Walking Away from a Big Job to Become a Boutique, High-Touch Aircraft Advisor
2024 was a solid year for business aviation, and 2025 looks even better. But let’s be real—owning, operating, and maintaining private jets is more complex (and costly) than ever.
We all know about the ongoing pilot shortages and talent retention struggles, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
- Aircraft acquisition hurdles
- Rising maintenance costs & longer lead times
- Increasing regulatory & environmental pressures
In today’s market, being a jet broker isn’t enough—you need to be a true advisor who understands the entire ownership lifecycle. That’s exactly what Michael Mikolay set out to do when he launched Mikolay Jet Group.
In this episode of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, Mike and I discuss:
– The transition from W2 security to entrepreneurship
– How to navigate rising operational costs
– What business jet buyers need to know right now
– How to turn a transactional deal into a long-term asset partnership