October 2026 – The Newsletter of Aventure Aviation

Remembering Phil Thatch, Founder of Atlanta Aviation

The aviation community lost a respected leader with the passing of Philip "Phil" Alan Thatch, founder and former CEO of Atlanta Aviation International, on September 4, 2026, at the age of 84.

Phil dedicated his life to the aviation industry, beginning his career with Goodyear Aerospace before holding leadership roles with Nordam, Dee Howard Company, and Hunting Aviation.

His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship led him to establish Atlanta Aviation International 31 years ago. Following the company's acquisition by Aventure Aviation in March 2026, Phil took great pride knowing the company he built would continue to thrive.

Today, his legacy continues through his children, Mike and Debbie, as they guide Atlanta Aviation into its next chapter.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley, his children Ray, Mike, and Debbie, and his grandchildren. His enduring legacy lives on through the company he founded, the family he cherished, and the many lives he influenced throughout his remarkable career.

Though no longer with us, Phil's spirit lives in the hearts of those who loved him. His life was a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and kindness—an enduring legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Atlanta Aviation Heads to Las Vegas for Business Aviation Convention

Atlanta Aviation, an Aventure company, will attend the 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) on October 20-22 in Las Vegas, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Representing Atlanta Aviation will be president Mike Thatch, who has been attending NBAA-BACE for over 20 years.

Atlanta Aviation is an FAA-certified repair station that offers aircraft interior refurbishment for commercial and regional airlines, and MRO facilities.

NBAA-BACE is one of the world's largest events for business aviation. It provides a valuable forum for exploring the latest advancements in business aviation, strengthening industry partnerships, and identifying new collaboration opportunities among aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, operators, and others.

During the convention Mike will discuss aircraft interior solutions, aftermarket support, and the evolving needs of the business aviation market.

Meet Atlanta Aviation at NBAA-BACE >

Aventure to Attend Two Aviation Shows in Europe this Month

Aventure will participate in two aviation shows held in Europe this month. Global Defence Aviation will take place October 20–22 in Warsaw, while MRO Europe will take place October 27–29 in Amsterdam.

Attending Global Defence Aviation will be Aventure vice president David Clark, who will be available to meet Aventure's guests at stand 90. The event brings together military aviation professionals, government representatives, OEMs, suppliers, and defense industry leaders to discuss the latest developments in military aviation, sustainment, and defense technology.

Aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul professionals will gather at MRO Europe to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and challenges shaping the commercial aviation industry.

These events will give Aventure's MRO and military teams the a chance to strengthen existing relationships, develop new partnerships, and showcase Aventure's commitment to providing high-quality aircraft parts and responsive supply chain solutions.

Guests Visit Aventure Exhibit During Marrakech Airshow

Aventure's Osman Faruqi (L) and Amyr Qureshi at the Marrakech Airshow.

Aventure was present as the skies over Morocco came alive with aerial demonstrations during the Marrakech Airshow, held October 7–10 at the Royal Moroccan Air Force Base in Marrakech.

The eighth edition of the aerospace and defense exhibition welcomed nearly 200 exhibitors from 27 countries, showcasing cutting-edge aircraft, advanced defense technologies, and the latest innovations shaping the future of aviation.

Guests were met at the Aventure exhibit, where senior vice president Amyr Qureshi and director of military sales Osman Faruqi were on hand. They connected with military operators, aerospace manufacturers, and industry professionals, while exploring opportunities to strengthen Aventure's presence both internationally and in the region.

"The Marrakech Airshow let's us connect with aviation professionals from around the world, better understand the their evolving needs, and demonstrate how we can support their missions," said Amyr.

Piece of Plane Exhibits at Atlanta Airline Collectibles Show

Andrew Crombie and Hala Faruqi at the Piece of Plane exhibit.

Piece of Plane, an Aventure Aviation company, exhibited at the Atlanta Airline Collectibles Show, held October 3 at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta, Georgia. They joined aviation enthusiasts, collectors, and professionals for a day dedicated to aviation history and memorabilia.

The Piece of Plane team showcased a variety of authentic aircraft parts, aviation collectibles, and unique aviation-themed items, giving attendees the opportunity to own a piece of aviation history while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

"The show is a wonderful opportunity to share our passion for aviation with collectors and enthusiasts," said Hala Faruqi, Aventure's brand marketing manager. "It's exciting to see people connect with the stories behind these parts and collectibles."

Visit Piece of Plane >

Aventure is looking for international sales reps >

Are you seeking a distributor for your products? >

C-130 TCG World Wide Review
October 19–23 | Caribe Royale | Orlando, Florida | Booth 207

NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition
October 20–22 | Las Vegas Convention Center | Las Vegas, Nevada

Global Defence Aviation
October 20–22 | Hilton Warsaw City Hotel & Convention Centre Warsaw, Poland

MRO Europe
October 27–29 | RAI | Amsterdam, Netherlands

Meet Aventure at any of these events >

October 4, 1957 — Sputnik 1, the world's first artificial satellite is launched into orbit.

October 20, 1953 — A TWA Lockheed Constellation makes the first non-stop, scheduled passenger flight across the United States.

October 31, 1987 — British Airways accepts their first women pilots.

"The higher we soar the smaller we appear to those who cannot fly."

— Friedrich Nietzsche : German philosopher and writer

Aventure proudly supports:   Aventure Aviation is a certified Asian American and Minority owned business by the US Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation.   Aventure Aviation is a certified Minority Business Enterprise by the National Minority Supplier Development Council.