The British Business and General Aviation Association (BBGA) has named Inflite the Jet Centre business development manager Ben Newman as the recipient of its 2024 Excellence in Aviation Next Generation award. BBGA is looking to encourage younger people to join the business aviation industry.

The category recognises the achievements of outstanding next-generation professionals who have made a significant impact in their business aviation role. Newman accepted the accolade from Gavin Thompson, senior regional sales manager worldwide at Gulfstream, the premier awards sponsor at the association's Christmas drinks reception, held at the Little Ship Club in London last week. The event was attended by some 150 business aviation industry guests.

Newman joined Inflite, a London Stansted airport-based FBO and MRO, in 2023 after seven years in the Royal Air Force, where he served as logistics officer, a role which included a tour of duty in Afghanistan. He then joined the Civil Airhead Duties (CAD) Department based out of Northolt, which took him to Inflite. On leaving the MoD, he secured a settlement placement at Inflite in September 2023. It led to the permanent role of group business development manager, and he was recently appointed as group business development manager for Inflite the Jet Centre.

Pauline Monksfield, CEO and deputy accountable manager at Inflite the Jet Centre comments: “Since joining us nine months ago, Ben is now overseeing a business development team. His enthusiasm and desire to learn about the industry is second to none. He has forged new customer relationships and developed existing ones. A good manager and excellent team player, Ben's impact on the team was evident from the start. We look forward to seeing him grow and develop his skills even further.”

BBGA chair Aoife O'Sullivan adds: “We congratulate Ben on this award and wish him every success with his business aviation career. I would also like to recognise all the exceptionally talented nominees who participated in this award.”