Background/Industry | Aircraft Sales Insights

An Emphasis on Relationships with an Operational and Technical Perspective – Dallas Jet International

January 5th, 2012 Posted in Background/Industry, Brad Harris

Jan , 05 20 12

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Dallas Jet International was selected to be featured National Aircraft Resale Association’s blog. Here’s the article:

Professionals who pride themselves on prioritizing the focus of each transaction appropriately own Dallas Jet International (DJI). Long-term relationships come first, business objectives second, and aircraft third. This long-term focus and emphasis on the people and business that the aircraft will be serving ensures that each decision is made in the best interest of the client, many of whom have relied on DJI to represent their interests in multiple aircraft transactions over many years.

DJI is owned and managed by former professional pilots and aircraft managers, who stay current and active during the free time away from the business. President and CEO, Brad Harris, and Managing Director of Aircraft Sales, Shawn Dinning, are experienced ATP pilots with current type ratings in 13 different aircraft from Citation 500 to Gulfstream G550, and over 13,000 flight hours between them. An aircraft sales professional with an operational and technical background can more fully assess and appreciate a particular aircraft’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks. Harris and Dinning use this depth of knowledge to their clients’ advantage.

DJI operates independently and is at liberty to transact within any make or model of aircraft. Their sole criteria is to ensure the best match with the client’s needs, exclusively representing buyers during aircraft acquisitions, thus preventing conflicts of interest. Harris and Dinning rely on excellent strategic market intelligence, ability to negotiate, and expertise with complex transaction structures for clients with diverse financial positions and strategies. They use the latest technology to research and list aircraft; and have cultivated an extensive network of industry relationships to find information and aircraft unavailable to many competing brokers and agents.

DJI has managed numerous aircraft in the past, and continues to manage aircraft for certain local clients. DJI clients now have access to one of the industry leading charter/management and maintenance operations with DJI’s announcement of its brand new business alliance with Pentastar Aviation, a large Pontiac, Michigan-based Charter/Management and MRO (maintenance) company. While brokering aircraft transactions is a large part of DJI’s business, the purchase of aircraft into inventory for resale is becoming an increasingly big part. DJI is putting the message out to owners, brokers, banks, etc, that we are in the market to buy aircraft, including trade-ins and repossessions.

“Buyers and sellers need expert representation in the business aircraft marketplace,” explains Brad Harris. “We manage the complexities of the process from start to finish to our clients’ advantage. While we are often labeled as ‘brokers,’ our clients call us ‘trusted consultants’ who rely on us to buy, sell or manage their aircraft in a manner that meets their objectives with the best possible financial results.” Shawn Dinning adds, “Never underestimate the value of a reputable broker. Our clients benefit from the fact that aircraft buyers and sellers (who are not represented by DJI) prefer to work with clients represented by DJI because they know they will have a smooth transaction process.” Dinning advises anyone who is hiring a broker to really get to know that firm’s background, aviation experience, and reputation within the industry.

Founded by Brad Harris in 2001, Dallas Jet International joined the National Aircraft Resale Association (NARA) in 2008. DJI’s clients benefit from the global collective knowledge, and the industry benefits from the ideals of the group, which defines and maintains the highest professional standards.

For more information about Dallas Jet International and their capabilities, visit their website at www.dallasjet.com or call the Southlake, TX, office at 817.328.2900 or the Dallas, TX, office at 214.459.3303.

national aircraft resale association

Fact or Fiction? “Buying an Older Airplane Can Save Me A Ton of Money!”

December 14th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry, Shawn Dinning

Dec , 14 20 11

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You’ll find that in today’s market it is possible to buy a Gulfstream III for under three million. Buying an older airplane sounds really attractive, until you learn that your first major inspection is going to cost you $500,000 to $1 million; whereas a newer Gulfstream IV will have a purchase price of seven million but your first major inspection might only cost $250,000. (These numbers are estimates only. They can and will vary).

As a rule, older aircraft have more expensive inspection requirements. Newer aircraft cost more initially in purchase price but are less expensive to keep and to fly.

Buying an Older Airplane Is Not Always a Bargain

We’re certainly not “anti-old airplane,” because in some cases these can represent a really great value. There might be five Gulfstream IVs on the market today that have dropped below the unthinkable price of $7 million, , but four out of the five aircraft will have underlying drawbacks that could cost the new owner significant amounts of money in either maintenance or lost residual value when the airplane sells

One of our jobs is to help you balance current value with future burden. It can make sense to buy an older aircraft with higher operating costs. You have to do the math, and really project into the future to determine what inspections may become a liability and how your utilization of the airplane overlaps those milestone inspections. Dallas Jet International’s leadership and technical consulting staff are all highly trained and experienced in mitigating these risks for purchasers of older aircraft. Make no mistake, the older aircraft, if they are quality, can be some of the best deals in the global marketplace.

