Sky Aircraft Maintenance (SAM) is expanding rapidly at KEXX, running double shifts and adding a 2nd & 3rd hangar to meet growing demand. With aircraft arriving from 37 U.S. states in 2024, KEXX is becoming a major hub for business jet maintenance. Discover how SAM’s growth is transforming aviation in Lexington, NC.
Something exciting is happening at Davidson County Executive Airport (KEXX), and Sky Aircraft Maintenance (SAM), a division of Atlantic Jet Partners (AJP) is at the center of it.
Over the past few years, SAM has experienced explosive growth, solidifying its reputation as a premier FAA Part 145 Certified MRO. What started as a single-hangar operation has now expanded into two hangars, nearly doubling its capacity while awaiting the completion of a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility.
And it’s not just the facility that’s growing. Due to overwhelming demand, SAM has moved to second and weekend shifts, ensuring aircraft owners and operators get the high-quality service they expect, without long wait times.
With aircraft flying in from 37 U.S. states in 2024 alone, KEXX is busier than ever, proving that SAM’s impact is being felt far beyond North Carolina.
Press play on the video below to see a time lapse of all filed flight plans to and from EXX – KEXX in 2024 provided by the Davidson County Airport.
As the aviation world catches on to the expertise and reliability of SAM, the demand for its aircraft maintenance, avionics upgrades, and TBO extension services has surged.Â
To keep up, SAM has expanded its workforce and shifted to double-shift and weekend shift schedule, a move that’s keeping aircraft moving through the facility without compromising the meticulous attention to detail that the company is known for.
The addition of a second hangar has been a game-changer, allowing SAM to accommodate more aircraft while awaiting the completion of its upcoming larger facility.Â
This expansion has enabled the team to streamline workflows, reduce turnaround times, and offer more flexibility to operators who rely on SAM’s services to keep their jets in peak condition.
As SAM’s reputation spreads, so does the traffic at KEXX. In 2024 alone, aircraft from 37 states landed at the airport, a clear sign that more operators are choosing SAM as their trusted maintenance provider.
What was once a underutilized regional airport has quickly evolved into a key maintenance destination for business aviation, attracting jets from across the country.
The surge in arrivals and departures isn’t just benefiting SAM, since opening up shop in 2001 it’s creating new opportunities for the local economy, from fuel providers and FBO services to hospitality and logistics.
Davidson County Executive Airport (KEXX) experiences its busiest months in early summer, with May and June historically seeing a surge in aircraft arrivals for maintenance and services.
This increase is driven by operators preparing their jets for the peak travel season, ensuring their aircraft are in top condition for summer flights.
While fall also sees heightened activity, summer has consistently proven to be one of the most active periods at KEXX, making it a more difficult time for aircraft operators to schedule maintenance appointments with short notice however, now with the addition of more space and more shifts, SAM is well equipped to handle the demand.
Those looking to avoid peak congestion and secure optimal turnaround times at Sky Aircraft Maintenance (SAM) may find that early spring appointments provide more scheduling flexibility, ensuring their aircraft is ready before demand spikes.
AJP’s TBO Extension program has been a major driver of growth, offering FAA-certified 2,000-hour engine life extensions for Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5 engines.Â
For operators of Beechjet 400A, Hawker 400XP, Citation 550, Citation V, and Citation Ultra aircraft, this service is a cost-effective alternative to an expensive engine overhaul, keeping jets flying longer while maintaining peak performance.
Meanwhile, SAM has also has an avionics upgrade STC called SkyVue 1000, designed to modernize outdated Primus 1000 cockpit systems with state-of-the-art technology.Â
With business jets needing reliable, future-proofed avionics, SkyVue is providing an affordable and efficient way for operators to enhance their aircraft.
A recent groundbreaking ceremony at KEXX for SAM’s new 50,000 square foot maintenance facility
SAM’s rapid growth is just the beginning. With double & weekend shifts in place, expanded hangar space, and a brand-new 50,000 square foot facility on the horizon, the company is positioned for even greater success in the years ahead.
As more aircraft make their way to KEXX from all over the country, one thing is certain – SAM and AJP aren’t just growing, they’re becoming an aviation powerhouse.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates as AJP-SAM and KEXX continue their incredible rise.