationships with our clients. Trust and reliability are essential in the aviation industry, and we go the extra mile to deliver service excellence in every interaction.

Our proprietary accounting system, built on good business practices and the separation of duties, ensures unparalleled accuracy and security. Every day, we strive to earn your confidence, not just as your accounting team but as your trusted partner in aircraft ownership.

The Arizona Business Aviation Association (AZBAA) recently hosted its annual “Masters of Aviation” Golf Benefit Tournament, bringing the aviation community together in support of aviation education and growth. Despite the rain and chilly weather, golfers and volunteers turned out in full force to make the event a success. This annual tradition defines AZBAA’s mission to foster education, offer aviation scholarships, advance the state of the aviation industry in Arizona and have some fun!

A Gathering with a Purpose

Year after year, this event raises critical funds that enable AZBAA to offer $5,000 scholarships to aspiring aviation professionals. These scholarships support students pursuing a variety of aviation careers, from piloting and aircraft maintenance to aviation management and engineering. This year’s tournament had an incredible turnout, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of participants, sponsors, and volunteers. A heartfelt thank-you goes to everyone who joined us and braved the elements with a shared passion for our aviation community.

Honoring Exceptional Leadership

A special shoutout goes to Douglas Young for his remarkable leadership within AZBAA and the broader aviation community. Throughout his tenure, Douglas has inspired many with his vision, dedication, and passion for fostering growth within the aviation industry. As Douglas takes the next steps in his aviation adventure, we celebrate his contributions and eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will continue to make.

Building a Stronger Aviation Community

At Pinnacle Aviation, we are proud to partner with organizations like AZBAA to champion education and innovation in the aviation sector. With over 35 years of experience in business aviation in Arizona—including aircraft charter, sales, and maintenance—our mission aligns perfectly with AZBAA’s goals. Together, we are investing in the next generation of aviation professionals, fueling their dreams, and advancing the industry that connects the world. We believe that supporting initiatives such as the AZBAA Golf Tournament and aviation scholarships is not only a way to give back but also a means to ensure the continued growth and prosperity of aviation in Arizona.

Why Support Aviation Education?

Aviation is a dynamic industry that thrives on talent, innovation, and perseverance. However, pursuing a career in aviation can be financially challenging for students. Programs like the AZBAA scholarships make a critical difference, empowering individuals to excel in business aviation careers, from private jet charters and corporate flight operations to aeronautical engineering roles. By supporting AZBAA’s efforts, you’re not just changing lives—you’re securing the future of an industry that impacts thousands of businesses, professionals, and travelers every day in Arizona and beyond. It’s exciting to envision what lies ahead as our community continues to collaborate, innovate, and support the next generation of aviation leaders!

When it comes to aircraft maintenance, reliability and precision aren’t optional—they’re paramount. At Pinnacle Aviation, we understand that your aircraft represents more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an investment, a time-saving vehicle, and, more importantly, a commitment to safety. That’s why we’ve built a comprehensive aircraft maintenance program that ensures exceptional quality and unmatched reliability.

Tailored Maintenance Solutions for Every Aircraft 

Every aircraft is unique, and so are its maintenance needs. Pinnacle Aviation goes beyond the basics, delivering tailored solutions to keep your aircraft in pristine condition. From routine inspections to advanced diagnostics, our team ensures every detail is accounted for. 

Our services include: 

• Scheduled Maintenance Inspections: Stay compliant with FAA regulations while ensuring your aircraft is operating at peak performance.
• Unscheduled Maintenance and Repairs: Unexpected issues? Our expert team is equipped to resolve them promptly.
• Avionics Upgrades and Repairs: Coordinate and negotiate upgrades that will enhance your aircraft’s performance with the latest technology and seamless system integrations.
• Interior and Exterior Refurbishments: Coordinate and negotiate refurbishments to maintain aesthetics and comfort without compromising reliability. 

With a commitment to excellence, we leave no stone unturned in ensuring that your aircraft operates flawlessly. 

Uncompromising Standards of Safety 

At Pinnacle Aviation, safety is the foundation of everything we do. Maintenance is more than a necessary process—it’s a critical measure to uphold the highest safety standards for each flight. 

