A Journey Born from a Single Flight

Philippe’s love for aviation began at the tender age of 15 when he took a trial flight from the historic Lunken Field in Cincinnati, USA. From the moment he touched down, his grin spoke volumes, signaling the beginning of a lifelong passion for flight.

‘My Mom met me at landing and the grin said it all. I was hooked.’

Beyond the Skies: Unveiling Philippe’s Interests

Outside the cockpit, Philippe is an avid Formula 1 fan and a cycling enthusiast. Whether he’s cheering on his favorite drivers or exploring scenic routes on his bike, Philippe finds joy in the adrenaline and freedom of these exhilarating pursuits.

Navigating the Aircraft Sales Landscape

As a key member of the sales team at Lone Mountain Aircraft, Philippe’s days are filled with excitement and variety. Based in London, England, he works closely with European-based owners and buyers, guiding them through the intricacies of aircraft ownership. From lively phone conversations to on-site visits at service centers and new destinations, Philippe thrives on connecting with clients and helping them achieve their aviation goals.

‘I love getting out and about, so you’ll find me at service centers throughout the UK and Europe, or finding new destinations with clients.’

A Commitment to Customer Satisfaction & Celebrating Memorable Moments

Philippe understands that aircraft salespeople are more than just brokers; they’re trusted allies in the world of aviation. He prides himself on being a dependable resource for clients, offering support and guidance every step of the way. Whether it’s troubleshooting a mechanical issue or simply providing a listening ear, Philippe is dedicated to enhancing the overall customer experience.

While Philippe has countless memorable experiences with clients, few moments rival the satisfaction of hearing from clients months after their aircraft purchase. Knowing that he played a part in finding the perfect aircraft for their needs is deeply rewarding and reaffirms his passion for his work.

‘It’s very rewarding when a client calls you months after they purchased an aircraft and say it’s been the perfect machine.’

A Passion for Owner-Pilots

Philippe’s enthusiasm for aviation is evident in his love for working with owner-pilots. He thrives on the energy and engagement of clients who share his passion for flying, finding fulfillment in matching their needs and aspirations with the perfect aircraft.

‘I love that in this role we get to learn and explore and be familiar with many types, so that we can continue to match an owner’s needs, mission, budget, to the right aircraft.’

Building Strong Relationships, One Conversation at a Time

For Philippe, building rapport with clients is all about responsiveness and genuine listening. By understanding their needs and guiding them toward the right aircraft, he fosters trust and loyalty that extends far beyond the sales process.

To those considering purchasing or financing an aircraft for the first time, Philippe offers words of encouragement: Embrace the challenge and seize the opportunity. While the process may seem daunting, the rewards of aircraft ownership are immeasurable, offering unparalleled freedom and adventure.

‘It’s so rewarding walking out to your own plane, hopping in and pushing that throttle forward to break from Earth’s gravity once again. The possibilities are endless and while it may be complex to purchase an aircraft, the reward more than makes up for it.’

Get in Touch with Philippe

Ready to take to the skies or explore the world of aircraft ownership? Reach out to Philippe directly:

• Phone: +1-231-256-1401 or +44-7794-501-432
• Email: ppolman@lonemtn.com

Catch Philippe at upcoming aviation events, including Private Flyer events in the UK, AERO Friedrichshafen in Germany (17-20 April, Hall A3-114), Sleapkosh in the UK, Oshkosh’s EAA Airventure in the USA, and Cirrus Aircraft events in Europe. Or better yet, give him a call and embark on a flying adventure together!

Embarking on an Unexpected Journey

For Mindy, the path to becoming an aviation sales professional was anything but conventional. Initially on track for a career in medicine, Mindy’s fascination with aerospace medicine sparked an unexpected revelation: her true passion lay in flying itself. This epiphany led her to transition from pre-med courses to pursuing her pilot’s license at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

‘While researching different types of doctors I could be, I was hooked on the idea of Aerospace Medicine and thought of how glamorous it could be to take care of pilots and perhaps fly on aircraft all over the world taking care of pilots and crew. Then – it hit me like a ton of bricks – I suddenly realized how much I wanted to be ON airplanes and wasn’t so intrigued with the medicine part any longer, and so I started to research how to become a pilot.’

