As FBO, Sweet Aviation will begin offering fueling, maintenance, and charter services at Goshen Municipal as early as September 3. With this expansion, Sweet Aviation now provides various services and amenities out of four airports, including Fort Wayne International Airport, Smith Field Airport, DeKalb County Airport. A detailed list of services offered at each location can be found at the links provided.

Chuck Surack, owner and founder of Sweet Aviation and Surack Enterprises, said, “I am so grateful to be able to welcome Goshen Municipal Airport into the Sweet Aviation family. Goshen Air Center is a great success story with a solid foundation.”

In addition to Sweet Aviation, Surack Enterprises boasts an impressive portfolio of aviation-based businesses, including Sweet Helicopters, Aviation Specialty Insurance, and Enstrom Helicopter Corporation.

Surack is also no stranger to the Goshen Municipal Airport. In 2017, he purchased a corporate aircraft hangar for Sweet Helicopters to better serve charter clients traveling to Notre Dame University and the Chicagoland area. When the opportunity arose to expand Sweet Aviation’s network of operations, Goshen Municipal Airport proved a natural progression.

Goshen Municipal is the seventh busiest airport in the state of Indiana, and many pilots, both transient and local, rely on its services during their travels. Through this new partnership with Sweet Aviation, Goshen Municipal stands to bolster its economic impact as the “Gateway to Goshen.” Among the first changes airport users will see are the expanded line service hours. The passenger terminal building will now be open from 7AM to 7PM seven days a week with a full array of professional line tech services available for general aviation aircraft.

Sweet Aviation General Manager Joel Pierce said, “We are excited to focus on adding value to the people of Goshen through desirable aviation jobs, community engagement, and top-tier customer service.”

Located about 95 miles east of Chicago, Goshen is fast becoming a center for cultural and visual arts with a vibrant, historic downtown. Visitors can shop at the Saturday Farmer’s Market, discover the history of legendary outlaw John Dillinger, celebrate in the streets on First Fridays, and walk or bike the many paths along the Maple City Greenway.

Goshen Mayor Gina Leichty said, “I believe we have a winning combination at the airport. Randy Sharkey brings more than three decades of experience as our airport manager, and with Chuck’s reputation for growing successful businesses, I am confident Goshen’s airport has a very bright future.”

Sweet Aviation will acquire three new aircraft through the partnership, a Cessna Citation XLS and two Cessna Citation Encores. These three jets will be made available for charter flights, adding to Sweet Aviation’s charter fleet, which currently includes the Cirrus Vision Jet, the Pilatus PC-12, and the Cirrus SR22 GTS. Sweet Aviation will also maintain multiple maintenance technicians, allowing for aircraft maintenance services at Goshen to continue uninterrupted.

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DeKalb County Airport Manager Russ Couchman, BF&S Civil Engineers Executive Vice President Paul Shaffer, and Airport Authority Board President Jess Myers all offered remarks to kick off the ceremony. Multiple local, state, and federal elected officials were also in attendance. After the ribbon cutting and photo opportunity, a corporate jet demonstrated landing on the new runway.

The runway extension adds 2,105 feet to the previously 5,000-foot runway. The new 7,105-foot runway now also features new runway lights, new paint, new runway signs, and new PAPI (precision approach path indicator) lights.

“We know that we have a safer, more capable airport today than we did yesterday,” said Russ Couchman. “Whenever we can put more runway in front of an aircraft, we give the crew more time to think and react, and this will always lead to better outcomes. At 7,105 feet, the DeKalb County Airport is now in an elite class of regional corporate class airports.”

DeKalb County Airport acts as a vital economic gateway to and from Northeast Indiana, generating an estimated $16 million annual contribution to the state economy. A longer runway promises to allow businesses to fly more freight directly into Auburn.

Scotty Hepler, Sweet Aviation’s Fixed-Base Operator Manager at DeKalb County Airport, said “Some jets aren’t able to take off on a 5,000-foot runway with a full capacity of fuel and passengers. That extra 2,105 feet allows us to bring in bigger and heavier jets that are full.”

“We look forward to supporting both our general aviation and business class customers as we become an even greater economic engine in the region,” said Couchman. “Thank you to all of our customers for hanging in there with us through this construction process.”

Efforts to expand the runway formally began as far back as 2009 when DeKalb County Airport began purchasing the necessary land. The project also required relocating high-tension power lines, purchasing wetland mitigation in-lieu of fee credits, extending CR 62, closing CR 29, and building extension grading and drainage systems.

Phase 1 required 145,000 cubic yards of earthwork grading across 85 acres in preparation for paving. During this initial phase, 4,970 linear feet of new sewer system pipe was installed. Then, in phase 2, crews completed an additional 100,000 cubic yards of earthwork and 2,400 linear feet of storm sewer.

From planning and design to construction and inspection, the project cost totaled $23,812,000.

To reach full airport capability, more work will be required in the coming years. DeKalb County Airport will complete construction of a glideslope antenna and medium-intensity approach lighting system (MALSR) on Runway 27 in 2024. Then, in 2025, engineers will complete the extension of the parallel taxiway “A” to match the full runway length.

