You are cleared to Take Off! Choosing the right flight school is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a pilot.
Here are some steps to help you pick the right flight school:
- Decide what type of pilot you want to become (private, commercial, airline transport, etc.) and whether you want to pursue fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters. Different flight schools may specialize in different areas.
- Research flight schools in your area or in locations you’re willing to travel to. Use online resources, directories, and recommendations from other pilots to create a list of potential schools.
- Ensure that the flight school is accredited by the appropriate aviation authority in your country, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States. Accreditation is an important indicator of quality and safety standards.
- Visit the school! This will give you a chance to see the facilities, meet the instructors, and get a feel for the school’s culture and environment.
- Talk to current and former students: Speak with current and former students to gather insights into their experiences with the school. Ask about the quality of instruction, aircraft maintenance, and overall satisfaction.
- Ensure that the flight school has a well-maintained and up-to-date fleet of aircraft. The variety and condition of aircraft available can affect your training experience.
- Check Instructor qualifications: Instructors play a vital role in your training. Experienced and knowledgeable instructors can greatly impact your learning experience.
- Research the school’s safety record and accident history. A good safety record is a strong indicator of a well-managed flight school.
- Compare the cost of training at different schools. Consider not only the hourly rates for aircraft and instruction but also additional costs such as ground school, materials, and examination fees.
- Consider the school’s location in terms of accessibility, weather conditions, and the availability of other resources like accommodation and transportation. Texas airports are ideal for year-around flight training.
By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right flight school for your aviation journey.
Houston Area Flight Schools at the Conroe North Houston Regional Airport
- American Flyers
- ATP
- Coast Flight Training
- US Aviation Academy
- Five X Five Flight
- The Helicopter School
- High Performance Aviation
- Tidal Aviation
- Thrust Flight
- Lone Star College Conroe Center Professional Pilot Program
Related Houston Business Journal Article: “From student to instructor: How Lone Star College-Montgomery’s professional pilot program launches aviation careers”
Dallas Area Flight Schools at Addison Airport
Big Spring / Midland Area Flight Schools
AOPA Pilot Information Center – Finding the Right Flight Instructor
Every day at Conroe–North Houston Regional Airport (CXO), air traffic controllers work behind the scenes to keep aircraft moving safely and efficiently. Their voices are familiar to countless pilots, but the individuals behind those voices have stories that extend far beyond the tower. On October 29, 2026, friends, family, and members of the local aviation community gathered at Galaxy FBO CXO to celebrate two longtime air traffic controllers, Erv “ER” Funk and John “BJ” Mitchell, as they prepared to close remarkable chapters in their aviation careers. BJ officially retired on October 29, while Erv will hang up his headset on December 12. Both began working at the CXO Air Traffic Control Tower in 2009, bringing decades of experience from some of the nation’s busiest aviation environments.
Two Careers, One Unexpected Connection
Although their paths into aviation were different, Erv and BJ share an interesting connection: both began their air traffic control careers following the 1981 Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) strike. For Erv, aviation was a childhood passion. Growing up in Reading, Pennsylvania, he spent time listening to radio communications from his local airport’s air traffic control tower. “I always wanted to be a controller,” Erv recalls. When the PATCO strike occurred in 1981, Erv was offered a position at his hometown airport in Reading. It was an opportunity that brought his childhood fascination full circle. “I then met the controllers I was listening to for years. What a great start.” Erv went on to serve at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) before retiring from the FAA in 2006.
BJ’s entry into aviation was a little less conventional. “My first aviation-related job was the night watchman at the Arlington airport, which included mopping the terminal floor and cleaning the bathrooms. Real glamorous,” he recalls. That job eventually led to a position as an airport lineman. While working to build flight time, the air traffic controllers’ strike created an unexpected career opportunity. “An ATC job? Why not? It wasn’t anywhere in my plans. It just happened.” What began as an unplanned career choice turned into 44 years in air traffic control, including time at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Watching Conroe Airport Grow
When Erv and BJ arrived at CXO in 2009, Conroe Airport was a considerably different place. “CXO Tower was a (FAA) retirement job which I worked part time along with BJ, sharing a full-time line,” Erv explains. Both had already accumulated extensive experience in air traffic control and initially viewed CXO as an opportunity to continue working in aviation on a part-time basis.