If you are considering the purchase of an older pre-owned aircraft, it can be a great deal for you. Prices on older but quality pre-owned aircraft are at historic lows. However, don’t go it alone. With representation from a firm like Dallas Jet International that possesses sound guidance, technical oversight, and negotiating experience, you will ensure that you are not making a multi-million dollar buying blunder.

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Mr. Dinning acquired his formal education at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in the areas of Operations Research and Management Science and also holds a degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Mr. Dinning brings 16 years of aviation experience from a variety of aviation disciplines, including FAR 91, FAR 121, FAR 135, defense, and shared ownership sectors. A former full-time professional pilot, Mr. Dinning holds a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and is type-rated in the Gulfstream V/G550/G500/G450/G400/G350/G300, Bombardier CRJ-200, and Citation 510 Mustang. He has logged over 5500 flight hours, with 3500 of those hours in corporate turbine aircraft. Mr. Dinning has been consulted in publications such as Business & Commercial Aviation on various issues related to turbine aircraft transactions.

Mr. Dinning brings to Dallas Jet International a rare and highly valuable skill set of operational and business acumen, and has become a leader in the professional marketing and procurement of corporate turbine aircraft all around the globe. He also specializes in aircraft mission analysis, aircraft valuation, and cash flow and operating cost analysis for private aircraft owners. Mr. Dinning has a track record of successful transactions that is well known amongst his clients and colleagues. His reputation for intelligent and meticulous management of aircraft transactions have made him one of the most respected aircraft brokers in the industry.

older aircraft

Pentastar Aviation expands aircraft brokerage services

November 17th, 2011 Posted in Background/Industry

Nov , 17 20 11

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pentastar Aviation expands aircraft brokerage services

Waterford, Mich. – Pentastar Aviation is proud to announce a strategic alliance with Dallas Jet International, LP., a premier aircraft brokerage firm. The alliance allows Pentastar to enhance their range of aircraft sales and acquisition services previously available to customers.

“The world of aircraft sales and acquisitions is constantly changing,” said Rick Maloney, President & CEO, Pentastar Aviation. “Dallas Jet International, LP., understands the global nature of the market and how to provide flexible, efficient service that caters to each customer’s specific needs.”

“We’re proud to have the opportunity to work with Pentastar Aviation,” said Brad Harris, President & CEO, Dallas Jet International, LP. “Their reputation for service excellence and longevity in the business aviation industry speaks for itself. We look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship.”

Enhanced aircraft brokerage services also create the opportunity for Pentastar to connect with a wider range of aviation companies. Both Pentastar and Dallas Jet are planning to work together with industry peers to create optimal solutions for individuals in the business aircraft market.

“By offering an increased range of aircraft brokerage services, we are able to continue to forge new relationships with customers and other brokers,” Maloney said. “From selection of aircraft, pre-buys and management to fractional leases, sales and disposition, we are fully equipped to address all of our customers’ aircraft needs.”

In addition to increased aircraft brokerage service capabilities, Pentastar continues to offer aircraft management, charter, maintenance, avionics and FBO services.

About Pentastar

For nearly 50 years, Pentastar Aviation has been a leader in the world of business aviation. Pentastar Aviation provides award-winning aircraft maintenance, aircraft management services, aviation advisors, avionics design/installation/repair and aircraft charter through Pentastar Aviation Charter, Inc. Pentastar’s repair station received Airframe Class 3 and 4 Ratings from the FAA in January 2009 and boasts one of the most expansive and well-equipped facilities in the nation. Pentastar’s world-class FBOs at Oakland County International and Van Nuys Airports provide exceptional customer service and amenities to regional, continental and global travelers.

About Dallas Jet International, LP.

Our unrelenting focus is on the buying and selling of business aircraft in an international marketplace. The purchase or sale of an aircraft requires the utmost in deliberation and risk management. While we are often labeled brokers, our clients call us trusted consultants. Our knowledge of the aviation industry, aircraft systems and equipment, and day-to-day market conditions is unparalleled. Our combined experience of over 100 years in corporate aviation speaks for itself. Join Dallas Jet International as we move into the aviation future and raise the bar in aircraft transaction consultation and aircraft brokerage. All of our clients hire us for one reason: they trust us to provide sound strategies and guidance in the purchase or sale of their business aircraft. We are committed to integrity and intense customer focus and our expertise is unmatched in the world of aircraft transactions. We challenge all of our prospective clients to spend time with competing firms and then to spend time with us. We know that if you give us the opportunity to serve you, it will become a lifetime relationship in the very exciting world of aircraft ownership.

