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MAY Issue # 14
Jet Cabin Freshbook LLC - A Jet Media company
All rights reserved
All rights reserved - JetCabin Freshbook Magazine, a Jet Media Company
Issue 16 / September, 2024
JET CABIN FRESHBOOK Magazine is the world's only all-digital publication focussed entirely on jet interiors. We do not publish broad spectrum aviation news or content. The magazine and it's goals were an outgrowth of our founder's career-long profession as a designer of VVIP aircraft interiors. His singularly focussed goal in establishing JCF Magazine was to present Designers, Completion Centers, Flight Departments and Purchasing Agents with the very latest and most innovative interior related products and services by the top cabin suppliers from around the world. JCF provides in-depth coverage of the latest design trends, new materials, emerging technologies and continually showcases the world's top designers. To this day JCF Magazine maintains the most comprehensive categorized listing of Cabin Supplier Groups - worldwide.
JCF Magazine is also proud to maintain the world's only fully comprehensive global listing of top aviation interior designers from around the world. GLOBAL DESIGN ROSTER was developed exclusively for Operators & Flight Departments in need of design resources as they approach new projects. Each of the more than sixty renown designers have been vetted and most have OEM certifications and other industry accepted credentials and awards.
Our key areas of coverage are: Interior Cabin Design / Cabin hygiene / Cabin management • Food & Galley Service • Completions and Refurbishment / Carpet & Flooring / IFE and CMS / Lavs / Lighting / Seating /Textiles and leather / Trends & Emerging Technologies - and all relevant news directly related to interiors.
Who We Are
Photo by: Dave Koch
Jet Cabin Freshbook Magazine is a Jet Media company . Santa Fe, NM (USA) Founder / Editor: Richard Roseman
info@freshbook.aero ph: +1 (214) 415.3492. Advertising Opportunities Editorial: editorial@freshbook.aero Archive: Past Issues
F E A T U R E A R T I C L E S
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There have been numerous analogies drawn over the decades in parallelling the art of jet cabin interiors - but perhaps none more "fitting" than Stephan Theis's - Senior Technical Manager at Camber Aviation Management. He nails it in this piece delineating the close relationship between the tailoring of a fine hand-crafted suit - and the very similar, equally intensive exercise of designing and crafting a completely custom jet interior. Regrettably, I've never treated myself to a finely tailored suit -perhaps the reason I've never considered such an analogy. But as you read this thoughtful, interesting story, you'll understand just how characteristically similar the two enterprises truly are.
In this entry of Jetzign, we focus on Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) and the nucleus of its creative arm. Heading up the team is one Sylvain Mariat; Head of Creative Design - a role he seems quite comfortable in. ACJ has been around since 1997 and has undergone a lot of changes in the time since. Today we focus on Mr. Mariat and his team as they establish a new creative mark for both ACJ and the clients they serve.
In this article, you will see why Mr. Mariat's wealth of prior experince led him here and how his leadership is poised to take the ACJ program to the next level.
To say F/LIST has remained one of the largest and most influential presences in our industry, is an understatement. It was our pleasure to visit with their team last month in compiling this informative piece not only on their success and their legendary innovations, but the wonderful 75 year family history upon which this great Austrian based company is built.
Katharina List-Nagl (the company's CEO) continues to realize her grandfather's pioneering spirit and vision, which you will clearly come to understand as the article unfolds.
From a little-known part of CA to a little-known berg in Arkansas, comes a famously-known little supplier whose reputation has been well-cultivated over time. Aircraft interior hardware has two primary functions . . . look amazing and perform flawlessly. That's precisely the stock and trade of one Galley Support Innovations - a.k.a. GSI. This company not only talks the talk, they but they walk the walk. How can we say that and not come off sounding gratuitous? Because they have and continue to supply virtually every major OEM and center in the country with accolades being slung here there and yonder - year after year. As I discovered, It's companies like GSI that makes you look good when the customers show up to take delivery of their aircraft.
Most of us in the industry have a good understanding about the unique and valuable rolle that cabin crew play - when it comes to better understand what it "really" requires when planning and designing a corporate jet cabin. How an aircraft interior "looks" when it rolls out of a cabin is one thing. How it functions is quite another.
In this thoughtful, insightful piece, Ms Lauren Baum - a seasoned veteran corporate flight attendant, takes us through her experiences both inside and outside the cabin and how it's helped her employer make more informed decisions on everything from their aircrafts' interior design to staffing and the efficiencies of cabin service in flight.
It can be argued that with any serious professional photographer, 'getting the shot' is everything. But there is a certain seduction about photographing a private jet. In the first place they are, by their very nature, sleek and beautiful. Ok, so you could argue the same about a beautiful car. . . but then not everybody has a private jet in their garage. I could go on about the distinction of jets over other photographic subjects. I might even be able to write a thousand words about it, but as good ole' Fred Barnard once pointed out, just show me a picture and skip the thousand words. With that in mind, in this piece we let Colin Chatfield show us the product of his keen shutter-sense and why he prefers to let his skilfully crafted images do the talking.