“We used to consider 250 operations a day busy,” BJ remembers. For Erv, one of the biggest challenges in those early days was the lack of radar technology in the tower. “It was slower then but had no radar. Had to rely and find aircraft based on position reports, which was sometimes difficult.” As CXO continued to grow, new technology helped controllers manage the increasing complexity of airport operations. “Radar came to us with improved technology. But so did the traffic and the need for increased technologies,” Erv recalls.
Today, Conroe Airport supports a diverse mix of general aviation, flight training, and business aircraft operations. The variety of aircraft and pilot experience levels presents unique challenges for the controllers coordinating traffic. “One of the most challenging aspects of ATC at CXO is the variety of aircraft types and level of pilot experience,” BJ explains. From student pilots learning to fly to experienced crews operating corporate jets, the CXO tower plays an important role in supporting safe and efficient airport operations.
Advice for the Next Generation of Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic control is a demanding profession requiring concentration, sound judgment, and the ability to make decisions under pressure. Both Erv and BJ recognize the challenges facing today’s controllers, particularly staffing and workload. BJ points to understaffing and six-day workweeks as major concerns within the profession. For those considering a career in air traffic control, his advice is straightforward: “It’s been pretty good to me. However, be thick-skinned and be prepared to have everything you do or say on the job questioned and critiqued. Just part of it.”
Erv also offers insight into an important distinction within the profession. While CXO controllers operate according to FAA standards, they work at a contract air traffic control tower rather than as FAA-employed controllers. “We at CXO are contract controllers. Even though we work with FAA standards, we are not FAA, meaning our staffing levels are less,” he explains. For aspiring controllers without prior experience, Erv encourages exploring employment opportunities with the FAA, which provides paid training for eligible candidates. “FAA air traffic control is a good starting point if you have no prior experience. They provide training while you are paid. I encourage anyone interested to check out this option. It was a rewarding career.”
For those inspired by Erv and BJ’s careers, air traffic control offers an opportunity to play an essential role in aviation safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides training pathways for qualified candidates, including paid training for entry-level controllers. Aspiring aviation professionals can explore career opportunities, eligibility requirements, and training programs through the FAA’s Air Traffic Controller Hiring website. Additional information is available through the FAA’s Collegiate Training Initiative.
A New Chapter Beyond the Tower


After 44 years of telling pilots where to go, BJ announced his retirement in his signature style: “I am out of here on the 29th. After 44 years of telling people where to go, it’s enough!“ For BJ, retirement means trading radio communications and demanding work schedules for cowboy boots, country living, and family time. “It’s time to go play cowboy at our little place west of Fort Worth and be Umpa to my granddaughter.”
For Erv, December 12 will mark his second retirement, having previously retired from the FAA in 2006. After another 17 years at CXO, he’s ready to embrace a new chapter. “I am happy at this point in my life and will continue into a different phase.”

The October 29 celebration at Galaxy FBO CXO brought together friends, family, and fellow aviation professionals to recognize two individuals whose careers have touched countless pilots and members of the local aviation community. While the voices on the radio may change, the friendships, memories, and contributions of Erv “ER” Funk and John “BJ” Mitchell will remain part of the airport’s history. From all of us at Galaxy FBO, thank you, Erv and BJ, for your dedication, professionalism, and years of service to the aviation community. We wish you both a wonderful retirement filled with family, friends, and new adventures. Congratulations, gentlemen. You’ve earned it!
Vote until November 7th! Please vote for Galaxy FBO at KHOU!
CAA promotes contract pricing for Part 91 general aviation, serving corporate flight departments, individual owner-operators and aircraft management companies.
Thank you for considering Galaxy FBO at the Houston William P. Hobby (KHOU) airport as the Preferred FBO for the Corporate Aircraft Association.
Galaxy FBO welcomed more than 100 business and community leaders to Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (KCXO) for Altitude, an inaugural event hosted by Galaxy FBO in partnership with The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership (EDP). The event brought together local executives, business owners, investors, and aviation professionals to explore the growing role of business aviation in supporting economic development throughout The Woodlands, Montgomery County, and North Houston.


