Royal Air prioritizes values beyond profit at Oakland County International Airport

AviationPros | AviationPros

By Sky Industry News

Jun 26, 2024

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.

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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.