PENTASTAR AVIATION

Intelligently Using Technology to Sell Aircraft

September 29th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry, Brad Harris

Sep , 29 20 11

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Everything Dallas Jet International does revolves around building relationships through the process of buying, selling and asset management. These days, even building relationships involves intelligently using technology to sell aircraft.

Most purchasers use the Internet for research before making a purchase. We’ve mentioned in previous articles that prospective buyers are much more informed when they contact us.

We have a comprehensive system that builds a relationship online with several online “touchpoints” so that a customer for a particular aircraft has several opportunities to find what he is looking for, interact with us, and become comfortable with our business before he calls us on the telephone (or sends an email) to express interest in an aircraft.

Forrester Research, March 2011

For our potential buyers (and sellers) convenience, we have a robust online presence.

A Comprehensive Online Marketing System

Of course, there are many choices available for listing an aircraft online. Although DJI has many years of experience in aircraft sales, we are constantly learning about developments in sales and marketing research, and we work with strategic partners such as ABCI to keep up to date with changes in technology to facilitate the sales process. We don’t pursue every new social media site or technique, but we carefully consider, and then invest, in proven, powerful channels.

Our website, www.DallasJet.com, is the center of our online marketing system. We updated the site in September, 2011 to use the latest technology to sell aircraft.

Your aircraft has a unique story. You have invested in maintenance and upgrades to keep it in top condition. You certainly don’t want to simply list it in a huge database of aircraft that displays “cookie cutter” listings of your aircraft along with hundreds of others.

DJI ensures that your aircraft is highlighted with an exclusive, customized listing – rather than being merely one among many of a particular aircraft type with a limited description and display options, DJI has invested in technology capable of “telling the story” of a unique aircraft with images and video, as well as words.

DJI Website listing

The DJI image gallery shows up to sixteen photos of a particular aircraft, and provides viewers with photo selection and expansion capability.

Images from our website are larger and higher resolution than most sites allow.

DJI also has the ability to feature video “tours” and floor plans on the listing page, and to customize the text of a listing to include as much information as needed to ensure buyers have a complete understanding of the value of your aircraft.

Blog – Aircraft Sales Insights.

Since January 2011, our site is supplemented by a blog with valuable biweekly articles such as this one. These articles have been mentioned in leading publications such as the AviationWeek Business Aviation Blog.

People who read our articles see us as a trusted source of information on the aircraft market. This leads to conversations where we can introduce them to the ideal aircraft for their situation.

Articles include:

Google and Facebook Usage Skews Young and Affluent.

Both Google and Facebook attract young, affluent, and educated Americans in large numbers, according to results of a new USA Today/Gallup poll. Each counts more than half of those under 50, those with college degrees, and those making more than $90,000 a year among their users.
Men and women use Facebook equally, but men use Google more. Gallup data indicates men (42%) are about as likely as women (45%) to have a Facebook page. However, men (63%) are 12.5% more likely than women (56%) to say they visit Google in a given week. Overall, 40% more US adults say they use Google in a typical week (60%) than have a Facebook page (43%).

However, as mentioned above, both sites have substantially higher usage rates with younger, wealthier and educated Americans. For example, among 18-to-29-year-olds, 83% use Google in a typical week and 73% have a Facebook page. Those respective figures drop to 34% and 17% among Americans age 65 and older.

(Source – Marketing Charts, February 2011 – http://www.marketingcharts.com/direct/google-facebook-users-skew-young-affluent-and-educated-16173/)

We use the latest search engine optimization (SEO) technology and page coding techniques to optimize each listing, not just our site as a whole.

We also list each aircraft on our popular Facebook page.

Dallas Jets International Facebook Listing

DJI also sends a biweekly email newsletter that includes an introduction or excerpt from a blog article written on a topic of interest to the business aviation market.

We feature your aircraft for sale on Facebook and Twitter, two channels that expand the reach of our marketing efforts and interact with potential buyers.

Dallas Jet International Listing on Twitter

DJI doesn’t put faith in mere numbers of Twitter followers, but we’ve found that respected aviation and luxury market Twitter indices such as GlobalAir Business Aviation and PriveAccess include Dallas Jet International’s Twitter streams among their sources of information.

Biweekly Email Newsletter

We feature your aircraft in a popular emailed newsletter that we send to those people who have requested it.

Unlike purchased “blasts” which have very low open rates, the DJI emailed newsletter includes a mix of articles and aircraft listings. Each newsletter is personalized, and includes a synopsis of one of our blog articles, as well as the aircraft listings.