While attendees had the opportunity to tour private aircraft presented by Textron Aviation and connect with aviation professionals, the evening’s central message extended well beyond aircraft ownership and private travel: business aviation is an essential business tool, and airports like CXO play a critical role in connecting communities, attracting investment, and supporting regional economic growth.
A Conversation About Business, Connectivity, and Growth
A highlight of the evening was a panel discussion moderated by Jevon Gibb, CEO of The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership. The discussion featured Dr. Dirk Laukien, CEO of Black Forest Ventures, the parent company of Galaxy FBO, alongside Mr. Greg Brenneman, Executive Chairman of CCMP Capital. Drawing on their extensive backgrounds in aviation and business leadership, the speakers explored the importance of aviation infrastructure, the economic benefits of business aviation, and the opportunities ahead for Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport.
One of the central themes was the strategic advantage The Woodlands area enjoys through its proximity to two complementary aviation gateways: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), one of the nation’s major commercial airline hubs, and Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO), a growing center for business and general aviation. Together, these airports provide companies with access to domestic and international markets, helping make The Woodlands and Montgomery County attractive locations for corporate headquarters, business expansion, and investment. The conversation also explored how business aviation helps companies maximize their most valuable resource: time. For business leaders considering expansion or relocation, access to a capable business aviation airport can be an important competitive advantage.
Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport: An Economic Asset for The Woodlands and Montgomery County
For Galaxy FBO, Altitude represented an opportunity to showcase the transformation of Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport and its growing importance to the regional economy. Since establishing its presence at CXO in 2012, Galaxy FBO have invested significantly in aviation infrastructure and services, working alongside Montgomery County to help position the airport for long-term growth.
Today, CXO features a 7,501-foot runway, on-site U.S. Customs services, aircraft rescue and firefighting capabilities, and an expanding network of aviation-related businesses. CXO is home to a growing ecosystem of aviation-related businesses that contribute to the local economy. These include FAA-certified maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) providers such as MW Aircraft Services; flight training organizations such as Thrust Flight; specialized professional services such as Coats Aviation Law; aircraft management and charter operator such as Wing Aviation, and many more. Together with fixed-base operators, aircraft management and charter companies, and other aviation service providers, these businesses create skilled employment opportunities, support aircraft owners and operators, and help establish Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport as a comprehensive business aviation hub serving The Woodlands, Montgomery County, and Greater Houston.

Guests at Altitude also had an opportunity to see CXO’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle on display, highlighting the airport’s operational capabilities and its commitment to supporting safe aviation operations.
Aircraft on display included:
- Cessna Citation Longitude : A super-midsize business jet offering long-range capability, cabin comfort, and performance for corporate travel.
- Cessna Citation Latitude presented by Textron Aviation: A midsize business jet known for its spacious cabin, efficiency, and versatility for business travelers.
- Cessna Citation CJ1 presented by Wing Aviation : A light business jet well suited for efficient regional travel and shorter business missions.
- Beechcraft King Air 260 : A versatile twin-engine turboprop combining performance, efficiency, and access to smaller airports.
- Beechcraft King Air 250 presented by Wing Aviation


Hosted by the Houston Chapter of The Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots, the month-long Poker Run takes place September 1 through October 3, 2026, raising funds to support aviation scholarships and chapter activities that help educate, encourage, and empower women in aviation.
How the Houston 99s Poker Run Works
Unlike a traditional poker tournament, this one involves a little more (flight) planning. Participants can travel to designated airports throughout Central and Eastern Texas and Western Louisiana ( (CXO, GLS, LBX, DWH, TYR, CLL, LFK, ASL, CWF, 50R, HYI, BAZ, IWS). At each participating airport, entrants collect a sealed playing card with the goal of building the best five-card poker hand from seven cards.
Participants can start at any participating airport, choose their own route, and visit as many of the designated stops as they would like. The Poker Run is open to everyone, not just members of The Ninety-Nines. Pilots, passengers, drivers, families and aviation enthusiasts of all ages are welcome to participate.
The Finish Line: West Houston
The month-long adventure concludes on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at West Houston Airport (IWS). Participants will gather beginning at 11:00 a.m. to open their cards, complete their hands and determine the winning entries. Prizes will be awarded beginning at noon. Whether you complete all seven stops or simply visit a few airports along the way, the Poker Run offers a great excuse to explore new destinations, enjoy some flying and connect with fellow members of the aviation community.
