This year’s event marked a meaningful milestone: the 10th anniversary of Angel Reach’s very first gala, which was also hosted at Galaxy FBO CXO back in 2015. The Wings, Wheels & Heels inaugural gala helped launch a decade of community support and awareness for an organization that continues to change lives throughout Montgomery County.
The Angel Reach 2025 Soaring to a Brighter Future event, catered by our sister company Black Walnut, brought together community leaders, aviation professionals, and local partners for an evening of food, connection, and generosity. Guests learned about Angel Reach’s life-changing programs, which provide housing, mentoring, and education opportunities to help young adults build independent, stable futures.
“Hosting this event gave us the opportunity to highlight the incredible work Angel Reach does right here in our community,” said John Bridi, Regional Manager, Galaxy FBO. “As a company rooted in Montgomery County, we believe in using our platform not only to serve travelers, but to support the people and organizations lifting others every day.”
The evening raised valuable awareness for Angel Reach’s mission and strengthened connections between the aviation and nonprofit communities. Through events like this, Galaxy FBO continues to demonstrate that its commitment to excellence goes far beyond the runway—it’s about building community, compassion, and opportunity.
Through events like this, Galaxy FBO reaffirms its commitment to using its facilities as a platform for good — connecting the aviation community with organizations making a lasting impact beyond the runway.
Giving Tuesday: Lifting Others Higher
As Giving Tuesday arrives on December 2, 2025, Galaxy FBO invites everyone to join us in supporting local causes that help our neighbors soar to new heights. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or spreading awareness, your contribution can help Angel Reach continue its mission of hope and empowerment.
To learn more or make a donation, visit angelreach.org.
Together, we can help more young people find stability, strength, and a brighter future — one step, one flight, and one act of kindness at a time.
This recognition, awarded by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), validates Galaxy’s ongoing commitment to world-class safety, service excellence, and operational integrity. The certification is effective through August 2027, marking another milestone in Galaxy’s steady advancement through IS-BAH’s rigorous multi-stage safety program.
What the IS-BAH Certification Means
The IS-BAH program is the global benchmark for safety and quality in business aviation ground-handling operations. Built on the foundation of the ICAO Safety Management System (SMS) framework, it defines best-practice standards for everything from aircraft marshaling and fueling procedures to emergency preparedness, passenger handling, and ground-support equipment maintenance.
- Stage 1 confirms that an FBO has implemented the proper infrastructure to support safety management.
- Stage 2 which Galaxy has now achieved—demonstrates that safety risks are being effectively managed, not just identified.
- Stage 3 – the final level now pending, will soon verify that Galaxy FBO safety practices are fully integrated into daily operations and culture.
Out of nearly 3,000 FBO locations across the U.S., only a select few meet these stringent international standards. In Texas, just six FBO brands hold active IS-BAH certifications—and Galaxy FBO is proud to be the only FBO with certified facilities at both Conroe (CXO) and Addison (ADS). At Houston Hobby (HOU), Galaxy shares this distinction with only one other provider, underscoring its leadership in aviation safety statewide.
A Culture of Continuous Improvement
Achieving Stage 2 IS-BAH certification required detailed audits across multiple operational areas, including emergency response planning, training programs, airside operations, health and safety standards, and security compliance. The auditors specifically noted Galaxy’s mature safety culture, proactive risk management practices, and comprehensive personnel training as key strengths. Galaxy’s Director of Safety & Quality Management leads an internal auditing and improvement process that ensures every team member—from line technicians to customer-service representatives, understands and applies the same elevated standards. This consistency is what gives customers confidence, whether they’re flying in for a quick tech stop, parking a large-cabin business jet, or coordinating high-profile international arrivals.
This achievement positions Galaxy FBO among the state’s elite aviation service providers, reinforcing its reputation for reliability, safety, and premium service. As the company prepares to support global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, its IS-BAH Stage 2 status ensures that safety remains at the heart of every mission. From ramp operations to customer hospitality, Galaxy FBO continues to deliver a safe, seamless, and exceptional experience for passengers and crew alike, raising the standard not just for Texas, but for the entire business aviation industry.