Beyond the Clouds: Discovering Personal Joys

Outside the realm of aviation, Mindy finds solace in the tranquility of fishing and spending time outdoors. Growing up on the shores of a Florida lake, she developed a deep connection with nature, a bond she continues to nurture to this day. Her fishing expeditions serve as a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

‘My parents gifted me a fishing-equipped kayak for Christmas one year in college, which is when I really got hooked on fishing. I would take it out all the time in the intercoastal while attending ERAU in Daytona Beach, FL – commonly coming home with fish in the cooler and would filet them up for dinner. A flight student’s dream….”free” food!’

Navigating the Skies of Professionalism

As an Aircraft Sales Rep at Lone Mountain, Mindy’s days are as diverse as the aircraft she handles. Whether she’s liaising with clients from her home office or jet-setting to meet them in person, each day presents new challenges and opportunities to excel. Her dedication to simplifying the process for clients ensures a seamless experience from start to finish, reflecting Lone Mountain’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

A Journey Fueled by Passion

Mindy’s passion for aviation extends far beyond the realm of sales. For her, the most rewarding moments come from fulfilling the dreams of first-time aircraft owners. The sheer joy and excitement radiating from clients as they take ownership of their aircraft serve as a constant reminder of the profound impact aviation has on people’s lives.

‘The most rewarding deals tend to be when I get to sell to first-time aircraft owners. It is exciting to make someone’s lifelong dream come true, and you can feel that throughout the process. The vibe is electric, and you can’t help but to be on Cloud 9!’

Flying Towards Success: Building Lasting Relationships

At the heart of Mindy’s approach to sales lies a commitment to honesty and transparency. By maintaining open lines of communication and delivering truthful feedback, she forges strong bonds with her clients built on trust and reliability. Her dedication to providing exceptional service extends beyond the transaction itself, ensuring that clients feel supported every step of the way.

Advice from Above: Navigating the Aircraft Market

For first-time buyers navigating the complex world of aircraft ownership, Mindy offers invaluable advice: enlist the help of a trustworthy broker. With their expertise and guidance, the stress of the purchasing process is alleviated, allowing buyers to focus on their excitement for the journey ahead.

‘Buying my own airplane for the first time was the best experience I could have given myself. Not only did I get to fulfill one of my own dreams, but I got to sit on the other side of the table and feel what it’s like to be a buyer.’

Get in Touch with Mindy

Ready to take to the skies? Reach out to Mindy directly via email or on social on Instagram and YouTube.

Catch Mindy at upcoming aviation events, including Sun ‘n Fun and Aero Friedrichshafen (hall A3-114), where she’ll be sharing her expertise and passion for aviation with enthusiasts from around the world.

At Lone Mountain Aircraft, safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a core value ingrained in every 

aspect of our operations. We recently hosted our inaugural Safety Stand Down event, bringing together aviation professionals from various disciplines to discuss, learn, and reinforce our commitment to flight safety.

With the theme “Learning, Communication, Accountability: Building Our Safety Culture,” our event aimed to delve into the intricacies of flight preparation, execution, and assessment. From the pre-flight checklist to the final landing, every stage of flight presents unique challenges and considerations. Through panel discussions, presentations, and guest speakers, we explored techniques, best practices, and professional insights to enhance safety measures across the board.

One of the highlights of our event was the opportunity to host distinguished speakers, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. We were honored to have Captain Robert “Hoot” Gibson among our lineup. With an impressive resume that includes five missions aboard the Space Shuttles, Captain Gibson shared invaluable insights into aviation and space exploration, emphasizing the importance of communication and teamwork in mitigating risks.

Another standout presentation came from Clarke “Otter” McNeace, Executive Vice-President of Compliance & Customer Experience at Aviation Performance Solutions (APS). McNeace’s discussion on Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I) shed light on a critical aspect of aviation safety, emphasizing the role of comprehensive Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) in addressing this common cause of fatalities.

Additionally, Peter Basile, a Senior Air Safety Investigator with Textron Aviation, provided a detailed analysis of a Cessna Citation Latitude accident investigation. By dissecting the sequence of events leading to the accident, Basile offered valuable insights and takeaways to enhance flying safety.

The event received positive feedback from attendees and received comments such as; “This was great! Excellent information…stuff I can apply to what I do every day. Great to get everyone together and focus on Safety. Speakers were outstanding, their messages were interesting and applicable.”

