Avfuel Welcomes Sheltair’s Newest FBO at Gwinnett County Airport Following $17 Million Investment

Avfuel Corporation has officially added Sheltair Aviation’s newest Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at Gwinnett County Airport (KLZU) to its global branded network. Effective April 2, 2023, this expansion marks a significant milestone in the ongoing modernization of regional aviation infrastructure in the Atlanta metropolitan area.

The development follows a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) process, resulting in Gwinnett County awarding Sheltair a 40-year lease. According to the official press release, Sheltair has committed to a $17 million infrastructure investment program to revitalize the airport’s North Ramp, taking over facilities previously operated by Gwinnett Aero.

This strategic move not only strengthens the multi-decade relationship between Avfuel and Sheltair but also highlights the growing reliance on public-private partnerships to fund critical Airports upgrades without burdening local taxpayers.

Infrastructure and Investment at Briscoe Field

Revitalizing the North Ramp

Located just 33 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, Gwinnett County Airport, also known as Briscoe Field, serves as a vital general aviation hub. Industry data cited in the provided research report notes that KLZU is the third-busiest airport in Georgia, recording 119,000 takeoffs and landings in 2022. It acts as a crucial gateway for the county’s expanding bioscience, technology, and manufacturing sectors.

To support this growing demand, Sheltair’s $17 million commitment will fund extensive facility improvements. The project scope includes the redevelopment of nearly 220,000 square feet of existing hangar space. Furthermore, the company plans to construct a state-of-the-art FBO terminal, a new restaurant, and a modern office complex.

“Airports across the country are reckoning with aging facilities that can still be of service, but they need this partnership and private Investments to make it happen. We embrace this true public-private partnership that makes it a win-win-win for the airport owner, the users, and Sheltair.”
— Milo Zonka, Vice President of Real Estate for Sheltair, via the company’s release.

The Avfuel and Sheltair Partnership

Enhancing the Guest Experience

As an Avfuel-branded location, the new KLZU facility will offer operators competitive fuel pricing, AVTRIP loyalty rewards, and streamlined payment processing via the Avfuel Pro Card. Sheltair, recognized as the nation’s largest privately-owned aviation network with over 16 FBOs, aims to bring its “Family First” customer service ethos to the Atlanta market.

“We intend to exceed expectations and are dedicated to making Gwinnett County Airport the best it can be; Avfuel is an important part of that. The advantages Avfuel offers add value for our guests, and we look forward to extending that value to our network’s latest FBO addition.”
— Lisa Holland, President of Sheltair.

Avfuel leadership echoed this sentiment. Joel Hirst, Senior Vice President of Sales at Avfuel, emphasized the supplier’s eagerness to support Sheltair’s all-in commitment to Gwinnett County and the broader general aviation community in Georgia’s largest metro area.

Broader Industry Context and Recent Developments

Sustainability and Philanthropic Initiatives

The alliance between Avfuel and Sheltair extends beyond traditional fuel supply and FBO operations. According to recent industry developments spanning through 2026, the two companies are actively collaborating on environmental and educational initiatives.

On the Sustainability front, Avfuel and Sheltair have partnered with aircraft manufacturer Embraer to supply and store Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Melbourne Orlando International Airport. This initiative directly supports the business aviation sector’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Additionally, the partners co-sponsor the “Future Takes Flight Scholarship” program. As recently as October 2025, the companies announced the latest recipients of this fund, which distributes $30,000 annually to support the education and training of students and professionals within the business aviation community.

Continued Network Expansion

Sheltair’s growth trajectory has remained aggressive following the KLZU acquisition. In November 2025, the company unveiled a new FBO at Sarasota–Bradenton International Airport (KSRQ), a project backed by a massive $40 million investment. Meanwhile, the successful transition at Gwinnett County has catalyzed further commercial general aviation development at the airport, with new RFPs issued in late 2025.

AirPro News analysis

The $17 million investment at Gwinnett County Airport perfectly illustrates a growing trend in regional aviation: the reliance on robust public-private Partnerships. As municipal budgets tighten, local governments are increasingly turning to established private operators like Sheltair to fund necessary infrastructure modernizations. By securing a 40-year lease, Sheltair gains long-term operational stability in a high-traffic, economically expanding region, while Gwinnett County benefits from upgraded facilities without direct taxpayer expenditure. Furthermore, Avfuel’s integration into these expanding networks ensures consistent fuel volume and brand visibility in key corporate aviation markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the total investment Sheltair is making at Gwinnett County Airport?
According to the press release, Sheltair has committed $17 million to improve and expand the airport’s facilities, which includes redeveloping 220,000 square feet of hangars and building a new terminal.

When did the Sheltair FBO at KLZU officially join the Avfuel network?
The location officially became an Avfuel-branded FBO on April 2, 2023.

What services will the new FBO offer?
The facility will provide competitive fuel prices, AVTRIP rewards, Avfuel Pro Card transactions, and Sheltair’s signature customer care, alongside a planned new terminal, restaurant, and office complex.

Sources

• Avfuel Corporation Press Release