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
