Steve Varsano, founder of The Jet Business, the world’s first corporate aviation showroom, has been awarded the prestigious Kenn Ricci Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award at the Fourth Annual European Living Legends of Aviation Awards. This recognition, which took place at the Scalaria resort near Salzburg, Austria, celebrates Varsano’s remarkable journey and impact on the aviation industry.
The Kenn Ricci Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award, presented by Kenn Ricci, Founder and Principal of Directional Aviation Capital and Chairman of Flexjet, Inc., honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on aviation through innovation and entrepreneurship. Varsano joins an esteemed group of Living Legends of Aviation, including icons like Buzz Aldrin, Tom Cruise, Jeff Bezos, and Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger.
Varsano’s passion for aviation began at the tender age of 14 after a flying lesson in a Cessna ignited his fascination. He funded his flying lessons by working in restaurants, eventually soloing at 16 and earning his pilot’s license at 17. This unwavering dedication led him to found The Jet Business in 2011, establishing the world’s first street-level corporate aircraft showroom in London’s Knightsbridge district.
The Jet Business features a full-size mockup of an Airbus ACJ319 interior, offering clients a unique interactive experience with bespoke leather seats and moving cloudscapes that simulate flight. Varsano has not only revolutionized the business aviation market but also brought private aviation to a broader audience. Through a robust social media presence, his content has garnered over a billion views across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. This widespread reach has demystified the world of private jets and introduced millions of young people to the possibilities within the aviation industry.
Beyond his work at The Jet Business, Varsano has been a significant contributor to aviation education and outreach. He has served on the Board of Directors for Virgin Galactic and the Board of Trustees at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Varsano is also a dedicated advocate for creating educational opportunities for underprivileged youth interested in aviation, paving the way for future generations to explore careers in the industry.
Kenn Ricci, who presented the award, expressed his admiration for Varsano, stating, “Steve’s visionary approach and unwavering commitment have transformed the aviation industry. His career is a testament to the power of following one’s passion.”
The Living Legends of Aviation Awards, first established in 2003, recognize outstanding achievements in the aviation and aerospace sectors. Today, over 125 honorees, including astronauts, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and record breakers, come together annually to celebrate exceptional contributions to the aviation world. Flexjet, a key supporter of the event, has been a leader in private aviation since entering the fractional jet ownership market in 1995. Known for its ultra-modern fleet and exceptional service, Flexjet continues to innovate with its Red Label program, which provides dedicated flight crews and custom interiors across a variety of aircraft, including the Embraer Phenom 300, Bombardier Challenger 350, and Gulfstream G650. Flexjet’s helicopter division also offers fractional and on-demand charter access to its Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, ensuring luxury travel experiences across the northeastern United States, the UK, and southern Florida.
