Dear flight testers,
Dear members of the European Chapter,
We are nearing the end of 2023, so I would like to reflect on the past year, on our accomplishments and on all the items still remaining on our Check list.
It is not often you get an opportunity to organize a symposium together with an Air Force which celebrates its 100-year anniversary. In 2023 the Italian Air Force provided an excellent podium and the location was Rome. A report with all the details has been published on our website for your convenience. Your support to the SFTE EC by attending the symposium is very much appreciated and keeps us motivated to do well the next year. Early this year we also received the sad news that one of our most respected member Mrs. Barbara Wood passed away. We honour her legacy by granting her the Jesualdo Martinez award 2023.
We also saw some changes in the team. The board has been re-elected during the Annual Business Meeting in May. But we had to say goodbye to Massimo Longo who has been part of our Director at Large (DaL) team from 2010 onwards. His recent career change is no longer allowing him to follow up constantly and effectively the activities of the SFTE EC, as Director at large, but he is dedicated as always to share his knowledge and vision to our growing and dynamic community. A big thank you to Massimo for all his work for the Society!
At the same time, we welcome a new Director at Large team member: Alessandro Ramazzotti. Alessandro is already involved in the organisation of our next symposium and a great addition to the team.
2023 was a year of a record participation and commitment in our activity and at Chapter's annual symposium. I am grateful for the lively and valuable contribution of all the members of the SFTE community. You brought us the joy and the challenge of a renew wind beneath our wings! As you already know, the 2024 symposium will be organized together with Diamond Aircraft Industries in Austria. The venue will be Vienna and I expect to see a lot of you there, to make it another success.
For all of you, your family and friend’s safe landings and Happy Holidays!
Until we meet, next year.
Greetings,
Paul Koks
President SFTE EC