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Imagine jumping from zero aviation experience to earning your private helicopter pilot certificate in just three months! Wyatt Woods believed it was possible and made it happen with the help of his Sweet Aviation flight instructors. After discovering Sweet Aviation online, Wyatt traveled to Fort Wayne from his home in Virginia. All it took was one visit, and Wyatt was hooked. He booked a stay at a hotel and spent the next three months immersed in all things aviation. Click to learn more about Discovery Flights at Sweet Aviation.

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Adam Yaggy discovered his love for aviation after taking a discovery flight. He’s now certified as a private pilot. Click to learn more about Discovery Flights at Sweet Aviation.

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“We see these planes as both valuable community assets and essential business tools,” said Sweet Aviation General Manager Joel Pierce. “Our customers can expect increased aircraft availability and flexibility when scheduling their flights.”

He continued, “We may be based in Fort Wayne, but our charter flight trips can start and end virtually anywhere. Charter flights allow customers to spend less time on the road and in busy airports, and more time getting things done. Whether they are traveling for business or pleasure, solo or with a group, we specialize in helping travelers reach their destination safely and on their schedule.”

Sweet Aviation already owns and operates a first-generation Cirrus Vision Jet. Company pilots have safely flown hundreds of passengers thousands of miles across the country inside the Cirrus G1 Vision Jet.

The G2+ takes everything customers love about the original, best-selling, single-engine private jet and brings it to the next level. Passengers can expect to travel inside a spacious cabin with comfortable seating and huge, panoramic windows. This latest model also includes several additional amenities, including in-flight Wi-Fi and USB-C ports for a connected customer experience.

The Vision Jet’s powerful, single engine makes it way less expensive to operate. Plus, the extra power opens the door for Sweet Aviation to offer customers flights to even more destinations. Safety features include the signature Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS®), and as an industry first, a Safe Return Autoland feature in case of emergency.

Sweet Aviation will still offer charter services through its Pilatus PC-12 and Cirrus SR22 GTS aircraft. To maximize travel convenience, Sweet Aviation maintains a partnership with Sweet Helicopters, allowing the company to offer helicopter charter flights across the Midwest. Helicopter charter has the added benefit of providing customers with flexible landing options away from busy airports.

Between aircraft used for flight training, aircraft rental, and charter aircraft, Sweet Aviation’s fleet now boasts nearly two dozen airplanes and helicopters, making it one of the largest fleets in the region.

Owner Chuck Surack said, “The G2+ Vision Jet is the perfect addition to Sweet Aviation’s diverse fleet. I’m proud of our team for securing not just one, but two new Cirrus Vision Jets. I would encourage anyone who’s interested in flying charter to discover just how affordable and convenient Sweet Aviation’s charter service can be.”

Anyone interested in learning more about chartering aircraft with Sweet Aviation should visit SweetAviation.com/charter.

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• For unrivaled excitement and adventure, you can’t beat Busch Gardens’ unique blend of roller coasters, zoo animals, and live performances. There’s always a new reason to visit, with seasonal events scheduled throughout the year. Take a look at what’s coming up!
• More than 8,000 animals can’t wait for you to visit them at the Florida Aquarium, from alligators and river otters to sharks and stingrays. Make sure to check out the 500,000-gallon Coral Reef habitat, 4-D Theater, and Penguin habitat.
• Build some family memories at the LEGOLAND Florida Resort, located about 45 minutes down the road. There are more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions inspired by your kids’ favorite lines of LEGO sets.
• Why not roll the dice and try a few games at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino? Stay in one of 800 guestrooms and suites while you sample an array of games of chance including slot machines, blackjack, and poker. You can also take a dip in the pool or visit the Rock Spa & Salon.
• Be transported to Spain and experience the work of renowned Surrealist painter Salvador Dalí. The Dali Museum features an unparalleled collection of his paintings and prints. The building and interactive gardens are a work of art unto themselves you won’t want to miss!

There are still so many other opportunities for fun when you visit Tampa. When you book a charter flight through Sweet Aviation, you won’t have to worry about taking the car down or losing your luggage at the airport. Give us a call, and we’ll help you set everything up!

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• Dust off the old nine-iron and get ready to hit the links. Hilton Head Golf Vacations offers packages allowing you to choose from more than 25 courses across the island.
• See a show at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. You’ll find this award-winning regional Arts Center in the center of the island. It’s a showcase of professional performing and visual arts. Tickets and showtimes are available here.
• Say hello to dolphins and other wildlife while taking a 25-mile Island Skiff Adventure Tour around Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Daufuskie Island. You’ll travel in a skiff or mini boat. The compact size makes the boats perfect for racing down rivers and creeks, with a few stops for pictures along the way.
• Sip a crisp glass of wine or cocktail with Hilton Head as the perfect backdrop. Rollers Wine & Spirits has three locations on the island, each with a unique selection and an on-staff, certified sommelier to help you find just the drink you’re looking for.
• See what the kids can do or challenge yourself to navigate a playground in the sky at Aerial Adventure. There are four levels of difficulty, so children as young as five can give it a try. Reservations are recommended, so you’ll want to contact them ahead of time.