Supporting Women in Aviation
The Houston 99s are part of The Ninety-Nines International Organization of Women Pilots, an organization whose history dates back to 1929. Today, The Ninety-Nines continue to advance aviation through education, scholarships, mentorship and mutual support for women pilots. Proceeds from the Houston 99s Poker Run will help support future scholarships and chapter activities, making every stop along the route part of a larger mission.
At Galaxy FBO, we are proud to support organizations and events that bring the aviation community together, encourage the next generation of aviators and create new opportunities for people to experience and pursue aviation.
Ready to Play?
The Houston 99s Poker Run runs September 1 through October 3, 2026, giving participants plenty of time to chart a course and collect their cards.
Register for the Houston 99s Poker Run at zeffy.com/houston-99s-poker-run-15
View participating airports, complete rules and event information: scs99s.org
Questions about the event can also be directed to houston99s@scs99s.org.
Galaxy FBO recently welcomed Kevin LaRosa to our Conroe-North Houston Regional Airport (CXO) location as a featured speaker at the South Texas Business Aviation Association (STXBAA) Houston Area Safety Day. His presentation, “Soaring to Success: Building Trust, Safety, and Collaboration in High-Stakes Filmmaking,” offered a fascinating perspective on how preparation, communication and teamwork make some of aviation’s most complex operations possible.

LaRosa is one of the motion picture industry’s leading aerial coordinators and stunt pilots. An Airline Transport Pilot with experience across airplanes, helicopters and jets, his credits span more than 100 motion picture and commercial productions, including Top Gun: Maverick, The Avengers, Iron Man and Transformers. His work on Top Gun: Maverick included coordinating highly complex aerial sequences, working with the U.S. Navy, helping prepare the cast for the aviation environment, and utilizing specialized aerial camera platforms to capture some of the film’s signature flying sequences. While Hollywood may provide the backdrop, the principles behind LaRosa’s work are familiar to anyone in professional aviation: plan thoroughly, communicate clearly, understand the risks, trust your team and never allow the mission to compromise safety.
Dan Scanlan, Galaxy FBO’s Director of Safety & Quality had to opportunity to ask Kevin his perspective on aviation safety and what pilots, flight departments and aviation professionals can learn from operating in an environment where there may be only one opportunity to get the shot right.
[Dan Scanlan] Your work can involve multiple aircraft, camera platforms, pilots and production teams operating simultaneously. Before anyone takes off, what does the safety planning process look like on the ground?
For us, the safety process begins long before an aircraft starts. We first define exactly what the creative team wants to accomplish and then translate that creative objective into a disciplined aviation operation.
We identify the aircraft, crews, airspace, terrain, weather, performance limitations and emergency considerations. From there, we establish clear roles, communication procedures, operating boundaries and abort criteria. Everyone must understand not only the plan, but also what every other aircraft and department is expected to do.
Before takeoff, we conduct a detailed briefing and remove as much ambiguity as possible. If the plan cannot be clearly explained and understood on the ground, it is not ready to be attempted in the air. The shot may be creative, but the operation cannot be improvised. We never allow the pressure to get the shot to override the discipline required to get everyone home safely.
[Dan Scanlan] You’ve described using a “crawl, walk, run” approach when developing challenging aerial sequences. How does that philosophy work in practice, and how could pilots and flight departments apply the same mindset to everyday aviation operations?
“Crawl, walk, run” means complexity is earned incrementally. We begin with the simplest version of the maneuver. We may talk through it, rehearse it on the ground, fly it at greater separation or perform it at a slower speed. Once the team demonstrates proficiency and communicates effectively, we introduce the next layer of complexity.
The same principle applies directly to business aviation. When introducing a new aircraft, airport, procedure or crewmember, avoid combining every new variable on the first flight. Build familiarity progressively and create opportunities to identify problems while the task is still simple and the margins are generous.
The objective is not merely to prove that something can be done; it is to develop a method that can be repeated safely and predictably. Repetition builds confidence, but disciplined progression builds capability.
[Dan Scanlan] In business aviation, we often talk about how complacency can develop around operations we perform routinely. In your world, how do you keep a team disciplined and safety-focused?
Complacency often appears when experience makes something feel easier than it actually is. Familiarity does not reduce the risk; it can simply reduce our awareness of it.
