With the nose of a corporate jet providing an appropriate backdrop, Sheltair has cut the ribbon on a new $55-million aviation complex at Republic Airport (FRG), East Farmingdale, Long Island, New York.
The first three of six state-of-the-art, 31,200 square foot hangars reflect Sheltair’s strategic commitment to the busiest general aviation airport in New York, one that brings pilots and passengers to within easy reach of metropolitan New York at an airport that prides itself on virtually no ground delays.
Jerry Holland, founder, chairman and CEO of Sheltair, stated, “This investment reflects our company’s belief in the strength of the New York metro market, now and for generations to come. In addition, we are extremely proud of the fact that at a time when New York-based development of any kind can face significant opposition, our hangar development was supported and endorsed by local civic and community leaders who appreciated our commitment to a transparent process and the role that general aviation brings to strengthening the local economy.”
Mr. Holland also had praise for New York Governor Andrew Cuomo who has long recognized the importance of general aviation in providing New York with an air bridge to a global economy. “One cannot overestimate the importance of the Governor signing into law a proposal to eliminate sales and user taxes on general aviation, ensuring a level playing field for those supporting aviation in the `Empire State.’”
An historic aviation center
Warren Kroeppel, Sheltair’s Chief Operating Officer, observed, “Republic has been historic ground for New York aviation since 1927 when the first hangar was built on the property, the same year Charles Lindbergh took off from Long Island and made his historic solo flight to Paris. Today, we are writing a new chapter in Republic’s history by opening these 21st Century hangars, providing general aviation with an exciting new opportunity for accessing the New York metro market.”
In addition to highway and mass transit options for passengers arriving and departing Republic Airport, Sheltair has partnered with BLADE Urban Air Mobility, Inc. to allow Sheltair’s clients access to metro helicopter landing sites, offering even more choices for their clients to get from “here-to-there’ in comfort and in the shortest possible time.
The Cuomo Administration’s Commitment
New York State Senator John Brooks observed, “Governor Cuomo has long understood the economic power of general aviation in New York, and Republic Airport sits at the epicenter of that sector. Sheltair’s commitment to the airport, the region and its outreach to the surrounding community positions Republic to serve our region well throughout the rest of this century.”
Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer General said, “Aviation plays an essential role in priming the pump of the Long Island economy. From corporate executives flying in to sign a deal to tourists arriving for the Belmont, Republic Airport has been a destination that has meant economic strength for Long Island. This multimillion dollar Sheltair investment in a new hangar complex reflects their long term commitment to our region and a vote of full confidence in our shared future.
Suffolk County Legislature’s Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory stated, “From acting as an aerial lifeline in the event of a severe weather emergency to its daily role as entry point for investment, jobs and new economic opportunities on Long Island, Republic Airport is a key regional asset. Sheltair’s new hangar complex further strengthens that role and reflects strong cooperation with the surrounding community, business leaders and the aviation industry.”
The benefits of aviation
Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter said, “The Town of Islip is one of only two townships in New York State that own an airport, so we are well-positioned to appreciate the unique benefits aviation brings to Long Island. Sheltair, which also operates at Long Island MacArthur Airport, has long-played an important role in supporting the needs of general aviation. These new hangars at Republic Airport are a dramatic reminder that an investment of this size and scope will benefit all aspects of the Long Island economy.”
Kristen Jarnagin, President and CEO of Discover Long Island noted, “There is little doubt that part of Long Island’s attraction as a tourism destination is because of the strength of its airports. Republic has defined itself as one of the busiest general aviation airports in New York State and these modern, state-of-the-art hangars built by Sheltair will allow a new generation of charter aircraft to be met with red carpet treatment.”
Republic Airport Manager John Lauth stated, “Sheltair’s multimillion dollar infrastructure investment in Republic Airport reflects the strength of the Cuomo Administration’s commitment to ensure our state’s aviation capability is second to none.”
“The Long Island Business Aviation Association (LIBAA) is pleased to see the general aviation industry continue to thrive on Long Island. We all realize the economic importance and other significant benefits that business aviation brings to our region. We are very happy to be here to celebrate this major accomplishment by Sheltair, and to thank them for the many years that they have been supporting the needs of general aviation,” stated Joseph Loccisano, president of the group.
LIBBA’s goal is to advance the cause of business aviation at all Long Island Airports, and focuses on the development and management of safe, credible, efficient, and sustainable activity in our local area. This new hangar complex truly supports those goals, and we are thrilled that Sheltair has committed to this investment.”
About Sheltair
Sheltair, a privately-owned aviation development company, operates 18 premier FBOs and manages almost four million square feet of aviation related properties throughout Florida, Georgia, Colorado, and New York. Sheltair services include fueling, ground handling, hangar and office leasing and turn-key design/build of aviation properties. For more information, please visit www.sheltairaviation.com.
About Republic Airport
Originally the site of defense industry legend, Republic Aviation, the airport facility was acquired by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in 1969 which then installed an instrument landing system (ILS), built the Republic Airport Terminal building, and cooperated with the Federal Aviation Administration, which built the new 100′ high control tower. Ownership of the airport was later transferred to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), to promote economic development in the surrounding Long Island region.
Today, Republic Airport is the busiest general aviation airport in the State of New York. The airport covers 526 acres at an elevation of 80 feet. It offers two asphalt runways: 14/32 is 6,833 and 1/19 is 5,516.
Photos Attached:
FRG Hangar Opening- Sheltair and Dignitaries cut the ribbon
sheltairFRGopening- Sheltair COO Warren Kroeppel addresses