Our team of certified technicians meticulously follows approved procedures and FAA regulations, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and technologies. This ensures your aircraft receives world-class care, from its nose to its tail. When you choose Pinnacle Aviation, you’re choosing peace of mind every time you take off. 

The Pinnacle Maintenance Facility 

State-of-the-art facilities are a key factor in meeting the complex demands of modern aircraft maintenance. Pinnacle Aviation’s maintenance operations are housed in a first-class facility designed to support turbine aircraft. Equipped with cutting-edge tools and ample space, our site enables efficient and faultless maintenance processes for any aircraft. 

With a facility designed for effectiveness, reliability, and expertise, you’ll know your aircraft is in the best hands every time. 

Where Expertise Meets Passion 

Aircraft maintenance isn’t just about technical skill—it’s about trust, expertise, and a passion for aviation. Pinnacle Aviation’s highly experienced and certified technicians bring years of industry knowledge and dedication to every project. Whether it’s routine maintenance or intricate problem-solving, our team is committed to delivering unparalleled care. 

We don’t just service aircraft; we cultivate partnerships. By building a relationship based on trust and results, we ensure that every client not only feels supported but also confident in their choice to fly with us. 

Why Choose Pinnacle Aviation for Your Aircraft Maintenance? 

When it comes to aircraft maintenance, the Pinnacle Difference is clear. 

• Unwavering Dependability: Your time and safety are invaluable. We prioritize minimization of downtime and flawless reliability.
• Tailored Excellence: Every aircraft is unique, and our unique maintenance plans reflect that. 
• First-Class Facility with Top-tier Equipment: From diagnostics to repairs, our facility is designed to deliver unmatched quality. 
• Passionate Expertise: Our team of certified technicians and aviation professionals ensures expertise and dedication at every step.
• Safety Beyond Compliance: We don’t just meet industry safety standards—we aim to surpass them. 

Experience the Pinnacle Standard 

Know your aircraft is receiving the elite care it deserves. From seamless repairs to thorough inspections, our teamwork ensures every aspect of your aircraft’s maintenance is covered. 

Looking for customized maintenance solutions for your aircraft? Contact Pinnacle Aviation today to explore our services and discover how we set new standards in aviation excellence. 

Those seeking to charter an aircraft often rely on their own research, or a charter broker’s knowledge, to evaluate the many charter operations and service options available to them. Like any other industry, not all charter operators deliver the same standards of safety and professionalism. To assist charter customers to identify competent operators, here are the charter industry’s established set of qualifications and operating metrics.

1 How long has the operator or broker been in business?

Experience is an important attribute in the aviation industry. An experienced organization will demonstrate and command a more competent understanding of FAA safety regulations as well as the myriad of logistics involved with conducting safe and efficient missions.

2 Has the charter operator or broker undergone an onsite safety audit by an independent third-party organization?

When selecting a charter operator, it is prudent to research the audit history and ratings of the charter operator. Audit ratings may be found through the following third-party safety auditors; International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF), Aviation Research Group U.S. (ARG/US), & Wyvern. Most brokers and operators will provide an ARG/US Trip CHEQ report or a Wyvern Pass report showing that the flight has met industry standards.

3 Who has “operational control” of the aircraft?

Charter operators and charter brokers can easily be mistaken for one another.  Understanding the difference will help provide clarity about who is doing what throughout the charter experience. Charter operators have operational control – charter brokers do not. A charter operator directly manages, maintains, and crews aircraft made available for charter. To be an operator, an individual or organization must earn an operating certificate issued by the FAA. It is a rigorous process designed to provide a reliable operational standard of safety. Charter operators are required to continuously engage with the FAA to have every aircraft and pilot approved before an aircraft is made available for charter. Whether a trip is arranged through a charter broker or directly with an operator, if it’s a legitimate, legal charter, the flight will be delivered on a charter operator’s aircraft – and the charter operator will have “operational control”. 

4 Has the operator or broker been listed in any lawsuits or are they currently in litigation?

The past business history of any company can provide valuable insight into the way in which they conduct business.  Legal remedies are available for businesses to resolve difficult issues, however, companies with a track record of lawsuits and litigation justify closer scrutiny.

