US FBO network Sheltair has added its 19th full-service facility following the acquisition of Apex Executive Jet Center at Orlando Melbourne International. Sheltair's newest location was permitted on 24 March with the approval of the Melbourne Airport Authority. In less than 30 days, the company moved quickly to open the doors to its new MLB FBO complex. The family-owned company will retain the Apex Executive Jet Center team, including the leadership of general manager Jamie Toler, customer service manager Jessica Blews and line service manager Adam Morrow.

“Being a resident of Brevard County for over 20 years, I have proudly witnessed the growth of Orlando Melbourne International airport,” says Sheltair MLB's general manager Jamie Toler. “Our values will further solidify our relationship with airport tenants and the Melbourne community for years to come.”

A partner of Orlando Melbourne International airport since 1988, Sheltair expands its existing 250,000 sq ft hangar facility with 12,400 sq ft in FBO terminal and office space and two large cabin class size hangars that combine for 52,000 sq ft. Sheltair MLB will now offer customers a full range of services, including T-hangars, large box hangars, exclusive-use corporate hangars, 24-hour secured access, ample parking and an on-site branded FBO.

“We look forward to expanding on what is already a strong partnership with Sheltair as it continues to grow at MLB,” says Mark Busalacchi, director of marketing and business development. “We're confident that Sheltair's nationally acclaimed FBO brand will elevate the overall customer experience for our critically important general aviation and corporate community here at MLB.”

Sheltair president Lisa Holland adds: “The acquisition of our newest location is a testament to our commitment to serving the general aviation market throughout Florida and beyond. We look forward to supporting the continued economic growth of the Melbourne community by providing top tier general aviation services and amenities that are set apart by our award-winning VIP customer care programmes.”

Sheltair has served Florida's Space Coast for more than thirty years, connecting general aviation traffic with high-demand destinations for tech and space exploration, including Kennedy Space Center, Patrick Space Force Base, Port Canaveral and quick access to central Florida. In addition, to provide expedited services to international traffic to and from the Caribbean, Bahamas, and South America, Sheltair MLB will continue to provide US Customs clearance seven days per week. Its location on the airport field grants easy access to three runways, the longest being 10,181 ft, along with access to a variety of aircraft vendors and services.

“Melbourne International Airport is a dynamic aviation hub,” comments Milo Zonka, Sheltair VP of real estate. “Manufacturing giants, including Embraer, Northrop Grumman and now Aerion Supersonic, co-located with STS Aviation Group's MRO base and headquarters for L3Harris and Southeast Aerospace, all make Melbourne a top destination for our customers. We are excited by the quality of the existing facility and team and look forward to expanding even more at Melbourne.”

As an Avfuel-branded FBO, Sheltair MLB will offer customers lucrative rewards with AVTRIP points and competitive prices with Avfuel Contract Fuel. Sheltair also prepares to serve its first large-scale event at MLB during the Great Florida Air Show taking place on 15 and 16 May, which will also feature the US Navy's Blue Angels team.