FAI Technik scoops Aviation Award for Project Pearl refurbishment
FAI Technik GmbH, the expanding German MRO supplier and part of the FAI Aviation Group was honoured in the 2021 Middle East Aviation Awards on 16th November when it scooped the Innovation in Engineering Category for its work on Project Pearl, a multi-million Euro refurbishment of a pre-owned Bombardier Global Express. Tim Callies, specialist aviation interior design partner was lead architect to the FAI team as they undertook one of the most challenging projects on a pre-owned business jet.
The Group’s Dubai-based Managing Director Barbara Baumgartner accepted the accolade at the Awards‘ Gala Evening, attended by senior aviation industry leaders, delighted to be reunited after months of travel restrictions. Barbara, who is marking 20 years with FAI, commented: “Not only was it terrific to accept this award on behalf of our super talented engineering team in Nuremberg, but it was wonderful to get back with friends and colleagues, celebrating a special evening, coinciding with the Dubai Airshow.”
It is the third award for the FAI Group this year. This month the Group received the prestigious Award for “Air Ambulance Company of the Year” from ITIJ Magazine, repeating the accolade originally given in 2020. FAI was also awarded the Pandemic Response Special Award in recognition of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“At a time when pre-owned larger business jets are increasing in value – buoyed by demand as a result of the global pandemic, we are very pleased to have made such an investment and are delighted to be recognised in this prestigious Middle East Aviation award,“ said FAI Chairman Siegfried Axtmann.
FAI Global Express Project Pearl (Registration D-AFAL) entered service in autumn 2020, the culmination of nearly 10,000 manhours‘ work. It has been lauded around the world by guests flying on business and leisure. The Global presents with a luxurious, new interior based on 12 VIP seats with two tone grey leather and two three seat sofas upholstered with Armani fabric. Heated, grey-white marble stone flooring was applied in the galley and VIP toilet areas and granite countertops in the galley and bathroom were appointed to match. Modern amenities installed included a wine cooler; barista coffee maker and oven..—
The interior was complemented by a striking customised exterior paint scheme in a striking black and white scheme, also designed by Tim Callies. FAI selected the latest cabin management and entertainment systems provided by Collins Aerospace’s newest VenueTM and Honeywell’s Ka-Band broadband technology.
About FAI Aviation Group
FAI Aviation Group operates Germany´s largest fleet of Bombardier business jets. The fleet includes five Global Express, six Challenger 604s and five Learjet 60s. FAI runs a 14,000 m² carbon-neutral fixed-base operation at its Nuremberg, Germany headquarters, employing a staff of close to 300 people, including 100 mechanics and engineers at its MRO`s in Nuremberg and Berlin. FAI´s Group expected revenues in 2024 will be more than € 140 m with a fleet utilization of more than 12,000 hours of flight time.
FAI was proud to receive the Diamond Safety of Flight Award from the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) in May 2018, marking the highest safety recognition awarded by EBAA to member companies operating business aircraft for 50 years or 100,000 hours without accident.
In 2019, FAI received a 10-year anniversary award from MEBAA, reflecting the fact that 20% of its flying activity is now in the Middle East and was honoured with an Aviation Annual Achievement Award, in recognition of its 30 years of air ambulance and special mission flying.
In 2012, 2020 and 2021 FAI received the prestigious Award “Air Ambulance Company of the Year” from ITIJ Magazine.
In 2021, FAI was awarded the Pandemic Response Special Award in recognition of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2022, FAI was awarded “20 years of Aviation Excellence in the Middle East” by MEA Business at the Aviation Innovation Awards.
In 2023, FAI was awarded “Air Ambulance Company of the Year” from Middle East Aviation Awards during Dubai Airshow.
FAI is “Official Partner” of the McLaren Formula 1 Team and “Exclusive Partner Business Aviation” of FC Bayern München.
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