Quantcast

Sky Industry News

Southwest's layoffs dent its worker-first culture
Abu Dhabi's long-haul carrier Etihad Airways sees record $476 million profit in 2024
Jet2 warns of profits squeeze from rising costs and late bookings
Southwest bends further to activist shareholder Elliott's demands
Hong Kong Airlines launches daily Sydney flights
Airline to launch new bunk beds in economy on long-haul flights next year
How Airline Employees Are Coping After Deadly Washington Crash
Major airline reverses in-flight menu change amid outcry
British Airways frequent flyer scheme changes: everything you need to know
Airline introduces world-first hand luggage ban on popular travel gadget
Air Canada Delays Boeing 767 Reentry
Flight Centre tips ‘price war’ as first direct Melbourne to LA Delta flights go on sale
FAA reverses course on meeting prohibition, blaming rogue employee
British Airways tweaks frequent flyer scheme after backlash
Delta flight from New York to Florida diverted to North Carolina due to ‘odor in the cabin’
EASA Certifies Safran’s First Electric Motor
US court blocks Biden administration's airline fee disclosure rule
JetBlue Issues Dim Outlook But Execs Remain Confident in Turnaround Plan
Delta to Resume Tel Aviv Flights April 1
Boeing CEO Ortberg outlines 2025 priorities after heavy losses
Storm Eowyn: Thousands of trains, flights and ferries cancelled as 100mph wind batters UK
Indian carrier long haul: IndiGo returns to profitability, plans long haul flights
These Frequent Fliers Are Done With Loyalty Programs
JetBlue accepting Venmo as payment method for flights purchased through mobile app
United Airlines stock rallies on results, as growing demand wasn’t just about premium seats
Delta Adds Another Alaska Route
Southwest to Reduce Pilot Head Count at Several Bases
Dublin Airport savings boost for holidaymakers – but passengers need to be quick
American Halts CRJ-200 Operations
Shanghai Airlines to Launch Casablanca Route
Royal Air prioritizes values beyond profit at Oakland County International Airport
Webp 8oqxsxvoo4u54j4f99go99w8ygxu
AviationPros | AviationPros

Royal Air Freight, a Phillips 66-branded fixed-based operator at Metro Detroit's Oakland County International Airport, places emphasis on values beyond profit. Brent Kostich, Director of Technology at Royal Air, emphasizes the importance of impacting people's lives positively. "We’re not necessarily trying to change the world, but if we can affect people’s lives here, for as long as we can do that, it means something," he stated.

The company has navigated economic challenges without laying off employees during significant downturns like the 2008 recession and the 2021 epidemic. Kostich noted the cultural impact within the company: “Our chief pilot has a favorite reminder... it's important to keep this thing going."

Founded by William “Bill” Kostich in Royal Oak, Michigan, Royal Air started as an aircraft salvage and repair business in a family garage. It expanded rapidly with its first hangar built at Pontiac Airport. The company became known for expedited air freight services around Metro Detroit.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The company's expansion into passenger charter services was initiated by an employee on maternity leave who pursued this opportunity with encouragement from Brent's father. This move leveraged Royal Air's existing infrastructure and led to a successful charter fleet featuring various aircraft types.

In 2015, Kirt Kostich transformed hangars into Jet 1 Suites at Oakland County International Airport. These suites offer private spaces for tenants with amenities such as digital access control and climate-controlled environments. The unique offering has attracted many jet owners in Metro Detroit.

Brent highlights their focus on providing reliable service and competitive fuel pricing: “We want to provide a good service that allows people...to have the confidence that they’re being taken care of.” The partnership with Phillips 66 supports their competitive fuel pricing strategy.

Reflecting on his journey within the family business, Brent acknowledges the fulfillment found in contributing to others' lives: “When you talk about fulfillment or purpose...it feels like more than just a vocation.” He believes work should provide meaning beyond financial gain.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The Airbus A321XLR is making waves in the aviation industry as a narrowbody aircraft with the capability to perform long-haul flights.

Feb 23, 2025

On February 19, 2025, a Delta Air Lines Airbus A350-900 with a special livery was seen.

Feb 23, 2025

The Diamond DA42 TwinStar, a twin-engine light aircraft manufactured by Diamond Aircraft, stands out in its class for its dual engines and safety-oriented design.

Feb 23, 2025

Etihad Airways has reported a record profit of $476 million for the year 2024, marking its highest-ever earnings.

Feb 23, 2025

Arajet, an airline based in the Dominican Republic, has announced new flight routes connecting two cities in the Dominican Republic with San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Feb 23, 2025

WestJet is set to resume flights to Amsterdam, marking a return to the Netherlands with a new approach.

Feb 23, 2025