About IS-BAH and IBAC
The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), headquartered in Montreal, oversees the IS-BAH program in cooperation with the National Air Transportation Association (NATA). The program is designed to promote safe, efficient, and sustainable operations across the global business-aviation community. Learn more at ibac.org/is-bah
Much like aviation, these handcrafted motorbikes embody precision, innovation, and the spirit of freedom. Each piece is a rolling work of art, showcasing the same passion for engineering and adventure that drives us in the skies.
The Haas Moto Museum is ideally located close to Addison Airport at 4301 N Beltwood Parkway, Dallas, putting this unique collection just minutes away for Galaxy guests. In fact, we held our private 2024 Holiday Party, giving distinguished clients, friends, and community partners a place to reflect on the year—and see first-hand where craft, engineering, and design meet.
To extend the experience beyond our lobby, flight crew and travelers visiting Galaxy FBO at the Addison Airport are invited to enjoy complimentary tickets to the Haas Moto Museum. Home to more than 230 rare and custom motorcycles spanning over 13 decades, the museum celebrates craftsmanship and culture while highlighting the artistry that parallels aviation’s pioneering spirit. Whether you’re here for a quick stop, a cross-country mission, or a weekend getaway, we invite you to take a moment to enjoy the bikes on display, then continue the journey at the Haas Moto Museum. Because at Galaxy FBO, we believe every trip should be memorable—on the ground and in the air.
What’s On Display:
Horex 1953 Regina 350cc ohv
The 1953 Horex Regina 350cc OHV is a post-war German classic that quickly became the brand’s bestseller. Known for its elegant design and advanced engineering, it featured a single-cylinder engine with 20 horsepower, capable of reaching 81 mph, along with striking chrome details, alloy drum brakes, and a fully enclosed drive chain. Finished in a stunning metallic candy apple red, this beautifully restored Regina turns heads not only for its looks but also for its unforgettable exhaust tone—a true icon of 1950s motorcycling.
Craig Rodsmith’s turbocharged Moto Guzzi
This custom Moto Guzzi from Craig Rodsmith is a masterclass in hand-crafted engineering. Built on a heavily-modified 1969 Ambassador loop frame, the bike now features a turbo-charged 950cc V-twin engine, handmade aluminum bodywork, vintage dustbin-style fairing, and exquisite period details like 18-inch Borrani rims and Avon tires. With its distinctive retro racer vibe and bespoke craftsmanship, it’s not just a showpiece—it’s a statement.
Haas Moto Museum
For more information, visit haasmotomuseum.com
The return of the astronauts Peggy Whitson (USA), Shubhanshu Shukla (India), Sławosz Uznański‑Wiśniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) marked significant national firsts and global collaboration in human spaceflight. Upon their splashdown, the astronauts were flown to Houston, touching down at Galaxy FBO to complete their mission at the Axiom Space and Johnson Space Center facilities.
As mission veterans, these private astronauts are pioneers of the commercial space era—recently, Sławosz U.‑W. made history as Poland’s first ISS astronaut, and similarly for India and Hungary. After completing their groundbreaking mission and ferry flights from California, the crew reunited with their friends and family at the Galaxy FBO’s Houston Hobby Airport facility and to begin their final steps on complete the remaining of their mission duties.
Ax‑4’s 18-day mission included 60+ science experiments and outreach events, furthering microgravity research. Galaxy anchored the end of one mission while preparing ground support for future ones. Galaxy FBO’s core services include top-tier general aviation support: executive arrivals, hangar storage, customs facilitation, and concierge ground transportation Galaxy FBO. Now, wrapped into that service is an even grander role—that of landing spacecraft crew and VIP astronauts. This raises Galaxy’s brand: serving global travelers, and now space travelers.
Astronaut Sławosz Uznański‑Wiśniewski then boarded a Polish government Boeing 737-8TV/W (BBJ2) aircraft for an eight-hour flight to Cologne, Germany where he started his post-mission readaptation at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Envihab medical facility.