Take a look around your cool mid-century livingroom - or maybe the study you maticulously renovated last year. Let your eyes drift over to the folded cashmere blanket resting across the arm of your prized Eames chair. Or check out the Steuben decanter your brother sent you from Portugal, flanked by two hyper-cool double old-fashion whiskey glasses - also resting just where you placed them. Oh and what about the vintage circa 1905 Mark Cross travel case you stumbled onto in Istanbul. Things are important to us. For some in fact, things are reminders of the life we've lived or the aesthetic of a past era - one we imagine ourselves having lived in. But sometimes, its about the things inside the thing - like the things inside your new Gulfstream.
Our Cover Story
YACHTSPACE started as a dare. That is to say one of our close colleagues kept rasing the suggestion that we needed to develop a section that featured yachts. When we told him "We're only about aircraft interiors" it seemed only to strengthen his resolve. Under his insistence that the customers are essentially one and the same, we relented and now it's become an increasingly popular section in the magazine.
This entry is focussed on Sailing Yacht "A", one of the world's most famous yachts and certainly one of the largest sailing yachts ever built. But perhaps the best part is that this yacht was designed by the legendary Philippe Starck. You'll enjoy this one.
Ever board a commercial aircraft and immediately get hit with the smell of jet fuel or hydraulic fluid? It's a rhetorical question because of course you have. We all have. For most of us, we sorta shrug it off. It goes with the territory as the saying goes. But it's more than a benign mechanical odor. It's damaging to our respiratory system and our overall health. And the more often you're on commercial jets - the more it impacts you. But after four decades of sweeping the issue under the rug, it looks like an organization has finally brought it to the forefront and isn't about to leave until the problem is addressed and the hole closed, so to speak, once and for all.
Words From The Editor
Rick Roseman -
Publisher / Editor
From The Editor
Airline crews and passengers have been complaining of health effects from exposure to contaminated air on aircraft (Aerotoxic Syndrome) for over 4 decades. The first documented case of aircrew impairment from exposure to contaminated air dates back to the early 1950s on military aircraft.
The breathing air supply on commercial jet aircraft, known as ‘bleed air’, is known to become contaminated with engine oil, engine oil decomposition products and/or hydraulic fluids.
Over the last 20 years, there have been over 50 recommendations and findings made by 12 air accident departments globally, directly related to contaminated air exposures on passenger jet aircraft. The British Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB), has twice called for contaminated air warning systems to be installed on all large passenger transport aircraft. However, these critical safety recommendations, endorsed by the Global Cabin Air Quality Executive (GCAQE) (gcaqe.org), have been ignored by aircraft manufacturers and aviation regulators such as the FAA, EASA and the UK CAA.
There is FAR more on this subject but it's an important one to all of us who fly commercially - not to mention the overall fight against giant corporations and industry that simply ignore such issues because it's too costly or disruptive to address.
I urge you to visit the GLOBAL CABIN AIR QUALITY EXECUTIVE's website here and learn more. The initiatives being taken by this organization are bot necessary and powerful.
Let's all do everything we can to support this issue.
First Visit? JCF Magazine is about Jet Interiors; the designers that design them, the centers that build them and above all, the cabin suppliers - worldwide, that ultimately make it all possible.
If your company belongs to one of these groups, let yourself subscribe to something worthwhile for a change. Stay fresh, participate and grow.
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here have been numerous analogies drawn over the decades in parallelling the art of jet cabin interiors - but perhaps none more "fitting" than Stephan Theis's - Senior Technical Manager at Camber Aviation Management. He nails it in this piece delineating the close relationship between the tailoring of a fine hand-crafted suit - and the very similar, equally intensive exercise of designing and crafting a completely custom jet interior. Regrettably, I've never treated myself to a finely tailored suit -perhaps the reason I've never considered such an analogy. But as you read this thoughtful, interesting story, you'll understand just how characteristically similar the two enterprises truly are.
This is the fifth installment of Airborne Cafe. We are proud to embark on this ongoing series of thoughts, extollings and stories from one of the premier figures in our industry. In each issue Thomas Chatfield will offer us thought provoking articles like the one above - each of them relevant and insightful from the perspective of private aviation. Simply hit the link at right to finish the article and while you're there, learn more about Camber Aviation Management and the importance of their work
Thomas Chatfield - Executive Contributor & CEO
Camber Aviation Management
“The fit was impeccable, and it moved with me perfectly.”
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- Stephan Theis
viewporn@interiorvilla1
P R I V A T E J E T I N T E R I O R S C A P E
"The top DESIGN studios around the world are absolutely the ones that inform the industry and set the trends."
Jetzign is where we highlight the very latest from the top designers and studios. Whether it be the iconic independents or the great design departments within the world's top completion centers, this is where you will find their latest works - and always with an emphasis on the near-term future of cabin design
Image courtesy of Sotto Studios
In this entry of Jetzign, we focus on Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) and the nucleus of its creative arm. Heading up the team is one Sylvain Mariat; Head of Creative Design - a role he seems quite comfortable in. ACJ has been around since 1997 and has undergone a lot of changes in the time since. Today we focus on Mr. Mariat and his team as they establish a new creative mark for both ACJ and the clients they serve.
Airbus Corporate Jets'
Head of Creative Design
S Y L V A I N
M A R I A T
To say Airbus Corporate Jets is a pedigree among the VVIP aircraft landscape is an understatement. And at the heart of the program is its internal design studio - headed up by a remarkable talent.