Dallas Jet International Email Newsletter

We use sophisticated technology to track the number of “opens” and “clicks” for each email. Detailed reports enable us to pinpoint (and follow up with) buyers interested in particular aircraft types.

Being Where We Need to Be, In-Person

All of this technology counts for nothing without the sales expertise and know-how to take the sale to the next step. We are on-site, in person, for every inspection, test flight and closing.

Our clients and customers come back to us many times to buy, sell, trade or manage their aircraft as their needs change over the years, because we place the emphasis on the long-term relationship rather than the short-term transaction.

Technology doesn’t change our priorities or our principles; it merely facilitates the process of finding the right people for the right aircraft. It also makes it easier for us to spend our time where it is the most important – building trusted relationships with our clients.

Brad Harris

Brad Harris is founder and CEO of Dallas Jet International. Mr. Harris holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Aviation and Airway Science and a Masters Degree in human resources from Louisiana Tech University. Mr. Harris entered the aviation industry in 1989 as a corporate pilot for a Fortune 500 corporation. In 1993, he started a successful aircraft leasing and renting company which expanded to a successful aircraft management company in 1995. In 1993, Mr. Harris began his aircraft sales career and, in a very rapid fashion, became one of the most highly respected aircraft brokers in the World. In 1998, Mr. Harris started an aircraft sales, consulting, and brokerage company that is known today as Dallas Jet International. Mr. Harris is a current airline transport pilot who is type-rated in ten (10) different jet aircraft including the Gulfstream 550, 450, 350, GV, GIV, GIII, GII, Hawker 125, Falcon 10, Citation 550/500, Beechjet 400, 400A, Lockheed Jetstar II, Diamond Jet and King Air 300/350. In the many different aircraft markets, Mr. Harris parlays extensive hands-on knowledge and experience into clear results for his clientele. In addition to Mr. Harris maintaining a career focus on aircraft sales, he also has extensive experience in aviation consulting and management. Included on his client list are several clients for whom Mr. Harris and his firm have set up flight departments, consisting of aircraft crewing, aircraft management, aircraft maintenance and aircraft operating budgets. He and the firm are currently managing a Gulfstream V, a Gulfstream IV, a Falcon 50, a Citation II, a Citation ISP, a Citation Mustang, a Hawker 400XP, and two King Air 350’s.What most people do not know about Mr. Harris is that he possesses significant entrepreneurial experience in real estate and commercial insurance. This business experience, combined with his unparalleled experience in all facets of corporate aviation, has been the foundation of success for Dallas Jet International and its clients.

aircraft listings, sell aircraft, technology intelligently

Market Volatility and Your Aircraft Purchase Decisions

August 15th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Cost, Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry, Shawn Dinning

Aug , 15 20 11

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With the last week of market volatility in Wall Street and across the globe, I have been asked where the aircraft market is going, and what aircraft buyers and sellers should be considering as we approach the home stretch of this year. While I don’t ever say I can predict the future, my response to my clients’ inquiries on the future involves a major discussion of market volatility, including where we are and where we’ve been.

Market Volatility in The Last Three Years

The height of the bubble that was the aircraft market was reached in early 2008. Since early 2008, most markets have been in a steady, and sometimes rapid, decline. While there is frequent discussion on the major causes of this market decline, allow me to review some raw numbers with you. Below are average aircraft “Basic Selling Prices” as recorded in Q1 of 2008 and then in Q2 of 2011. These prices are average, and I must advise you that aircraft were selling at higher and lower prices than the averages listed here, but these numbers are certainly good reference points.

	Q1 2008	Q2 2011	% Change
1998 Gulfstream V	$40,750,000	$22,000,000	-46%
2002 Gulfstream V	$45,500,000	$26,000,000	-43%

2004 G550	$54,000,000	$37,000,000	-31%
2007 G550	$58,000,000	$41,000,000	-29%

2001 Falcon 900EX	$34,800,000	$19,500,000	-44%
2007 Falcon 900EX	$42,900,000	$28,000,000	-35%

2001 Falcon 2000	$22,200,000	$11,000,000	-50%
2007 Falcon 2000EX EASy	$34,000,000	$20,000,000	-41%

2001 Bombardier Global	$45,000,000	$25,000,000	-44%
2007 Bombardier Global XRS	$60,000,000	$39,000,000	-35%

2001 Hawker 800XP	$8,900,000	$4,000,000	-55%
2007 Hawker 850XP	$13,300,000	$7,000,000	-47%

2001 Lear 60	$8,100,000	$4,100,000	-49%
2007 Lear 60XR	$12,500,000	$6,900,000	-45%

2001 Citation Excel	$8,500,000	$4,000,000	-53%
2007 Citation XLS	$12,200,000	$6,900,000	-43%

2005 Citation CJ3	$7,200,000	$4,600,000	-36%
2008 Citation CJ3	$8,000,000	$5,700,000	-29%

As you can see, aircraft values have dropped dramatically over the last 3 years. In some cases, values have dropped over 50% from their 2008 highs. “Market Correction” is an understatement.

