RAI Jets Service Center in Kalamazoo, MI, is pleased to announce its new capability to service Cessna Citation 560 (XLS), 650, and 750 aircraft with a recently approved limited airframe rating. This expansion builds upon its existing approvals for limited instruments and radio ratings granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
As a Part 145 Repair Station (#RJSR819D) and a sister company of RAI Jets, a reputable aircraft management and jet charter firm based at Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (KAZO), the center received this certification in March 2024. “I’m pleased that the FAA has certified us to service a broader array of aircraft, including Citation 560s (XLS), 650s, and 750s,” said David Riley, director of operations at RAI Jets and accountable manager for RAI Jets Service Center. “We look forward to our expanded service offerings and welcoming more mid-sized jets to our MX department for maintenance.”
In 2021, the RAI Jets team inaugurated their Service Center following a rigorous two-year application process. Recently, the Repair Station announced it has conducted 91.311 and 91.413 inspections, evaluating transponder and altitude reporting systems, including SSR beacon codes. These inspections, mandated every 24 months, are critical for ensuring safety under IFR conditions.
Expanding its capabilities, the Repair Station will now service additional models of fixed-wing aircraft alongside those already in its portfolio: RAI Jets Service Center, renowned for its expertise, collaborates closely with RAI Jets to provide comprehensive aircraft management, including all necessary maintenance. As a Part 135 operator, RAI Jets offers aircraft owners the opportunity to qualify for inclusion in their Air Carrier Certificate, potentially offsetting operational costs by chartering their aircraft during idle periods.
Throughout 2023, the MX department at RAI Jets Service Center has seen significant growth, expanding its service offerings. Riley, proud of the maintenance team and current leadership, regards the Repair Center as the premier hub for Cessna Specialists. “The addition of industry veteran Joe Phelan at the end of last year allowed us to expand our service to include XLS aircraft,” said Riley. “Joe was previously the head of maintenance for one of the largest fleets of XLS in the world. At the beginning of 2024, we promoted Dave Lillie, who had been with us for five years, to Director of Maintenance. He has more than three decades of experience in the business and has helped us aggressively grow our maintenance capabilities.”
Alongside the maintenance updates at RAI Jets, Riley mentioned that the company is actively planning to expand its operations, with additional announcements slated for 2024.
