Business Aviation
Modern Aviation Launches FBO Operations at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Modern Aviation expands to CLT with a 20-year contract, workforce retention, and planned terminal upgrades, aligning with airport modernization and industry trends.
Modern Aviation Expands to Charlotte Douglas International Airport: A Strategic Move in the Evolving FBO Landscape
On July 1, 2025, Modern Aviation officially commenced operations at the CLT Executive Terminal in Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), marking a significant milestone in both the company’s growth trajectory and the broader fixed-base operator (FBO) industry. As the 19th FBO in Modern Aviation’s network, this expansion underscores the company’s commitment to providing premium aviation services across strategic locations in the United States and Puerto Rico.
This transition not only reflects the increasing demand for high-quality general aviation services but also highlights the evolving nature of airport partnerships. With private aviation on an upward trajectory and infrastructure investment becoming a focal point for airports globally, Modern Aviation’s entry into CLT is both timely and strategically sound. The move follows a 20-year management services contract approved by the City of Charlotte.
Strategic Importance of the CLT Expansion
Charlotte’s Role in Aviation Infrastructure
Charlotte Douglas International Airport ranks among the busiest airports in the world, with over 596,000 aircraft operations in 2024 and a record 58.8 million passengers. This makes CLT a critical node in both commercial and general aviation. The airport’s $3.5 billion capital improvement program, including the ongoing Terminal Lobby Expansion, demonstrates a long-term vision for growth and modernization.
Modern Aviation’s presence at CLT leverages these developments, positioning the company to serve a growing clientele of corporate travelers, private jet owners, and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). The CLT Executive Terminal includes 220,000 square feet of hangar space and 100,000 square feet of office space, both slated for renovation beginning in late 2025 or early 2026.
By aligning with CLT’s broader infrastructure goals, Modern Aviation is not only enhancing service quality but also contributing to the airport’s transformation into a comprehensive aviation hub. The integration of private and commercial aviation services is a growing trend, and CLT is at the forefront of this shift.
“As we look to the future with Modern Aviation, we are excited to introduce a new era of private aviation in Charlotte, one driven by innovation, elevated service and a focus on exceeding the evolving needs of our customers.” , Ted Kaplan, Chief Business and Innovation Officer, CLT
Operational Continuity and Workforce Integration
One of the most commendable aspects of the transition was Modern Aviation’s approach to employee retention. The company offered positions to all existing staff from the previous operator, Wilson Air Center, with the majority accepting. This move ensured continuity of service and preserved institutional knowledge, a critical factor in maintaining service quality during transitions.
Workforce retention is a pressing issue in the business aviation sector. According to the 2024 NBAA Compensation Survey, salaries in business aviation grew by 8%, double the private industry average. By retaining experienced personnel, Modern Aviation mitigates the risk of service disruption and aligns with industry best practices for talent management.
This strategy sets a precedent for future FBO transitions, demonstrating that operational handovers can be executed smoothly without compromising on service or safety standards.
Enhancing General Aviation Services at CLT
Modern Aviation’s entry into CLT is not just about maintaining existing services but elevating them. The planned renovations of the terminal are expected to introduce advanced amenities, improved passenger experiences, and possibly sustainability features such as electric ground support equipment and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) capabilities.
These upgrades align with broader industry trends. As of 2023, 68% of major U.S. airports had announced FBO enhancements, and 42% of new projects included sustainability initiatives. Modern Aviation’s strategy appears to be in lockstep with these developments, positioning the company as a forward-thinking player in the FBO market.
In a market where customer expectations are rising, and safety and sustainability are becoming key differentiators, these enhancements could significantly bolster Modern Aviation’s competitive edge.
Modern Aviation’s Growth Strategy and Market Position
Geographic Diversification and Market Penetration
Modern Aviation’s network spans 19 locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, including strategic markets like New York (JFK, LGA), Fort Worth (FTW), and San Juan (SIG, TJRV). This geographic diversification allows the company to mitigate regional economic fluctuations and capture demand across different business corridors.
The recent acquisition of American Aero at Fort Worth Meacham International Airport added a 31-acre FBO campus with 247,000 square feet of hangar space and IS-BAH Stage 3 certification, the highest safety standard in the industry. Such acquisitions reflect a deliberate strategy to enter high-growth markets with premium facilities.
Modern Aviation’s revenue model includes aircraft fueling, hangar leasing, maintenance services, and premium passenger amenities. With an estimated annual revenue of $62.8 million and 232 employees, the company achieves approximately $270,600 in revenue per employee, above industry norms.
Private Equity and Infrastructure Investment
Modern Aviation’s expansion has been fueled in part by private equity investment. In November 2023, Apollo Global Management acquired a majority stake, providing the capital necessary for aggressive growth. Tiger Infrastructure Partners, the original backers, also reinvested, signaling continued confidence in the company’s strategy.
This financial backing enables Modern Aviation to pursue further acquisitions and invest in infrastructure upgrades. The company aims to reach 25 locations by 2027, focusing on underserved markets in the Midwest and Mountain West.
