AviationPros Podcast

The aviation maintenance sector has seen rapid growth in demand in recent years. From aging fleets to parts and labor shortages, there are several factors contributing to this rising demand, and many ways MROs can respond. On this episode of the Aviation Pros Podcast, we speak with Joey Smith, aviation director at Cassel Salpeter & Co., about what’s driving growth in the global MRO market and how maintenance organizations can take advantage of the opportunities available, with a special focus on mergers and acquisitions.

In this episode of the AviationPros Podcast, Ground Support Worldwide Editor Jenny Lescohier speaks with Alexei Beltyukov, CEO of Unifuel, about a potential breakthrough in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Beltyukov explains how Unifuel’s Flexiforming technology converts low-value byproducts into critical fuel components, helping SAF move closer to a true drop-in replacement for conventional jet fuel. The discussion explores what this means for fuel logistics, infrastructure, and ground operations, as well as the economic realities shaping SAF adoption. The conversation offers a practical look at how emerging fuel technologies could impact day-to-day operations across the aviation industry.

In this episode of the Aviation Pros Podcast, Joe Petrie speaks with Carlos Ozores, partner at PA Consulting and leader of the firm’s U.S. aviation practice, about how airports can develop new revenue sources to help close the funding gap.

There’s a lot going on at MTU Maintenance, from new service expansions and smart tools to unique sustainability practices. In this episode of the Aviation Pros Podcast, Marcel Leon de Paz—VP of Programs and Sales at MTU Maintenance Berlin-Brandenburg—shares insight on modernization in aviation maintenance and in MTU’s operations. Listen to learn more about MTU Intelligent Solutions and other key innovations that align with developments in the aviation industry, like AI-powered technology and workforce development programs.

In this episode of the AviationPros podcast, Ground Support Worldwide Editor Jenny Lescohier talks with Maria Fernandez de Cordoba, CEO of Grupo EULEN USA, about the competitive realities of the U.S. ground handling sector. She explains how the company is investing in advanced workforce planning and software to better manage irregular operations and support airline on-time performance. Fernandez de Cordoba highlights the importance of frontline leadership in improving workforce recruitment and retention, emphasizing leadership development, cross-training and educational partnerships as core strategies.

In this episode of the Aviation Pros Podcast, Dustin Zeitler, co-owner of RealClean Aircraft Detailing shares an inside look at his company’s operations and the ways franchising has improved services for the company and for customers. Zeitler gives insight into the value of specialized services in aircraft cleaning and detailing and the benefits of franchising for aircraft detailing and maintenance companies. He also offers advice to new professionals who want to pursue a career in aircraft detailing and seasoned aviation experts who might be considering a career transition.

In this AviationPros Podcast episode, Ground Support Worldwide Editor Jenny Lescohier shares how the annual Leaders of the Year awards program highlights the individuals and organizations advancing safety, performance and innovation on the ramp. She invites listeners to nominate candidates before the March 13 deadline. To make a nomination, click here.

Electrification is transforming ground support equipment, but battery technology is at the center of making that transition practical and reliable. In this AviationPros podcast episode, Green Cubes’ Jerry Crump and Darin Kiefer join Ground Support Worldwide Editor Jenny Lescohier to break down how lithium battery systems are helping ground handlers address real-world operational challenges. They explain how faster charging, opportunity charging, and improved battery capacity can help fleets operate effectively, even when charging infrastructure is limited or constantly changing. The discussion also covers how lithium batteries deliver more consistent performance, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance compared to traditional lead-acid systems. Crump and Kiefer also share how battery management systems and telematics are providing valuable data to improve uptime, enable predictive maintenance, and optimize fleet operations. As adoption grows, education, customization, and strong service support are proving essential to helping operators successfully transition to electric GSE.