On Oct. 7, the ceremonial ribbon was cut on the newest fixed-base operator (FBO) on St. Thomas (TIST), Standard Aviation. Deemed a member of Air Elite by World Fuel network, the company is among the top 75 World Fuel Services branded locations known for their superior facilities and unparalleled customer service. With the in-house capability to offer charters of fixed- and rotor-wing assets, the Standard Aviation facility includes AeroMD air ambulance, Breeze Air Charters, Caribbean Buzz Helicopters, and UFLYVI (flight school, aircraft rental, and management). The four-year build was made possible by a public/private partnership between the Virgin Islands Port Authority and Standard Aviation.
With the Standard Aviation terminal totaling 28,000 square feet, it is the largest free-span building in the Caribbean. The FBO includes a 24,000 square foot hangar, which can accommodate jets up to a Gulfstream G550. Heavily reinforced to withstand tropical storms and hurricanes, the Standard Aviation facility is engineered to protect valuable assets from the tropics' harsh elements. Semi-autonomous tugs ensure that aircraft are safely positioned while maximizing storage space. Opulent facilities for visitors and crews include separate lobbies within the two-story complex, pilots' relaxation room, and a flight planning conference center overlooking the runway of Cyril E. King Airport.
"Our team is elated to welcome jet owners, charter guests, and their crews to our world-class facility in the Virgin Islands," said Shaun Miller, managing member of Standard Aviation. "For St. Thomas and numerous surrounding islands, there has not been an FBO to meet the expectations of modern, high net worth travelers. Standard Aviation raises the bar, enabling St. Thomas to compete with the world's most lavish FBOs."
In addition to being named to the prestigious Air Elite network, Standard Aviation is also certified by the Corporate Aircraft Association (CAA) as a preferred FBO. The company is also active with the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), exceeding the highest safety practices for aircraft fueling. The facility has received accolades from U.S. Virgin Islands Governor, Albert Bryan, Jr., and Virgin Islands Port Authority Executive Director, Carlton Dowe.
"Tourism is vital to the Virgin Islands economy, and our premiere new facility is an important piece of that picture for the future," said Sabina Rosario, general manager of Standard Aviation. "As Caribbean tourism steadily rebounds from the effects of COVID-19 and the previously relied upon cruise industry, visitors will exclusively select destinations where they can rely on exceptional facilities and five-star experiences. Our customer service team members undergo training and demonstrate the regional knowledge, to provide the concierge services that will make any client's trip perfect."