At the core of Galaxy FBO’s operations is a reputation built on consistency, safety, and thoughtful luxury. But handling returning Apollo alumni and private astronauts? That’s an orbital bit of next-level service.
The OBAP ACE Academy marked the culmination of an immersive experience for 40 students, ages 13 to 18, who spent the week exploring the vast world of aviation and aerospace.
Co-sponsored by the FAA and the National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees, the ACE (Aerospace Career Education) Academy is designed to introduce middle and high school students to the fundamentals of flight, aviation history, air traffic control, maintenance, aircraft design, drones, and more. The program featured hands-on field trips to aviation facilities, including CBP Conroe, United Airlines maintenance hangars, air traffic control towers, Lone Star Flight Museum, Space Center Houston, and CommutAir, giving students an up-close view of aviation careers in action.
The final day—Graduation and Fly Day—was a celebration of knowledge, passion, and future potential. Students took part in their first flights with Certified Flight Instructors and were recognized for their engagement and growth throughout the program. Galaxy FBO was honored to provide a welcoming venue for this milestone moment, where students, families, mentors, and aviation professionals gathered to celebrate the next generation of aerospace talent.
Investing in the Future of Flight
As part of Galaxy FBO’s ongoing commitment to aviation education, workforce development, and community engagement, we are proud to support programs like OBAP’s ACE Academy. Events like these not only offer exposure to the possibilities within the aviation industry but also help bridge the opportunity gap for underrepresented youth in aerospace.
To learn more about OBAP and the ACE Academy, visit obap.org.
Photo Credit: Kelsey Davis
This full-day seminar—hosted by Coats Aviation Law, PC, a recognized leader in business aviation law—is tailored for aircraft owners, flight departments, operators, and business aviation service providers. Attendees will receive actionable legal insights on the most pressing topics impacting aviation professionals today.
Seminar Highlights:
- Aircraft tax strategies and state/federal compliance
- FAA regulations, including Part 91 and Part 135 operations
- Aircraft transactions, leases, and ownership structures
- Insurance best practices and risk mitigation
- And more—delivered by experienced aviation law professionals
This industry-focused seminar is free for current STXBAA members and just $70 for non-members. Breakfast and lunch will be provided, making it an informative and engaging networking opportunity for Houston’s growing aviation community.
Galaxy FBO is more than just an award-winning fixed base operation—our facility in Conroe North Houston Regional Airport (CXO) serves as a hub for aviation professionals, hosting high-level industry events that advance safety, compliance, and innovation in business aviation.
Event Sponsors:
- Guardian Jet
- Galaxy FBO
- LL Johns Aviation Insurance
Seating is limited, early registration is encouraged
This year, Galaxy FBO at Addison Airport (ADS) earned a spot among the Top 10 U.S. FBOs, ranking #4 nationwide with an impressive overall score of 9.63. The score reflects high performance across six essential service categories: Line Team, Customer Service Representatives (CSRs), Facility, Amenities, Promptness & Efficiency, and Value for Price.
In addition to this individual location honor, Galaxy FBO was once again named the #1 Small FBO Chain (3–10 locations)—marking its third consecutive year earning this top distinction in 2023, 2024, and 2025. With an exceptional chain-wide score of 9.68, Galaxy FBO continues to set the standard for excellence across its three locations: Addison (ADS), Conroe (CXO), and Houston Hobby (HOU).
The Professional Pilot PRASE (Preferences Regarding Aviation Services and Equipment) Survey, now in its 52nd year, is one of the most trusted benchmarks in the business aviation industry. In 2025, more than 8,000 individual evaluations were submitted by qualified operators, scoring FBOs on the core elements that matter most to pilots, dispatchers, and flight departments.
Galaxy FBO’s continued presence at the top of the rankings is a testament to its relentless focus on customer service, operational excellence, and facility innovation. Whether you’re flying to Greater Houston or Dallas Metroplex – Galaxy FBO provides a seamless and elevated ground experience.