With the global FBO market projected to grow from $25.5 billion in 2024 to $41.4 billion by 2031, Modern Aviation is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this expanding market.
Technology and Sustainability Integration
Modern Aviation is also embracing technological innovations. Planned features at CLT and other locations may include AI-powered resource allocation systems, mobile applications for customizable passenger experiences, and integrated carbon tracking tools for corporate clients.
These innovations are not merely add-ons, they are becoming essential components of modern FBO operations. As regulatory frameworks evolve and customer expectations rise, technology and sustainability will be key differentiators.
By integrating these elements into its operations, Modern Aviation is not only future-proofing its business but also setting new standards for the industry.
Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Aviation Infrastructure
Modern Aviation’s commencement of operations at Charlotte Douglas International Airport marks a significant chapter in the evolution of FBO services. The move reflects broader industry trends, including increased infrastructure investment, rising private aviation demand, and the integration of advanced technologies.
As the aviation sector continues to evolve, Modern Aviation’s strategy of targeted acquisitions, workforce continuity, and premium service delivery positions it as a key player in shaping the future of general aviation. The CLT expansion is not just a local development, it is a signal of what the next generation of FBOs could look like: sustainable, tech-enabled, and customer-focused.
FAQ
What is an FBO?
An FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) provides essential services at airports for general aviation, including fueling, hangaring, maintenance, and passenger amenities.
Why is Charlotte Douglas International Airport significant for Modern Aviation?
CLT is one of the busiest airports globally and offers a strategic location for general aviation. It supports nearly 29,000 general aviation operations annually and is undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades.
What are Modern Aviation’s future plans?
The company aims to expand to 25 locations by 2027, implement sustainability initiatives like SAF, and integrate advanced technologies for operational efficiency and enhanced customer experience.
Sources: Modern Aviation, National Business Aviation Association, Charlotte Observer, Aviation Week, GlobeNewswire, CLT Airport, Axios Charlotte
Photo Credit: Modern Aviation
Business Aviation
Apollo and KKR Value Atlantic Aviation at Nearly $10 Billion
Apollo and KKR announced a strategic partnership valuing FBO network Atlantic Aviation at nearly $10 billion in August 2026.
Apollo Global Management and KKR & Co. Inc. announced a strategic partnership on August 27, 2026, valuing fixed-base operator (FBO) network Atlantic Aviation at nearly $10 billion. The transaction sees Apollo-managed funds acquire a significant stake in the company, while KKR retains a substantial shareholder position.
In a joint press release, the investment firms outlined plans to support the continued expansion of Atlantic Aviation, which provides mission-critical infrastructure such as aircraft fueling and hangar leasing across the United States. The $10 billion valuation represents a sharp increase from the $4.5 billion KKR paid to acquire the company from Macquarie Infrastructure in 2021, reflecting sustained demand for private aviation facilities.
Strategic Investment and Market Positioning
Investments: Apollo has originated $155 billion in infrastructure transactions across various sectors over the past five years. KKR brings extensive sector experience, having invested $12 billion across the aviation industry since 2015 and currently managing $120 billion in infrastructure assets.
David Cohen, a partner at Apollo Global Management, highlighted the company’s irreplicable infrastructure footprint across busy Airports, which is supported by long-term concession agreements.
“The private aviation market has structural tailwinds that we believe will persist, and Atlantic is well positioned to capture that growth. We look forward to working closely with Jeff, the entire Atlantic team and KKR to build on its momentum through targeted investment and strategic new market expansion.”
Dash Lane, a partner at KKR & Co. Inc., noted that the continued support reflects conviction in the platform and the long-term growth of the sector. Lane stated that the firm has worked closely with the Atlantic Aviation team over the past five years to expand and strengthen the business.
Operational Impact for Atlantic Aviation
Atlantic Aviation CEO Jeff Foland characterized the investment as a validation of the company’s performance and potential.
“This transaction is more than a milestone for Atlantic, it is a powerful validation of what our people have built together. To have two of the world’s most respected investment firms choose to invest in our company is an extraordinary endorsement of our people, our performance, and our potential.”
The exact financial terms, including the specific purchase price paid by Apollo and the resulting ownership split between the two firms, were not disclosed in the announcement.
AirPro News analysis
We view the doubling of Atlantic Aviation’s valuation over a five-year period as a clear indicator of the premium placed on established FBO networks. The private aviation sector has experienced sustained structural growth, compounded by broader commercial aircraft shortages and an overall increase in private flight activity. Because airport real estate is finite and long-term concession agreements create high barriers to entry, incumbent FBO operators hold significant pricing power. The combined financial backing of Apollo and KKR will likely accelerate Atlantic Aviation’s acquisition of independent FBOs and expansion into new regional markets.
Sources: Apollo Global Management
Photo Credit: Atlantic Aviation
Business Aviation
Atlantic Aviation Breaks Ground on New FBO at Nashville JWN
Atlantic Aviation begins construction of a new executive FBO terminal and hangar at John C. Tune Airport, due Q4 2027.
