Private Aviation’s New Reality: Silver Air CEO Jason Middleton on Ownership Shifts, MRO Challenges, and ATC Reform

Private aviation is changing fast. Jason Middleton, CEO of Silver Air Private Jets, joins the Aviation Pros Podcast to discuss why more high-profile travelers are moving away from ownership, how MRO and airport infrastructure must adapt, and why meaningful ATC reform needs more than a staffing fix.

Joe Petrie

Aug. 15, 2025

Five Things You’ll Learn from This Episode

Why high-profile travelers are moving away from aircraft ownership and toward on-demand charter for privacy and operational flexibility.
How MRO staffing shortages are lengthening aircraft downtime—and the proactive steps operators can take to secure maintenance slots.
The FBO and airport infrastructure challenges created by concentrated demand in key private aviation hubs like Van Nuys, Dallas, and Teterboro.
Why meaningful ATC reform must go beyond hiring more controllers and embrace a complete overhaul of outdated systems and structures.
How empowering pilots to make safety-first decisions without pressure is improving operational culture and reducing risk.

In this episode of the Aviation Pros Podcast, Airport Business Editor Joe Petrie speaks with Jason Middleton, CEO of Silver Air Private Jets and soon-to-be member of NBAA’s Regulatory Committee. Middleton shares his insights on the operational shifts reshaping private aviation, including:

Why rising costs, maintenance demands, and tighter FAA oversight are driving a move from ownership to charter.
How privacy concerns are influencing aircraft usage patterns and FBO demand.
The impact of MRO staffing shortages and what operators can do to mitigate delays.
Why ATC reform requires a complete reimagining of technology and structure—not just more controllers.
The importance of empowering flight crews to make safety-first decisions without pressure.

Whether you’re an operator, airport manager, or aviation policymaker, this conversation offers a practical, front-line perspective on the challenges and opportunities ahead for private aviation.

About the Author

Joe Petrie

Editor & Chief

Joe Petrie is the Editorial Director for the Endeavor Aviation Group.

Joe has spent the past 20 years writing about the most cutting-edge topics related to transportation and policy in a variety of sectors with an emphasis on transportation issues for the past 15 years.

Contact: Joe Petrie

Editor & Chief | Airport Business

[email protected]

+1-920-568-8399

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