5 What experience do the pilots who will be flying the jet have?

Pilots for a legal charter operator must have at least 1,200 hours of total flight time. It is reasonable to ask the total flight hours of the crew and, perhaps more importantly, how many hours each crew member has in the specific make/model of the aircraft to be chartered. Industry auditors have recommendations about experience levels to look for with an aircraft crew. In addition, it’s helpful to know crew experience when comparing one operator to another.

6 How much liability insurance is carried on the jet?

An accepted industry norm for prospective jet charter clients is a minimum limit of $50 million ($50,000,000) combined single limit, bodily injury to passengers and property damage liability. However, more or less insurance coverage may be appropriate depending on your needs and the charter operator.

7 Can you provide an all-inclusive price quote?

Pricing a private charter trip can be made very simple by asking for an “all-in” price. Many operators will quote a net aircraft price or estimated price. Upon the completion of the trip fees are added, such as; pilot fees, stand-by time, holding pattern or diversion times, parking and ramp charges, landing fees, fuel surcharges, segment fees and a 7.5 percent federal excise tax. An all-in quote divided by the quoted hourly flight time will allow for clear comparison information between various quotes.

Recently, Pinnacle Aviation hosted a special reception, in partnership with three renowned luxury brands—Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, Dassault Falcon, and Penske Automotive Group—each inviting their exclusive VIP clientele. The Private VIP Hangar Event provided guests with a unique opportunity to explore the elegance and innovation of the Dassault Falcon 8X business jet, along with an impressive collection of luxury automobiles.

Staged within Pinnacle Aviation’s West hangar, the Dassault Falcon 8X commanded attention as the event’s centerpiece, illuminated in a space designed to inspire and impress. Just outside the hangar doors, five luxury vehicles from the Penske Automotive Group; Porsche, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin, and an Airstream camper van—were showcased, each positioned to draw guests in for a closer look.

As guests explored the Falcon 8X, Beatrice Ashe and her team from Dassault Aviation provided an expert insider perspective, sharing details about the jet’s advanced features, design, and performance. Nearby, Dave Wallace and his team from Penske Automotive Group engaged guests with stories and specs about each of the premium vehicles on display, making for an experience that was both informative and awe-inspiring.  Also, staged on the ramp, one of Pinnacle Aviation’s managed aircraft, the Embraer Phenom 300E also captured interest, with Pilot Paul Malavotte providing guests with insights into the jet’s features and capabilities.

The evening was filled with memorable touches that elevated the experience. A delicious spread by Scottsdale-based catering company, Atlasta, presented guests with a beautiful, assorted charcuterie, delicious empanadas & shrimp ceviche, and crafted specialty beverages. Enhancing the atmosphere further, electronic violinist, Jonathan, provided a dynamic musical backdrop that resonated throughout the hangar – and as the event drew to a close, a stunning full moon rose over the McDowell Mountains, adding a magical ambiance to the night.

As a parting gift, guests were treated to a luxury box of handcrafted chocolates from Scottsdale’s own Zak’s Handcrafted Chocolates, leaving them with a taste of elegance to remember the night by.

Click Here for event gallery

Fly Day 2024: Empowering Special Needs Children to Soar at Scottsdale Airport

Pinnacle Aviation was thrilled to once again take part in Fly Day, an annual event organized by Above & Beyond USA. This inspiring day provides special-needs children with the unique opportunity to take an airplane ride around the city, empowering them with confidence-building flight experiences.

Held this year at Scottsdale Airport, Fly Day offered transformative and uplifting moments for kids while engaging dedicated volunteers, pilots, and members of the Arizona aviation community.

For over 10 years, Ken Casey, Director of Aircraft Sales & Acquisitions at Pinnacle Aviation, has been an essential part of Fly Day’s success. Not only has he played a key role in organizing the event since its inception, but he also serves as a pilot, flying several children in his own Cirrus airplane. When asked how he became involved with Fly Day, Ken shared, “When I was approached years ago, I jumped at the chance to give back and help less fortunate children through the gift of flight.”

This year’s event was made possible by the dedication and leadership of Steve Snyder, the main organizer of Fly Day. His vision and efforts brought together an incredible community of volunteers and resources. Pinnacle Aviation was proud to see 10 of our employees volunteering—the highest turnout we’ve ever had.

