Silver Air Private Jets has promoted Hansford Smith to vice president of risk management. Smith, who has served Silver Air for more than six years in safety leadership roles, will now advise leadership across all levels of the organisation while continuing to provide oversight of the company's SMS.

Smith most recently served as director of safety and organisational development, where he administered the Santa Barbara-based private aircraft management company and charter operator's SMS and advised the CEO on safety strategy, performance and continuous improvement initiatives. In his expanded role, he will take on a broader advisory function across the business, supporting both operational decision-making and the overall client and owner experience.

“Hansford's promotion reflects the importance we place on safety at every level of Silver Air,” states Jason Middleton, CEO of Silver Air Private Jets. “His leadership has been instrumental in building the safety culture that defines how we operate, and his expanded role ensures that culture continues to shape everything we do as we grow.”

“Safety is the backbone of our operation,” adds Smith. “In addition to full compliance with FAA regulations, Silver Air adheres to rigorous third-party standards from organisations including Wyvern and the International Business Aviation Council. Maintaining the highest ratings from these organisations is a priority, and my focus is on continuing to raise that standard.”

Smith's promotion follows Silver Air's recent renewal of its Wyvern Wingman PRO Certification, one of the aviation industry's highest standards for safety excellence. The certification is awarded only to operators that demonstrate exceptional performance across all elements of their safety management system, effectively manage human factors and organisational safety culture, and consistently meet international standards through robust internal audit processes.

Prior to joining Silver Air, Smith served 24 years in the United States Air Force, first as an enlisted airman and later as an officer, including roles at US Strategic Command, where he briefed the President, Secretary of Defence and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on strategic operations. His military background spans command and operational roles across the US and Europe, bringing a level of discipline and risk management experience.