There isn't a person reading this that isn't familiar with AIRBUS and their ACJ (Airbus Corporate Jets) division. The name is ubiquitous and stands as the European counterpart to BBJ (Boeing Business Jets). When it comes to VVIP transport category private jets, these two brands own the market. But all customized private bizliners are not created equal. Up until BBJ announced its Boeing Select program last year, ACJ had long distinguished itself by being the only OEM that supported its customers with high-level in-house design and completion coordination. It's true that both OEM giants now offer a similar one-stop, internalized option for its customers - but in the world of large aircraft design and completions, longevity translates to experience. And since ACJ has been at it since 1997, that's a lot of amassed experience and wherewithal.
There is an entire array of good reasons why it's good for customers to consider entrusting the design of their aircraft to an OEM integrated design house. And at the top of that list is the simple fact that no design house or center knows the aircraft quite as well as the company that designed and manufactured the airframe in the first place. This is the stock and trade of Airbus Corporate Jets and the man that sits at the top of their design program is one Sylvain Mariat. His job and the team that supports him, is to offer high-level creative design to his customers while simultaneously making sure the interior concepts and details they propose are buildable and seamlessly fit with the airframe's engineering data etc - thus ensuring a smooth hassle-free ride for the customer.
The work pictured herein is a preview of some of the designs created by Mr. Mariat and ACJ for its customers. Also included are some of Mr. Sylvain's own words in describing his philosophy and approach to design.
JCF Magazine is proud to feature Sylvain Mariat in this issue's installment of Jetzign.
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My design philosophy?
I like it when people say my design is intelligent, ergonomic and harmonious. I'm even happier when the client confides in me that he was waiting for exactly we gave him - a way of traveling the world out of necessity in an environment of comfort and tranquility.
"ACJ is not just about the plane, but the wealth of opportunities and memories that come with it."
What drives my designs are playing with the volumes of our ACJs to enhance them thanks to lines, curves and the light that plays with them.
My design philosophy? I like it when people say that my design is intelligent, ergonomic and harmonious. I am even happier when the client confides to me that he was waiting for exactly that to travel the world out of necessity in an environment of comfort and tranquility.
Each project is different. The client obviously remains at the center of my projects. I like to adapt to the needs of our ACJ owners, whether they are private individuals, governments or even company directors.
I am particularly proud of the design of an ACJ320 I signed which symbolizes the perfect harmony between high technology and the natural environment. This project carried out by exchanging with a client allowed me to transcribe, thanks to the creativity of my entire team, a new solution. The bedroom (photo) is one of the most striking examples of this artistic approach.
Sylvain Mariat:
Head of ACJ Creative Design
80% of our time aboard a typical flight is spent in our chair - and while aircraft chairs are still quite a ways from the ones we occupy at home - they still need to be nurtured and reimagined in order to strike more appeal and stay fresh.
The chair at left is an example of how Sylvain and his team have used their talents in creating unique arms that indeed serve up a fresh appeal and enlivened sense of modernity.
Customer Interactions in a serene space with material options that can go from quiet and reserved to bold and edgy.
ACJ Design never stops at simply creating breathtaking cabin architecture. They zoom in on details that tantalize their customers and elevate the travel experience.
You have a choice of pre-defined cabin concepts or you are free to fully customize your Airbus corporate jet to your exact needs. Our cabin designers and cabin engineers have unrivalled experience, knowledge and skills. From concept development to cabin customization, we provide peace of mind and take care of every details.
“Through deep understanding and trusted relationships, we help customers create their perfect place in the sky. Our focus is to make the cabin a place in which customers immediately feel at home and relaxed”
Customers like to realise their dreams by customising private-jet cabins to suit their lifestyles, and the ACJ team is ready to help.
Sylvain Mariat:
Head of ACJ Creative Design
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When it comes to private jets - innovation is at the forefront of everything from major monuments to seats to decorative surfaces. The centers and OEMs who utilize those products expect nothing less.
There is one Austrin based company for whom innovation is literally at the core of everything they do.
The F/LAB welcoming space & workroom
Seventy-five years is a long time. Long before I was born and longer than today's aviation interior professionals can possibly recall. Yet for F/LIST, it's literally how long they've been at it. The company was founded by Franz List and today, his granddaughter, Katharina List-Nagl (the company's CEO) continues to realize his pioneering spirit and vision. The company has literally been a game changer again and again at various points by recognizing future needs well in advance, and filling them. They continually partner with start-ups, architects and designers to define and evolve system developments that shape the future of cabin interiors. Since their inception, F/LIST has grown to a family of more than 1000 employees located at the company headquarters in Thomasberg, Austria - with branch offices in Germany, Canada, Brazil, Great Britain, the US, and the UAE. Together, they fulfill the most exquisite, intricate desires and requirements for their aircraft customers. F/LIST artfully walks the nuanced line between creating authentic products using natural materials - and optimizing high-end technology.
The combination has unmistakingly made them a global trendsetter in cabin interior innovation.
Article by
M A T T H E W B R E N N E R
F/LIST, a pioneer in the design, production, and installation of innovative luxury interiors for business and private jets and exclusive residences, is celebrating the official opening of its newly expanded future laboratory, the F/LAB™. The F/LAB represents the center of innovation for the Austria-headquartered business and serves as a dynamic hub for creative thinking, cross-discipline collaboration, and imaginative experimentation.
