The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board addressed the region’s growing need for aerospace innovation with its approval of a new fixed-base operator (FBO) at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). On March 27, the board approved a lease with Sky Harbour to build a 20-acre facility at ORL’s south campus area.
The addition of Sky Harbour’s facility at ORL aligns with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidance to enhance capacity at the airport. The project will create multiple benefits to ORL, GOAA, and to the greater Orlando community, generating approximately $33,000,000 in total direct revenue, creating or preserving over 200 jobs, and supporting economic development in the Orlando area, particularly for small businesses.
“As growth surges through the Central Florida region and state, so does the demand for aeronautical support facilities,” said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA. “Our partnership with Sky Harbour symbolizes the Aviation Authority's commitment to ensuring ORL remains at the forefront of meeting current and future demands for aeronautical services in Central Florida."
“Orlando Executive Airport is the premier business aviation airport in Central Florida and serves one of the nation’s top business aviation markets,” said Tal Keinan, Sky Harbour Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We are grateful for the trust that GOAA has placed in Sky Harbour, and eager to get underway building a best-in-class campus to benefit the airport, the business aviation community, and residents of Orlando.”
Sky Harbour’s facility will include hangar space to house business and general aviation aircraft of all sizes, adjacent office space, critical operational infrastructure, and significant ramp and automobile parking. Anticipated completion for phase one of Sky Harbour ORL is 2026.
