Aviation Entrepreneurship
Aviation Entrepreneurship
Aviation Entrepreneurship
The Ambassador Air Group is an independent aviation strategy and planning organization with more than 30 years’ experience. Together we are accomplished, globally recognised aviation specialists with experience supporting many of the world’s major airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturers, and governments worldwide. Our team combines decades of hands-on experience, with an in-depth understanding of the aviation industry.
Our proficiency in commercial airline development and operations brings expertise in airline start-ups, business planning, organizational infrastructure, and management, allowing for our clients to adapt quickly to a diverse range of business opportunities.
As entrepreneurs at heart, we are committed to long-term relationships, working with investors and communities to build integrated working relationships that bring value to those organisations, travellers,
Over the years we have provided guidance and support within the areas of:
- Aviation economics and market opportunities
- Regulatory and corporate compliance
- Flight operations, including aircraft safety and training
- Fleet planning and aircraft acquisitions
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) support and negotiations
- Start-up opportunities, M&A, and airline re-organization
~~~ Investment Opportunity ~~~
An exciting opportunity is available to invest in a new Southern California-based 14 CFR Part 121 airline start-up. We are a team of highly skilled aviation professionals with more than 100 years of combined airline experience. We believe our business and market plans are strong and viable as well as long term, and will support our stock valuation making this an attractive investment.
For more information, please contact us at
Ambassador Air Group International
Email: info@ambassadorairgroup.com
LotusAir Sri Lanka
Aviation Entrepreneurship
Aviation Entrepreneurship
We at Ambassador Air Group International, LLC (AAGI), a global company based in San Diego, California, aim to expand its global presence and capitalize on the growing tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Our endeavour is to establish LotusAir®, a new airline that offers affordable and innovative travel experiences while showcasing the essence of Sri Lanka.
LotusAir® will become one of the safest and most exceptional airlines globally, providing a naturally affordable option to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka. The company prioritizes shareholder returns, job security, and a culture of continuous improvement. The airline plans to operate from Ratmalana International Airport and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, with operations scheduled to commence in 2024.
For more information please contact us at:
Mailing Address:
Ambassador Air Group International, LLC
302 Washington Street
San Diego, California 92103
United States
Telephone: +1 (858) 356 4800
Facsimile: +1 (619) 374 1362
Mobile: +1 (619) 538-7500
Email: info@ambassadorairgroup.com
D.L. & F. De Saram
Attorneys at Law
47 Alexandra Place
Colombo 7, Sri Lanka
Telephone: +94 (0)11 269 9600
Mobile: +94 (0)77 866 1655
Email: info@lotusair.lk
The Ambassador Team
Aviation Entrepreneurship
The Ambassador Team
Scott Robinson
Founder & Managing Director
Scott, Founder and Managing Director of Ambassador Air Group International, brings 40 years of aviation experience in corporate organizational development, strategic planning, revenue generation, and flight operations. Currently working on a project in Anchorage, Alaska, Scott's strong entrepreneurial drive led to the establishment of Ambassador Air Group International, LLC.
In 2019, Scott spearheaded the creation of LotusAir, a proposed Sri Lankan domestic and regional airline targeting untapped short/medium-haul travel markets. Through collaborations with the Sri Lanka Civil Aviation Authority and local airports, he successfully attracted global interest to underutilized airports (Mattala and Ratmalana International Airports), transforming them into active corporate and commercial hubs.
Scott is an expert in integrating people, processes, and technologies to convert complex challenges into commercial opportunities. With his leadership and development plans, he aims to drive unprecedented growth, profitability, and operational efficiency.
Jennifer Ruscelle
Co-Founder and Vice President, Business Development, Technology & Platforms
Jennifer is a technology and innovation expert with a background in companies like IBM and SAP. She specializes in process optimization, Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, and Supply Chain operations, as well as go-to-market strategy in various industries, including transportation.
Over the years, Jennifer's work has included optimizing total spend management, increasing organizational compliance, reducing operational risks, and fostering strong relationships with trading partners around the world. Jennifer is frequently engaged as Lead Negotiator on behalf of organisations due to her extensive experience in commercial negotiations.
In 2013, Jennifer joined Stretch Denmark, a startup consultancy in Copenhagen, and quickly became a Partner. Her contributions helped Nordic businesses leverage cutting-edge technology and streamlined processes to transform their operations, reduce costs, and enhance overall business value.
