FLYHT's JumpSeat

In this cutting-edge episode of The JumpSeat, Chris Glass is joined by William Cecil from FLYHT Aerospace and Max Le Leannec from Transatel for a deep dive into the evolving world of aviation connectivity. Together, they break down how legacy communication systems like ACARS are reaching their limits—and how private 5G networks, edge computing, and IoT-driven infrastructure are set to transform everything from engine data offload to predictive maintenance and real-time baggage handling.

The conversation covers why aviation has lagged behind industries like automotive in connectivity, and how global telecom innovation is now catching up to aircraft, gates, and terminals. From 5G private network deployments at airports like Charles de Gaulle and Hong Kong, to redundancy strategies for mission-critical systems, this episode explores how to future-proof the entire aviation data ecosystem. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to truly connect an aircraft—and an airport—this is your boarding pass to the future. 

In this episode of The Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with Willie Cecil of Flight Aerospace to demystify one of aviation's biggest hidden challenges: how aircraft operational data is collected, transmitted, and used today—and why it desperately needs a 21st-century overhaul. From legacy telex-based communication systems to manual engine downloads that take hours, Willie explains why so much of aviation still operates like it’s the 1970s—and what’s finally changing.

Willie introduces us to Edge+, a 5G-enabled data solution that’s helping airlines collect massive amounts of flight data in real time, paving the way for true predictive maintenance and more connected, efficient airline operations. They dive deep into the limitations of ACARS, QAR, and FADEC data handling, the rise of private 5G networks at airports, and what a fully connected aircraft can really unlock. Whether you’re an aviation pro or just fascinated by the tech that keeps us flying, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode of The Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with Lisa Marvin, a commercial manager at the UK Met Office, to explore the fascinating intersection of meteorology, aviation, and data innovation. Lisa shares insights into the pivotal role of aircraft, including partnerships with airlines like Loganair, in capturing atmospheric data using advanced water vapor sensors. These sensors enable better weather predictions, contribute to climate modeling, and even hold potential for contrail avoidance, making the skies greener and safer.

With a rich history dating back nearly 200 years, the UK Met Office has been at the forefront of weather science, from supporting the D-Day landings to today’s cutting-edge climate initiatives. Lisa’s unique journey from law enforcement to weather contracting highlights the diversity of opportunities within the organization. This conversation is a deep dive into how technology and collaboration across industries are shaping the future of global weather systems and the fight against climate change.

In this insightful episode of the Jump Seat Podcast, host Chris Glass is joined by Liz Baring from Embross and Ryan Potter from WestJet to explore the rapidly evolving world of airport self-service technology.

The conversation delves into WestJet’s innovative self-serve bag drop, the transition from manual check-ins to mobile-first solutions, and how technologies like AI and biometrics are shaping the future of air travel.

With a focus on improving the customer experience and speeding up airport processes, this episode highlights the partnership between WestJet and Embross and their vision for the future of airports. Tune in to learn how these advancements are setting the standard for the industry.

In this episode of "The Jump Seat," host Chris Glass takes listeners on location to the Abbotsford Airport, where he sits down with Parm Sidhu, the airport's General Manager. Parm shares his incredible journey from a Zamboni driver to the helm of one of Canada's fastest-growing airports.

The conversation delves into the unique aspects of Abbotsford Airport, including its history, growth, and innovative approach to becoming an ultra low-cost airport. Parm discusses the airport’s early days, the impact of WestJet, and how Abbotsford has adapted to changes in the aviation industry over the years.

Listeners will gain insights into the importance of partnerships, the influence of technology, and how the airport plans to handle future growth without expanding its physical footprint.  Join Chris and Parm for a deep dive into the strategies and innovations that are driving Abbotsford Airport's success and learn how this dynamic airport is setting new standards in the aviation industry.

In this episode of the Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with James Wong, Senior Vice President at Menzies, to discuss his fascinating career in aviation. 

From his early days in the Royal Canadian Air Cadets to pivotal roles at WestJet and his current position leading Menzies' operations in Southeast Asia, James shares valuable insights into the industry. 

They explore the evolution of big data in aviation, the challenges of managing global operations, and the growing opportunities in the Southeast Asian market, particularly in cargo. 

Tune in for a deep dive into the future of aviation and the lessons James has learned from his diverse experiences around the world.

In this episode of the Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with Jim Sullivan, a veteran in the aviation industry with a storied career spanning decades. Jim shares his journey from aspiring airline pilot to holding key leadership roles, including Vice President of Flight Operations at Frontier Airlines and Chief Operating Officer at Lynx Air.

Chris and Jim discuss the intricacies of starting and managing airlines, the evolution of the ultra-low-cost carrier model, and the unique challenges faced in the Canadian aviation market. Jim also offers insights into his upcoming role at Surfer Mobility, where he will focus on the electrification of aircraft and the future of air mobility.

Tune in for a fascinating conversation about the highs and lows of the aviation industry and what lies ahead.

In this special episode of "The Jump Seat," host Chris Glass sits down with Peter Lemme, a veteran in the field of aviation technology, live from the AMC conference in Phoenix, Arizona. With a career that began at Boeing in 1981, Peter has been a pivotal figure in the development of Satcom and in-flight connectivity. He shares his fascinating journey from working on automatic flight controls to becoming a thought leader in the Seamless Air Alliance.

Peter delves into the early challenges of implementing Satcom, recounting the evolution of technology that transformed in-flight communication. He discusses the impact of modern advancements like low-Earth orbit networks and the potential future disruptions in the industry, including the integration of augmented reality in-flight experiences.

Additionally, Peter talks about his passion project, the Satcom Guru blog, where he shares his extensive knowledge on aeronautical Satcom, and reflects on the honour of receiving the Velare award for his pioneering contributions.

What happens when a childhood surrounded by aviation leads to a storied career in both military and commercial flight technology? Meet Ted McFann, our guest who has lived that journey and more. From working on mission computers for fighter jets at the Naval Warfare Center to his long-standing role at FedEx, Ted’s experiences are a goldmine of insight. Listen as he shares his unique perspectives on the evolution of airline maintenance, the impact of technological advancements, and the important considerations around intellectual property in the MRO industry.

Ever wondered about the complexities of obtaining an STC for airlines? Ted breaks it down for us, covering everything from compliance with federal regulations to the meticulous process of data gathering and flight tests. We'll also explore global aviation trends, including the ripple effects of airline consolidation and the burgeoning opportunities in cybersecurity. Join us as we sprinkle in some memorable travel anecdotes and underscore the unparalleled value of networking at industry conferences like the AMC. This episode is a treasure trove of technical insights, personal stories, and industry trends that any aviation enthusiast will find enlightening.

In this episode of The Jump Seat, Chris Glass sits down with Brian Gleason, an aviation industry veteran with a rich background in operations engineering. Brian shares his journey from his early days at Boeing, through his groundbreaking work on electronic flight bags (EFB) at FedEx, to his current role at Southwest Airlines. They discuss the differences between cargo and passenger airline operations, the evolution of EFB technology, and the future of real-time data integration in aviation. Brian also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by cybersecurity in the aviation industry and shares his favorite travel destinations.