Joining Ken Casey were 30 volunteer pilots, including key contributions from Sierra Charlie Flight School, which provided 6 airplanes, and the University of North Dakota, which contributed 2 airplanes. In total, 20 aircraft were made available to provide unforgettable flight experiences for the kids.

The shared effort created an uplifting and memorable day for each child who signed up to explore the skies and feel the thrill of flight. The joy and wonder sparked by the experience were evident. One child, stepping off a flight, declared, “It was the greatest day of my life.” Moments like this reflect the powerful impact Fly Day has on building self-esteem and confidence in the children it serves.

Fly Day’s legacy spans years and locations, having been previously hosted at airports such as Deer Valley and Mesa Gateway. Each year, Above & Beyond USA, a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, brings together a community of pilots, veteran advocates, and donors to make this experience possible. Together, they strive to uplift and inspire by turning dreams of flight into reality.

A gallery of photos from this year’s Fly Day at Scottsdale Airport is available HERE. We invite you to browse through and witness the joy, excitement, and smiles that made this day truly special.Interested in next year’s event? Click here for information about Fly Kids 2025.

Scottsdale, Arizona based Pinnacle Aviation, a premier provider of private jet charters, aircraft management, sales, and maintenance services, has long been at the forefront of aviation safety. 

On Tuesday, January 7, 2025, Pinnacle Aviation reached another significant milestone in its safety journey. The company sent its Letter of Declaration of Compliance, underscoring its adherence to the highest safety standards mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).  

When asked about sending the letter, Founder and President, Curt Pavlicek, said, “This milestone underscores our longstanding commitment to cultivating a culture of safety and operational excellence” 

This achievement aligns Pinnacle Aviation with the top 1% of private aviation industry leaders who have prioritized safety management systems (SMS) ahead of regulatory deadlines. 

Don Wade, Pinnacle Aviation’s Director of Safety, added, “Pinnacle Aviation became one of the first private aviation operators in the US to implement the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) nearly 11 years ago”.

ASAP is a voluntary, self-reporting initiative designed to identify and mitigate potential flight safety concerns. By encouraging employees to report safety issues, operational deficiencies, regulatory non-compliance, and unusual events, ASAP fosters a proactive safety culture within aviation organizations.

Pinnacle Aviation’s proactive approach to safety not only ensures compliance with current regulations but also positions the company as a benchmark for excellence in the aviation industry. By fostering a culture that encourages voluntary reporting and continuous improvement, Pinnacle Aviation exemplifies its unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of its clients and employees. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, Pinnacle Aviation remains dedicated to maintaining and enhancing its safety protocols, ensuring that it not only meets but exceeds the expectations of regulatory bodies and clients alike.

The Desert Mountain Foundation (DMF) and Scottsdale-based Pinnacle Aviation, in partnership with the Desert Mountain Golf Professionals and the Cactus Classic Golf Tournament, presented the 10th Annual Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge fundraising event with all proceeds donated to the DMF Scholarship Fund and Golf Staff Education Fund. 

The Cactus Classic and Putting Challenge was held on Monday, February 19, 2024 on the Outlaw Course. 

The Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge qualifier was set up on the practice green next to the starter’s shed before Hole #1. All 144 players in the tournament and 18 club pros competing in the Cactus Classic took part in the Putting Challenge qualifier and raffle. As each group advanced from the 18th green to the No. 1 tee box, they stopped at the practice green to take their putts to qualify for the head-to-head putting competition. Each participant was allowed 10 putt attempts and received a raffle ticket for each made putt. 

The raffle winner of the $500 gift certificate to Dominick’s Steak House went to Mr. Charles Bastian! 

The top 8 scores from the day qualified for the Putting Championship bracket – and the top 4 scores from the Professionals playing with each group qualified for the Pro Putting Championship bracket. There were an additional 8 qualifiers who made their putt attempts at several prequalifying sites during the three weeks prior. 

After the last group finished their tournament round, the putting competition began on the practice green outside the Outlaw Clubhouse. The format was a head-to-head single putt elimination tournament for both the players and the Club Professionals. The competitor whose putt came to rest closest to the hole advanced to the next round. The player’s competition began with a first-round putt of ~20-feet; the second-round putt was ~25-feet and the quarter-final putt set up just outside of 30-feet. Mr. Douglas Kanter and Mr. Ronald Towle advanced their way through their brackets to the final putt for the Championship set at ~35-feet. 