An FAA Part 139 airport is a certificated airport in the United States that meets the safety and operational standards outlined in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 139. These regulations are issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and are primarily focused on airports that serve commercial air carrier operations using aircraft with more than 30 passenger seats. Airports must be Part 139 certificated if they serve scheduled / unscheduled commercial operations using aircraft with more than 30 seats, and if they want to qualify for certain types of federal funding through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP).
Becoming an FAA Part 139 certificated airport would offer several strategic advantages to Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO)—especially given its growing role in general and business aviation.
Economic Growth
Part 139 certification signals that the airport meets rigorous federal safety and operational standards. This can boost CXO’s reputation with charter operators, corporate flight departments, insurance providers. It essentially adds another layer of trust and professionalism to CXO’s growing profile. Part 139 certification positions CXO to support larger, scheduled commercial operations.
A certificated airport is more appealing to aviation-related businesses and commercial developers, which could lead to increased property values and tax base expansion.
By supporting potential commercial or regional air service, CXO could boost tourism to Montgomery County, attract more conferences and corporate travelers and improve access for companies headquartered locally. This increases spending at hotels, restaurants, retail, and transportation providers throughout the region. As Montgomery County continues to grow, Part 139 certification would reinforce CXO’s role as a critical economic engine, not just for aviation, but for regional mobility and resilience. It would help diversify the local economy beyond oil & gas, real estate, and healthcare by anchoring it in aerospace and transportation infrastructure.
With Part 139 status, CXO becomes eligible for larger and more frequent FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants and potentially TxDOT aviation funding. These funds reduce the burden on local taxpayers while supporting capital improvements that enhance safety and capacity.
Improved Safety
FAA Part 139 certification significantly enhances the overall safety framework of an airport by establishing strict operational standards that must be continuously met and maintained. For Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO), certification would ensure dedicated Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) capabilities, enforce rigorous inspection and maintenance protocols for runways and taxiways, and require comprehensive emergency response planning and wildlife hazard management. These measures create a safer environment for aircraft operators, passengers, and airport personnel, while also aligning CXO with national best practices and increasing its ability to respond effectively to both routine and emergency situations.
FAA Part 139 Will Help CXO & Montgomery County.
While the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex is served by four FAA Part 139 airports, the Greater Houston area has only three—with none located in the fast-growing North Houston region. This highlights a significant opportunity for Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO) to fill a geographic and operational gap in the region’s aviation infrastructure.
In Summary, FAA Part 139 certification at CXO would unlock new levels of economic opportunity for Montgomery County—supporting jobs, investment, connectivity, and long-term growth. It’s more than a regulatory step—it’s a strategic move for the county’s future.
On Friday, April 11, Galaxy FBO at Addison Airport welcomed the community for an unforgettable evening of culinary creativity and connection during the 2nd Annual Taste on the Tarmac, presented by Oncor. The event showcased a unique competition featuring CFBISD high school culinary students, who were challenged to prepare inventive dishes using ingredients commonly found in a food pantry.
A distinguished panel of guest judges—including Addison Mayor Bruce Arfsten, Farmers Branch Mayor Terry Lynne, Carrollton Mayor Pro Tempore Richard Fleming, and Coppell Mayor Wes Mays—awarded top honors to The Veggie Slayers, earning them a coveted spot at this year’s Taste Addison.
Guests also had the opportunity to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, which was awarded to The Spice Girls. In addition to sampling creative dishes, attendees enjoyed live cooking demonstrations and flavorful offerings from Chef Richard Chamberlain of Chamberlain’s Steak & Fish.
This year’s Taste on the Tarmac saw more than double the attendance of its inaugural event and welcomed special guests including Mayor Pro Tempore Darren Gardner, Deputy Mayor Pro Tempore Nancy Craig, and Council Members Chris DeFrancisco and Howard Freed.
Most importantly, the evening served a meaningful purpose—proceeds benefited the Metrocrest Services Sack Summer Hunger Program, which provides nutritious meals to children in need during the summer break when school meals are unavailable.
Galaxy FBO is proud to host events that bring the community together and support impactful local causes. We thank all who attended, contributed, and helped make the event a success.