Safety Symposium 2025

April 7-9, 2025

ACSF Symposium Speakers

ACSF Safety SYMPOSIUM 2025 SPEAKERS

The ACSF Safety Symposium will return in 2025. Stay tuned for more information
Dr. Tony Kern Keynote Speaker ACSF Safety Symposium

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Dr. Tony Kern

CEO, Convergent Performance

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.

"All Available Resources"

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.

BOOK SIGNING

Dr. Kern will be on hand to sign a copy of his book Book “Armored Knight: Pursuit of Resolve, Resilience, Recovery from Life’s Challenges.” A Copy will be provided to all attendees.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Al Gorthy

Board Chair and President, Valor Partners Foundation
Captain, United States Navy (retired)

Al is a retired U.S. Navy pilot with 26 years of service, including command roles in F/A-18 squadrons and leadership during the Gulf War, earning the VADM James B. Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership. he has spoken extensively on human error in aviation and currently serves as President of the USS Harry S. Truman Foundation and on several boards.

"On The Clock"

Under critical situations or emergencies, “time constraints” can undoubtedly put stress and pressure on decision making. As a result, we may make choices more quickly, overlook important information, rely on our gut instincts, and are more likely to make mistakes. Through “story time”, Al will share how time restrictions, handicap decision making and often result in unfavorable outcomes.
Barry Ellis Speaker at ACSF Safety Symposium

Barry Ellis

President, Hop-a-Jet

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.

"Working through and planning for the unthinkable"

Discussion detailing the circumstances leading up to an aircraft accident, the real life use of a well developed Emergency Response Program, the expected and unexpected events in the following weeks and months, working hand in hand with the FAA and NTSB in search of the cause and the path forward in the efforts to save the a 50 year old aircraft charter company.

Ron Brower

Founder of RBAvLaw

With a career that includes senior legal and advisory roles at some of the most recognized names in aviation—such as Executive Jet Management, Fly Exclusive, NetJets, Northwest Airlines, and Wheels Up—Mr. Brower is known for his in-depth knowledge and leadership in aviation law. His clients have included aircraft owners and managers, charter air carriers, fixed base operators, fractional ownership program managers, repair stations, and both scheduled passenger and cargo airlines.

"Safety, Risk, Compliance, Reputation: 1 Gem, 4 Facets"

Safety, risk management, regulatory compliance, and business reputation are not isolated considerations for success in aviation. They are four facets of the same gem. This session will explore their interrelation and offer perspectives for managing them together in harmony.

Michael Graham

Board Member at National Transportation Safety Board

Michael Graham is the 45th Member of the National Transportation Safety Board. Before joining the NTSB, Member Graham worked for Textron Aviation where he served as the Director of Flight Operations Safety, Security, and Standardization. He began his career as a Naval Aviator flying A-7’s and F/A- 18’s. He earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Mexico. He is also a certified Airline Transport Pilot with over 10,000 flight hours.

"Navigating the Skies Safely: Building Resilience in Aviation Operations"

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.

Barry Ellis Speaker at ACSF Safety Symposium

Gary Perez

SpaceX

Al is a retired U.S. Navy pilot with 26 years of service, including command roles in F/A-18 squadrons and leadership during the Gulf War, earning the VADM James B. Stockdale Award for Inspirational Leadership. he has spoken extensively on human error in aviation and currently serves as President of the USS Harry S. Truman Foundation and on several boards.

"Pressure vs Performance"

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.

Kevin Van Splunder

Contract Captain

Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Kevin’s aviation professional began flying at 16, earning a pilot’s license before a driver’s license. With a degree in Professional Aeronautics focused on safety, his career spans co-piloting Citation Jets to flying globally for the Saudi Royal Family, amassing experience in 106 countries and all almost all continents. 

"Smoke in cockpit without Horizontal Stabalizer Control"

How fast can a flight go from normal to complete loss of aircraft – Answer – 7 Minutes. This presentation will cover key takeaways such as initial training, recurrent training, practical training and execution.

