Tom Chatfield Reflects on the Evolution of Private Aviation
Marking 10 Years of Camber Aviation Management
Camber Aviation Management celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, a significant milestone that speaks to a decade of leadership, innovation, and influence in the private aviation industry. Founded by CEO Tom Chatfield, Camber has set the standard for bespoke aircraft completion management, blending technical expertise with an unwavering commitment to client advocacy.
As the company reflects on its achievements, we take a closer look at the changes Tom has seen in the aviation industry over his career, and how these shifts have shaped Camber’s approach to managing some of the world’s most sophisticated private jets.
Transformations in Private Aviation
With over three decades in the private aviation sector, Tom Chatfield has witnessed remarkable transformations. From the technological advancements that now enable real-time global connectivity aboard private aircraft to the increasing emphasis on sustainability, the industry today is vastly different from the one Chatfield entered
“The biggest change,” Chatfield notes, “has been the sheer sophistication of what clients expect. Ten years ago, in-flight entertainment might mean a DVD player, and satellite communication speeds meant that passengers were limited to emails, light internet surfing, and basic video. Today, thanks to full streaming capabilities supported by cutting-edge satellite systems like Starlink, passengers can engage in high-quality video conference calls and seamless video streaming – features that were unimaginable just a decade ago.” The rise of connectivity has not only enhanced passenger experience but also redefined the value proposition of private aircraft, turning them into mobile offices, homes, and luxury spaces.
Another key shift has been in attitudes toward sustainability. While the industry has traditionally focused on new aircraft completions, Chatfield has championed the environmental and economic benefits of retrofitting existing aircraft. “Much like renovating a timeless home,” he says, “refurbishing an aircraft with good ‘bones’ is not just practical – it’s sustainable. This is a narrative we’ve worked hard to amplify at Camber.”
Camber’s Place in a Changing Industry
The founding of Camber Aviation Management itself was born from a desire to change how projects were managed. After the team’s success with the first VVIP Boeing 787, Chatfield and the Camber team recognised a gap in the market for a more comprehensive, client-focused approach. Unlike many competitors who step into projects only in the final stages, Camber begins with the client’s vision and works its way downstream, ensuring every detail – from layout to final finishes – meets the client’s unique needs.
The company’s collaborative ethos extends beyond its team. Strategic partnerships with industry leaders, such as Kip Creating, have recently elevated the visualisation and execution of interiors, enabling clients to see their aircraft’s potential through stunning, photorealistic renderings. Furthermore, Camber collaborates closely with suppliers to develop tailored solutions for specific projects, whether it’s a bespoke interpretation of a seat that reflects the designer’s unique vision, a customised cabin management system, or a one-of-a-kind feature that pushes the boundaries of private jet design. This collaborative approach also extends to working hand-in-hand with some of the world’s most renowned private jet designers, ensuring that the client’s vision and the designer’s concept are brought to life while meeting the stringent requirements of certification, functionality, and reliability. These innovations, combined with Camber’s rigorous approach to managing costs, timelines, and client expectations, have solidified its reputation as a leader in private aviation.
Fostering the Next Generation
As much as Tom Chatfield is committed to innovation, he is equally passionate about inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals. His work teaching aeronautics at Coast Mountain Academy demonstrates this commitment. Chatfield’s lessons go beyond the basics of flight, introducing students to the practical applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on projects like wind tunnel experiments, paper aeroplane competitions, and airborne 3D geocaching challenges. “It’s about sparking curiosity,” he says. “These students are the future of our industry, and it’s vital we invest in them.”
This ethos is reflected within Camber as well. In 2023, Chatfield’s son, Colin Chatfield, joined the team as an aviation photographer. Colin brings a fresh perspective, leveraging cutting-edge technology like 360-degree LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) walkthroughs, which utilise a highly accurate camera system to capture precise, three-dimensional scans of the aircraft’s interior and exterior. This technology forms the basis for stunning, photorealistic renderings, allowing clients to immerse themselves in a remarkably lifelike view of their aircraft. His work not only enhances Camber’s offerings but also demonstrates the importance of integrating new talent and ideas into the company’s fabric. “Colin’s ability to use the latest technology has added a new dimension to what we can offer,” Tom says. “We’re always looking to expand our knowledge base and portfolio to ensure we provide an exceptional service.
Camber has also launched the Sea-to-Sky Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) Scholarship, providing financial and mentorship support to aspiring aircraft maintenance engineers. “It’s not just about offering money,” Chatfield explains. “We want to guide and nurture the next generation, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to excel in this field.”
Chatfield is vocal about the need for industry-wide efforts to bring fresh talent into aviation. “The private aviation sector needs new ideas, new perspectives, and new blood,” he says. “It’s how we’ll stay relevant and continue to move the needle forward. I challenge others in the industry to join us in creating opportunities for young people to explore this incredible field. It’s not just an investment in their future—it’s an investment in ours.”
Looking Forward
As Camber enters its second decade, its leadership is focused on the future—both in terms of fostering new talent and embracing emerging technologies. Chatfield is candid about the challenges of succession planning in such a niche industry. “This work requires not just technical expertise but a deep understanding of clients’ needs. It’s a steep learning curve, but it’s worth it. Our vision is to build a team that will carry Camber’s legacy forward.”
For Chatfield, the next frontier lies in advocating for smarter, more sustainable practices. He is passionate about leveraging new technologies to breathe life into older aircraft, proving that innovation doesn’t always mean starting from scratch. This approach not only reduces waste and supports a more environmentally friendly industry, but it also offers clients a significant bonus: the opportunity to receive their private, customised jet quicker and at a lower price point than purchasing new.
With refurbishment and upgrade options, clients can sidestep the lengthy wait times often associated with new aircraft – typically three years or more – and still enjoy a bespoke flying experience that meets their unique needs. “The industry is still too focused on the new,” he remarks. “We need to rethink how we use what we already have. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable future for aviation while also providing our clients with more flexible and efficient solutions.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Ten years in, Camber Aviation Management stands as a testament to the power of expertise, innovation, and collaboration. Tom Chatfield’s career, shaped by a dynamic and evolving industry, mirrors the ethos of the company he leads – thoughtful, forward-thinking, and solution-driven. As Camber continues to set new benchmarks in private aviation, its story is as much about the past as it is about the future.
And as the company looks to the years ahead, one thing remains constant: its unshakeable commitment to protecting the interests of its clients, ensuring that every decision, every innovation, and every solution is guided by a singular focus on their needs, their goals, and their success.