Jean-Marc Yukana-Ichard – CEO, Uplifting Aviation
Host: Barry Eustance – The Sixsess Consultancy
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Just Great People Podcast, Barry Eustance speaks with Jean-Marc Yukana-Ichard, CEO of Uplifting Aviation, to explore the realities of managing and financing complex aviation transactions.
Jean-Marc shares his transition from aerospace engineering into entrepreneurship, and what he's learned over two decades in the aviation sector.
They discuss the intricacies of helicopter deals, asset risk, financing challenges, and the regulatory frameworks that shape outcomes in the industry.
Also covered are the topics of sustainability, the limitations of electric aviation, and the urgent need to address skills gaps through mentoring.
A powerful conversation for anyone working in asset-heavy industries, regulated markets, or aviation.
Chapters and Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Uplifting Aviation
01:10 – Jean-Marc’s Journey in Aviation
05:12 – Transition to Entrepreneurship
09:49 – The Complexity of Helicopter Transactions
13:30 – Financing and Asset Management in Aviation
18:07 – Sustainability in Aviation
23:20 – Challenges in Electric Aviation
29:00 – Future of Uplifting Aviation and Mentorship
Key Takeaways
• Jean-Marc brings 20+ years of global aviation experience
• Helicopter transactions are financially and operationally complex
• Aviation financing depends on understanding real-world risks
• Sustainability in aviation is often oversimplified
• Electric flight requires more time and development
• A significant shortage of engineers and pilots is emerging
• Mentorship is vital to knowledge transfer in aviation
• Regulatory and financial constraints drive many outcomes
• Human judgement and safety remain central to progress
Notable Quotes
"Helicopters save lives and protect missions."
"The market is getting hammered by regulations."
"Electric aviation is still in early days."
Further Resources
Learn more about The Sixsess Consultancy:
https://sixsess.org
Business Growth Strategy Training for SME Leaders:
https://sixsess.org/training/primer-for-business-growth-masterclass/
Visit Uplifting Aviation:
https://www.up-lifting.co.uk
Keywords
aviation transactions
helicopter finance
aviation asset management
aviation entrepreneurship
aviation regulation
aviation market risks
Uplifting Aviation
Jean-Marc Yukana-Ichard
Just Great People Podcast
The Sixsess Consultancy
pilot shortage
aviation engineering
aviation sector leadership
aviation mentorship
aircraft asset strategy
aviation podcast UK

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Barry