WORKSHOPS

John cox Chief Executive Officer of Safety Operating Systems and co-founder of Aviation Safety Compliance, LLC ACSF Safety Symposium

Captain John Cox

Chief Executive Officer of Safety Operating Systems and co-founder of Aviation Safety Compliance, LLC

Captain John Cox is a 53-year aviation veteran with extensive experience as a pilot, safety professional, and instructor. He has become a leading aviation consultant, media analyst, and educator, with a global reputation for advancing Safety Management Systems across industries.

"ACSF Lite, Part 5 and the Declaration of Compliance Letter"

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.

Jim Hosey CEO/President of Aviation Consulting/Auditing, LLC, and President, Co-Founder/Aviation Safety Compliance, LLC ACSF Safety Symposium Workshops

Jim Hosey

CEO/President of Aviation Consulting/Auditing, LLC, and President, Co-Founder/Aviation Safety Compliance, LLC

Jim provides specialized safety services, audits, and training for FAA and international operators. With over 15,000 flight hours and extensive experience in safety management, he supports Fortune 500 flight departments, business aviation, and major industries worldwide.

"Pressure vs Performance"

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.

Amanda Ferraro

CEO of Aviation Safety Solutions, LLC

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.

"Turning SMS Data into Safety Insights ”

Unlock the power of your Safety Management System (SMS) data in this interactive workshop designed for operators. Learn how to effectively analyze, interpret, and leverage SMS data to identify trends, assess risks, and drive proactive safety improvements. Led by industry expert Amanda Ferraro, this session will explore practical tools, real-world examples, and strategies to transform raw data into actionable insights that enhance safety culture and operational decision-making.

Leonard Beauchemin

Managing Director, AeroTechna Solutions LLC

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.

"Safety Management, Airworthiness, Quality Escapes; “Victim or Enabler”

Understanding the foundation of “airworthiness” and its intent, when exercising risk management and compliance management, is not safety at any cost. Our ability to perform our duties is underpinned by our perspectives, expectations and choices regardless of the activity. These attributes are based on our knowledge, experiences and organizational norms. Our goal during this session will be to add to your operational knowledge and share experiences. Mistakes, defects, flaws, failures, infant mortality, quality escapes, noncompliance in an airworthiness environment will be a shared, explored and explained.

PANELISTS

MODERATOR

Luke Bowman

Senior Product Director at GE Digital

Luke the Senior Product Director for GE Digital, Aviation Software, leading the Flight Analytics product line. With 20+ years of experience leveraging flight data, he develops innovative solutions like FlightPulse, which helps pilots make informed decisions on safety and fuel efficiency. Luke now lives in rural Vermont with his family, enjoying gardening and exploring the outdoors.

"How FDM helps operators fly safely"

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.

Panelist

Russell Arena

Corporate Pilot, ArenaCo, Retired, former Raytheon Pilot

With 43 years as a corporate pilot, Russ has extensive experience in both domestic and international aviation. He spent most of his career as Chief Pilot and Aircraft Manager for Raytheon’s corporate flight department and played a key role in establishing the DCA Standard Security Access Program (DASSP) post-9/11. Now semi-retired, he flies as a contract pilot and serves as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Business Aviation Association, where he was an early founding director.

MODERATOR

Brian Small

Director of Regulatory Affairs at FlightSafety International

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.

"Crew Pairing Considerations – Ensuring Safe Flight Operations"

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):

  • Determining PIC – Authority Gradient considerations
  • Safety Culture – Harmonizing application of TEM and SOP
  • Teamwork – Selecting contract pilots to suit your flight operation
  • Training – Expectations and evaluating pilot preparedness

Panelist

Nicole Battjes

CEO and Founder, Rainbow Helicopters

Nicole is the CEO and founder of Rainbow Helicopters, the largest air tour company in Oahu, Hawaii. Founded in 2011, Rainbow offers tours, charters, and aerial photography from bases in Honolulu and Kona. In 2023-2024, Nicole served as the Chair of the Board for Vertical Aviation International (VAI) and continues to serve as a board member. Nicole advocates for aviation safety standards for operators of all sizes, including Safety Management System (SMS) implementation

Panelist

Candace J. Covington

Senior Director, Aviation at Adobe

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.

