AVIATION PERSPECTIVES WITH C.A.C. PODCAST

Ep.15: Introduction to the Maintenance Planning Document

In this episode, we welcome back returning guest Adam Bakos, Aircraft Certification and International Regulatory Affairs expert. This time, we provide an introduction to one of the most important documents in aircraft management: the Maintenance Planning Document (MPD). We discuss how the MPD is developed, the groups involved in its creation, the differences between the MRBR and the MPD, and the MSG-3 methodology behind it. We also explore the role of the Authority—not only in the certification process, but in the ongoing management of the MPD on operating aircraft—supported by practical, real-world examples from our experience. The MPD is a global document, common to all Type Certificate Holders worldwide, and one that all operators—private or commercial—must understand, implement, and manage effectively. Whether you operate under FAA, TCCA, EASA, or offshore registries, this introductory discussion is one you won’t want to miss. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction & Definition of the Maintenance Planning Document (MPD) 04:00 – MPD Development Process: Key Steps, Working Groups, and Authorities Involved 21:11 – Differences in MPDs Across Authorities 23:44 – Relationship Between the MRBR and the MPD 26:41 – Task Categories, and Certification Maintenance Requirements (CMRs) 30:37 – MSG Methodology: Significance and Evolution 44:49 – Role of Reliability Programs and Data in Relation to the MPD and Service Difficulty Reporting (SDR) 01:01:44 – Role of the Authority in the MPD Process: Enforcement and Deviations 01:17:45 – Future of the MPD and Closing Remarks Check Adam’s full bio HERE: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/events [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/events] Discover our Book "Introduction to Aircraft Management": Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books Amazon: https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB [https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB] Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ [https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ] Discover our Podcast “Aviation Perspectives with C.A.C.”: Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts [https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts] Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq [https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq] Discover our Workshops & Training: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training] Let's connect! Monthly Newsletter: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact] YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd. [http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd.] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/ [https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/] Our Services: Aircraft Management / Aviation Training / Transition Aircraft / Helicopter Ship-board Operations Management / Aircraft Registration & Delivery / AOC Start up / Maintenance Organization Start up / Aircraft Representation / Sales & Acquisitions / Technical Records Review / Manual Development / Auditing & Consulting DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.

Ep.14: Beyond Standard Ops: Ferry Operators - Operational Realities & Compliance with Matthew Gee

In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Gee — Head of Flight Operations at Six West Aviation and Founder of MG Aviation Consultancy. With Matthew, we explore the unique world of Ferry Operations: their structure, challenges, and the special conditions that set them apart from standard operations. He walks us through the ins and outs of this niche sector, the essential relationship between Airworthiness and Maintenance, the training and skill sets required for ferry pilots and Maintenance Check Flights, and the regulatory framework that governs these activities in Europe. We also discuss why every ferry project is truly one of a kind — and how two identical aircraft flying the same route can still present completely different operational experiences and challenges. This episode is packed with flight operations insights you won’t want to miss. Enjoy! 🔧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews and aviation insights! About Matthew Gee Matthew began his aviation career as a teenager at his local airfield, progressing from aircraft refueling to air traffic control assistance and later to Operations Manager for one of the UK’s largest flight training schools. He went on to work in airline Operations Control before moving into the aircraft leasing sector, where he managed ferry flight services for a major technical services provider. Today, Matthew leads MG Aviation Consultancy, offering aviation auditing, expert witness services, and specialised consultancy. He is a qualified lead and senior auditor, an accredited IBAC IS-BAO (OP, FW, SRQ) and IS-BAH auditor, and a member of both the Expert Witness Institute (MEWI) and the National Expert Witness Agency (MEWA). Chapters 00:00 – Coming up…. 01:53 – Intro & How Matthew started in aviation 16:55 – The “Ferry Operator” structure and dynamic: how it differs from standard operations 23:05 – The importance of applicable regulations for ferry operators 27:29 – Working with different CAMOs and maintenance organizations 29:59 –Company pilots, contract pilots, or both - Key differences and challenges  31:40 – Pilot training: NCC, MCF, and Part 91 operations 39:02 – Standard Operating Procedures and contracted pilots 41:40 – OEM requirements, maintenance check flights, and liability 43:43 – The airworthiness–flight operations relationship and information exchange 48:10 – Permits to Fly and Certificates of Airworthiness 53:38 – Ferry operations and maintenance personnel on board 54:58 – The evolution of aircraft transitions 58:23 – Thoughts on the “zero incidents” goal 01:03:57 – MG Aviation Consultancy: services, mission, quality, and audits 01:12:18 – IS-BAO and regulatory audits 01:21:24 – Current issues in aviation 01:24:22 – Advice for aviation professionals Discover our Book "Introduction to Aircraft Management": Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books Amazon: https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB [https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB] Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ [https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ] Discover our Workshops & Training: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training] Discover our Podcast “Aviation Perspectives with C.A.C.”: Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts [https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts] Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq [https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq] Let's connect: Monthly Newsletter: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact] YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd. [http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd.] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/ [https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/] Our Services: Aircraft Management / Aviation Training / Transition Aircraft / Helicopter Ship-board Operations Management / Aircraft Registration & Delivery / AOC Start up / Maintenance Organization Start up / Aircraft Representation / Sales & Acquisitions / Technical Records Review / Manual Development / Auditing & Consulting DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.

