Marking two decades of operation, Dallas, Texas-based PlaneSmart Aviation has carved a niche in the world of private air travel. Today it operates a fleet of piston aircraft, turboprops and business jets and offers aircraft management, shared ownership, charter, aircraft sales and maintenance.

PlaneSmart's journey began in 2003 in Austin, Texas with the introduction of professionally managed shared ownership. This business model was revolutionary as a cost-effective alternative to aircraft ownership and maintenance for pilots. Soon after its launch, PlaneSmart opened a second location at Addison airport, just north of Dallas.

In 2006, the company transitioned under the new leadership of Michael Brosler, who brought a fresh vision for the model. "Upon assuming the chief leadership position at PlaneSmart, I saw immense potential in broadening our scope," he says. In 2008, the company began adding turboprops and light jets, and leasing access to its embedded base of shared aircraft owners.

As private air travel demand increased, PlaneSmart responded by adding an Air Carrier licence and offering charter services, one trip at a time. Soon afterwards, it began providing corporate shuttle support to regional businesses and was the carrier between multiple city-pairs on behalf of several operators.

"Reflecting on our trajectory, it's clear we made substantial strides in both our service offerings and ability to serve the private aviation community," says Brosler.

This year, as PlaneSmart commemorates its 20th anniversary, there is a sense of anticipation and excitement as it gears up for another 20 years of dedicated service to the area.

Alongside its primary business, the company contributes to local non-profit organisations that develop aerospace-oriented STEM programmes serving the Dallas Independent School District and surrounding school districts. It also performs angel flights and offers high school and college internships, introducing young people to careers in business aviation.