Mr. Towle putted first coming to rest about a foot past the hole. Mr. Kanter’s putt just missed the left lip and stopped 4.3 inches from the cup, to earn the title of 2024 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge Champion! 

The four club professionals then began their competition, and in the championship round for the pros, Sean Ferris edged out Aaron Whiteley for the win and title of 2024 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge Champion of the Pro Division. Sean and Aaron received a $500 gift card and $250 gift card, respectively, for dinner at Dominick’s Steakhouse or Ocean’s 44 in Scottsdale. 

Douglas Kanter’s championship win included a $500 book credit in the Desert Mountain Golf Shop and a beautifully inscribed silver-platted Champion’s trophy, along with adding his name to the Club Trophy in the CG Library. 

He also won an attempt at the 50-foot putt to win a 4-day all-expense paid, luxury private jet trip for Eight (8) to Bandon Dunes – including 5 rounds of golf, 8 private rooms in the Lodge, ground transportation and all food & beverage – valued at over $50,000! 

Mr. Kanter took two practice swings and put a solid, confident stroke on the 50-footer. The putt tracked a bit right to left on line toward the hole, the crowd began to cheer as the ball approached the cup and let out a loud, ‘OOOHHH!” as it went about an inch past the right side of the hole and stopped a few feet past. It was an outstanding attempt at the grand prize! 

Our enthusiastic congratulations to the 2024 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Champion – Mr. Douglas Kanter! 

Desert Mountain Foundation member, Nancy Besemer, recruited and coordinated the energetic group of volunteers who facilitated the logistics of the Putting Challenge. We are ever grateful for Nancy and the incredible support from the Desert Mountain community. 

And lastly, kudos to Peter Swanson, Head Professional at Outlaw, and his outstanding staff for their dedication and assistance in creating another excellent event. 

The Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge has contributed over $50,000 to the DMF scholarship fund. 

We are proud to announce the outstanding achievements of Douglas Young and the Arizona Business Aviation Association (AZBAA). The recognition they have received, including the NBAA Outstanding Excellence Award and the Regional Group of the Year award, is a testament to their dedication and hard work in promoting business aviation in Arizona. It’s also heartening to know that the organization is actively involved in supporting aspiring individuals through its scholarship program.

Douglas Young’s dual roles as a top aircraft salesperson at Pinnacle Aviation and President of the AZBAA highlight his commitment to the industry. With Douglas at the helm and his strong AZBAA organization’s collaborative efforts and the contributions of its board members, volunteers, and members have significantly contributed to its success. The support from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has undoubtedly been a crucial factor in AZBAA’s accomplishments.

Moving forward, it’s clear that AZBAA remains committed to its mission of promoting business aviation in Arizona and supporting those who wish to pursue a career in this field. It’s wonderful to see the dedication and passion of the AZBAA team and their determination to continue making a positive impact in the aviation industry. Such recognition is not only a source of pride for the organization but also a reflection of its significant contributions to the field of business aviation.

Those seeking to charter an aircraft often rely on their own research, or a charter broker’s knowledge, to evaluate the many charter operations and service options available to them. Like any other industry, not all charter operators deliver the same standards of safety and professionalism. To assist charter customers to identify competent operators, here are the charter industry’s established set of qualifications and operating metrics.

1 How long has the operator or broker been in business?

Experience is an important attribute in the aviation industry. An experienced organization will demonstrate and command a more competent understanding of FAA safety regulations as well as the myriad of logistics involved with conducting safe and efficient missions.

2 Has the charter operator or broker undergone an onsite safety audit by an independent third-party organization?

When selecting a charter operator, it is prudent to research the audit history and ratings of the charter operator. Audit ratings may be found through the following third-party safety auditors; International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO), Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF), Aviation Research Group U.S. (ARG/US), & Wyvern. Most brokers and operators will provide an ARG/US Trip CHEQ report or a Wyvern Pass report showing that the flight has met industry standards.

