Planet Nine Private Air adds third CAM-certified leader

Planet Nine Private Air said Director of Operations Ben Kiteley earned the Certified Aviation Manager designation from the National Business Aviation Association, giving the Van Nuys-based charter and jet management company three CAM-certified leaders. The company says the milestone strengthens its focus on safety, governance and operational rigor in business aviation.

Why it matters: - Planet Nine Private Air now has three Certified Aviation Manager-designated professionals on its leadership team. - The company says that concentration of CAM-certified leaders reinforces its focus on safety, governance and management discipline. - The milestone places Planet Nine in what it describes as an elite tier of global Part 135 fleet operators.

What happened: - Director of Operations Ben Kiteley earned the Certified Aviation Manager designation from the National Business Aviation Association. - Planet Nine Private Air announced the certification on August 26, 2026. - The company is based at Van Nuys Airport in California and operates as a private aircraft charter and jet management company.

The details: - The NBAA CAM program evaluates leadership, aircraft maintenance and operations, safety management, business management and human resources. - The credential requires peer-reviewed qualifications and a comprehensive examination. - Kiteley said the six months of study required for the certification, layered on top of his full-time role, made him a better executive as well as a better aviator. - Kiteley said his background as a line pilot initially led him to underestimate the leadership and business demands of running a complex aviation operation. - Planet Nine said the certification reflects its commitment to continuous professional development across flight operations, safety oversight and executive administration. - James Seagrim, co-chief executive officer of Planet Nine Private Air, said the company sees the three CAM-designated leaders as evidence of its dedication to operational excellence.

Between the lines: - Planet Nine is using professional certifications as a signal to aircraft owners, clients and crews that the company wants to compete on management depth, not just fleet size or service levels. - The company is also tying the certification milestone to a broader message about bridging day-to-day flight operations with corporate governance.

What's next: - Planet Nine is likely to continue emphasizing leadership credentials and safety standards as part of its brand positioning. - Kiteley will remain in his role as director of operations, where the certification may shape internal standards and oversight expectations.

The bottom line: - Planet Nine is positioning three CAM-certified leaders as proof that its operational model is built around disciplined management and aviation expertise.