During the conference sessions at the recent Air Charter Expo (ACE 21), The Air Charter Association announced the re-introduction of its classroom training with the next Broker Qualification Level 1 course taking place in November 2021.

Deputy chair Julie Black says: “Training is such an important part of the work the association does to drive our priority; to set and maintain the highest standards of professionalism in the air charter market. We are really looking forward to the return of our broker training.”

In addition, The ACA announced a planned expansion to its NextGen Group. Its work has developed over the last year with initiatives including delivering careers presentations to university and college students, to showcase the wide opportunities a career in aviation can provide. It has also launched an industry quiz for members to increase engagement with personnel within existing member companies and this has proven very popular. The group also works with the main board working group for sustainability and innovation, promoting the future of sustainable aviation.

NextGen chair Patrick Lucy comments: “After a busy year we are looking to expand the expertise and resources in the NextGen Group. If you have an interest or know of someone that might want to join and contribute to the future of our industry, please get in touch.”

The ACA has also grown its executive team with the addition of two new staff members. This adds new expertise to complement its non-executive board, which has been expanding over the last year. Chris Adams has joined the team as membership executive, coming from a successful career in the travel industry. He will be responsible for growing the membership and increasing engagement and support for current members. Mary Proctor joins the team as administrative assistant having previously worked in the logistics and shipping for manufacturing businesses. She will support the team and the board's working groups.

Chief executive Glenn Hogben concludes: “I am delighted that we have been able to expand the team to support our strategic development plans for the association. Now, more than ever, we have been able to support our members through some challenging times and Chris and Mary will enable us to continue this work and help bring the air charter industry back together.”