When people see these numbers, they are often shocked. Aircraft owners and aircraft lenders have been hurt significantly by these value decreases. Aircraft buyers, especially first time buyers who do not currently own an aircraft, are almost giddy about buying an aircraft that is 40% cheaper than it was three years ago.

Are We At the Bottom?

A very common question for me is whether we are at the bottom of the market. The question is difficult for me to answer, as the market has segmented itself. Markets with the most momentum are 5 year old and younger large cabin aircraft such as the Gulfstream G550 and the Bombardier Global XRS. These markets have shown a clear bottom, mostly in the latter part of 2009, and have stabilized at prices above the 2009 bottoms. Markets that are still in a decline are all of the aircraft that are 20 years and older. Even in markets such as the Lear 60 and Hawker 800XP, significant oversupply is making it difficult for prices to show any signs of appreciation in the near future.

Taking a Step Back – Looking At the Market Opportunity

In particular, aircraft buyers should take a look at this market from a broader historical perspective. Are prices going to go lower? In some markets, there is clear data that prices hit bottom over a year ago. In other markets, they may. But, in ALL markets, prices have made a major correction, in some cases over a 50% correction. If anyone is seriously in the market, this could be just the right opportunity to secure a tremendous deal within the historical context of the market. Moreover, the quality aircraft will always sell first. So, this could very well be the time to take the “pick of the litter” in many depressed aircraft markets.

In future articles, I will take some time and look at individual aircraft markets, showing you how a particular market is behaving in the context of the broader market.

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Aircraft Finance Update – Availability of Funds Increasing in International Markets, Lenders Still Want “Skin in the Game”

May 12th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Cost, Background/Industry, Shawn Dinning

May , 12 20 11

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I just returned from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where DJI attended the annual National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) meeting and conference. Here’s what I observed this year.

As one might expect, the core attendance of this conference includes most of the major players in the aircraft finance arena. Banks, capital companies, private equity firms, and finance brokers were all in strong attendance. Some people asked me why an aircraft broker/dealer would go to a finance conference. The answer is that the two specialties are highly reliant upon each other. The availability and adaptability of aircraft lending makes such a significant impact on the transactions of which I am a part. Part of the value that DJI adds to the transaction process for our clients that we understand the options and the constraints of the aircraft finance space, so we found this conference highly valuable to our organization and our clients.

Having said all of that, these were some of my impressions from the recent event:

Appetite to Lend Money: Despite the fact that most of DJI’s transactions have had buyers who were paying cash, it was very evident to me that most of the aircraft lenders out there are looking for more business and looking to grow their portfolios. This is good news for all involved in aviation. As the supply of financing makes a comeback, aircraft prices will stabilize, and in certain markets, show signs of gradual increase.

Wide Scope of Lending Solutions: While some lenders might suggest that they have a financing solution for almost everyone, one of the big themes of the conference was that, while no single lender can appeal to all aircraft buyers, there is enough variation between the focal points of the various lenders, that almost any reasonable financing need can be met. In other words, whether your next planned transaction is a $50 million large cabin aircraft, or a $2 million turbo-prop finance lease, there are professionals in the lending space who focus on that area of aircraft finance and who want to earn your business, assuming that you are credit-worthy. The one exception is that most lenders are still shying away from aircraft older than 25 years.

“Skin in the game” is essentially mandatory in this credit market. In other words, most loan structures that lenders are comfortable with are going to require the borrower to advance 15% to 30% of the transaction value, and in some unique cases, 50%. Keep in mind that back in 2007, some lenders were advancing 110% of the transaction value so that buyers could take the excess advance and apply it to aircraft improvements!

International Market: Most of the lenders are focused on the international marketplace and are vocal about the fact that the international marketplace is where much of the growth is going to happen in the business aircraft segment. Here in the US, this is important to the sellers, as many of the future buyers on DJI’s US listings are going to be from another country, and many of them are going to need financing to make the deal happen. Brazil, China, India, and Russia are all showing signs of significant growth in their appetites for business aircraft.

Overall, the conference was an excellent event, and one which left the DJI team cautiously optimistic. If any of you out there have questions about financing as it relates to the purchase or sale of a business aircraft, please do not hesitate to call me. I would enjoy the opportunity to chat with you.

