Fort Wayne, Indiana-based charter, flight training, aircraft rental and aircraft maintenance company Sweet Aviation has been selected to become the sole FBO for the DeKalb County airport located just outside Auburn from 1 November, 2022. It will replace current FBO operator Century Aviation.

Working alongside the DeKalb County Airport Authority (DCAA), and with DeKalb County airport being a significant gateway to the Auburn community, Sweet Aviation is confident this combined effort will increase the economic impact and local pride.

Sweet Aviation owner and founder Chuck Surack built his businesses on one defining principle, 'Always Do the Right Thing', which aligns well with the motto of the DeKalb County airport, 'We're Ready When You Are'. This, he explains, means that no matter which pilot is using the airport, what kind of aircraft he or she is flying, and no matter the weather, the team is ready day or night to support them.

“From a personal perspective, I am excited about the opportunity to continue to grow the aviation community in northeast Indiana,” says Surack. “My dad was a private pilot, and I have always had a fascination with air travel, and I have used it extensively for pleasure and business purposes. In 2008, I obtained my certificate to fly a helicopter and a few years later acquired Smith Field Air Service, which we renamed and grew into Sweet Aviation. We have seen incredible growth over the last 10 or more years and look forward to continuing to develop and grow in northeast Indiana.”

Sweet Aviation sees this partnership with the DeKalb County Airport Authority as an exciting opportunity that aligns with its current vision of expanding Sweet Aviation and Surack Enterprise in the region. Its current presence in northeastern Indiana allows Sweet Aviation to utilise its established brand, proven marketing strategy and service offerings to foster a thriving aviation community for the DeKalb County airport.