Up Front

Greg Norman, one of the most successful pro golfers of all time, graces the cover of our first issue of the year. I had the privilege of interviewing him at his Palm Beach, Florida, headquarters, where he runs a multinational conglomerate that’s involved in everything from golf course design and real estate to apparel and wine.

All of our cover subjects are experienced business jet travelers, but it’s safe to say that few have been involved with bizav as long—or as enthusiastically—as Norman. He seems to have always intuited that business aircraft could help him succeed both on and off the golf course, and he is the only bizjet traveler I’ve ever encountered who doesn’t even remember the first time he flew privately—perhaps because he’s done so much private flying since then.

Jeff Wieand’s award-winning Taxes, Laws, and Finance column never disappoints, but “Will Business Jets Be Banned?” is a particularly timely and incisive piece that explores the climate-change challenges facing aviation. As is his custom, Wieand examines the issue from all angles, and he ultimately suggests that a swift conversion to sustainable aviation jet fuel (SAF) might be the best way for bizav to help address the climate crisis.

The increased use of sustainable fuel is, in fact, a goal for organizations such as the National Business Aviation Association as well as for many major aircraft manufacturers. I recently spoke at length with Gulfstream Aerospace president Mark Burns, and he talked about his company’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability and investment in SAF—and about his conviction that small steps by individuals offer the surest way to create lasting change.

Speaking of change, you’ll find lots of it detailed in this issue’s special section. It features James Wynbrandt’s look at the innovative lift providers that are defining the future of private air travel as well as his dissection of the latest offerings from charter, membership, and jet-card companies, including programs with one-way fixed pricing, no peak-day surcharges, and other new enticements.

Look for more special sections in upcoming issues. Our summer edition will incorporate our Aircraft Buyers’ Guide, which will offer expert advice and an updated directory of all popular business jets, turboprops, and helicopters. The fall issue will contain a report on cutting-edge cabin technology and furnishings while our winter edition will shine a spotlight on noteworthy new and upcoming aircraft models.

Please remember that our print magazine represents only a fraction of what we have to offer. At BJTonline.com, you’ll find hundreds of aircraft reviews, news items, blog posts, videos, interviews, and other features—including many must-read stories that never find their way into print. To make sure you don’t miss any of them, sign up for our free twice-weekly e-newsletter, BJT Waypoints (BJTonline.com/subscribe).