Sheltair has cut the ribbon on a new $55-million aviation complex at Republic airport in East Farmingdale, Long Island, New York. The first three of six state-of-the-art, 31,200 sq ft hangars reflect the company's strategic commitment to the busiest general aviation airport in New York, one that brings pilots and passengers to within easy reach of metropolitan New York.

Founder, chairman and CEO Jerry Holland says: “This investment reflects our company's belief in the strength of the New York metro market, now and for generations to come. In addition, we are extremely proud of the fact that at a time when New York-based development of any kind can face significant opposition, our hangar development was supported and endorsed by local civic and community leaders who appreciated our commitment to a transparent process and the role that general aviation brings to strengthening the local economy.”

Holland also praises New York governor Andrew Cuomo, who recognises the importance of general aviation in the region: “One cannot overestimate the importance of the governor signing into law a proposal to eliminate sales and user taxes on general aviation, ensuring a level playing field for those supporting aviation in the Empire State.”

Sheltair COO Warren Kroeppel adds: “Republic has been historic ground for New York aviation since 1927 when the first hangar was built on the property, the same year Charles Lindbergh took off from Long Island and made his historic solo flight to Paris. Today, we are writing a new chapter in Republic's history by opening these 21st century hangars, providing general aviation with an exciting new opportunity for accessing the New York metro market.”

In addition to highway and mass transit options for passengers arriving and departing Republic airport, Sheltair has partnered with Blade Urban Air Mobility to allow its clients access to metro helicopter landing sites.

Babylon town supervisor Rich Schaffer says: “General aviation plays an essential role in priming the pump of the Long Island economy. From corporate executives flying in to sign a deal to tourists arriving for the Belmont, Republic Airport has been a destination that has meant economic strength for Long Island. This multimillion dollar Sheltair investment in a new hangar complex reflects its long term commitment to our region and a vote of full confidence in our shared future."

Kristen Jarnagin, president and CEO of Discover Long Island notes: “There is little doubt that part of Long Island's attraction as a tourism destination is because of the strength of its airports. Republic has defined itself as one of the busiest general aviation airports in New York State and these modern, state-of-the-art hangars built by Sheltair will allow a new generation of charter aircraft to be met with red carpet treatment.”

Long Island Business Aviation Association president Joseph Loccisano concludes: “We are pleased to see the general aviation industry continue to thrive on Long Island. We all realise the economic importance and other significant benefits that business aviation brings to our region. We are very happy to be here to celebrate this major accomplishment by Sheltair, and to thank it for the many years that it has been supporting the needs of general aviation.

“Our goal is to advance the cause of business aviation at all Long Island airports, and focuses on the development and management of safe, credible, efficient, and sustainable activity in our local area. This new hangar complex truly supports those goals, and we are thrilled that Sheltair has committed to this investment.”