FlightSafety International has appointed Eric Hinson as chief executive officer, effective immediately. He succeeds Barbara Telek, who recently retired as president.

Hinson previously served as executive vice president at FlightSafety from 2009 to 2012 before becoming president and CEO of Simcom International. He has also held senior roles at Honeywell, Gulfstream and Piaggio Aerospace.

A former naval aviator, Hinson is an active ATP-rated pilot with over 5,000 flight hours. He has also served on the General Aviation Manufacturers Association board from 2013 to 2024 and was chairman in 2023.

“I am thrilled to return to FlightSafety International at a transformative time for the business and the aviation industry,” says Hinson. “Together, we will continue driving innovation, enhancing operational excellence and delivering world-class safety experiences for our customers.”

Hinson holds an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School and a bachelor's degree from Lewis and Clark College.

FlightSafety says his return strengthens the company’s global strategy and leadership in aviation safety.