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

aircraft finance, aircraft lenders, aircraft lending

Where Brad Harris is Coming From, And Where Dallas Jet International is Going

January 20th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry, Brad Harris

Jan , 20 20 11

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Brad Harris of Dallas Jet International specializes in ensuring an airplane for sale meets his client's needs We will be publishing articles to this site that will have high value for you when you buy, sell, lease, or engage a company to manage your aircraft.

Of course, articles that you read on the internet are only as credible as the person behind them, so I’ll start by introducing myself. I’ll give you a thumbnail sketch of my background and the genesis of Dallas Jet International. I’ll also discuss the major influencing factors for the way I do business.

Before Dallas Jet International, there was . . .

My name is Brad Harris, and I got into this business by way of several other businesses and fields. I went through three and a half years of architectural school and discovered that wasn’t what I wanted to do, so I changed majors and graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aviation and Airway Science.

I followed that by earning a Master’s Degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology /Human Relations and Supervision.

After teaching Aircraft Electrical Systems for Louisiana Tech for 2 quarters, I started working with International Paper as a corporate pilot. The Chief Pilot, a gentleman by the name of Jim Cook became one of four mentors who were really instrumental in my life. After I told Jim about my plans to start another company leasing airplanes, he agreed to let me fly without assigning the usual administrative duties, since I wanted to devote time to my new venture.

I began leasing aircraft about the same time I was flying with International Paper. Within three or four months, my leasing company was profitable, so I left my position there to operate Brad Harris Aviation, Inc.

I operated Brad Harris Aviation, Inc. for a little more than a year when one of my customers asked me to help him buy an aircraft, which I did. He later asked – “What do I do about a crew, and maintenance?” That started the aircraft management business – we hired pilots and handled maintenance starting in 1993. Then another customer wanted to buy his own aircraft; we helped him, and at his request, we managed his crew and maintenance as well.

We eventually grew into three different organizations

Brad Harris Aviation, Inc.
Aviation Management Inc.
Sky Air Aviation, LLC.

A Wide Variety of Business Experience

As we continued to grow, we invested in real estate, a restaurant as an owner, built a subdivision and some spec houses. This range of experience helps me to really understand our clients, and the needs and pressures they experience in the many different types of businesses they operate.

Moving to Dallas, and the start of Dallas Jet International

I sold three airplanes to a gentleman in Dallas. He asked me to move to Dallas to manage his aircraft. I moved from Fairhope, Alabama to Dallas in 2002 and combined those companies into Dallas Jet International.

At Dallas Jet International, we currently have six divisions

Aircraft Sales (we buy and sell aircraft)
Aircraft Brokerage (we represent buyers and sellers)
Aircraft Management
Aviation Insurance
Aircraft Leasing
Aircraft Consulting

The Sales Division purchases aircraft for dealer inventory. We purchase aircraft from manufacturers, brokers, companies and individuals.

The Brokerage division represents the buyer side, or the seller, or we may do both with one customer. Some of our clients call and say “Brad, I’m interested in selling our airplane and buying another.” We are able to represent that client for the sale and the following acquisition.

Insurance, Leasing and Consulting will be the topics of future articles.

Operational Brokers and Experienced, Type-Rated Pilots

What sets us apart from the industry is that we are operational aircraft brokers.

We obviously understand the market and the costs, but we also understand the flight characteristics and operational parameters because we are type rated (or we become type rated) in aircraft we manage. When a customer calls us and says “We want to buy a certain airplane,” Shawn and I are able to look at the situation as a businessperson sees it, and also as a pilot sees it. I may only get to fly it infrequently, but I learn to really understand how to manage that aircraft type.

When our maintenance guy calls and tells us “We have a problem with this aircraft,” I understand the systems of the airplane. I have an understanding of what is necessary to control costs and to really diagnose what the airplane needs from a management and sales perspective.

There are a lot of “book brokers.” When you call them and ask “What are the operational differences between a Gulfstream IVSP versus a Gulfstream V?” they will read to you from a book or a computer program. I currently have 10 type ratings and I am type rated in the Gulfstream 550, 450, 350,the GV, the GIV, the GIII, and the GII. Of course, we also have the book; but the hands-on experience is even more relevant from a sales perspective.

A Detailed Process

We take ownership of the transaction, and the fiduciary responsibility to protect or buyer’s or seller’s interests. We take this responsibility very seriously and have developed a detailed process to ensure a flawless transaction.

Our process includes contracts, maintenance, delivery, insurance, and all other technical processes. Our company goal is to build relationships for a lifetime. We’re aircraft market specialists, in the relationship business. We oversee an extensive transaction process that could include asset acquisition, refit, management and/or sales.