In the F/LAB, revolutionary materials, sustainable natural resources, and cutting-edge technologies converge to ensure that form, aesthetics, and ingenious thinking result in reimagined space. It also serves as a think tank for innovation and a think tank for sustainability, exploring eco-friendly alternatives and strategies that will protect the longevity of our planet through intelligent application of nature. The F/LAB implements energy-efficient systems and eco-conscious manufacturing processes, and the multidisciplinary F/LAB team of engineers, designers, and technologists will continue collaborating with experts from academia, transportation, design, and industry to identify, define and explore cutting-edge concepts and solutions that reimagine the world of interiors. “Our team’s ideas converge to ensure form, function and ingenious thinking, which result in unprecedented features that enhance comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal for every interior”, says Katharina List-Nagl, CEO of F/LIST.
F/LIST recently launched its F/LAB innovation hub,
yet another raised bar for the company and its customers - worldwide
The F/LAB concepts have received high acclaim and include F/LAB Whisper Leather, produced from plant-based raw materials, and F/LAB Linfinium, a linseed-based compound with applications ranging from countertops to flooring. The Red Dot winning F/LAB Aenigma product portfolio fuses jewelry techniques with aerospace technology to combine elements as varied as ground mother-of-pearl and apricot pits to create materials that can be customized with color, texture, and thickness for use on any interior surface. Other innovations include the Shapeshifter F/LAB Morphing Sideledge table concept, which uses advanced technology and ingenious methodology to deploy a real wood veneer table seamlessly and almost magically from the side ledge.
Aenigma
Linfinium
For DESIGNERS, materials are everything and not just any materials mind you - NEW, FRESH, INNOVATIVE and exciting materials are what all designers seek to give their clients - and it's what the clients themselves expect. Obviously there are a lot of companies out there competing in this space - many of them with exceptional products that designers love. Yet there is something about F/LIST's history that is undeniable in terms of their foresight. For decades they have uncovered market niche's that are undernourished - and fill those gaps ahead of most.
F/LAB it seems is yet another marker in company's laser focus on innovation. As a supplier to the aerospace industry (or any industry for that matter), it is easy to bathe in your recent-most success or product rollout and let months and often years go by without pressing for new innovation and faster-to-market new products. It's a common and even understandable malady among manufacturers. But apparently it's just never been the case for F/LIST. It's almost hard to remember all of their game-altering product releases over the years because new ones come so often that we forget the former.
One easy way to see this is by looking at the above and below images that exemplify the fresh new certified material that are now being offered out of their Beyond the Surface collection.
Whisper Leather
F/LIST Shapeshifter Dining Concept
Global 6000 Galley & Cabin Beyond
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F/LIST 's CEO - Ms. Katharina List-Nagl
F/LIST's headquarters in Thomasberg Austria - bearing the name of its founder
ake a look around your cool mid-century livingroom - or maybe the study you meticulously renovated last year. Let your eyes drift over to the folded cashmere blanket resting across the arm of your prized Eames chair. Or check out the Steuben decanter your brother sent you from Portugal, flanked by two hyper-cool double old-fashion whiskey glasses - also resting just where you placed them. Oh and what about the vintage circa 1905 Mark Cross travel case you stumbled onto in Istanbul. Things are important to us. For some in fact, things are reminders of the life we've lived or the aesthetic of a past era - one we imagine ourselves having lived in. But sometimes, its about the things inside the thing - like the things inside your new Gulfstream.
Oh it was a moment alright. A moment like no other the first time you and your wife stepped aboard the day of the purchase. The scent of freshly tanned leather on newly refurbished seats. The hand loomed wool & silk carpet, the nickel plated monitor surrounds. This is DeeeLuxe you say to yourself. But after spending an hour or so wandering around, checking out the details - suddenly it creeps in. Hey where's our stuff? We need our 'stuff'. No environment is replete without 'things'...the things that matter to you. The stuff that's going to make you feel at home and all cozed up - up there!
In the biz, we call them amenities or carry-ons - but to you, they're the quintessential Luxardos in your Manhattan, the little chocolate nibs in your gelato . . . all the compulsory adornments and essentials you're not about to be caught without at 51,000 ft over the Atlantic on the way to your dad's 75th birthday. Today we take a look at the most popular carry-on accessories in the world today - and the very specialized companies that offer them.
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By: Melissa Tokoriyama
S P E C I A L C O N T R I B U T O R
Coco was inarguably a very savvy woman and it's born out in her famous quote above. Is it true...is it philosophical? It's absolutely true and there's nothing philosophical about it. It's one of the most practical truisms I can image - which is probably why it's held up for so long.
Let's take the infamous BIRKIN bag by Hermes. The average price today is around $12,000 usd. But variants have sold for 150K +. Is it worth it? It depends on who your talking to. For most men, they will say no. Why? Well, because a bag is a bag is a bag. You slip it over your shoulder and it carries stuff. From an altogether practical perspective, you can fit that bill all day long for a couple a hundred bucks.
Ask a style conscious woman on the other hand, and most certainly you will get a different answer. Most of those women, myself included, would argue that it's hard to put a price on style - although retailers like Hemes don't seem to struggle with it. A Birkin bag is expensive to be sure (the kind of expensive Coco was talking about) but if you're a billionaire, or even a lowly millionaire, $12,000 for the most recognized bag in the world? Eh, probably not a lot to think about.
