Air Charter Scotland’s Derek Thomson Joins The Air Charter Association Board

Air Charter Scotland’s Commercial Director and Accountable Manager Derek Thomson is pleased to be appointed to the Board of The Air Charter Association (The ACA) supporting newly appointed CEO Glenn Hogben and fellow board directors. Derek will draw on his 25 years of experience in aviation to offer support and advice to operators and charter brokers as The ACA, now in its 72nd year, continues to widen its global membership reach.

He is also keen to encourage the next generation of young aviation professionals, a passion he shares with Air Charter Scotland’s Sales Manager Michelle McMullan, who became one of The ACA’s Next Generation ambassadors in October last year.

Derek is especially supportive of the work the Association has instigated to fight against the scourge of grey/illegal charter flights, which has seen it garner support from international industry organisations including EBAA, MEBAA and AsBAA. 

Air Charter Scotland continues to work closely with charter brokers and global operators who make up The ACA’s primary membership, as the 20-year-old business adds new bases and managed charter aircraft.

During his 25-year aviation career Derek has worked in rotary and fixed wing aircraft operations and sales, as well as FBO airport handling and operations.  Derek made his first solo flight in a Robinson R22 helicopter aged 19 before obtaining his Private Pilot’s Licence.  At Air Charter Scotland he has been closely involved in the company’s transition from a fleet of twin-engine piston and turboprop aircraft through to Cessna Citation C525 and Falcon 7X business jets.  With a now fully worldwide operation and the creation of Air Charter Scotland Europe in January with a new European AOC, the company is gearing up to welcome additional managed aircraft and open new bases.

The Air Charter Association’s ‘Next Generation Group’ is a steering group created last October to promote and communicate to under 35s, the numerous, varied and rewarding opportunities a career in aviation can offer.  It has held two virtual gatherings to date with more planned.

Glenn Hogben took over from Dave Edwards as The Air Charter Association CEO at the beginning of January after 17 years with airline leasing, charter and consultancy firm ACC Aviation.