The U.S. Virgin Islands welcomed a new FBO today with the grand opening of the Standard Aviation facility at St. Thomas Cyril E. King Airport. The 28,000-sq-ft complex features a 24,000-sq-ft hangar, currently the largest free-span building in the Caribbean, which can accommodate aircraft up to a Gulfstream G550. It was heavily reinforced to enable it to withstand tropical storms and hurricanes and was put to the test when it easily sheltered 21 aircraft—including a G200, GIV, Falcon 2000, and Falcon 900EX—as Tropical Storm Isaias blew through at the end of July.

The Air Elite Network and CAA-preferred facility, developed in partnership with the Virgin Islands Port Authority, includes a two-story, 4,000-sq-ft terminal with passenger lounge; upstairs pilot lounge; shower facilities; flight-planning area; eight-seat conference room overlooking the runway; and a fully appointed kitchen with a dishwasher, wine refrigerators, and ice machines; complimentary laundry; concierge services; and 24/7 U.S. Customs pre-clearance capability.

"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."