Exploring the Future of Aviation Through Partnerships in Technology

Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM) is advancing its role in Florida’s growing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) ecosystem by supporting innovation, industry collaboration, and the development of infrastructure needed for emerging aviation technologies. As the aviation industry continues to explore new forms of transportation, including electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, Kissimmee Gateway Airport is creating opportunities to advance electric aviation, aerospace technology, and next-generation mobility solutions.

Electric aircraft technology is currently in use at Signature Aviation in Kissimmee, to include testing of BETA Technologies ALIA aircraft, showcasing continued progress in electric aviation. Electric aircraft charging infrastructure has also been installed at ISM as the industry continues evaluating the infrastructure needed to support future operations. The airport recently hosted a Kissimmee Vertiport & Air Taxi Infrastructure Event, bringing together aviation industry leaders, technology partners, and government officials to discuss the future of Advanced Air Mobility and the infrastructure required to support its continued development. Participants included Signature Aviation, BETA Technologies, and Bell Dancy Industries, along with Florida Representative Leonard Spencer, Representative Jose Alvarez, and Senator Kristen Arrington. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration among aviation partners, technology companies, and legislative support in advancing emerging transportation solutions.

Through continued partnerships, ISM is positioned to explore future opportunities in aircraft demonstrations, training, maintenance, testing, and other aerospace activities as technology continues to evolve. The airport’s efforts in Advanced Air Mobility align with the City of Kissimmee’s broader economic development vision to encourage innovation, attract emerging industries, and strengthen the region’s long-term economic competitiveness. “Having industry leaders, technology partners, state and local officials come together at Kissimmee Gateway Airport demonstrates the growing interest and collaboration surrounding Advanced Air Mobility,” said Director of Aviation Shaun Germolus. “We are focused on creating the right foundation through partnerships, infrastructure, and planning to support the future of aviation. By working together, we can continue positioning Central Florida to explore the opportunities this emerging technology may bring.”

To learn more about the Kissimmee Gateway Airport, visit flykissimmee.com

Director of Aviation Shaun Germolus Joins

Florida Airports Council Board of Directors

Shaun Germolus, Director of Aviation at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, was elected to join the Florida Airports Council Board of Directors for the 2026–2027 term. The election was announced during the Florida Airports Council's 57th Annual Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the association's premier annual event bringing together airport executives, aviation professionals, business partners, and government leaders from across the state to collaborate on issues shaping the future of Florida aviation.

As a member of the Board of Directors, Shaun will work alongside fellow board members to establish the Council's strategic priorities, guide its advocacy efforts, and support programs that strengthen Florida's public airports and the professionals who serve them. He has 33 years of aviation leadership experience and a long history of industry engagement, service to the Florida Airports Council through committee leadership, and enjoys supporting Florida’s airport system.

"We are pleased to welcome Shaun Germolus to the Florida Airports Council Board of Directors," said Tiffany King, President & CEO of the Florida Airports Council. "His leadership, experience, and commitment to Florida aviation will strengthen our organization as we continue advocating for Florida's airports and the communities they serve."

The Florida Airports Council is a statewide association representing Florida's publicly owned airports. Through advocacy, education, professional development, and collaboration, the Council works to strengthen Florida's aviation system and support the success of airports across the state.

To learn more about the Florida Airports Council and its leadership, visit www.floridaairports.org.

Learn About Minimum Standards for Aeronautical Commercial Operations at ISM

The Kissimmee Gateway Airport (ISM) implemented minimum standards for aeronautical commercial operations (MinStds.) to ensure safety, security, and consistent, high-quality service for users while promoting orderly development. These standards protect the public from unqualified providers, ensure compliance with federal grant obligations (such as avoiding exclusive rights), and maintain efficient, safe operations.

The 2009 ISM MinStds. were last revised in 2014. Several areas needed updating and operations not previously addressed were added. In 2025, an aviation committee comprised of ISM tenants and subtenants, airport management, and aviation legal council collaborated to revise the MinStds. As part of this process, a fee schedule for commercial operations was developed for new commercial service operations and existing and future subleases. The fees consist of annual registration fees, and depending on the operation, a percentage of gross receipts.

All commercial operators (flight instructors, mechanics, aircraft detailers, etc.) desiring to operate at ISM are required to complete an application, register with the City/Airport, and enter an operating agreement. The new MinStds. may be found on the Airport’s website at flykissimmee.com

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Jr. Davis Construction Unveils State-of-the-Art Maintenance Facility to Support Future Growth

Earlier this month, Jr. Davis Construction (JDC) proudly celebrated the official ribbon cutting of its new state-of-the-art Maintenance Facility in Kissimmee, Florida. The event brought together company leadership, employees, and project partners, and also welcomed representatives from Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, and the Kissimmee Gateway Airport, highlighting the strong partnerships that continue to drive growth and investment throughout Central Florida.