And while no one was flying around in private jets during Ms. Chanel's hayday, the Parisian elites she ran with would certainly have applied the same rationale. Bed linens, tableware, blankets, toiletries...they were purchased from the finest houses across Paris and Europe. And Considering today's private jets costs anywhere from $20ML to $100ML, spending premium dollar for the amenities and accessories you want to travel with, hardly seems like a stretch - and hardly anything you'd want to scrimp on in the first place.
With that in mind, let's take a look at the FIVE typical categories of amenities that are most often purchased by jet owners via third party providers - and see what's in vogue with their clientele.
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F E A T U R E D V I D E O
AMAC / Switzerland
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Art Pieces, Lamps,
Hard Mounted Accessories &
Loose Specialty Items
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Handmade crystal-studded figurine by artist, Metis Atash / Gulfstrea aircraft by International Jet Interiors
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Supplier Contacts
Dahlgren Duck
1617 Hi Line Dr Suite 260
Dallas, TX 75207
dallas@dahlgrenduck.com
+1 972 478 5991
Primadonna Lux
1668 S Research Loop
Suite #332
Tucson, AZ 85710
(520) 579-3063
Rosanna Lee Group
PO Box 1262 Addison TX 75001 USA
Phone: +1.214.207.9162
rosanna@rosannaleegroup.com
Richard Roseman Luxury
800 Juniper Ln . Suite A
Santa Fe, MN (USA)
info@richardrosemanluxury.com
+1 (214) 415.3402
Glancy Fawcett
The Old Engine Works, 2 Lund Street, Old Trafford, Manchester, United Kingdom, M16 9NN
sales@glancyfawcett.com
Hermes (United States)
Call : 800-441-4488
Opening/Closing hours
Monday to Friday: 9am - 9pm EST
Saturday: 10am - 9pm EST
Global Locations
AIKO Luxury Linins
Showroom: 4390 NE 35th Street,
Suite 1, Ocala, FL 34479
melanie@italianfinelinens.com
+1.800. 972.2456
Sōhe Studio
8840 7th St, Frisco, TX 75034
Phone: 214-295-2910
Hello@sohestudio.com
Sculley & Sculley
504 Park Ave
New York, NY 10022
customerservice@scullyandscully.com
1-800-223-3717 or 1-212-755-2590
Ravsten Airborne Pillows
LeAnne Ravsten
1071 county road 561
Princeton, TX 75407
(214)862-5820
eltskkm@netzero.com
ELITIS
2 Bis Rue Jean Rodier 31400 Toulouse Tel : +33 5 61 80 20 20 E-mail : contact@elitis.fr
Cristal Benito
188 bis rue Gabriel Péri
92700 Colombes, France
+33 (0) 1 42 42 60 76
f.benito@cristal-benito.fr
Pratesi
1617 Hi Line Dr Suite 260
Dallas, TX 75207
dallas@dahlgrenduck.com
+1 972 478 5991
Labrezel
16Available through: Bergdoff Goodman
754 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
bergdorfgoodman.com/
+1 (212) 753-7300
Lancia Designs
Wasington DC (USA)
Lancia Designs.comEmail:
lancia@lanciadesigns.com
+1 (703) 944-5508
When you open the door to the Lou Hansell Bespoke studio, the possibilities begin. Our artisans and designers have selected a palette of exquisite materials, with 51 shades of ltalian leathers, five metal and inner trim pairings, and personalization options. Driven by their boundless creativity, they combine their talents and craftsmanship to
create pieces you’ll cherish forever.
From a little-known part of CA to a little-known berg in Arkansas, comes a famously-known little supplier whose reputation has been well-cultivated over time.
Aircraft interior hardware has two primary functions . . .
. . . look amazing and perform flawlessly.
That's precisely the stock and trade of one Galley Support Innovations - a.k.a. GSI. This company not only talks the talk, they but they walk the walk. How can we say that and not come off sounding gratuitous? Because they have and continue to supply virtually every major OEM and center in the country with accolades being slung here there and yonder - year after year. As I discovered, It's companies like GSI that makes you look good when the customers show up to
take delivery of their aircraft.
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Today I had the pleasure of sitting down with GSI's Project Engineer & Technical Sales Director, Mr. Jeffrey Campbell.
I asked him a few key questions and by the end of it, started to get why this Arkansas based company has garnered the longstanding loyalty of its customers.
RR: When and under what circumstances was GSI founded, principals & core enterprise
JC: Galley Support Innovations started 70 years ago in Rancho, California with a dream to help skilled and unskilled people alike find a passion in the aerospace industry. At the heart of GSI, we are a family-owned and operated business now located in Central Arkansas with a global reach. Over the years, we have evolved, adapted, and grown but our dedication to helping the community, exceeding industry standards, and delivering the very best has never wavered.
RR: As you know, our magazine is focused entirely on . Can you give us an idea of what percentage of your manufacturing centers around interiors?
JC: GSI designs and produces a wide variety of interior solutions which we refer to as “The Jewels of the Aircraft”.The most common products requested are drawer latches, door latches, and door handles. We support luxury interiors with accessories as well, with coat hooks, ash trays, hinges, quarter turn fasteners, and touch latches. Our engineering team is always looking forward to new challenges presented by designers.
