The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) has announced a significant leadership transition, as long-serving President and CEO Bryan Burns steps down after more than a decade at the helm.
He will be succeeded by current Executive Director Debi Carpenter, who will assume the role on 1 July 2025.
Burns, a seasoned aviation professional and private pilot, brought over 35 years of experience to ACSF, including senior roles at several prominent Fixed Base Operators (FBOs).
His leadership tenure at Signature Aviation’s operations at Washington Dulles and Reagan National Airports saw both facilities consistently ranked among the top FBOs in the United States.
Under his stewardship, ACSF evolved into a prominent voice for safety within the charter, corporate, private, and advanced air mobility sectors.
He was instrumental in expanding key programmes such as the Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) and the Industry Audit Standard (IAS), and was recognised in 2021 with the Dr Tony Kern Professionalism in Aviation Award.
Kent Stauffer, chairman of the ACSF board of governors said: “Bryan’s leadership has not only elevated ACSF but also set a new standard for safety culture and collaboration across our industry.
“He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, innovation and partnership that will continue to inspire us.”
A New Era in Safety Leadership
Carpenter joined ACSF in June 2023 as Executive Director, working alongside Burns to shape the organisation’s strategic direction and broaden its influence across the aviation safety landscape.
With more than 20 years of aviation safety experience, she brings a strong track record in leadership, operational insight, and collaboration.
In her new role, Carpenter will focus on strengthening ACSF’s commitment to proactive safety practices, data-driven insights, and industry-wide knowledge sharing.
“Driving a culture of aviation safety requires a clear strategy, shared understanding, and strong team commitment,” she said.
“Safety isn’t just about pilots. It involves maintenance teams, dispatchers, schedulers, line and customer service staff.
“Every person in aviation plays a critical role, and our aim is to equip them with the tools, education and insights needed to raise safety standards across the board.”
Carpenter will also lead the expansion of ACSF’s data initiatives, helping member organisations identify safety trends, reduce risks, and build a predictive, rather than reactive, safety culture.