Slate Aviation, an operator of VIP Bombardier CRJ and Challenger 850 aircraft in the U.S., has opened a new aircraft MRO and cabin conversion facility at Middle Georgia Regional Airport. The 80,000 ft² facility, formerly used by Bombardier and Stevens Aerospace, will support the maintenance and VIP conversion of Slate's fleet of nearly 35 CRJ-200 aircraft for private charter and shuttle services across the U.S., Caribbean, and Canada.
Currently staffed by over 40 technicians, the facility is expected to grow to 50 full-time employees by 2025. It is led by Jonathan Cornwell and Juan Silva, both with over 25 years of experience in aircraft interior completion.
In January, Slate Aviation partnered with Vista Jet to expand per-seat services to premium leisure destinations, starting with Vista's XO-branded shuttle service between New York and South Florida. Newly refurbished cabins and upgraded services will be introduced on select routes from March.
The announcement was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller and local aviation officials. The event featured the unveiling of Slate's refurbished shuttle aircraft and a preview of its upcoming executive aircraft, which boasts a 2,000-cubic-foot cabin, the largest in its class, accommodating up to 19 passengers and 50 full-sized bags.