3 Who has “operational control” of the aircraft?

Charter operators and charter brokers can easily be mistaken for one another.  Understanding the difference will help provide clarity about who is doing what throughout the charter experience. Charter operators have operational control – charter brokers do not. A charter operator directly manages, maintains, and crews aircraft made available for charter. To be an operator, an individual or organization must earn an operating certificate issued by the FAA. It is a rigorous process designed to provide a reliable operational standard of safety. Charter operators are required to continuously engage with the FAA to have every aircraft and pilot approved before an aircraft is made available for charter. Whether a trip is arranged through a charter broker or directly with an operator, if it’s a legitimate, legal charter, the flight will be delivered on a charter operator’s aircraft – and the charter operator will have “operational control”. 

4 Has the operator or broker been listed in any lawsuits or are they currently in litigation?

The past business history of any company can provide valuable insight into the way in which they conduct business.  Legal remedies are available for businesses to resolve difficult issues, however, companies with a track record of lawsuits and litigation justify closer scrutiny.

5 What experience do the pilots who will be flying the jet have?

Pilots for a legal charter operator must have at least 1,200 hours of total flight time. It is reasonable to ask the total flight hours of the crew and, perhaps more importantly, how many hours each crew member has in the specific make/model of the aircraft to be chartered. Industry auditors have recommendations about experience levels to look for with an aircraft crew. In addition, it’s helpful to know crew experience when comparing one operator to another.

6 How much liability insurance is carried on the jet?

An accepted industry norm for prospective jet charter clients is a minimum limit of $50 million ($50,000,000) combined single limit, bodily injury to passengers and property damage liability. However, more or less insurance coverage may be appropriate depending on your needs and the charter operator.

7 Can you provide an all-inclusive price quote?

Pricing a private charter trip can be made very simple by asking for an “all-in” price. Many operators will quote a net aircraft price or estimated price. Upon the completion of the trip fees are added, such as; pilot fees, stand-by time, holding pattern or diversion times, parking and ramp charges, landing fees, fuel surcharges, segment fees and a 7.5 percent federal excise tax. An all-in quote divided by the quoted hourly flight time will allow for clear comparison information between various quotes.

The Annual AZBAA Golf event took place on Friday, April 27, 2023, at the prestigious Talking Stick Golf Club. This year, the event saw the continued support of Pinnacle Aviation, who returned as the Title Sponsor.

To kick off the festivities, a VIP sponsor reception was held on Thursday, April 26, at the impressive Jet Set Hangar, adding an exciting prelude to the main event. Attendees were treated to an exclusive evening mingling with industry leaders and aviation enthusiasts, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and camaraderie.

The golf event itself proved to be a resounding success, as it sold out for yet another year. The overwhelming response and support from the aviation community has prompted organizers to consider expansion for next year. One proposal is the inclusion of a second golf course, accommodating more participants and adding another layer of excitement about the tournament. Additionally, the tournament’s size would be doubled, further enhancing the potential impact on the scholarship fund.

The Annual AZBAA Golf event serves as a fantastic platform for networking, fostering relationships, and raising funds for its noble cause. It brings together aviation industry professionals, and sponsors who share a common goal of supporting educational opportunities for deserving applicants.

With Pinnacle Aviation’s continued commitment as the title sponsor and the event’s growing popularity, the future holds great promise for the future of the AZBAA.

Overall, the 2023 Annual AZBAA Golf event was a successful showcase for the Arizona aviation community.

Link to the gallery of photos from the 2023 event

The 2023 Arizona Tennis Classic took place between March 13th and 19th, at the Phoenix Country Club and once again Pinnacle Aviation supported the event as a sponsor.  This year’s event was an ATP Premium Challenger, part of the ATP Tour’s new and elite “Challenger 175” category.  The new Challenger 175 classification has been awarded to a handful of event sites worldwide the Arizona Tennis Classic stands alone as the lone event in the U.S.

Jonathan Levine, a Phoenix-native and former ATP Tour pro, founded and organized the tournament. He expressed his pride in bringing this level of competitive tennis to the Valley.

The event showcased many of today’s players ranked in the world’s Top 50 along with some of the brightest young talent in the sport, and total prize money increased more than 35% — to a Challenger record $220,000.

The event benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital and Serve the Future, which assists youth from underserved local communities through the sport of tennis.