Our President, Mark Rogers was in attendance and noted the event’s exceptional execution and value. As we reflect on the success of our first Safety Stand Down, we’re already looking ahead to future editions. While this may have been our inaugural event, we’re committed to making it a recurring fixture on our calendar, alternating with other industry-leading safety initiatives.

At Lone Mountain Aircraft, our dedication to safety extends beyond words; it’s a tangible commitment reflected in every aspect of our business. As we continue to uphold the highest standards of safety, we invite you to experience the difference firsthand. Join us on our journey to safer skies, where expertise meets experience, and safety is paramount.

Meet Robbie: A Passionate Aviator, Making Dreams Soar

In the vibrant world of aviation, passion is often the driving force behind remarkable careers. Meet Robbie, a key member ofour aircraft sales team here at Lone Mountain Aircraft. With a childhood spent under the flight paths of Biggin Hill, Robbie’s journey into aviation was practically written in the clouds. Discover how his love for flying has shaped his professional path.

Childhood Dreams Take Flight 

Robbie’s roots in aviation run deep, rooted in the picturesque village of Biggin Hill, just south of London. From a young age, he was captivated by the roar of aircraft engines and the spectacle of air shows. Fueled by a relentless passion for flight, Robbie embarked on his aviation journey, soloing at 16 and obtaining his PPL at 21. But his love for the skies didn’t stop there – Robbie is also a certified skydiver, showcasing his adventurous spirit beyond the cockpit.

A Day in the Life of an Aviation Sales Pro

As a valued member of our European sales team, Robbie’s days are anything but typical. 

“There isn’t a typical day which is part of the reason I enjoy the role!” 

From aircraft photography to contract preparation, his role encompasses a dynamic range of tasks aimed at providing top-notch service to clients. With a dedication to being available whenever needed, Robbie ensures that every client inquiry or request is met with prompt attention and expert guidance.

Creating Unforgettable Adventures 

One of Robbie’s most memorable experiences was facilitating a seamless aircraft purchase for a client across continents. 

“I always enjoy when we can facilitate every stage of a transaction. Recently we helped a buyer from the US, purchase an aircraft in the UK by performing a “virtual walk around” with them on a video call, facilitating everything necessary for a PPI and then flying the aircraft over to them in the US.”

Through innovative solutions like virtual walkarounds and meticulous coordination, Robbie and our team ensured a smooth transaction that exemplified their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Fueling a Lifelong Passion for Flight

For Robbie, aviation isn’t just a career – it’s a lifelong passion. The ability of general aviation to empower individuals and facilitate incredible journeys is what drives him every day. His encounters within the general aviation community have left a lasting impression, showcasing the camaraderie and generosity that define this close-knit community. 

“I’ve loved aviation since I was old enough to know what it was. Being a part of such a rewarding sector of the industry is a dream. General aviation can enable so much for people and being able to help that sector grow is amazing.”

Appreciating the Diversity in Aircraft 

With a diverse array of aircraft under his belt, Robbie finds it impossible to pick a favorite. Each aircraft serves a unique purpose, from the versatile 22T to the iconic Spitfire. Robbie’s appreciation for the capabilities and versatility of different aircraft reflects his deep understanding of the industry. 

“There’s an aircraft for every mission. A 22T will take you almost anywhere on the planet with a few stops. A PC12 can take you from a grass strip to an international airport on the other side of Europe. A Husky can land in most people’s back gardens. Couldn’t pick one, love them all. (If I ever sell a Spitfire that takes the top spot, obviously).”

Nurturing Genuine Client Relationships

Robbie’s approach to building strong client relationships is simple yet effective: honesty, expertise, and a commitment to being a comprehensive resource for clients. 

“I think being upfront, honest and being product experts enables us to build rapport with our clients. We can help with every aspect of buying, selling and owning an aircraft and I think our clients appreciate the “one-stop-shop” approach of our services.”

By providing transparent guidance and leveraging our full suite of services, Robbie ensures that clients feel supported every step of the way.

When asked for advice for first-time aircraft buyers, Robbie’s response is succinct: “Work with Lone Mountain Aircraft!” 

Connect with Robbie

Looking to connect with Robbie? Whether it’s via email, phone, or social media, he’s always just a message away. And if you’re attending AERO Friedrichshafen, be sure to stop by and say hello. Robbieand our Lone Mountain Aircraft team will be there in hall A3-114, ready to discuss your aviation needs and showcase a selection of fantastic aircraft for sale.