RR: It sounds as though bespoke manufacturing and rapid prototyping are two of your primary service lines. Can you give our readers a few examples of what sorts of jobs / parts you standardly complete for your aviation interior clients?
JC: GSI enjoys joint development with several OEMs to create bespoke series of latches for interiors that not only complement the cabinetry but are also functionally pleasing. Each OEM has their own design series.
The rapid prototyping process is a great tool for getting a physical example in our client’s hands for the feel, form, and function. Working with designers directly allows us to take their concepts to completion within their timelines.
RR: It also looks like you have quite a stable of products, parts that you developed and stock for use in VIP interiors. It looks like it’s mostly centered around interior hardware. Can you give us a sense about how this line of came about and if you stock other types of products as well?
JC: GSI started making commercial grade slam latches in the 1950’s as a large OEM was looking to have a robust and reliable design for interior commercial use. Over the last 25 years GSI has moved from the commercial line to focusing more on the private aerospace industry.We saw a need as customers were not able to have a custom look or design sought after by VIP clients. Our latches cover a wide range of capabilities and designs. Edge mount, paddle latches, closet latches and push button varieties remain our core product line.
Our VVIP clients for the wide body aircraft offer the biggest challenges. Most want dual engagement and require heavier load requirements. It can be a Airbus A220 or a Boeing 737, we accept all challenges.
RR: Obviously “custom” plays a significant role in VVIP interiors. Designers are always looking to give their customers something completely ‘one off’ that doesn’t exist anywhere else. It looks as though this also is one of your core enterprises. Might you talk about that and also give a few recent examples of how you helped designers or centers bring their concepts to fruition and ready for install?
JC: Most recently we helped create latches that took the aesthetic back in time to an interior from the early 1950’s to be installed on one of the last flying Constellations from WW2. GSI created a mechanism that will fit the aesthetic, released engineering, manufactured, performed cycle and durability testing all on site at our facility in Sherwood, Arkansas.The design was finalized on the back of a line card at the NBAA trade show in October of 2023 and prototypes were delivered before Christmas for customer approval.
GSI takes great pride on being the place designers can come and share ideas that allow us to bring their vision to life and be airworthy. Our team of engineers is dedicated to producing reliable, long lasting, and intuitive designs together with any concept or idea presented. We bridge the gap from your “Brain to the the Plane”.
RR: In looking at your site, I can see that your standard practice is to assign a dedicated PM to each and every client. Can you talk about that please?
JC: I am the Project Engineer/Technical Sales for all new projects and designs. I have been in the Business Jet Industry for over 25 years. Cabinet shop management, engineering liaison, and customer delivery representative are some of my technical roles in the past for multiple OEM’s. I use that knowledge to anticipate the needs of our clients. Having a single point of contact gives great confidence to our clients that their timelines and critical details are being addressed. I enjoy calling and visiting our clients domestic and international to ensure GSI is always available for current or future projects. GSI’s customer service and on time delivery is just as important as the products we produce.
RR: For rather obvious reasons, family-owned & operated businesses are more interesting than behemoth corporations. Not to take anything away from them of course. The industry needs them as well – but our audience especially loves knowing about locally-owned family aerospace businesses. It’s often much easier to make that human connection and feel taken care of all the way through. Can you please tell us what it means to you, your employees and your customers?
JC: At GSI we say we have 2 products - a PHYSICAL product that we design, manufacture and a PEOPLE product that we pour into in the company as well as the people in our surrounding community.
When it comes to our physical product, we create some of the most custom and unique designs in the industry. Many of which were created in joint development teams for some of the most recognizable aircraft in the world. GSI truly enjoys meeting with our customers at their facilities to get a better understanding of how we can ease the burden of certain challenges or improvements they want to implement.
As far as the people product goes, GSI is a second chance ministry that gives opportunities to the most unlikely of candidates.Sometimes the right person just needs a chance.We also donate to several local charities and are in the process of setting up quarterly off-site community outreach programs.The team members here enjoy a 4-day work week so there is time to rest during the weekend. On our website you can see several testimonials from our employees.
Words from the design team.
Lastly, can you tell us what you think the primary drivers behind your success have been – and where you would like to go from here?
GSI has been blessed with a team of people that at the heart of it truly care about the quality of the products and the commitment to short lead times.Our vision for the company is to forge a legacy by delivering an exceptional customer experience while placing immense value on our dedicated teams and community. There have also been several times where the only answer to why we are still standing is GOD and prayer. Since the beginning we have understood that we are working for a bigger purpose and by creating these Bespoke designs and giving opportunity for our customers to branch out creatively it allows our people and our community an opportunity to give back and pour into the next generation.
“What can we do together?”, is not only a motto for our client relations, but also a team motto at GSI.
Be sure to look for new designs from the GSI team in the very near future. We have been developing latches that have been following the luxury interior trends to be minimal. There is also a big desire for aerospace worthy hinges that GSI is proud to say we offer.
I would like to thank our Directors Calab Phillips and Sandra Goff for their support of my insight of luxury flight interiors to help Galley Support Innovations continue to grow.
A special acknowledgement to the GSI ownership team CEO Gina Radke and VP David Valovich for their confidence in me to generate and foster our client relationships. They have created a workplace that allows its team members to be heard and recognized.
