François Chavatte, who co-founded the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) in 1977 and later served as president and chairman of the organization’s board, died on June 24.
“With the passing of François, we lost one of the two founding fathers of the united European business aviation industry,” said EBAA chairman Juergen Wiese. “I am thankful for learning from his experience, his unwavering support of EBAA.”
Chavatte began his aviation career in 1952 with the French air force as a reconnaissance and fighter pilot, according to information from EBAA and NBAA. Following his service, he joined IBM and ultimately led the company’s flight operation from 1969 until 1993.
In March 1960, shortly after he had joined IBM, Chavatte copiloted an Aero Commander 680 with U.S.-based pilot Charles McKinnon from the U.S. to France, marking the first transatlantic business aviation flight to land at Paris Le Bourget Airport. The Aero Commander became the first business aircraft to be based there, NBAA said. EBAA added this helped spark the growth of what has become one of Europe’s most prominent business aviation airports.
In 1977, he saw a need for advocacy on behalf of the emerging business aviation community in Europe and teamed up with Frits Philips to found EBAA. Chavette was recognized as the first honorary member of EBAA. He also is credited for playing an integral role in the creation of the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE).
“François’s decades-long service and dedication to business aviation truly helped establish the industry’s powerful, united voice across Europe,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen. “He will long be remembered not only as a pioneer in Europe’s business aviation community but also as a champion for our industry’s vital role in connecting our world.”
EBAA secretary-general Athar Husain Khan added: “The industry would not be where it is today without his drive, amicability, and dreams. Mr. Chavatte always kept a keen interest in EBAA and its members, and we remember him with profound respect.”