Sweet Aviation is set to expand its presence in Northern Indiana by assuming the role of Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at Goshen Municipal Airport (KGSH).
The Goshen Board of Aviation Commissioners approved Sweet Aviation’s request to take over the contract held by Goshen Air Center since 1992 at their August meeting.
Sweet Aviation will begin offering fueling, maintenance, and charter services at Goshen Municipal as early as 3 September.
This expansion brings Sweet Aviation’s network to four airports, including Fort Wayne International Airport, Smith Field Airport, and DeKalb County Airport.
Chuck Surack, owner and founder of Sweet Aviation and Surack Enterprises, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“I am so grateful to be able to welcome Goshen Municipal Airport into the Sweet Aviation family. Goshen Air Center is a great success story with a solid foundation,” Mr Surack said.
Goshen Municipal Airport is the seventh busiest airport in Indiana. The new partnership aims to enhance its economic impact as the “Gateway to Goshen”.
One of the immediate changes will be expanded line service hours, with the passenger terminal building now open from 7 AM to 7 PM seven days a week.
Joel Pierce, Sweet Aviation General Manager, highlighted the company’s focus on community engagement.
“We are excited to focus on adding value to the people of Goshen through desirable aviation jobs, community engagement, and top-tier customer service,” Mr Pierce said.
Through this partnership, Sweet Aviation will acquire three new aircraft – a Cessna Citation XLS and two Cessna Citation Encores – which will be available for charter flights.
Goshen Mayor Gina Leichty expressed optimism about the airport’s future.
“I believe we have a winning combination at the airport. Randy Sharkey brings more than three decades of experience as our airport manager, and with Chuck’s reputation for growing successful businesses, I am confident Goshen’s airport has a very bright future,” Mayor Leichty said.
Randy Sharkey, co-founder and current airport manager of Goshen Air Center, will continue to play a role in the airport’s future.
