Page 14 - Feb17TNT

The underside of the Phenom 100 pays homage to the U.S. Air Force, as well as a nod to Star Trek. Note the “battle damage” to the belly fairing.
As his first jet, Holt was keenly focused on single-pilot ergonomics, flying characteristics, as well as mission capability. The Phenom did not disappoint.
“It is an amazing airplane and fit my missions very well,” added Holt, who often travels to his residence in San Diego. “Coming from a TBM with its 6-foot speed brake out in front, the only downside – which is true of any light jet – is that it has a very small footprint for stopping. Without reverse thrust or speed brakes, you have to pay attention and be on your game when landing on icy or wet runways.”
Holt said the impact of operating a jet was felt immediately.
“Put a 1,000-mile radius circle around Mason City. With the Phenom, anyone in that circle can be at my facility within two hours. For example, I can bring someone from Colorado, give them a tour, feed them lunch and have them home that afternoon. It is a powerful tool.”
By 2014, Varied Industries was the largest manufacturer of all natural animal health products. Late that same year, the company was acquired by Arm & Hammer Animal Nutrition, who was attracted to the company’s breakthrough in a yeast- based additive that aids in an animal’s growth and health.
While Holt left his company behind, he kept the Phenom to help him refocus on a new endeavor.
Flying with a Purpose
“I am a purpose-driven person, so I began exploring ways to combine my flying with something meaningful. Veterans Airlift Command fulfills that desire,” he said.
Veteran Airlift Command is a nonprofit organization that provides air transportation for medical and compassionate purposes for primarily post-9/11 injured servicemen and women and their families through a large network of volunteer
In addition to the Phenom 100, Mark Holt owns a 1957 De Havilland Beaver and a Cessna 182 equipped with the Wipaire Boss Conversion.
12 • TWIN & TURBINE
February 2017