We continue to brief routine operations, use checklists and identify what is different about today’s mission. The aircraft may be familiar, but the weather, personnel, environment or operational pressure may have changed. I also try to preserve a healthy level of professional skepticism by asking: What has changed? What are we missing? Where are we most exposed today?
Experience should make us more disciplined, not more casual. The moment an operation feels too routine to brief is often the moment it most needs to be briefed.
[Dan Scanlan] Communication is critical when working together. What have you learned about creating an environment where anyone on the team feels empowered to speak up when something doesn’t look or feel right?
That begins with leadership. You cannot tell people to speak up and then punish them—directly or indirectly—when they do.
At the beginning of an operation, I make it clear that every person has the authority and responsibility to raise a concern or call a stop. Rank, title and experience do not matter when someone sees something the rest of us may have missed. When someone speaks up, the first response should be, “Thank you—let’s take a look.” Even if the concern ultimately proves insignificant, raising it was still the correct behavior.
A strong safety culture is not one in which the leader has all the answers. It is one in which the leader creates enough trust for the entire team to contribute. I would rather answer an uncomfortable question on the ground than face an unanswered problem in the air.
[Dan Scanlan] Technology in the cockpit and in aerial cinematography has changed dramatically throughout your career. How do you take advantage of new technology without allowing it to replace basic airmanship, situational awareness and sound judgment?
I see technology as a force multiplier, not a substitute for judgment. Modern avionics, stabilized camera systems, flight tracking and communication tools give us capabilities that would have been unimaginable earlier in my career. But technology is only valuable when the operator understands what it is doing, what it is not doing and how it can fail.
We train to use the technology while continuing to protect the fundamentals: aircraft control, situational awareness, communication, energy management and sound decision-making. Pilots must remain ahead of the aircraft rather than becoming passengers who simply monitor a collection of systems.
The best technology reduces workload and improves awareness; it should never reduce engagement. Technology can provide more information, but it cannot assume responsibility for the decision.
Safety Is a Team Effort
From a Hollywood film set to a corporate flight department, aviation safety ultimately depends on people. Technology, procedures and equipment continue to evolve, but preparation, communication, sound judgment and a willingness to speak up remain fundamental.
We thank Kevin “K2” LaRosa for visiting Galaxy FBO in North Houston, sharing his experiences with the South Texas aviation community, and offering a different perspective on what it takes to safely accomplish an extraordinary mission.
At Galaxy FBO, we’re proud to support organizations such as STXBAA that bring aviation professionals together to share knowledge, strengthen our industry and continue advancing a culture of safety.
The STXBAA Safety Day brought together members of the South Texas business aviation community and an impressive lineup of speakers representing business aviation, aerospace, emerging technology and aerial filmmaking. Throughout the afternoon, attendees explored aviation safety from distinctly different perspectives—with a common focus on preparation, communication, leadership and managing risk.
Aviation Safety from Four Unique Perspectives:
Mario Jimenez, WYVERN – “Briefing and Debriefing Tools – A New and Effective Approach”
Mario Jimenez, a Flight Leader Coach with WYVERN, shared his perspective on operational safety, risk management and the human factors that influence flight operations. His work focuses on helping aviation organizations develop practical tools and stronger safety cultures that extend beyond regulatory compliance. Mario has also contributed to WYVERN safety guidance on topics including circling and stabilized approaches, helping operators identify, manage and mitigate operational risk.

Kevin “K2” LaRosa, XBRAND – “Soaring to Success: Building Trust, Safety, and Collaboration in High-Stakes Filmmaking”
Acclaimed motion picture aerial coordinator, pilot and aerial cinematography specialist Kevin “K2” LaRosa brought a unique perspective on aviation safety from an environment where meticulous planning, teamwork and trust are essential. A second-generation film and television pilot, K2 has worked on productions including Top Gun: Maverick, Devotion, Iron Man, The Avengers and Transformers. His presentation explored how teams safely execute highly complex aerial operations while balancing creativity, precision, risk management and the demands of high-stakes filmmaking.
