Dr. Tony Kern is a leading expert on human performance in aviation, a retired U.S. Air Force Command Pilot, and former National Aviation Director for the U.S. Forest Service. He has authored ten books and dedicated his career to improving performance and reducing errors. He lives with his wife, Shari.
For over 30 years, CRM has been defined as “the use of all available resources to safely accomplish the flight mission.” In this presentation, Dr. Tony Kern will argue that the mental and social strengths of the crew is the most significant resource of all, and is underappreciated and undertrained. Using examples of world class athletes, he will show that that habits of hypervigilance create true experts who can function under stress, both in the cockpit and in life.
Tim Lilley is the father of Samuel Lilley, the First Officer on American Airlines Flight 5342, which was tragically lost in a midair collision over the Potomac River in January 2025. A 20-year U.S. Army aviation veteran, Tim served as a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot with combat experience in Operations Just Cause, Desert Storm, and Enduring Freedom. He later spent 15 years as an EMS helicopter pilot and briefly flew as a regional airline pilot before transitioning to his current role as a Captain flying the Praetor jet for a leading fractional operator. He holds a B.S. in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and an M.S. in Management from Florida Institute of Technology.
Tim will address critical issues in aviation safety, drawing from his personal loss and extensive experience as a pilot. He will highlight the urgent need for ATC system modernization, including updated routes, staffing improvements, and better risk identification processes. Emphasizing the dangers of misclassifying military missions and downplaying risks, he will advocate for greater accountability, increased use of ADS-B on military aircraft in Class B airspace, and the necessity of additional crew members on Blackhawks. Tim will also discuss the role of analytics and data sharing between the military and the FAA to identify risk hotspots and prevent future tragedies, underscoring the importance of learning from past mistakes to improve aviation safety for all.
Barry began his aviation career in 1988 as a flight instructor, joining Hop-A-Jet in 1990, where he rose from co-pilot to President by 1996. With nearly 30 years as Director of Operations and President, Barry has helped Hop-A-Jet become the industry’s first employee-owned aircraft charter company in 2022 and a leading name in charter aviation.
Recent National Transportation Safety Board investigations reveal critical lessons, emphasizing the importance of recognizing personal and professional limitations to reduce errors, enhance aeronautical decision-making, and strengthen operational resiliency. These findings serve as a call to action for the industry to proactively review their operations, ensuring that deviations from policy or unsafe practices are identified and corrected before they lead to accidents or incidents.
Ryan Burns is a Senior Designer at Truist, where he focuses on crafting intuitive and engaging digital experiences. With a background in psychology and human-centered design, Ryan specializes in optimizing user interactions to drive efficiency and satisfaction. His career spans roles in product management, UX design, and research, including positions at Airkit and TeachAids. Ryan holds a Master’s degree in Communication and a Bachelor’s degree in Science, Technology, and Society from Stanford University, where he also played quarterback for the football team. In addition to his work in design, Ryan is a high school football coach, mentoring young athletes in leadership, resilience, and performance under pressure.
An overview of the upcoming SMS requirements for Part 135 and Air Tour Operators. Two highly experienced SMS experts will share their insights on the background, status, and future of the pending FAA rule.
ACSF has developed its Lite Certification for smaller operators who must comply with the new rule. By concentrating on the specifics of Part 5, operators can attain certification with minimal intrusion or disruption to their operations.
Finally, how to draft the declaration of compliance letter and what responsibilities accompany its submission to the FAA.
Amanda Ferraro, CEO of Aviation Safety Solutions, LLC, is a highly regarded aviation leader with over 25 years of experience, guiding safety initiatives for nearly 250 global operators. A Certified Aviation Manager and IS-BAO lead auditor, she is recognized for her expertise in SMS integration, FAA/ICAO compliance, and UAS safety, as well as for her leadership in shaping FAA Part 5 regulations. A survivor of a life-altering accident, Ferraro’s passion for transforming aviation safety has earned her industry acclaim, including NBAA’s 40 Under 40 award.
Leonard is the founder of AeroTechna Solutions LLC, brings over 43 years of expertise in business aircraft management, technical operations, and industry education. As a leader in global aviation standards, he focuses on improving safety, maintenance programs, and operational excellence for heavy corporate jets worldwide.
Brian Small oversees Flight Safety International’s regulatory compliance for the company’s Part 142 Training Center Certificate and numerous global training organization approvals. Brian has logged over 1,000 hours as a Flight Instructor, served as a Part 135 Captain, and led a corporate flight department under Part 91. He holds an FAA ATP with multiple type ratings, as well as CFII, AGI, and Remote Pilot certifications.
Drawing on the knowledge and best practices from an experienced panel of business jet operators, this session will explore the impact that informed crew pairing decisions and early focus on harmony in standard operating procedures has on safe and successful flight operations.
Session Objectives (four key takeaways):
FDM has been around for a long time but is it really effective. In this session we will discuss quantitative and qualitative outcomes that we see from running a FDM program. There will be a presentation followed by a panel discussion of new and experienced FDM practitioners.
I joined Adobe in 2019 to design, build, and lead a new flight department, aligning with the company’s commitment to employee experience, safety culture, and sustainability. Our aviation team embraces a digital-first mindset, data-driven decision-making, and a culture of trust to create exceptional travel experiences for Adobe’s executives. I am passionate about flying, leading high-performing teams, and delivering value to Adobe through innovation and operational excellence.
Wesley Treco has been an aviation professional for over thirty years. He obtained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the late 1990’s and is a NBAA CAM. He has held positions as 142 TCE, Assistant Chief Flight Instructor, Manager of Flight Standards, 135 Pilot, and Safety Officer. He is a current ATP/CFI and holds type ratings in the G-V, DC-9, HS-125, DA-2EASy, and G280.
Sheryl Clarke brings over 34 years of aviation experience, including 9.5 years as an Air Force pilot and the rest in commercial aviation as a line Captain, Check Airman, and Director of Safety. She has led FOQA programs across Part 121, Part 135, and now at a Part 91 operation with a mixed fleet.
Air Charter Safety Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
Go Rentals shall provide the following rates for vehicle reservations to agents, employees and members of
Go Rentals’ standard rates shall apply to reservations in Colorado, Montana, Utah and Wyoming.
Ensure comprehensive safety and support with MedAire’s industry-leading solutions, expertly tailored for Business Aviation. As a valued member of the Air Charter Safety Foundation, you are eligible for an exceptional 20% discount on the first-year retail price of MedAire360 Assistance Membership.
MedAire360 stands at the forefront of aviation risk management and resilience. The program integrates advanced medical, security, and operational support, meticulously developed through nearly 40 years of industry insights, real-world experience, and technological innovation. MedAire360 ensures each flight is safeguarded with proactive risk mitigation, cutting-edge medical diagnostic equipment, and comprehensive safety training resources.
ACSF members can take advantage of this exclusive offer by presenting proof of current ACSF membership to the MedAire sales team during the enrolment process.
For nearly four decades, MedAire has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of aviation safety and security. The MedAire360 Assistance Membership is designed to integrate top-tier medical and security assistance, rigorous crew training, and state-of-the-art medical kits for onboard health and safety. The membership provides 24/7 access to aviation medical and security specialists, VIP medical support at destination points, and seamless coordination for essential services worldwide.
MedAire’s services are crucial in mitigating travel risks and ensuring the highest safety standards. Whether the need is for pre-trip risk assessments, in-flight medical guidance, or emergency support, MedAire360 delivers unmatched expertise and personalised care at every step.