KCAC Aviation is celebrating its 60th anniversary, reflecting on a journey that began at Johnson County Executive Airport in Olathe and developed into one of the Midwest's largest full-service aviation organisations.

Founded on May 16, 1966, as Erhart Aviation, the company initially focused on aircraft sales and aviation services for the Kansas City region. It soon became one of the country's first authorised Piper Aircraft dealers, operating as Kansas City Piper before later adopting the Kansas City Aviation Center name and eventually KCAC Aviation.

Growth in general aviation during the 1970s and 1980s saw the company expand into maintenance, avionics, charter operations, aircraft management and FBO services. Additional hangars and facilities at Johnson County Executive Airport supported its development.

A key chapter followed in 1991 when KCAC Aviation joined the Peterson Manufacturing Corporate Group. The acquisition provided long-term backing while allowing the company to maintain its customer-focused culture.

The company further broadened its position in 2000 after becoming an authorised sales and service centre for Pilatus Aircraft. KCAC Aviation continues to represent the manufacturer through its Olathe headquarters and a Pilatus sales office at DuPage Airport in West Chicago.

Today, KCAC Aviation employs 117 people and supports customers across the Midwest and beyond. Earlier this month, the company brought together former and current employees to celebrate the anniversary and recognise those who contributed to its development.

“This milestone belongs to the employees, customers and partners who have made KCAC Aviation what it is today,” says Tony Mateer, general manager of KCAC Aviation. “We deeply appreciate the support and investment from our parent company Peterson Manufacturing, and we remain committed to building a culture where our people thrive and our customers always come first.”

The company says its future plans remain centred on investing in employees, broadening capabilities and supporting the next generation of aviation customers.