Wesley Bonura, NASA – “Inside NASA: Conducting Safe Human Vacuum Tests Where Failure Isn’t an Option”
Wesley Bonura took attendees inside one of aerospace’s most demanding safety environments: human-rated testing at NASA. A Texas A&M aerospace engineering graduate, Wesley has worked in NASA’s Crew and Thermal Systems Division as a Test Director and Lead Test Director. His team operates thermal and human-rated vacuum chambers used for astronaut training, human research and other testing. His presentation provided a fascinating look at the planning, procedures and safety discipline required when conducting hazardous human-in-the-loop testing where the margin for error can be exceptionally small.
Carmen Simboli, Amazon Prime Air – “Prime Air’s Drone Ecosystem: Airspace Analysis, Cutting-Edge Technology, and a Vision for What’s Next
Carmen Simboli, Airspace Integration Specialist at Amazon Prime Air, brought the conversation into the future of aviation with a look at safely integrating unmanned aircraft into the National Airspace System. Carmen oversees airspace integration and UAS Traffic Management strategy for Prime Air. His more than 15 years of aviation experience includes a decade in the United States Air Force and civilian roles with the Department of Defense and Federal Aviation Administration, with experience as an air traffic controller, combat airspace manager and flight procedure specialist. From proven business aviation safety practices to lessons learned in some of the world’s most demanding aerospace environments, the STXBAA Safety Seminar offers attendees an opportunity to hear directly from professionals working at the forefront of their fields.
After-Event Mixer & Networking
Following the Safety Seminar, attendees continued the conversation during an STXBAA networking mixer at Black Walnut Kitchen & Bar, located on the third floor of Galaxy FBO at CXO. Galaxy FBO was proud to sponsor the mixer and provide an opportunity for pilots, flight departments, aviation professionals and industry partners to connect after an afternoon centered around making our industry safer. Thanks to the generous support of the event sponsors, the seminar and mixer were offered at no charge to attendees, with remaining donations and proceeds benefiting the STXBAA Scholarship Fund and its efforts to support the next generation of aviation professionals.

Galaxy FBO is proud to support STXBAA alongside:
For more information on STXBAA, its mission and upcoming events, visit stxbaa.wildapricot.org
This year, our Addison FBO Experience Manager, Lisa Peterson, represented Galaxy FBO at the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) 2026 DC Fly-In in Washington, D.C. Joining business aviation professionals from across Texas and the nation, Lisa met with members of Congress and their staff to discuss the issues that will define the future of business aviation in the United States.
During the Fly-In, the Texas delegation met with staff from the offices of Senator Ted Cruz, Senator John Cornyn, Representative Keith Self, Representative Pat Fallon, Representative Julie Johnson, and Representative Brandon Gill. The group also heard from Annie Brody, Director of Coalitions for the Office of the Majority Whip, who provided valuable insight into the legislative process and the importance of industry participation in shaping public policy.
The meeting with Representative Keith Self allowed the group to share why they had traveled to Washington and discuss the critical role business aviation plays throughout Texas and across the nation. The discussion continued with his staff, becoming one of the most engaging meetings of the day, strengthened by the fact that one member of the delegation was a constituent from Representative Self’s district.
The delegation focused on several legislative priorities that are essential to maintaining a safe, efficient, and innovative aviation industry:
- Modernizing the nation’s air traffic control system to improve safety and operational efficiency.
- Supporting aviation workforce development while ensuring the FAA has the resources necessary to maintain the world’s safest aviation system.
- Encouraging continued investment in innovation, including Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and emerging aviation technologies.
- Recognizing the tremendous economic impact business aviation has on businesses, local communities, emergency response, and humanitarian missions.
These conversations are particularly meaningful for companies like Galaxy FBO because the policies discussed in Washington directly affect our customers, our employees, and the long-term health of the industry we proudly serve.


Business Aviation’s Impact Extends Far Beyond Airports
One message consistently reinforced throughout the Fly-In was the tremendous value business aviation provides to the United States.
Today, business aviation supports more than 1.3 million American jobs and contributes nearly $340 billion annually to the U.S. economy. Beyond its economic impact, business aviation connects communities without commercial airline service, enables companies to reach customers and facilities efficiently, and provides critical support during disaster relief efforts, medical transport missions, and humanitarian operations.
For those of us working in Fixed Base Operations (FBOs), these statistics aren’t just numbers, but they represent the businesses, pilots, passengers, maintenance professionals, and communities we serve every day.