The Future of Buying and Selling Aircraft

Ten years ago, buying or selling an aircraft was an entirely in-person, across the table, shake your hand experience. Now, there is a lot of technology involved. Buyers do research on the Internet, and we’re using social media to stay connected for the convenience of our buyers and sellers.

We have to understand where the market is and how to adapt to make the process more convenient and efficient for our buyers and sellers, without taking away from the trusted in-person relationships and sales skills that will always be necessary.

We use the Internet, social media, and digital marketing so that our company will always be a trendsetter.

This blog is an example of how we reach out to provide information that is more convenient for you. Please join us here often, feel free to comment on what you read, or give us a call if you have a question, concern or would like assistance with an aircraft transaction.

Brad Harris

brad harris, brad harris aviation, dallas jet international

Dallas Jet International Partners with ABCI to Promote Jet Consultancy

January 6th, 2011 Posted in Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry

Jan , 06 20 11

1 Comment »

Press Release

Dallas Jet International Partners with ABCI to Promote Jet Consultancy

Experienced and thorough consultants for sales and acquisitions of aircraft.

January 6, 2010 – Aviation Business Consultants International (ABCI) today announced that they have been engaged as a marketing partner for Dallas Jet International (DJI.)

“Although there are many brokers in the aviation market, we’ve not found consultants who are more qualified. Dallas Jet International has unmatched relationships, accreditations and ratings in more aircraft, with more years of experience.“ said Paula Williams of ABCI. “We are very choosy about our clients. Everything that has been said about DJI has been positive, which is not the case with all acquisition and sales consultants. There are not many that exercise the kind of thoroughness and care that Brad Harris and Shawn Dinning put into every transaction. They insist on being personally present for inspections and showings, and they have a 100-point checklist for every transaction! I look forward to learning from them.” said Williams.

“We recognized the need to communicate with our customers in new ways. Most Global Fortune 100 companies are using Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. More than half of NBAA members are using Facebook regularly. Because we’ve always been an innovator in marketing aircraft, we are very interested in the powerful new tools that ABCI brings to the service we offer our clients.” said Brad Harris of DJI. “We were initially looking to hire an internal resource to manage this type of marketing, but ABCI offered a unique set of skills, together with aviation experience and contacts that we could not find after seven months of interviewing.”

Dallas Jet International has launched a blog, Aircraft Sales Insights. (https://aircraftsalesinsights.com) as well as consumer assistance channels on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Articles are written by founder and CEO Brad Harris and Director of Sales and Acquisitions Shawn Dinning and will include topics of interest to aircraft owners, such as:

How to choose the right aircraft
How to find the best aircraft from on market and off-market options
Key points of the negotiation process
Demystifying Contracts, Letters of Intent and the Purchase Agreement
Points to consider – tax consequences of aircraft purchase decisions
What to look for in pre-buy inspections
Records to check (A.D.s, maintenance schedule, etc.)
Choosing the best Escrow Service
What you should know about bills of sale
What’s expected during Acceptance & Delivery
In what state (or country) should you register your aircraft?

Dallas Jet International’s blog offers straight answers on the often-obscure topic of aircraft sales and acquisition.

About ABCI LLC

Aviation Business Consultants International (ABCI) specializes in marketing for the aviation industry, including business and general aviation. Paula Williams is a contributor to the Forbes business aviation blog Wheels Up and the author of Flight Plan to Sales Success – New Media Marketing in the Aviation Industry.

About Dallas Jet International Inc. (DJI)

Dallas Jet International focuses on buying and selling business aircraft in the international marketplace. DJI holds a membership in the stringent National Aircraft Resale Association. Clients include GE Capital, U.S. Bank, Starwood Group and Moody National Companies. DJI’s principals have more than 100 years of experience in corporate aviation.

All other company and product names and logos are trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

Please direct all press inquiries to:

Paula Williams

Marketing

ABCI

2248 Meridian Blvd Suite H

Minden NV 89423

702-987-1679

Paula.williams@AviationBusinessConsultants.com

www.AviationBusinessConsultants.com

Full-resolution images and interviews are available with the following:

Brad Harris, Founder and CEO

Mr. Harris holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Professional Aviation and Airway Science and a Masters Degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology and Human Resources from Louisiana Tech University. Mr. Harris entered the aviation industry in 1989 as a corporate pilot for a Fortune 500 corporation. In 1993, he started a successful aircraft leasing and renting company which expanded to a successful aircraft management company in 1995. In 1993, Mr. Harris began his aircraft sales career and, in a very rapid fashion, became one of the most highly respected aircraft brokers in the World. In 1998, Mr. Harris started an aircraft sales, consulting, and brokerage company known today as Dallas Jet International. Mr. Harris holds a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and is type-rated in ten (10) different jet aircraft including the Gulfstream 550, 450, 350, GV, GIV, GIII, GII, Hawker 125, Falcon 10, Citation 550/500, Beechjet 400, 400A, Lockheed Jetstar II, Diamond Jet and King Air 300/350.

