Long-time business aviation executive John Rahilly died May 24 at his home in Southport, North Carolina, after a battle with brain cancer. He was 68. Rahilly had an aviation career that spanned more than 40 years and led him to senior roles at companies such as Canadair, K-C Aviation, Dassault Falcon Jet, and, most recently, Global Jet Services.
Born Sept. 8, 1949, in Dorchester, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston, Rahilly obtained his degree in aeronautical technology from the Wentworth Institute. During that time he met Linda Bartlett, who became his wife of 48 years.
After graduation he joined the U.S. Navy, becoming an anti-submarine warfare technician. He subsequently earned his FAA airframe & powerplant certificate from Northrop Institute in California and began his business aviation career with Canadair (now Bombardier) in Hartford, Connecticut.
He later joined K-C Aviation in Dallas, where he took on roles of increasing responsibility, eventually becoming president. He stayed on with Gulfstream after it acquired K-C Aviation before moving over to BBA Aviation as vice president of technical services, responsible for Signature Flight Support’s regional maintenance centers. His career then led him to Mercury Air Centers, where he became vice president of operations, and subsequently to Dassault Falcon Jet as vice president of sales and marketing. In 2009 he took a role with Alto Aviation before semi-retiring a year later and becoming an instructor with Global Jet Services, specializing in professional development courses.
“All of us at Global Jet Services are eternally grateful for his time with us and the sharing of his skills and aviation experience with his audience,” the company said. “John touched countless lives.”
Through NBAA, the family has created a John F. Rahilly Memorial Scholarship for Future A&P Technicians. Donations can be sent to NBAA at 1200 G St. NW, Suite 100, Washington, D.C. 20005.
In addition to his wife, Linda, Rahilly is survived by his sons Christopher and Jeffery, along with two grandchildren.
