Thrive Aviation Expands Leadership Team as the Fleet Continues to Grow
LAS VEGAS, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thrive Aviation, a leader in the private aviation industry, is pleased to announce the expansion of its leadership team with the addition of four key individuals who will support the company's continued growth. These new leaders bring a wealth of experience to the organization as Thrive Aviation continues to scale its fleet and services to meet growing demand in the aviation sector.
Among the new leadership appointments, Andy Martens has joined Thrive Aviation as the Vice President of Flight Operations, Tami Beutel has been appointed as the Vice President of Flight Support, Luke O'Kane has been named the Director of Charter Sales, and Dawit Palmer has been named the Director of Fleet Maintenance. Together, these leaders bring diverse skills and expertise that will ensure Thrive Aviation maintains its commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and continued growth.
Curtis Edenfield, CEO of Thrive Aviation states 'Thrive is experiencing exponential growth and the addition of these critical leaders will prepare us for that growth and is a testament to everything we've been building since 2018.'
Andy Martens – Vice President of Flight Operations
'I am honored to join Thrive Aviation as the Vice President of Flight Operations,' said Andy Martens. 'I am excited to collaborate with the team, learn from their expertise, and contribute to the company's continued success.'
A graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Andy Martens brings extensive experience across Part 91, 121, and 135 operations. Most recently, he served as the Director of Operations for Jet Access Aviation, where he managed a fleet of 31 aircraft, oversaw day-to-day air carrier operations, and worked closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure continuous regulatory compliance. His efforts led to the maintenance of the prestigious ARG/US Platinum certification, achieving IS-BAO Stage III, and expanding the Part 91 managed fleet.
Martens' commitment to operational excellence and regulatory compliance has played an instrumental role in ensuring flights are executed to the highest standards, consistently exceeding client expectations. In his free time, Martens enjoys spending time with his family, coaching his kids' soccer team, and playing guitar.
Tami Beutel – Vice President of Flight Support
Tami Beutel, a seasoned aviation professional, has joined Thrive Aviation as Vice President of Flight Support. With nearly 30 years of experience in the aviation sector, Tami has built a career spanning military operations, aerial interdiction, client services, operations, and standardizations.
Tami views her military service as both a means of personal and professional development, and it was during this time that her passion for aviation was ignited, fueling her career. Throughout her extensive background, Tami has developed a deep understanding of operational dynamics and has been instrumental in driving excellence in flight support operations.
In addition to her aviation expertise, Tami is also a qualified helicopter pilot and an accomplished sailor. Her multifaceted skill set and leadership will contribute significantly to Thrive Aviation's growth. In her free time, Tami enjoys exploring the parks and lakes of Nevada, where she enjoys outdoor activities and relaxation.
Luke O'Kane – Director of Charter Sales
Luke O'Kane joins Thrive Aviation as the Director of Charter Sales, bringing over a decade of sales experience to the role. Luke's strengths lie in managing fleet efficiency, fostering interdepartmental collaboration, building client relationships, and transforming successful charter departments into highly efficient operations.
Originally from New Jersey, Luke moved to California to pursue higher education, where he cultivated a passion for sales, which has since become a key component of his career. Luke's expertise in sales and relationship management led him to the dynamic aviation industry, where he has consistently delivered exceptional results.
As the Director of Charter Sales at Thrive Aviation, Luke is excited to apply his experience to further elevate the company's charter services and expand its client base. In his free time, Luke enjoys traveling, spending time cooking, and exploring the outdoors.
Dawit Palmer – Director of Fleet Maintenance
Born and raised in Vienna, Austria, Dawit first came to the US in 2008 and completed a 4-year Bachelors' degree in Aeronautical Science / MX Management at LeTourneau University in Longview, TX.
Since, graduating and moving to Dallas in 2012, Dawit has been active as an aviation professional in the DFW metroplex and worked for various Part 145 Repair Stations, and Part 135 Air Carriers. He has been in MX Management roles for the past 10 years, and served as the DOM for Trinity Jet, a top 135 Air Carrier in the DFW metroplex, for the past 6 years.
Dawit is happy to have joined the Thrive team is and looking forward future growth and success with us.
Rickey Oswald, COO of Thrive Aviation states 'I couldn't be more excited about the expansion of our leadership team and the future of Thrive; we're in a great position as a company. We have the planes and now we will have the right people to take us to the next level.' Oswald continues, 'The future is bright at Thrive Aviation!'
Stay tuned for more announcements from Thrive Aviation as they continue to evolve and grow.
Contact:Thrive Aviation Phone: 702.736.0077Email: hello@flythrive.comWebsite: flythrive.com
About Thrive Aviation
Thrive Aviation is a U.S. owned and globally operated curator of private aviation services, recognized as one of the Nation's Top 10 charter operators. Thrive's innovative aircraft and fleet management strategy has fueled its ability to provide bespoke asset management, superior service, and elevated flight experiences for its guests and parts around the world. With corporate headquarters in Henderson, Nevada's exclusive Green Valley Corporate Center, the operator serves the North American and global markets from its operational base in Las Vegas, NV. Thrive Aviation's owned/operated and managed fleets of light, super-mid, large cabin, and ultra-long-range aircraft have steadily emerged as some of the industry's most coveted aircraft.
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