Panelist

Kolin Jones

Founder & CEO of Amalfi Jets

Kolin Jones is the Founder & CEO of Amalfi Jets, Embry-Riddle Alumni, and pilot. Through his leadership, Kolin has propelled Amalfi Jets to the forefront of the private jet brokerage industry, pioneering innovative programs, a strong commitment to safety, and proprietary technology. Amalfi Jets has focused on creating an internal SMS system for private jet charter brokerages as well as technology-focused software to streamline sales and operational processes. Kolin is an avid private pilot, taking to the skies over Southern California and prioritizing philanthropy through the Amalfi Foundation.

ACSF

ACSF

Bryan Burns

President & CEO, Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF)

Kent Stauffer Chairman ACSF

ACSF

Kent Stauffer

Chair, Air Charter Safety Foundation

ACSF

Debi Carpenter

Executive Director

“Runway Surprises - Excursions and Incursions”

Roger Cox

Senior Air Safety Investigator – NTSB (retired)

Roger is a retired senior accident investigator at the NTSB. Among his many investigations, he was the lead operations investigator for the Colgan 3407 and Asiana 214 accidents. 

In addition to logging 18,000 hours in his flying career, he was an active safety advocate in the Air Line Pilots Association and chairman of the ALPA organization at his airline. He helped get ASAP and FOQA started there.

Roger is a member of the International Association of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI) and the Flight Safety Foundation and has done NTSB videos, “ Air Disaster” Video appearances, and presentations to diverse pilot groups. He writes a column for Business & Commercial Aviation magazine and has also taught Aviation Safety at the college level.

Kent Stauffer Chairman ACSF

“JUST CULTURE IN HUMAN FACTORS ”

KENT STAUFFER

Vice President of Safety, Flexjet

Kent is a leading aviation safety professional who heads safety for Flexjet. In addition to being a pilot, UAS Pilot and A&P, he holds several accreditations in Aviation Science, Aviation Maintenance, and Accident Investigation. Kent has a broad background in aviation safety, that includes human factors, risk management, flight/ground operations, Safety Management Systems (SMS), and accident investigation. Kent serves on several industry and FAA-sponsored work groups and the FAA Safety Team (FAAST). He participates as an aviation advisory board member for several Part 147 schools, Kent State University and Davis Aviation High School. Kent is a Board Member of the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC) and the Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) and chairs the NBAA Maintenance Safety Sub-Committee.

“Overcoming the Hype: Ushering AAM into Operational Reality”

Bryan Willows

Program Manager, Advanced Air Mobility, Bristow Group
 
Bryan is responsible for strategic planning and introduction of Bristow’s eVTOL/eSTOL fleet and AW609 fleet in new and existing markets. Additionally, he advises Bristow’s external partners and Executive Leadership Team on technical aviation matters.
Bryan earned an MBA from the Acton School of Business in Austin, TX. Bryan is veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he flew the CH-46E “Sea Knight” and MV-22B “Osprey”, deploying twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  He holds ratings as an Airline Transport Pilot – Helicopter, Commercial – Powered-lift, Single and Multi-engine Airplane pilot, and is a Powered-Lift CFI/CFII.

Dates

April 7-9, 2025

Location

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

Go Rentals Discount

Go Rentals shall provide the following rates for vehicle reservations to agents, employees and members of

  • ACSF Toyota Corolla: $64.99 Daily Rate 
  • Toyota Camry: $74.99 Daily Rate 
  • Toyota Rav4: $92.49 Daily Rate

Go Rentals’ standard rates shall apply to reservations in Colorado, Montana, Utah and Wyoming.

Go Rentals shall provide the clients and customers of ACSF (collectively, “Clients”) a 20% discount for vehicle reservations applied against the daily rate in effect at the time of reservation.

MedAire Benefit

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. 

Why MedAire360?

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. 

Key Benefits:

  1. Discount: 20% off the retail price per aircraft tail. 
  2. Eligibility: Available to new customers only. 
  3. Duration: Discount applies to the first year of MedAire360 Assistance Membership. 

How to Redeem:

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. 

Why Choose MedAire?

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.