Bermuda is anticipating significant growth in its aircraft registry following the recent transition from the former government-run Department of Civil Aviation to the semi-autonomous Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA, Booth R106). The transition was completed six months ago, and BCAA has spent the time since building up the team, processes and brand recognition to facilitate the growth for what it claims is the world's oldest offshore aircraft registry.

“After more than 85 years of registering aircraft, the decision to transition to an authority was made to reduce restrictions that apply to the public sector, and the use the newly formed authority to maintain safety oversight, increase productivity, enhance customer satisfaction, and ultimately grow the registry,” said Thomas Dunstan, director general.

So far, BCAA has increased the team by 10 percent, adding personnel in areas such as finance, operations and information technology. “We have started to increase our exposure at international events, such as EBACE, to promote the fact that we are a global service provider in aircraft registration and safety oversight,” Dunstan said.

The biggest obstacle, BCAA said, was transitioning processes from those designed for a government department to ones that are tailored for an organization that operates as a business. BCAA is managed by an independent board of directors made up of executives with a variety of business backgrounds such as finance, legal, administration and aviation.

“All board members had to gain a thorough understanding of the business operations and structure in a very short amount of time,” Dunstan added. “The benefit of the board is the diversity that has brought new thinking and provided some innovative strategies to enhance the registry further.”

The registry currently comprises more than 780 aircraft, he said, adding, “With our new business model we expect a significant growth in the future.” BCAA anticipates about a 10 percent growth over the next three years.

The efforts to promote the new brand come as Bermuda hosts the 35^th America’s Cup sailing races this month. The event will draw a number of visitors and private aircraft to the island, and BCAA has remained actively involved in the implementation of airspace restrictions and helicopter operations approval throughout the event's planning period.