Ep.13: Airline, U.S.A.F. & GA, Flight Training — Nate’s Journey Across Aviation

In this episode, we talk with Nate Ehlers — founder of Backseat Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor, United Airlines Pilot, and C-17 Instructor Pilot in the Air Force Reserve. Nate shares how his aviation career began and evolved across General Aviation, the Airline world, and the Air Force Reserve, and how each environment shaped his skills, mindset, and perspective as an aviator. We discuss the interaction between pilots and maintenance in both military and civil aviation, the importance of proper defect reporting, risk assessment, and SMS. Nate also dives into flight training, the creation of Backseat Pilot, how he helps students prepare for their CFI exams, and how he built the platform entirely on his own. This compelling episode explores the similarities and differences between military and civil aviation, and reflects on how mentorship, collaboration, and striving to be your best are essential to moving aviation forward — and to developing and supporting the aviators of the future. Enjoy! 🔧 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews and aviation insights! ***USE CODE CAC20 FOR 20% DISCOUNT ON THE BACKSEAT PILOT COURSES*** Disclaimer: Backseat Pilot courses are offered independently by Nate Ehlers. C.A.C. Global Solutions is not affiliated with, nor responsible for, the delivery, management, or content of the courses. We’re simply sharing this opportunity with our community. About Nate: NATE EHLERS is the founder of Backseat Pilot, whose lesson plans are trusted by over 30,000 flight instructors worldwide. A Certified Flight Instructor, United Airlines pilot, and C-17 instructor pilot in the Air Force Reserve, Nate has logged more than 8,000 flight hours across general aviation, regional airlines, military airlift, and major airline operations. His career spans every major training pipeline - civilian, regional, military, and airline - giving him a unique, full-spectrum perspective on pilot development. After watching new CFIs burn hundreds of unpaid hours rewriting lesson plans before their CFI checkrides, Nate transformed his own battle-tested curriculum into a scalable platform that saves instructors months of prep time. Today, Backseat Pilot is a founder-led micro-SaaS platform, growing 100%+ year over year, with a mission to raise training standards, free instructors to focus on flying and teaching, and accelerate the path to the airlines for the next generation of aviators.   Discover our Book "Introduction to Aircraft Management": Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books] Amazon: https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB [https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB] Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ [https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ] Discover our Workshops & Training: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training] Let's connect: Monthly Newsletter: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact] YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd. [http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd.] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/ [https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/] Our Services: Aircraft Management / Aviation Training / Transition Aircraft / Helicopter Ship-board Operations Management / Aircraft Registration & Delivery / AOC Start up / Maintenance Organization Start up / Aircraft Representation / Sales & Acquisitions / Technical Records Review / Manual Development / Auditing & Consulting DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.

Ep.12: The Aruba Aircraft Registry – Oversight, Regulations, and Global Operations

