Jet Aviation has announced that Elie Zelouf has joined the European Living Legends of Aviation as an inductee, following a 72-year career in the industry.
The Living Legends of Aviation initiative recognises the achievements of individuals who have significantly shaped and supported the aviation industry in their personal and professional lives.
For more than two decades, the Living Legends of Aviation has celebrated people who have made significant contributions to aviation, including entrepreneurs, innovators, industry leaders, astronauts, record-breakers, pilots who have become celebrities, and celebrities who have become pilots. The European Living Legends of Aviation was established in 2017 as an extension of the programme to recognise the contributions of the international aviation community.
Every year a small group of individuals are selected by a committee and either inducted as a Legend or recognised as an honouree. This year, Zelouf was one of four inductees to be named a European Living Legend of Aviation at a ceremony in Salzburg, Austria. Six honourees were also awarded during the event.
“Elie has dedicated his life to aviation,” said Jeremie Caillet, president of Jet Aviation, who attended the event. “He joined the company in 1967, when he was 33 years old, and he still works here today. He has been critical to the growth of the company over the years, not just in footprint, but also in its reputation for excellence, quality and customer service. I am delighted to see him inducted as a European Living Legend of Aviation. It is an incredible recognition of his contributions over the years and I extend my heartfelt gratitude and congratulations on this well-deserved achievement.”
Zelouf’s career began in 1953 as a maintenance mechanic. He joined Jet Aviation as director of maintenance in 1967, when the company was established in Basel, Switzerland. This year he celebrates 57 years with the company, and his 90th birthday.
Zelouf was appointed business jet manager at Jet Aviation in 1970, and then as general manager (GM) of the Basel site in 1976. Under his guidance they established the VIP completions business, crafting a bespoke interior for a Convair 880 displayed at the 1977 Paris Airshow. Jet Aviation also credits Zelouf with playing a key part in the company’s growth globally, particularly in the Middle East.
In 1999, Zelouf left the GM role for one in customer support. In 2001 he answered the call to help establish a newly acquired maintenance and FBO operation in London Biggin Hill, UK, into the Jet Aviation network. In 2004 he returned to Basel to manage large completion projects.
Although he officially retired in 2009, Zelouf remains at the company. In 2010 he was awarded the European Business Aviation Award for his outstanding contribution to Jet Aviation and the growth of business aviation over the course of his then-43-year career.