END INTERVIEW (scroll below for contacts)
Our thanks to Mr. Jeffrey Campbell for his time and support in helping us develop this article.
If you would like more information about GSI and their amazing line of interior products, reach out below.
Jeffrey Campbell - Project Engineer & Technical Sales Director
’ll be the first one to admit, my role and career as a cabin attendant has felt as if someone hit 1.5x speed to get me where I am now; the traditional path I suppose, just at hyperspeed. I put myself through training with a “what do I have to lose?” attitude, figured out that networking is what makes this industry go ‘round, paid my dues at a 135 operator, and earned a coveted position with a part 91 account that, by all accounts, is my unicorn. We often joke about how cabin attendants have a long list of responsibilities and expectations, yet they carry out these tasks with grace, where going above and beyond is simply the norm.
Having said that, I have been fortunate to experience and be exposed to facets of our industry that aren’t as common for the average crew member, let alone a cabin attendant. My perspective has been shaped by a diverse range of experiences—not just as a cabin attendant or someone on the business side, and not limited to charter operations, but also through the personalized, detailed touches of a Part 91 operation.
I
L A U R E N B A U M
Corporate Flight Attendant
& Special Contributor
Among the many roles I've held, this one - the one that puts me not only in the cabin of corporate aircraft, but numerous extraneous areas of ground support - is an altogether satisfying one. It affords a huge breadth of experience in many areas.
But I think that’s the point here, right?
There are aircraft owners out there that understand the value in having their crews’ perspective throughout this process. They understand the assignment, and with that, are welcomed with open arms to the design and delivery processes of new business jets. And in my opinion, a necessary opinion that aligns form AND function for their unique mission.
When I am analyzing my domain, from the jumpseat back, I’m viewing it all through the lenses of safety, mission, functionality, and luxury, while also recognizing that I need to put myself in the owner’s shoes and mindset. A few questions we could ask ourselves in the preliminary design meetings…
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How can my guests’ enjoy their personal experience in the most comfortable, luxurious, and safest way possible?
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What types of trips are they taking?
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How are they utilizing the jet?
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What is currently working and what is not? What do they like about what they currently have, but what could be better?
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What kind of experience do you want to give the guests?
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What environment do you want to create in the cabin?
And while these may seem like obvious questions, their answers, not so much when you’re talking interior. You’re considering colors, fabrics, materials, layouts, add-ons and are presented an almost unlimited amount of options. It’s very rare you hear a “No, we can’t do that,” but rather, “Let’s see what we can come up with.”
When you’re learning about the process, it may seem tedious, even redundant at times. However, this industry operates with little to no margin for error and interior design is no different.
The initial design meeting can be overwhelming. You’re looking at squares of colors, tones, shades, and materials and doing your best to make this translate to the cabin. To the credit of the company’s designers, they do a wonderful job taking notes and listening to the conversations we have with the owners and are able to read between the lines.
The stitching you choose for your seats matters. How the chosen material on the seats and divan will stretch, wear and look after use, is always a consideration. The way the carpet patterns are oriented and the type of thread looping, its important. The floor material and color in the galley is a factor.
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Painting with a broad brush. A wide gamit
of talents extending well beyond the cabin
You do the best you can to create a frame of reference based on all of the different aircraft you have experience working on. As in, the counter depth in this model is fantastic for extensive plating, and the windows in this style bring in more natural light versus any others. As a cabin attendant, I’m also considering the storage space and balancing the discreteness of it with convenient availability, and just the amount of it in general as we tend to travel with more accessories than the average jet.
For example, as a cabin attendant who uses the galley extensively, I’m looking for vinyl flooring not carpet. While that may feel nice on your feet, it’s not practical for the inevitable spills, crumbs, and constant wear and tear. We looked for a vinyl material that was easy to clean, was durable, hid markings, could withstand hours of wear, and blended well into the cabin’s carpet after the threshold.
For the layout, we wanted flow for groups of people to feel as though they were sitting and interacting within the same living room. We looked for comfort and softness in textures and shades, rounded edges, and the ability to take advantage of all the natural light, rather than sterile and harsh colors and lines. Yet, there is still an ability for privacy in the various sections when the want is there for international travel.
When the renderings are completed and delivered, you hold your breath for just a moment, because this only goes one of two ways. It is either a masterpiece and you’ll now consider yourself a professional interior designer-for-hire, or, question if you’re color blind. If it’s the former, you’ll sign away the remainder of your trust and see your aircraft x amount of months or years in the future.
If it’s the latter, well, that’s hard to say because I haven’t been in that situation..yet (does that mean I get to add interior designer to my resume?).
But on delivery day? It makes it all worth it.
There’s a unique sense of attachment and ownership you feel to an aircraft when you’re part of the design and delivery process. While it’s not our own, in the obvious respect, we certainly treat it as such. If the edges of your mouth curl up, just ever so slightly whenever you get onboard, you know that you’ve done your job correctly.
To learn more about Lauren Baum and her insightful exploits, visit her Instagram page:
Lauren Baum
https://linktr.ee/cabinsintheskylb
CabinsInTheSky.mykajabi.com
142.81 Metre Sailing Yacht
Designed by: Philippe Starck
"s/y "A"
Paris born Philippe is arguably the most well-known design icon of the last 40 years. He's designed everything from motor-bikes to posh hotels to kitchens to wind turbines... and everything in between. But when it comes to scale, nothing on his drawing boards have ever come close to the handfull of superyachts he's designed. And nothing in that world even, has come close his two sister projects for the same owner - Motor Yacht A, and Sailing Yact A.
