Press Release

Ray Segarra began his career in 1974 as a crew chief mechanic for AH-1G Bell Cobra helicopters in the U.S. Army.

Issued by Flexjet.

January 14, 2025

Flexjet, a global leader in private aviation, today announced that master technician Ray Segarra, has received the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award, the highest honour available to an aviation mechanic.

Named after Charles Taylor, an early collaborator of the Wright Brothers who built the first aircraft engine and is recognised as the first aviation mechanic, the award was created by the FAA to honour the lifetime achievements of senior aviation mechanics. This prestigious award recognises "the professionals who inspect, troubleshoot, maintain and repair the engines, structures and onboard systems of all types of aircraft."

"Flexjet is honoured to have Ray Segarra recognised by the Federal Aviation Administration for this prestigious accolade, and he joins two others at Flexjet who were honoured with this award," said Eli Flint, president of Flexjet's helicopter division. "Ray represents the dedication and skill of our entire team of mechanics at Flexjet, whose unwavering commitment ensures the safety of our aircraft, flight crews and passengers every day."

Segarra, of Newtown, Connecticut, began his career in 1974 as a crew chief mechanic for AH-1G Bell Cobra helicopters with the U.S. Army. After his military service, Segarra gained extensive experience working as an inspector and mechanic for various helicopter models, including the Blackhawk, Bell Huey and Bell Jet Ranger, at companies like Sikorsky Aircraft, Raco Helicopters and the U.S. Army Electronics Research and Development Command. Segarra also holds an FAA Airframe and Powerplant licence.

"It feels really special to receive this award," said Segarra. "I've been fortunate to work alongside some incredible people over my 50 years in aviation, and this recognition is as much about them as it is about me. It's been a rewarding career, especially when you're doing something so critical to the safety and satisfaction of our customers."

Besides its fleet of Embraer, Bombardie and Gulfstream jets, Flexjet owns, operates and maintains a fleet of Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, which boasts 55,000 hours of safe flying certified by Wyvern and ARGUS, serving locations throughout the northeastern United States, United Kingdom and Florida.