Don’t just dream about your Hilton Head vacation. Make it happen with Sweet Aviation! We’ll help you cut out time on the road and at the airport with a charter flight.

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• Explore the history, pre-history, and natural history of Horry County at the Horry County Museum. While you’re there, see an up-close look at the aquatic critters found in local rivers and lakes at the ‘Tanked’ Aquarium. Plus, visit the L.W. History Farm, which recreates life on a family farm in the early 20^th Century.
• For high-speed thrills on the backwater or in the ocean, hop on a jet ski with Action Water Sportz. If slow and steady is more your speed, pontoons are also available for rent. For pricing and availability, click here.
• If you’re not too afraid of heights, Myrtle Beach’s famous SkyWheel will offer a view of the city from nearly 200 feet in the air! Each of the 42 gondolas is glass-enclosed, temperature controlled, allowing this attraction to stay open year-round.
• Myrtle Beach State Park sits nestled along the coastline between oceanfront forests. The park offers a quieter escape from the otherwise bustling beaches. You won’t run out of things to do, with a nature trail, campgrounds, and a great surf fishing spot.
• Grab a bite and a pint at the Crooked Hammock Brewery. This brew pub is pet and kid friendly. You’re welcome to play one of Crooked Hammock’s outdoor games, lounge in a hammock, or sit at the “Tortuga Island” bar out on the water!

When you’re ready to go and visit, skip the car ride or crowded airport terminal, and schedule your charter flight with Sweet Aviation. Sandy beaches and one-of-a-kind attractions are just a few clicks away!

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“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Sweet Aviation as our Fixed Base Operator,” said Russ Couchman DCAA Airport Manager. “The months leading up to the transition couldn’t have gone smoother and we look forward to a successful partnership.”

Scotty Hepler, FBO Manager, said, “We are extremely excited to be at the DeKalb Airport and provide first class services to our aviation customers and the Auburn community. We have diligently prepared, and are ready to support any request big or small.”

Known for going the extra mile and treating their customers like family, Sweet Aviation and the DeKalb County Airport Authority will provide their customers with many amenities and concierge services such as pilot and customer lounges, refreshments, ground transportation, and more during their stay at the airport.

“We really love where the airport is located,” said Chuck Surack, owner of Sweet Aviation. “We believe we can offer the best service both to local pilots and those flying long distances who need to make a fuel stop.”

In addition to fuel and other FBO services, Sweet Aviation will also provide flight training and aircraft rental in their two seat Diamond DA20 and four seat Diamond DA40 aircraft. Sweet Aviation will also be providing charter services, aircraft maintenance, and detailing services at the airport as well.

To those interested in becoming a pilot, Sweet Aviation will also begin holding private pilot ground school classes at the airport starting Wednesday, January 11 which is the first step for an individual in obtaining a private pilot certificate.

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Working alongside the DeKalb County Airport Authority (DCAA), Sweet Aviation will enhance the already superb customer experience that will drive DeKalb County Airport to its next level of service for pilots, aviation fans, and the local community. Being a significant gateway to the Auburn community, Sweet Aviation is confident this combined effort will increase the economic impact and local pride.

Chuck Surack built his businesses on one defining principle, “Always Do the Right Thing,” which aligns well with the motto of the DeKalb County Airport, “We’re Ready When You Are.” This means no matter who the pilot is using the airport, what kind of aircraft he or she is flying, and no matter the weather, their team is ready when they are day or night to support them.

“From a personal perspective, I am excited about the opportunity to continue to grow the aviation community in Northeast Indiana,” said Chuck Surack, owner and founder of Sweet Aviation and Surack Enterprises. “My dad was a private pilot, and I have always had a fascination with air travel and I have used it extensively for pleasure and business purposes. In 2008, I obtained my certificate to fly a helicopter and a few years later acquired Smith Field Air Service which we renamed and grew into Sweet Aviation. We have seen incredible growth over the last 10+ years and look forward to continuing to develop and grow in Northeast Indiana.”

Sweet Aviation sees this partnership with the DeKalb County Airport Authority as an exciting opportunity that aligns with their current vision of expanding Sweet Aviation and Surack Enterprise in the region. Their current presence in northeastern Indiana allows Sweet Aviation to utilize our established brand, proven marketing strategy, and service offerings to foster a thriving aviation community for the DeKalb County Airport.

Home to the world-famous Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival held each Labor Day weekend that coincides with the one of the longest running classic car auctions on the planet, Auburn was recently designated as one of the region’s top micropolitan areas by Site Selection Magazine, was named one of the safest cities in Indiana by Alarms.org, and is in the midst of a multi-year downtown revitalization project.

This new venture of Sweet Aviation serving as the FBO at the DeKalb County Airport joins the Surack Enterprises portfolio of aviation-related businesses including: Sweet Helicopters which does the same for rotorcraft and is the official helicopter services provider of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Aviation Specialty Insurance, which insures the aviation industry including corporations, light aircraft, flight schools, drones & UAVs, and more, and the Enstrom Helicopter Corporation which has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance proudly manufacturing helicopters in the United States and delivering them worldwide.

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