George Ferguson shares his journey from a childhood fascination with aviation to a successful career in aerospace analysis at Bloomberg. We cover various themes, including the dynamics of the civil and defense aerospace sectors, the impact of NATO spending on European defense, and the challenges posed by supply chain issues. Ferguson also addresses the future of commercial aircraft development, the rise of Chinese competitors, and the importance of technological advancements in the industry.

The conversation concludes with insights into the balance of risk in aerospace innovation and the ongoing evolution of the market. In this conversation, George Ferguson discusses the complexities of the aviation supply chain, particularly focusing on engine manufacturers and their reluctance to increase production capacity. He highlights the opaque nature of the industry and the challenges faced by manufacturers in balancing short-term profits with long-term sustainability. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in aviation analysis, the insights gained from the Paris Air Show, and the current state of business aviation, emphasizing the ongoing demand for private jets despite supply chain constraints.

Shannon discusses his newly launched book, 'Insights for Aviation Business Professionals,' which aims to bridge the knowledge gap in aircraft performance characteristics among finance professionals in the aviation industry.

He elaborates on the key specifications that influence aircraft selection, emphasizing the importance of engine reliability and durability, as well as the operational characteristics that impact performance.

The discussion also touches on the future of aircraft design, emphasizing the role of aerodynamics and the increasing value of maintenance in aircraft investment decisions.

Donna Ager is our guest for this podcast - a legal expert in aviation. We discuss various aspects of aviation law, including the challenges faced by women in the field, the impact of AI on the industry, and the importance of networking and building connections.