In this episode of Aviation Perspectives with C.A.C., we sit down with Mr. Jorge Colindres, CEO and Chairman of the Registry of Aruba, to explore how one of the world’s most recognized aircraft registries operates. Mr. Colindres shares insights into the Registry’s regulatory framework, organizational structure, and oversight responsibilities — along with the processes that support aircraft operators, owners, and maintenance organizations around the world. Enjoy and don't forget to share with a colleague and subscribe! To know more about the Aruba Aircraft Registry: Website: www.theregistryofaruba.com [http://www.theregistryofaruba.com] Email: hello@P4registry.com [hello@P4registry.com] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-registry-of-aruba/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-registry-of-aruba/] Discover our Book "Introduction to Aircraft Management": Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books] Amazon: https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB [https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB] Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ [https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=4dgEEQAAQBAJ] Discover our Workshops & Training: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/workshops [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/workshops] https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training] Let's connect: Our website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/ [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/] YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd. [http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd.] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/CAC-Global-Solutions-Ltd/61570524506535/ [https://www.facebook.com/people/CAC-Global-Solutions-Ltd/61570524506535/] Instagram: / cacglobal Our Services: Aircraft Management /Aviation Training / Transition Aircraft / Helicopter Ship-board Operations Management / Aircraft Registration & Delivery / AOC Start up / Maintenance Organization Start up / Aircraft Representation / Sales & Acquisitions / Technical Records Review / Manual Development / Auditing & Consulting DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.

Ep.11: Understanding the FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) Role with Gina Trussell

In this episode, we talk with Gina Trussell, an FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR – Maintenance), about her career path and the critical role DARs play in aircraft certification and oversight. Gina shares her journey into aviation and explains what it means to be a DAR, including how to become one, what authorization codes mean, and how DARs support aircraft import/export, modifications, and certifications. We also talk about DAR business models, liability, regulatory challenges, and how FAA oversight connects to international operations. Whether you’re in aircraft maintenance, management, or regulatory compliance, this conversation offers practical guidance on working with DARs, navigating import/export certifications, and understanding how FAA oversight connects to global operations. About Gina Trussell Gina is the President and Founder of International Aviation 360 (IA-360). Under her experienced leadership, IA-360 has assembled a comprehensive team of aviation professionals delivering nationwide services. With over three decades of industry experience and global relationships built across six continents, Gina leads a certified team providing complete aviation solutions — from DAR services to aircraft procurement and everything in between. Her background spans FAA Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR), A&P Mechanic/Inspector Certification, and Technical Representative Authorization. Based in Atlanta, Gina has served as a DAR since 2011 and continues to play a key role in advancing safety and compliance throughout the aviation industry. Chapters 00.00 - How Gina started her career in aviation and became a DAR – Maintenance 04:23 - What is a DAR 05:51 – DAR Functions Codes 08:50 – How to become a DAR 15:50 – DAR authorization validity across States 16:47 – Business model as a DAR and conflict of interest 20:00 – DAR Liability and indemnification 22:40 – DAR – F (Certification) 23: 40 – DAR Geographic expansion to other regions inside the U.S. 25:38 – The application process review 35:24 – Import / Export C of A & Bilateral 39:26 – STC Familiarization, modification, and FAA Alterations 47:12 – Private & Commercial Operations management and review 55:55 – How rejected applications are managed 56:21 – Organizational non-compliances and audits 01:07:29 – What are the challenges for a DAR 01:09:36 – How aviation is going to evolve and the manpower shortage 01:13:52 - Closing notes and Contact Info Discover our Book "Introduction to Aircraft Management": Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/books] Amazon: https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB [https://a.co/d/dyz7zEB] Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/d... [https://play.google.com/store/books/d...] Discover our Podcast “Aviation Perspectives with C.A.C.”: Website: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/podcasts/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts [https://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd./podcasts] Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aviation-perspectives-with-c-a-c-podcast/id1794022531] Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq [https://open.spotify.com/show/0zQYFZqwhLHiFcjRtvFCpq] Discover our Workshops & Training: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/workshops [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/workshops] https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/training] Let's connect: Website/Monthly Newsletter: https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact [https://www.cacglobalsolutions.com/contact] YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd. [http://www.youtube.com/@C.A.C.GlobalSolutionsLtd.] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/cac-global-solutions/] FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570524506535] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/ [https://www.instagram.com/cacglobal/] Our Services: Aircraft Management / Aviation Training / Transition Aircraft / Helicopter Ship-board Operations Management / Aircraft Registration & Delivery / AOC Start up / Maintenance Organization Start up / Aircraft Representation / Sales & Acquisitions / Technical Records Review / Manual Development / Auditing & Consulting DISCLAMER: The information provided in this video is for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of professional legal, technical, accounting or financial advice. If you have any questions about this video or the subject discussed, or any other legal matter, you should consult with an attorney or a professional in your jurisdiction. The views and opinions expressed in these videos are those of the guests and are for entertainment purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of C.A.C. Global Solutions Ltd., subsidiaries, or any corporate entities they represent.