Tournament Winner: Nuno Borges

2023 AZ Tennis Classic Tournament Summary

We congratulate Mr. Dan Grubb on another sold out field of golfers who competed in the 50th Annual Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf tournament at Camelback Golf Club in Paradise Valley, Arizona, continuing a philanthropic Grubb Family tradition spanning over five decades.  Pinnacle Aviation is proud to be a sponsor of this excellent event.

The tournament, which has gained recognition as one of Arizona’s most esteemed charity golf events, raises funds for St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and the Barrow Neurological Institute. 

This year marked the 50th year of the tournament returning to the Valley, April 27-28, kicking off with a VIP Reception at Evie’s Pavilion at Papago Golf Course on the tournaments’ eve, Thursday night. In addition to cocktails and dinner, attendees were invited to participate in lawn activities and a live auction. The golf tournament invites foursomes to 18 holes on one of JW Marriot Camelback Golf Club’s two scenic championship courses in Paradise Valley.

Watch this video of Dan Grubb, Roger Maxwell and others talk about the history and impact of this special event:

Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf Retrospective

The Desert Mountain Foundation (DMF) and Scottsdale-based Pinnacle Aviation, in partnership with the Desert Mountain Golf Professionals and the Cactus Classic Golf Tournament, presented the 9th Annual Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge fundraising event with all proceeds donated to the DMF Scholarship Fund and Golf Staff Education Fund. After being postponed twice due to weather, the Cactus Classic and Putting Challenge was finally held on Monday, February 20, 2023 on the Outlaw Course.

The Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge qualifier was set up on the practice green next to the starter’s shed before Hole #1.   All 72 players and 18 club pros competing in the Cactus Classic took part in the Putting Challenge qualifier and raffle.  As each group advanced from the 18th green to the No. 1 tee box, they stopped at the practice green to take their putts to qualify for the head-to-head putting competition. Each participant was allowed 10 putt attempts and received raffle tickets for each made putt.  The winner of the $500 gift certificate to Dominick’s Steak House went to Mr. Michael Shirk!

The top 8 scores from the day qualified for the Putting Championship – and the top 4 scores from the Professionals playing with each group qualified for the Pro Putting Championship.  There were an additional 8 qualifiers who made their putt attempts at several prequalifying sites during the three weeks prior.

After the last group finished their round, the putting competition began on the practice green outside the Outlaw Clubhouse.  The format was a head-to-head single putt elimination tournament for both the players and the Club Professionals.  The competitor whose putt came to rest closest to the hole advanced to the next round. 

The players competition began with a first-round putt of ~20-feet; the second-round putt was ~25-feet and the quarter-final putt set up just outside of 30-feet.  Mr. Mike Cima and Mrs. Karen Simmonds advanced their way through their brackets to the final putt for the Championship set at ~35-feet.

Both players made excellent putts, with Mr. Cima’s putt coming to rest just a few inches closer than Mrs. Simmonds’s putt, to win the title of 2023 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge Champion!

The four club professionals then began their competition, and in the championship round for the pros, Riley Hayfield edged out John-Michael Pilot for the win and title of 2023 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge Champion of the Pro Division. Riley and John-Michael received a $500 gift card and $250 gift card, respectively, for dinner at Dominick’s or Ocean’s 44 in Scottsdale. Mr. Cima’s win included a $500 book credit in the Desert Mountain Golf Shop, along with a beautifully inscribed silver-platted Champion’s trophy.

He also won an attempt at the 50-foot putt to win a 4-day all-expense paid, luxury private jet trip for Eight (8) to Bandon Dunes – including all 5 rounds of golf, 8 private rooms in the Lodge and all food & beverage – valued at over $50,000!

Mr. Cima took his time and assessed the green between his ball and the hole.  Just as he was about to putt, a jet flew overhead, and he stepped back to ask, “is that my jet?”.  The crowd laughed.  He set up to putt again and the crowd grew quiet.  Mr. Cima put a smooth stroke on the 50-footer.  The putt tracked directly on line toward the hole, the crowd began to cheer as the ball approached the cup and let out a loud, ‘OOOHHH!” as it slowed to a stop less than 2 inches from the front lip.  It was an outstanding attempt at the grand prize! Our enthusiastic congratulations to the 2023 Pinnacle Aviation Putting Champion – Mr. Mike Cima!

The Cactus Classic & Pinnacle Aviation Putting Challenge has now donated over $40,000 to the DMF scholarship fund.