In this episode of Open Skies, host Chris Glass sits down with Willie Cecil of Flight Aerospace to demystify one of aviation's biggest hidden challenges: how aircraft operational data is collected, transmitted, and used today—and why it desperately needs a 21st-century overhaul. From legacy telex-based communication systems to manual engine downloads that take hours, Willie explains why so much of aviation still operates like it’s the 1970s—and what’s finally changing.

Willie introduces us to Edge+, a 5G-enabled data solution that’s helping airlines collect massive amounts of flight data in real time, paving the way for true predictive maintenance and more connected, efficient airline operations. They dive deep into the limitations of ACARS, QAR, and FADEC data handling, the rise of private 5G networks at airports, and what a fully connected aircraft can really unlock. Whether you’re an aviation pro or just fascinated by the tech that keeps us flying, this is one episode you won’t want to miss

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In this eye-opening episode, host Chris Glass is joined by airline veterans Bob Cummings and Richard Bartrem, who offer a frank and informed take on the state of Canadian aviation. With decades of experience at the helm of WestJet and other carriers, they unpack why Canada’s air travel system is financially unsustainable, regionally imbalanced, and policy-stagnant. From rising airport fees to ineffective passenger rights legislation, the current system penalizes travelers and discourages investment—all while limiting access to smaller communities across the country.

Bob and Richard call for a nationwide review of the industry that prioritizes governance, efficiency, and economic contribution. They outline how other countries—like Spain, Ireland, and South Korea—offer smarter, more equitable models. Most importantly, they make the case that air travel isn't a luxury, but a critical national infrastructure—one that must be protected and improved if Canada wants to remain globally competitive. If you've ever wondered why flying within Canada is so expensive or why regional routes are disappearing, this episode connects the dots and offers a path forward.

Show Notes:

A. Canadian Transportation Act – Section 5 Objectives The Canadian Transportation Act is in place to guide policy. The declared objectives are listed in section 5, parts a-e.

B. Bob Cummings & Richard Bartrem LinkedIn post on Canadian air sector reform Bob Cummings, Richard Bartrem LinkedIn post on needed reforms in Canada’s air transportation.

C. Cummings/Bartrem analysis of IATA’s forecast on Canadian air travel decline Cummings/Bartrem analysis of IATA’s forecast on Canadian air travel decline.

D. Industry Questions to Political Parties: Read it here A recent letter from aviation industry associations, posing key questions to federal political parties.

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In this episode of Open Skies, host Chris Glass welcomes Monica Badra, founder of Aero Next Gen, a trailblazing tech broker bringing digital transformation to the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) space. With a unique background in finance and deep hands-on experience in aerospace, Monica has become the go-to matchmaker connecting legacy aviation problems with next-gen tech solutions.

She shares how her company bridges the gap between overwhelmed MRO executives and tech providers—many of whom don’t even come from aviation. Monica explains how dirty data, siloed systems, and decades-old ERPs are holding companies back, and how automation, AI, and tools like co-pilot-style analytics are helping the industry catch up to the modern world.

This is a must-listen for MRO leaders, aviation execs, tech startups, and anyone wondering why it still takes 12 weeks to make a decision that should take 12 minutes.

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In this electrifying episode of The Open Skies Podcast, host Chris Glass sits down with Captain David Deere, a seasoned pilot with an extraordinary aviation career spanning from fighter jets to commercial airliners. Captain Deere shares his journey from flying CF-18s in the Gulf War and intercepting cruise missiles over Alaska to performing high-precision aerobatics with the Snowbirds and Northern Lights Aerobatic Team.

Now a Standards Pilot at WestJet, David discusses his work in fuel efficiency, including the implementation of RNP approaches—cutting-edge navigation technology that saves fuel, reduces emissions, and enhances safety. He also delves into sustainability initiatives, and the future of sustainable aviation fuels.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the intersection of precision flying, technology, and environmental responsibility.

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In this inspiring episode of The Open Skies Podcast, host Chris Glass sits down with Kristina De Marzio, Hope Air’s Manager of Community Engagement, to explore the crucial role of volunteer pilots in providing life-saving travel for patients in need. Kristina shares how Hope Air works with hospitals, social workers, and medical professionals to identify patients facing insurmountable travel barriers and connects them with free flights through generous commercial airline partners and volunteer pilots.

With only 41 active volunteer pilots across Canada, Hope Air is actively seeking more aviators to expand their reach in underserved areas like Northern Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Kristina highlights heartwarming patient stories—children seeing their homes from the sky for the first time, families avoiding exhausting multi-day drives, and patients making it home in time for the holidays. This episode is a call to action for pilots and supporters alike, showing how aviation can be a force for good in ensuring healthcare access for all.

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In part two of The Open Skies Podcast series on Hope Air, host Chris Glass sits down with Jon Collins, Chief Development Officer, to discuss the ongoing challenge of ensuring that no Canadian is left behind when it comes to accessing medical care. Jon shares his personal connection to Hope Air’s mission and how the organization’s work resonates with families across the country who face financial and logistical barriers to healthcare.

With demand for Hope Air’s services continuing to rise—expected to surpass 43,000 travel arrangements this year—Jon explains the importance of funding, airline partnerships, and community support to keep this life-changing service operational. He shares moving patient stories, including families who, without Hope Air, would be forced to take grueling 14-hour drives or sleep in their cars while seeking treatment. This episode highlights how aviation plays a crucial role in healthcare accessibility and why supporting Hope Air isn’t just charitable—it’s essential.

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In this episode of The Open Skies Podcast, host Chris Glass sits down with Mark Rubinstein, Chief Hope Officer of Hope Air, to discuss the organization’s incredible mission: ensuring that all Canadians, regardless of financial means or geographic location, have access to essential medical care. With a network of commercial airline partners and volunteer pilots, Hope Air provides free flights, accommodations, and travel support for those who would otherwise face insurmountable barriers to receiving medical treatment.

Mark shares the inspiring history of Hope Air, from its humble beginnings in 1986 with just 15 flights to now facilitating over 45,000 travel arrangements annually. He also delves into the challenges of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of partnerships with airlines like WestJet and Porter, and the growing demand for services as healthcare access disparities widen. This is an eye-opening conversation about the unseen side of air travel—the life-saving journeys happening every day, thanks to the generosity of donors, volunteers, and the aviation industry.

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In this compelling episode of The Open Skies Podcast, host Chris Glass sits down with aviation leader and soon-to-be bestselling author, Nate Glover, to explore his dynamic career and experiences during one of the industry’s most challenging periods—the COVID-19 pandemic. Nate shares his journey from his beginnings at Continental Airlines and JetBlue, to his time with Norwegian, and finally, his pivotal role at Menzies Aviation in Canada.

Nate details the trials of managing operations during the pandemic, including the heartbreaking task of laying off hundreds of employees, navigating ever-changing airline demands, and rebuilding teams from the ground up. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of ground handling operations, the importance of safety and adaptability, and the leadership lessons he learned during a historic crisis.

Nate also discusses his debut book, Trust the Process: Navigating Leadership Through the Pandemic, which chronicles his experiences and offers actionable insights for leaders in any industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, aviation, or crisis management.

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