Sheltair Aviation has expanded beyond the East Coast of the U.S. for the first time in its more three-decade history, with the opening last week of a temporary FBO facility at Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, the fourth-busiest airfield in the state. In September, the aviation services provider and airport real estate developer announced it had obtained a 20-year lease there with a renewal option and would build a $12 million full-service facility at the airport.

Phase one of the project includes a 10,000-sq-ft terminal, a new Avfuel-supplied fuel farm, and a 35,000-sq-ft hangar capable of sheltering the latest large-cabin business jets. It is anticipated to open in the first quarter of 2020. The 10-acre location is Sheltair’s 18th FBO overall and the second service provider on the field. The current facility includes a comfortable passenger lobby and reception area with fireplace overlooking the ramp.

“Our newest corporate address in Colorado reflects the natural progression of a company that carefully studies the market, identifies communities that embrace general aviation, and considers the role of airports in supporting regional economies and the vision of local officials,” said company founder, chairman, and CEO Jerry Holland. “Based on this criteria, it was easy to conclude that Sheltair wanted to be at Rocky Mountain Metro Airport.”