Included on his client list are several clients for whom Mr. Harris and his firm have set up flight departments, consisting of aircraft crewing, aircraft management, aircraft maintenance and aircraft operating budgets. He and the firm are currently managing a Gulfstream V, a Gulfstream IV, a Falcon 50, a Citation II, a Citation ISP, a Citation Mustang, a Hawker 400XP, and two King Air 350’s. Mr. Harris has also acquired significant entrepreneurial experience in real estate and commercial insurance. This business experience, combined with his unparalleled experience in all facets of corporate aviation, has been the foundation of success for Dallas Jet International and its clients.

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Mr. Dinning acquired his formal education at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in the areas of Operations Research and Management Science and also holds a degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Mr. Dinning brings 12 years of aviation experience from a variety of aviation disciplines, including FAR 91, FAR 121, FAR 135, defense, and shared ownership sectors. A former full-time professional pilot, Mr. Dinning holds a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and is type-rated in the Challenger 600 and Citation 510 Mustang. He has logged over 5000 flight hours, with 3000 of those hours in corporate turbine aircraft.

Mr. Dinning is a leader in the professional marketing and procurement of corporate turbine aircraft all around the globe. He also specializes in aircraft mission analysis as well as cash flow and operating cost analysis for private aircraft owners.

Dallas Jet International Inc. can be found online at:

Website: www.DallasJet.com

Blog: www.AircraftSalesInsights.com

Twitter www.Twitter.com/DallasJet or @DallasJet

Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Dallas-Jet-International/135694743112495

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/1640851

ABCI, jet consultancy, jet international

Aircraft Sales Insights – For Straight Answers About Buying and Selling Airplanes

December 23rd, 2010 Posted in Aircraft Sales, Background/Industry

Dec , 23 20 10

1 Comment »

Look for informative and actionable articles from Brad Harris and Shawn Dinning, consultants who know airplanes and answer questions about buying and selling airplanes with . . . straight answers.

We welcome your questions and comments about the purchase and sale of aircraft.

Your Aircraft Sales and Acquisition Team.

Brad Harris

Shawn Dinning

Mr. Dinning acquired his formal education at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in the areas of Operations Research and Management Science and also holds a degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Mr. Dinning brings 15 years of aviation experience from a variety of aviation disciplines, including FAR 91, FAR 121, FAR 135, defense, and shared ownership sectors. A former full-time professional pilot, Mr. Dinning holds a current Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, and is type-rated in the Challenger 600 and Citation 510 Mustang. He has logged over 5000 flight hours, with 3500 of those hours in corporate turbine aircraft. Mr. Dinning has been consulted in publications such as Business & Commercial Aviation on various issues related to turbine aircraft transactions.

Mr. Dinning brings to Dallas Jet International a rare and highly valuable skill set, and has become a leader in the professional marketing and procurement of corporate turbine aircraft all around the globe. He also specializes in aircraft mission analysis, aircraft valuation, and cash flow and operating cost analysis for private aircraft owners. Mr. Dinning has a track record of successful transactions that is well known amongst his clients and colleagues. His reputation for intelligent and meticulous management of aircraft transactions have made him one of the most respected aircraft brokers in the industry.

A Service of Dallas Jet International

Buying an Older Airplane Is Not Always a Bargain

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

A Comprehensive Online Marketing System

Blog – Aircraft Sales Insights.

Google and Facebook Usage Skews Young and Affluent.

Biweekly Email Newsletter

Being Where We Need to Be, In-Person

Brad Harris

Market Volatility in The Last Three Years

Are We At the Bottom?

Taking a Step Back – Looking At the Market Opportunity

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Before Dallas Jet International, there was . . .

A Wide Variety of Business Experience

Moving to Dallas, and the start of Dallas Jet International

Operational Brokers and Experienced, Type-Rated Pilots

A Detailed Process

The Future of Buying and Selling Aircraft

Brad Harris

Dallas Jet International Partners with ABCI to Promote Jet Consultancy

Experienced and thorough consultants for sales and acquisitions of aircraft.

About ABCI LLC

About Dallas Jet International Inc. (DJI)

Please direct all press inquiries to:

Brad Harris, Founder and CEO

Shawn Dinning, Director of Sales & Acquisitions

Your Aircraft Sales and Acquisition Team.

Brad Harris

Shawn Dinning

Call Dallas Jet International 817-520-4009

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