Navigating Icing Conditions: Understanding, Preventing, and Safely Soaring through the Skies

As pilots, we understand the thrill and wonder of soaring through the skies. Yet, with this exhilaration comes the responsibility to navigate safely through various weather conditions. In this post, we’ll embark on a journey into one of the most critical topics in aviation during the winter months: icing conditions. From understanding the different types of icing to practical tips for safe flying, let’s delve into the world of aviation safety and preparation.

Understanding Icing Conditions

Icing conditions pose a significant risk to aircraft, particularly during specific seasons. But what exactly are icing conditions? In simple terms, they occur when supercooled water droplets freeze upon contact with an aircraft’s surfaces. This phenomenon can lead to reduced lift, increased weight and drag, and diminished thrust—factors that can compromise the safety of a flight.

Exploring Icing Types

There are several types of icing, each with its own characteristics and impacts on aircraft performance. Clear, rime, mixed, and frost are the main categories, with varying degrees of severity. Clear ice, for instance, forms when large droplets freeze rapidly, resulting in a smooth, transparent layer that can be particularly hazardous. Understanding these types is crucial for pilots to anticipate and mitigate potential risks.

Frost Ice

Clear Ice

Rime Ice

Mixed Ice

Interpreting Intensity Levels

Icing intensity levels range from trace to severe, with each level presenting unique challenges. Pilots must be able to interpret these levels accurately and respond accordingly. While trace icing may be perceptible with no significant accumulation, severe icing can lead to rapid and dangerous ice buildup. By staying vigilant and proactive, pilots can make informed decisions to ensure the safety of their flight.

Practical Tips for Safe Flying

To navigate through icing conditions safely, pilots must be well-prepared and equipped with the right knowledge and tools. This includes checking weather reports, referencing Pilot Reports (PIREPs), and understanding the limitations of aircraft icing systems. Additionally, becoming familiar with Fixed Base Operator (FBO) de-icing capabilities and fluid types can provide added assurance and confidence during flight operations.

As pilots, safety is our top priority. Navigating through icing conditions requires knowledge, skill, and a proactive approach to ensure a safe and successful flight. By understanding the different types of icing, interpreting intensity levels, and implementing practical tips for safe flying, pilots can confidently soar through the skies while prioritizing the safety of themselves and their passengers. Let’s continue to prioritize safety and education, ensuring that every flight is a smooth and secure journey.

At Lone Mountain Aircraft, we have recently joined the Charter Safety Foundation’s Aviation Safety Action Program. Read more about what that means for our jet management team in their latest release.

Please help us extend a warm welcome to the newest member of Lone Mountain Aircraft, Mindy Lindheim.   Mindy joins the LMA sales team following a successful aircraft sales position at Textron Aviation.    

Mindy’s passion for aviation started in college when she decided to enroll at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and take a discovery flight. After she was hooked on flying, Mindy worked for Textron Aviation for six years selling factory new Cessna & Beechcraft piston aircraft and working as a factory demo pilot.

Mindy is a commercial, instrument, single and multi-land pilot who has been a Certified Flight Instructor since 2015 and has since earned her single-pilot type rating for the Citation 525 series.

Mindy cares about attention to detail and providing turbulence-free transactions. She values the customer experience and goes above and beyond to ensure clients’ success.

“Mindy’s extensive industry connections and expertise in Cessna and Beechcraft are complementary to our organization, and we are pleased to have her continue her success at Lone Mountain,” said Mark Rogers, Lone Mountain President. 

Based in Orlando, Florida, Mindy enjoys flying “Mojo,” her vintage 1957 Cessna 182 Skylane. Mindy & her husband Kevin love to take their plane on trips to go fishing, boating, exploring, and enjoying the outdoors in a new city. She loves to share her passion for aviation with others and help motivate new people to join the aviation community.

Welcome aboard, Mindy! 

Your experience with piston aircraft is increasing, and you want to go higher, further and faster. You’re wondering what it would be like to own an aircraft that serves you better. You’re tired of the fuel stops, load limitations, and stress about inclement weather. 

If those frustrations are in your mind, it could be time to make the transition to a turbine aircraft. 

This transition can be intimidating; turbines have larger passenger capacity, higher altitude capability, and increased training and insurance requirements before you can fly on your own. 