For anyone familiar with Mr. Starck's work, both projects are dripping with his uniques signature.
P H I L L I P E S T A R C K
In 2002 Starck designed the motor yacht Wedge Too, built by Feadship in Holland.
In 2004, he was commissioned by Russian Oligarch Andrey Melnichenko to design the Motor Yacht A and then, in 2012, Sailing yacht A), one of the world's largest sailing yachts.
Starck also designed the infrastructure for the Port Adriano harbour on the south-west bay of Palma de Mallorca. Starck was artistic director for the interior. It opened in April 2012.
Going back a bit further, Starck's first foray into yachts was for Apple founder Steve Jobs. The yacht Venus, was originally commissioned in 2008 and was launched in October 2012, just over a year after the Jobs' death. The yacht was built at Aalsmeer in the Netherlands.
S T A R C K Y A C H T S
Starck was born on 18 January 1949 in Paris. He is the son of André Starck, who was an aeronautics engineer. He says his father often inspired him because he was an engineer, who made invention a "duty".
Starck still works on select projects from his home and studio in France.
Motor Yacht "A"
The Jet Business is the world's first and only street-level aviation showroom for the marketing and acquisition of corporate jet aircraft. Headed by Steve Varsano and based in London, The Jet Business represents its clients throughout the aircraft acquisition process, offering the most up-to-date product information, global market data, extensive industry relationships
and universal world-class expertise.
Explore the options of jet ownership. Learn more.
Bentley's coachbuilding artisans can bring your perfect car to life. With Mulliner, nothing is impossible.
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t can be argued that with any serious professional photographer, 'getting the shot' is everything. But there is a certain seduction about photographing a private jet. In the first place they are, by their very nature, sleek and beautiful. Ok, so you could argue the same about a beautiful car. . . but then not everybody has a private jet in their garage. I could go on about the distinction of jets over other photographic subjects. I might even be able to write a thousand words about it, but as good ole' Fred Barnard once pointed out, just show me a picture and skip the words. With that in mind, let's let Colin Chatfield show us the product of his keen shutter-sense and why he lets his skilfully crafted images do the talking.
I
"My inspiration for aviation photography took flight at an early age, sparked by the experiences I had flying in various aircraft with my father. These moments left a lasting impression on me and have shaped the way I approach my work today. Recently, I've had the privilege of working with extraordinary aircraft, including the ACJ220, BBJ2, and Bombardier Global 7500 private jets, as well as a stunning collection of private aircraft located in the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia.
In the world of private aviation, high-end photography is crucial. These jets are more than just modes of transportation—they represent luxury, bespoke design, and cutting-edge engineering. Capturing these images requires more than technical skill; it demands an understanding of what makes each aircraft uniquely valuable to its owner. Every detail, from the finest leather stitch to the polished surfaces and innovative features, tells a story of craftsmanship and personal taste. My goal is to showcase these elements in a way that not only highlights the aircraft's elegance but also reflects the owner's passion and the distinctive character of their aircraft. Whether it's the sleek lines of the fuselage, the opulent interior, or the jet's power in flight, each image I create is crafted to convey a narrative of sophistication, performance, and exclusivity."
"Beyond aesthetics, high-end aviation photography is integral to the broader aeronautics industry. In a market where first impressions are critical, especially in the sale and marketing of luxury aircraft, high-quality imagery can be the deciding factor for potential buyers. These images bring the aircraft's craftsmanship, advanced technology, and luxurious features to life, creating a visual narrative that speaks louder than words. For manufacturers and brokers, compelling photography is an indispensable tool in marketing materials, brochures, and online listings, providing clients with an intimate look at the aircraft’s design and features—often their first introduction to a potential purchase. In this way, aviation photography not only captures the aircraft's beauty but also plays a vital role in communicating value, generating interest, and driving sales.
My passion for photography truly ignited on my 13th birthday when I received my first digital camera. From that moment, my love for the craft has only grown. I started out like most young photographers, capturing anything and everything. Growing up in Vancouver, I honed my skills on the city’s rainy streets, mastering techniques like panning shots, long exposure cityscapes, and reflections. By working with subjects I couldn’t control, I learned to move myself rather than the subject, and to wait patiently for the perfect moment. Over the years, I’ve developed a unique ability to excel in subject placement and attention to detail, bringing life and emotion to even the most ordinary scenes. From staging, to light manipulation and color correcting, I have developed my skills to deliver the best images possible."
"Before diving into aviation photography, I built a strong foundation in automotive photography. Having worked with hundreds of private clients and various high-end manufacturers, this experience has sharpened my eye for capturing the beautiful forms and intricate details of every subject I photograph. I've found that there are many similarities in the pride and passion that owners take in both their supercars and private jets. My passion is to share yours. I take great pride in consistently delivering projects on time and am honored to have a reputation for exceeding my clients’ expectations. My dedication to my craft is evident in every project, as I strive to evoke deep emotions and create a lasting impact through my work."
"And every once in a while . . . have a little fun with it!"
- Colin Chatfield
The best things in life are free...
...the second best things are very expensive
- Coco Chanel