Atlantic Aviation has officially commenced construction on a new executive fixed-base operator (FBO) terminal and hangar complex at John C. Tune Airports (JWN) in Nashville, Tennessee, expanding its infrastructure footprint in the region.
Announced in a press release on August 25, 2026, the project is slated for completion in the fourth quarter of 2027. The development follows Atlantic Aviation’s successful bid for a new leasehold through a Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) request for proposals in May 2025 and complements the company’s existing operations at Nashville International Airport (BNA).
Facility specifications and infrastructure
The planned facility will feature a 7,500-square-foot executive terminal alongside a 37,000-square-foot hangar and office complex. To accommodate aircraft movement and parking, the project includes the development of approximately 175,000 square feet of new ramp space.
The infrastructure upgrades will incorporate a new fuel farm with a 60,000-gallon capacity for Jet-A and a 12,000-gallon capacity for 100LL aviation gasoline. According to the company, the design integrates Sustainability initiatives, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) focused elements, efficient building systems, and construction waste minimization strategies.
Strategic expansion in the Nashville market
Located eight miles west of downtown Nashville, John C. Tune Airport serves as a primary reliever for BNA and a key gateway for general aviation. MNAA President and Chief Executive Officer Doug Kreulen stated that the expansion marks a major step forward in strengthening access for the area’s growing general aviation community.
“By bringing world-class facilities and services to John C. Tune Airport, Atlantic Aviation is helping us position the airport for long-term success, and we’re excited for the expanded opportunities this Investments will create for our customers and for Middle Tennessee,” Kreulen said.
Atlantic Aviation Chief Executive Officer Jeff Foland described the start of construction as an exciting milestone for the Partnerships. The company previously opened a newly completed FBO facility at BNA in June 2024.
AirPro News analysis
We view Atlantic Aviation’s dual-airport Strategy in Nashville as a direct response to the region’s sustained economic and population growth. By establishing a modern presence at JWN just two years after securing the leasehold, the company is positioning itself to capture overflow corporate traffic that might otherwise face congestion at BNA. The inclusion of substantial ramp space and high-capacity fuel storage indicates an expectation of high-volume, large-cabin business jet traffic at the reliever airport.
Sources: Atlantic Aviation
Photo Credit: Atlantic Aviation
Business Aviation
Avcon Industries Delivers Modified King Air B200 for Mosquito Control
Avcon Industries delivered a modified Beechcraft King Air B200 to Lee County Mosquito Control District in Florida for aerial pest mitigation.
Avcon Industries, Inc. delivered its first specially modified Beechcraft King Air B200 equipped for large-scale mosquito mitigation to the Lee County Mosquito Control District in Florida on August 25, 2026.
In a press release, the Butler National Corporation subsidiary detailed the engineering modifications designed to support rapid airborne liquid dispersal for disease and pest prevention. The delivery provides the Florida district with a twin-engine turboprop platform capable of covering larger areas than traditional ground-based methods or smaller agricultural aircraft.
Engineering and modification details
The special mission modification centers on a removable external under-fuselage pod. The system incorporates an electric pump, aerodynamic fairings, and dispersal booms to facilitate repeatable fluid application.
Avcon Industries President Marcus Abendroth stated the project highlights the company’s capacity to integrate specialized mission systems into established airframes.
“The King Air B200 provides an excellent platform for this mission, and the solution developed by our team creates an opportunity to support similar mosquito-control and airborne dispersal requirements for other operators,” Abendroth said.
Operational impact in Florida
Mosquito mitigation remains a persistent public health requirement in Florida due to the climate and the associated risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. The Lee County Mosquito Control District utilizes aviation assets to manage these risks across extensive geographical areas.
Wayne Luettich, Aircraft Maintenance Manager for the district, emphasized the importance of the new platform for local residents.
“Mosquito control has become a significant effort in Florida. We have an important mission to mitigate the impact of the mosquitoes on our residents. We look forward to operating the Avcon-modified airplane and appreciate the Avcon engineering services,” Luettich said.
AirPro News analysis
We note that adapting business aviation platforms like the King Air B200 for public health missions reflects a demand for higher payload and extended range in aerial application. While single-engine agricultural aircraft excel in localized operations, twin-engine turboprops offer the speed and capacity required for county-wide vector control, particularly in coastal regions requiring rapid response to emerging public health threats.
Sources: Avcon Industries, Inc.
Photo Credit: Avcon Industries
-
UAV & Drones7 days agoDufour Aerospace Aero-200 eVTOL Targets 2027 Serial Production
-
Technology & Innovation5 days agoSkyband Systems M100 LRU Validates GNSS Jamming Protection
-
MRO & Manufacturing4 days agoBoeing SPEEA Engineers Reject Contract, Authorize Strike
-
Military Technology5 days agoSaab Unveils A3-001 Supersonic Stealth Drone Concept
-
Business Aviation4 days agoFTAI Aviation Closes $2B Warehouse Financing for 2026 SPV