Jet Access has promoted Walt Schmeis to the position of chief pilot for Jet Access Aviation's Part 135 charter certificate. Jet Access is a US wholesale and retail charter operator with a fleet of mid to large cabin business jets.

Schmeis joined Jet Access in 2021 as a Hawker captain, bringing a wealth of aviation knowledge and experience to the organisation.

He began his aviation career nearly 31 years ago as a first officer for a family-owned private jet. Over the course of his career, Schmeis has travelled the world as a crew member with scheduled airlines, including VIP royal and ministry special flights, VIP corporate flight departments, medevac and Part 135 charter operations. He holds airman certificates from five different countries with multiple jet aircraft type ratings.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the calibre that Walt possesses leading our crew members,” says Andrew Martens, director of operations, Jet Access. “Walt is committed to safety, quality assurance and mentorship, and we're confident in his ability to lead our fleet.”

In addition to piloting experience, Schmeis has held consulting and management positions as a board technical advisor, director of standards, director of flight operations, fleet supervisor and check airman.