Embry-Riddle names Flexjet's Kenn Ricci to Board of Trustees

Flexjet, Inc. Chairman Kenn Ricci has joined the Board of Trustees of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the world’s largest institution specializing in aviation, aviation business, aerospace, engineering, and STEM-related degree programs.

Flexjet, Inc. includes Flexjet, Sentient Jet, FXAir, and PrivateFly.

“It is vital to the growth of the aviation industry that we continue to attract, coach, and retain young talent. In fact, that is one of the many reasons I felt it vital to develop the Flexjet Innovation and Career Center at Embry-Riddle in 2017 and why I am so eager to play a role in the education of young aviators as a member of the Embry-Riddle board,” Ricci said.

He added, “Our companies – which employ 5,000 currently – and the overall aviation industry continue to grow at a phenomenal pace. Sustaining that growth would not be possible without a pipeline of young talent that is well educated and inspired.”

Ricci is the founder and principal of Directional Aviation Capital, a firm that owns and invests in a wide range of aviation-focused businesses, including Flexjet, Inc., SimCom Aviation Training, which provides professional simulator training, and REVA, an air ambulance company.

Ricci’s aviation business interests include maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, aircraft engineering, aircraft brokerage, aircraft management, and aviation sustainability initiatives.

In 2016, he was honored with the Lifetime Aviation Entrepreneur Award from the Living Legends of Aviation organization.

“Kenn is second-to-none when it comes to deep understanding of the aviation business and a successful track record in the industry,” said Mori Hosseini, chairman of the Embry‑Riddle Board of Trustees, adding, “He will not only be an outstanding board member, but he shares our mission of molding the next generation of talent in aviation and aerospace.”

Ricci’s appointment was effective on March 29, 2024.