Reflecting on the experience, Lisa identified several key takeaways from her first DC Fly-In.
- Advocacy matters. Meeting directly with legislators and congressional staff demonstrated how valuable firsthand industry perspectives can be. These conversations help policymakers better understand how business aviation supports economic growth, creates jobs, and serves communities across America.
- Relationships drive progress. Whether engaging with congressional offices or networking with aviation professionals from around the country, the relationships built during the Fly-In strengthen the industry’s collective voice and create opportunities for future collaboration.
- Business aviation has an incredible story to tell. From workforce development and safety to innovation and economic impact, the industry contributes far more than many people realize. Sharing that story is essential to ensuring policymakers understand the importance of continued investment in aviation.
At Galaxy FBO, we believe investing in our people means empowering them to become leaders—not only within our company, but throughout the aviation community.
We’re proud to support professional development opportunities like the NBAA DC Fly-In, allowing team members to represent both Galaxy FBO and the broader business aviation industry on Capitol Hill. Through advocacy, collaboration, and continued engagement, we can help ensure that business aviation remains a vital driver of economic growth, innovation, and connectivity for generations to come.
We are grateful that Lisa represented Galaxy FBO with passion, and thank the NBAA for organizing another successful DC Fly-In that brings together aviation professionals committed to advancing the future of our industry.
Whether you’re flying in for a match or hosting international guests, Galaxy FBO’s premier facilities in Houston (HOU), Conroe (CXO), and Addison (ADS) are ready to welcome you with seamless, world-class aviation services.
Houston Match Schedule – NRG / Houston Stadium
June 14, 2026: Germany 🇩🇪 vs Curaçao 🇨🇼June 17, 2026: Portugal 🇵🇹 vs DR CongoJune 20, 2026: Netherlands 🇳🇱 vs SwedenJune 23, 2026: Portugal 🇵🇹 vs Uzbekistan 🇺🇿June 26, 2026: Cabo Verde 🇨🇻 vs Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦June 29, 2026: Brazil vs Japan- July 4, 2026: Canada vs Morocco
Fans flying in for Houston’s matches will find Galaxy FBO at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) the most convenient gateway — located just minutes from NRG Stadium, with U.S. Customs, executive lounges, and concierge ground transportation available.
For those seeking a more relaxed arrival, Galaxy FBO at Conroe North Houston Regional Airport (CXO) offers spacious hangars, ramp space, and luxury amenities; ideal for avoiding heavy event traffic while staying within easy reach of downtown Houston.
Dallas Match Schedule – AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (Dallas Stadium)
June 14, 2026: Netherlands 🇳🇱 vs Japan 🇯🇵 (Group F)June 17, 2026: England vs Croatia 🇭🇷 (Group L)June 22, 2026: Argentina 🇦🇷 vs Austria 🇦🇹 (Group J)June 25, 2026: Japan 🇯🇵 vs Albania/Poland/Sweden/Ukraine (Group F)June 27, 2026: Algeria vs. Austria- June 30, 2026: Cote d’ivoire – Norway
- July 3, 2026: Australia – Egypt
- July 6, 2026: Match 93
- July 14, 2026: Match 101 – Semi-Final
For travelers attending matches in Dallas or Arlington, Galaxy FBO at Addison Airport (ADS) offers the perfect combination of convenience, privacy, and efficiency; just minutes from major highways and within easy reach of the Dallas Stadium.
With the world watching, Texas is set to become a global hub for business and leisure aviation. Galaxy FBO is ready to ensure that your World Cup experience, from arrival to departure is smooth, comfortable, and memorable.
Why Choose Galaxy FBO
- Premium facilities serving Houston and Dallas Metroplex
- Fast and secure arrivals with U.S. Customs clearance
- Luxury passenger and crew amenities
- Ground transportation coordination (car rentals, chauffeurs, hotel arrangements)
- Large hangar space and ramp capacity for all aircraft types
- Award-winning team, with utmost safety standards (IS-BAH Stage 2 Certified)
- Whether you’re flying fans, athletes, or executives, Galaxy FBO delivers a championship-level experience at every touchpoint.
Plan Ahead for World Cup 2026
Advance planning for aircraft parking, ground handling, and accommodations is strongly recommended.