Aviation Veterans Strengthen Team and Support Growth
San Francisco, CA and New York, NY (Sept 21, 2023) –
Solairus Aviation, a market-leading provider of aircraft management and related services, announced today that Jim Simpson and Scott Galdi have joined the company’s executive management team. The two industry veterans bolster the company’s leadership and bring unique knowledge and perspectives. Jim and Scott will support Solairus aircraft owners, helping to maintain and enhance the high level of informed, personalized service that they have come to expect.
“Solairus requires highly knowledgeable aviation professionals to serve our aircraft owners and support their flight crews to help deliver a safe, customized aircraft ownership experience” said Dan Drohan, CEO of Solairus. “Jim and Scott are highly respected executives who enhance our ability to serve our owners. We are thrilled to welcome individuals of their caliber to our team and are excited to work with them to better serve our clients and support the growth of our operation.”
Mr Simpson brings 40 years of finance and aviation experience to Solairus. Jim joined in May 2023 after a 17-year career at First Republic Bank, where he started and led their aviation finance group. His experience in the banking industry financing private aircraft for companies and individuals gives him tremendous knowledge in aircraft acquisitions, valuation, financing, tax structuring, ownership, and operations. Jim started flying in high school and has been passionate about the industry ever since. He is an NBAA, Certified Aviation Manager & Safety Management Certificate holder and was a VP & board member of the National Aircraft Finance Association. Jim graduated from Boston University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration.
“I have long admired Solairus and am excited to support our mission of delivering a safe, personal and reliable aircraft ownership experience to our customers,” said Mr Simpson. “The company’s focus on serving aircraft owners, and its open and transparent approach to business, aligns with my values and delivers excellent value to our customers. I look forward to utilizing my knowledge to help this company continue to evolve and grow.”
Scott Galdi joined Solairus in May 2023 and brings over 40 years of industry experience to Solairus. He has held leadership positions at
Flight Safety International, Executive Air Fleet amongst others during a distinguished career. He was also the President, CEO and Co-Owner of Atlantic Aviation Flight Services. Mr Galdi has been a member of the National Aviation Transportation Association – Air Charter Committee, Air Charter Safety Foundation Board, Wyvern Advisory Board and helped with the development of ARG/US certification programs. Scott has four children and lives with his wife in New Jersey.
“Solairus decentralized approach to aircraft management gives owners the best of all worlds – the personalized service of a small company with the buying power and operational excellence of the country’s leading management company,” stated Mr. Galdi. “It is not surprising that high performing companies, entrepreneurs and families entrust Solairus with their aircraft more than anyone else.”
About Solairus Aviation
Solairus is a US private aviation services company whose core business is assisting aircraft owners with the safe, reliable, and efficient management and operation of their aircraft. Our services are customized to meet the client’s individual travel and financial requirements, and to support their flight operation with the highest standards of safety and personalized service, regardless of the location of the aircraft.
Solairus was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area. Solairus has over 100 base locations nationwide, employing more than 2,300 flight crew and support personnel to operate a fleet currently numbering over 320 aircraft. Solairus is an IS-BAO Stage Three certified company and an Aviation Research Group/US Platinum-Rated and Wyvern Wingman certified charter operator. Solairus has also received the NBAA Commercial Business Flying Safety Award. Solairus offers a full range of services in addition to aircraft management, which includes aircraft charter sales, aviation support services, and consulting.