The new facility was designed to support JDC's expanding fleet and operations while enhancing efficiency, safety, and long-term service capabilities. As the company continues to grow across Central Florida, the maintenance facility provides the space, equipment, and infrastructure needed to better maintain the fleet that supports transportation and infrastructure projects throughout the region. The ceremony began with opening remarks, followed by comments from JDC Founder and CEO Jr. Davis, who reflected on the company's more than 40 years of growth and the vision behind creating a dedicated maintenance facility to serve future generations of employees and projects. Following the ribbon cutting, guests toured the facility and had the opportunity to learn more about its operations and the role it will play in supporting JDC's continued commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence.

"This facility represents much more than a new building," said Jr. Davis. "It's an investment in our people, our equipment, and the future of our company. As we continue to grow, this facility will help us better serve our employees, our clients, and the communities where we work." We are thrilled to have been invited to be a part of this event, and look forward to strengthening our relationship with Jr. Davis Construction and their continued growth and success along the way.

Coming Soon: New Executive Hangar Suites

by Sabal Aviation

A new standard of private hangar ownership at ISM will soon be available! Sabal Aviation is developing 11 executive box hangar suites as part of a commercial condominium association. Suites range in size from 50 by 50 feet to 60 by 60 feet and are designed to accommodate a wide range of aircraft. Each suite comes standard with 16- to 18-foot door clearance, electric bifold doors and rough-plumbing for a private bathroom. Customized configurations also are available to align with owners’ operational needs and vision. Availability is limited. Interested aircraft owners can contact Sabal Aviation to discuss specifications, custom options and hangar availability at (321) 757-3500 or send an email to zachary@sabalaviation.com.

U.S. Aviation Academy Assumes

Aviator College Operations

Aviator Holdings of Kissimmee, Inc. d/b/a Aviator College (Aviator), entered into a lease agreement at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport for the purpose of providing aircraft maintenance education and flight instruction. The 606 Dyer Blvd facility was leased in July 2014, and the 303 Dyer Blvd facility was later leased in March 2021 as an expansion for the college. Aviator has negotiated a sale of the business to U.S. Aviation Group, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Aviation Academy (USAA) for the purpose of continuing and expanding the aircraft maintenance education services.

Originating as a flight school in 2006 at Denton Municipal Airport, Texas. Since then, USAA has expanded services as an approved FAA Part 147 Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic training provider. USAA has A&P programs located in Denton, TX; San Marcos, TX; Atlanta, GA; Minneapolis, MN; & Seoul, Korea. USAA meets all the requirements of the revised Kissimmee Gateway Airport Minimum Standards for “Aviation Maintenance Technician School.” USAA’s focus is a smooth transition absorbing the current Aviator College students and staff while planning for future growth. Examples include expanding to after-hours / weekend hours for individuals seeking a career change and working closely with the Osceola High School aviation program to promote the development of future aviation professionals. Anticipate more information as USAA is welcomed to ISM!

Update: Parcel 8 Redevelopment Project

Construction began in July on an 8-acre vacant site to develop infrastructure supporting future aeronautical operations. The project includes removing and replacing soils to support aircraft parking and building facilities. The project also addresses storm water configuration which includes raising the site 3-4 feet to handle any potential major flooding events. The project is part of a detailed development offering sufficient acreage to accommodate the future construction of aircraft hangars with associated office facilities.

The site development has the availability to provide efficient connectivity to existing taxiways and runways, aircraft apron parking, and multiple vehicle parking spaces with direct access to the airport's primary roadways. The contract allows for 254 calendar days, with a completion deadline scheduled for the first week of March 2027. Hubbard Construction has been making steady progress and continues to work diligently to complete the project substantially ahead of schedule.

Kissimmee Fire Department Personnel Participate in Airfield Familiarization Training at ISM

Airport Operations provides year-round driver training for personnel who require access to the airport's runways and taxiways. This training ensures drivers can safely perform their duties by communicating effectively with Air Traffic Control (ATC) and navigating the airfield in accordance with established FAA procedures.

As part of this ongoing program, Kissimmee Fire Department personnel from multiple stations across the city participated in a week-long training course. The curriculum included proper radio communications with ATC using FAA-approved phraseology, interpreting and following ATC instructions, and safely navigating the airfield using pavement markings, signage, and airfield lighting. Firefighters also learned to identify and avoid potential hazards, including arriving and departing aircraft, construction zones, airport vehicles, and high-voltage airfield lighting systems, while responding to emergency incidents.

Operating on an active airfield differs significantly from driving on public roadways. Unlike motorists, aircraft cannot simply yield to emergency vehicles and often have limited ability to stop or maneuver quickly. As a result, this specialized training is essential to ensure firefighters can respond rapidly and safely to emergencies while maintaining awareness of aircraft operations and other airfield hazards.

Bring Your Business to Kissimmee Gateway

Central Florida's Airport of Choice

With more than 180 acres available for development, a new aerospace park and innovative incentive packages, Kissimmee Gateway Airport is Central Florida’s airport of choice and an ideal location for business. For more information, contact the city of Kissimmee Economic Development Office at (407) 518-2307.

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This newsletter is a publication of Kissimmee Gateway Airport. For more information about this publication,

email newsletter@flykissimmee.com or call (407) 847-4600.