Lone Mountain Aircraft knows these factors can be daunting, and we don’t want indecision or a lack of resources to take away from the next phase in your flying endeavors. Transitioning to a turbine aircraft doesn’t have to mean studying the intricacies of purchasing and piloting a more capable aircraft. We’re here to break down your transition into manageable, clear steps. 

We have a long list of clients who have graduated from piston to turbine ownership. Whether you’re eyeing a turboprop or a light jet, that transition is a natural place for Lone Mountain Aircraft to step in and guide you through the process. Our team of experts brings market intelligence, technical expertise and practical piloting experience to ensure you’re avoiding blindspots and purchasing with confidence. 

We walk with you to identify the right aircraft for your mission, streamline the acquisition, and overcome challenges like training, insurance, financing and management. 

It’s common for an owner’s flight requirements to change. New family adventures are calling. Business expands into new regions. You deserve an aircraft that fits your mission. Whatever your situation, we’re here as your trusted partner in aircraft ownership. 

Lone Mountain Aircraft (LMA) is excited to announce that John Arnold joined the team earlier this year! 

John comes to LMA after spending 10 years with Cessna Aircraft (now Textron Aviation), where he held sales director responsibilities for the piston, Caravan, King Air and Citation 525 product lines and helped with Citation business development in Chicago. Before working at Cessna, John represented the SR20 product line for Cirrus Aircraft. 

Additionally, he holds a commercial rating for single-engine land/sea, multi-instrument, and single-pilot type rating for the Citation 525 series. John has flown 25+ aircraft, logging more than 2,500 hours. 

“John’s background and expertise in Cessna and Cirrus Aircraft is a massive asset to our clients. I am confident he will elevate the Lone Mountain team and we are thankful to have him represent us,” said Mark Rogers, Lone Mountain President. 

Growing up in an aviation community, John’s father owned aircraft for business and family travel and the father-son team helped many neighbors build and restore aircraft. As John grew older, and his interest in aviation continued to develop, he worked with his father to restore their own Cessna 172. John would later use this Cessna to earn his private and instrument ratings. 

Once he received his ratings, John began his aviation career at Cirrus Aircraft. In the position, he flew across North America, selling and supporting the SR20 relaunch. John stayed on with Cirrus until joining Cessna in 2011. 

When not flying or talking aircraft, John loves playing games with his wife, Jennifer, and their three daughters Ella, Abigail and Elizabeth. He also enjoys boating on Lake Geneva and tinkering in the garage. John and his family currently live in suburban Chicago. 

Are you interested in selling, trading, or buying? John has the passion and expertise to help you find the perfect aircraft. Get in touch with him at jarnold@lonemtn.com.

BY GORDON RAMSAY, AIRCRAFT SALES 

It’s no secret that buying or selling an aircraft is complex. Between negotiations, tax and title, compliance, type ratings, management and maintenance, it’s a tough road to walk alone. However, we get it – for some sellers, using a broker doesn’t feel like the wisest choice when it comes to cost savings. 

While I can make a solid argument that the majority of sellers save money by enlisting a quality broker to manage the process no matter the timing, I’d like to focus solely on the current market at hand. 

COVID-19 has dramatically shifted the market across the board. The same is true for private aviation. It’s not a difficult time to sell and to make quite a bit more than initially invested in the aircraft. Most sellers feel like they are “winning” when it comes to the transaction. 

So why enlist a broker? 

The market is more dynamic than ever, meaning sellers need a close eye on the day-to-day changes in private aviation. 

Just recently, I had a customer reach out who was considering going on their own. The customer shared his asking price and after the conversation, decided to partner with Lone Mountain to sell. Eventually, the customer was able to net more than they were going to ask. The broker fee became the least of this client’s concerns as it was easily offset by the increased proceeds from the sale. 

Lone Mountain provides our clients with confidence as they enter the selling process. We provide a thorough analysis of your current aircraft using accurate up-to-date market data, discuss current trends, and do a thorough cost-analysis, taking into account recent transactions of similar aircraft. After reviewing the data, you will choose your asking price and we’ll go to work prepping your aircraft for maximum resale value. 

Let us help you make the most out of your resale. Connect with our team today to receive a free valuation of your current aircraft, get your questions answered, and begin the selling process. 

Because, let’s face it, no one wants to leave money on the table.