Jennifer holds a Master's degree in Economics from the University of Copenhagen, with an academic background in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University.
At LotusAir, Jennifer is an advisor sitting on the Board of Directors, leading the business development and go-to-market strategy, including strategic alliances and acquisitions. She also oversees the acquisition of goods and services, ensuring standardized, streamlined, and compliant processes.
James B. Hanna
Vice President, Technical Services
Jim joined Ambassador Air Group in 2010 as Technical Director, later becoming Vice President of Technical in 2013. With over 44 years of aviation experience, he has held senior management positions in airlines, airworthiness authorities, and corporate jet organizations. Jim has successfully managed turnarounds and reorganizations at start-ups in various roles such as General Manager, Accountable Manager, and Director of Maintenance. He is the principal of Hanna Aviation Services, specializing in on-site representation of major business aircraft projects, process development and improvement, and independent auditing of facilities and operations.
Jim is an ISO Lead Auditor, technical services/MRO SME consultant, and holds FAA Commercial Pilot, Flight Engineer, and Aircraft Engineer ratings.
Captain Philip D. Statham
Vice President of Flight Operations
Captain Statham is a highly experienced aviation professional, specializing in regulatory affairs and airport operations. He has served as a Flight Operations Inspector, EASA Operations and Flight Safety Manager, and B777 Captain for over 25 years, accumulating more than 10,000 hours of commercial airline experience.
Previously, Captain Statham worked at KLM and Emirates Airlines, where he became one of their first 777 commanders. He later joined MEGA Maldives Airlines as Director of Operations and Accountable Manager for Flight Operations, overseeing pilots, training, Flight Dispatch/OCC, In-flight, and Ground Operations.
Before his time at MEGA Maldives Airlines, Captain Statham held the role of Airline Operations Inspector at the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, where he ensured compliance with EASA regulations. He also provided oversight and certification for operations and training to over 4000 pilots, 300+ aircraft, and 100+ companies, including Air New Zealand, Jet Connect, and Air Works.
Brian Peterson
Director, System Operations Control Centre
Brian has 30 years of experience in airlines and corporate aviation, specializing in Flight Operations. He has expertise in Centralized Operations Control, flight planning, navigation, meteorological data analysis, departure control systems, aircraft performance engineering, and flight crew management.
Throughout his career, Brian has worked with various airlines and corporate operators such as Continental Micronesia, Freedom Air, World Airways, Seaborne Airlines, Surf Air, Cargo360, and Northern Pacific Airways.
Additionally, Brian has provided industry analysis and recommendations for flight operations management and performance software systems as a consultant for Ambassador Air Group. He has been involved in FAA air carrier certifications and has overseen the implementation of System Operations Control Centers for start-up companies.
Brian holds a B.S. in History with a minor in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Southern California. He is also a certificed FAA Aircraft Dispatcher.
Ronald D. Brickerd
Sr. Director, Technical Services
Ronald is the Founder and Managing Director of Thayaan Aviation Consultants Group, offering comprehensive advisory services to the global aviation community. With 34 years of experience, he excels in aviation support, maintenance, and flight operations, demonstrating leadership and fiscal expertise in diverse environments.
Ron holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Aeronautics, Associate degrees in Aviation Maintenance and Information Management, and an A&P Diploma from Flight Safety International. He is currently pursuing an MBAA in Aviation Finance from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, set to graduate in June 2024. Additionally, Ron is a Certified Project Management Professional, Lean Sigma Six Green Belt trained, and a Quality Assurance Certified Auditor.
In his role, Ron helps to strategically plan and coordinate LotusAir's maintenance support services, while also driving business development for the company's MRO and technical ancillary revenue streams.
Juan Wolmarans
Director, Ground Operations
Juan brings over 25 years of experience in aviation ground support and flight operations to Ambassador Air Group. He has worked with renowned organizations such as South African Airways, Gryphon Airways, JetAsia Airways, MEGA Maldives Airlines, and Bangkok Airways, gaining extensive international experience.
With his expertise in managing airport operations, Juan has established proficiency and networks across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. He has overseen operations in various countries including Thailand, Maldives, China, Hong Kong, Palau, and Sri Lanka.
In his role with LotusAir, Juan will drive the development of airport and ground services in Sri Lanka, India, and Maldives. He will also play a key role in expanding our presence in the region.