David Hayes joined the jetAVIVA team in 2024 as a Sales Director specializing in the Citation M2 market. With over 25 years of aviation experience, David brings a unique blend of technical expertise and deep client understanding. His background as a corporate jet pilot provides him with firsthand knowledge of the operational needs his clients face, allowing him to deliver tailored solutions that go beyond expectations.

David began his aviation sales career with FlightSafety International, where he excelled selling simulator training courses for Citation jets. With a firm grasp on the Citation market, he was later hired by Textron’s Cessna Aircraft division as the Citation Regional Sales Director for Florida.  Once again, David achieved success selling jets in a highly competitive market by ensuring comprehensive client engagement on all deals within the territory.  He also served as a mentor for two Sales Associates who helped develop leads and competitive intelligence for the team.

Textron recognized his leadership abilities and appointed him to lead the sales team at their new venture, TRU Simulation + Training. As the head of a team of eight sales professionals with training locations in Tampa, FL, and Carlsbad, CA, David drove rapid growth, achieving a 600% increase in revenue in just over three years. This success was driven by focused sales plans, strategic development of new simulator training programs, and expansion into foreign markets. 

Following a merger with FlightSafety International, David transitioned to TRU’s Airline Transport division as Head of Sales for North America, where he led the sales of Boeing and Airbus flight simulators to airlines and training companies. However, he missed the interaction with the business jet community and eventually returned to jet sales.

In addition to his sales leadership roles, David has over nine years of experience as a professional pilot. His career includes working as a flight instructor, airline pilot, and corporate jet captain, providing him with comprehensive insight into various aspects of aviation operations. This extensive experience in the cockpit allows David to offer unique perspectives and tailored solutions for his clients, combining technical knowledge with practical, real-world expertise.

David is deeply involved in the business aviation community, serving as a member of the Central Florida Business Aviation Association (CFBAA) Safety Committee, where he plays a key role in promoting safety initiatives. He is also committed to volunteer work, supporting causes aligned with his professional and personal values.

Outside of aviation, David is passionate about several personal interests. He enjoys playing basketball with his 15-year-old son, golfing, and teaching high-performance driving at world-renowned racetracks like Sebring and Daytona. A proud alumnus of the University of Georgia, David resides in Orlando with his family, enjoying a well-balanced life filled with both professional and personal fulfillment.