NATA Remembers Pradeep Panikar – Longtime FBO Industry Colleague and Friend

Pradeep Panikar served as the FBO Line and Customer Service Manager for Napa Jet Center, now owned by Lynx FBO Network. The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) and Mark C. Willey, former CEO of Napa Jet Center, who recently retired when the FBO was sold in June of 2018, issued the following statements in honor of Pradeep’s memory:  

“NATA was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pradeep Panikar. Pradeep was well-known throughout the industry for making an instant and lasting connection with everyone he met,” stated NATA President Gary Dempsey. “Pradeep was a champion for safety and excellence in FBO service and set an example for others–the industry has lost a true friend.”

“I met Pradeep 15 years ago at a time when Napa Jet Center was looking to make a change in culture. We were seeking great leaders, who were dedicated to taking care of our customers and the team. I saw this in him immediately and realized over the years just how lucky I am to have worked alongside him and watch him become such a beloved figure within the industry,” stated Mark C. Willey. “Pradeep is one of a kind–he was not just an employee or colleague, he was part of the family.”

A celebration of Pradeep Panikar’s life will be held at The Runway by Patrick (2044 Airport Rd., Napa, CA 94558) on February 2, 2019 at 12:00 p.m.