Private aviation operator opens new facility at SRQ

A new fixed-base operator has joined the growing aviation ecosystem at the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport.

Sheltair Aviation, the country’s largest privately owned aviation network headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, recently marked the grand opening of its new 64,705-square-foot facility in the northeast quadrant of the airfield. It is the 16th FBO in Sheltair’s portfolio of more than 4.8 million square feet of aviation-related properties.

The company invested $40 million in the new facility.

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“The opening of Sheltair SRQ marks more than a milestone. It reflects our commitment to exceptional service,” said Sheltair Aviation President Lisa Holland in a news release. “We’ve created a space that blends refined comfort with thoughtful design, giving every guest an experience that’s both elevated and warmly personal.”

A fixed-base operator is a private jet terminal that offers services such as aircraft fueling, parking, hangar space and maintenance services in addition to amenities and support for passengers and crew.

Covering 24 acres accessible from Tallevast Road, Sheltair includes 46,000 square feet of aircraft storage, 9,000 square feet of office and lounge space and a 10,705-square-foot terminal with an airside canopy designed to accommodate corporate aircraft of all sizes while covering guests during arrivals and departures.

Amenities include fully equipped crew lounges, snooze rooms and dedicated flight planning and weather areas. In addition to two conference rooms, guests also have 24-hour office access and concierge service. Complimentary refreshments are also available.

“We’re excited to welcome Sheltair Aviation to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport,” said SRQ President and CEO Paul Hoback Jr. in the news release. “Their new state-of-the-art facility provides premium services for our general aviation community, supports our growing airport operations and strengthens SRQ’s position as the premier gateway to Florida’s Gulf Coast.”

Adjacent to the Sheltair complex, construction is underway on a general aviation federal inspection station. Scheduled to open in spring 2026, the FIS will accommodate efficient international private arrivals to SRQ. Future development plans at the site include additional hangars and a 60,000-square-foot maintenance, repair and overhaul facility.