Sheltair Founder Jerry Holland Passes at Age 90

Jerry Holland, 90, the founder of the Sheltair FBO chain, passed away on Tuesday at his home. With nothing more than a high school diploma, he grew the company from a single FBO to the industry’s largest privately-owned aviation network, with nearly five million square feet of airport infrastructure spread across 16 locations in four states.

Holland—who was described as a simple man with a big vision—began his career in construction in 1963. He first entered the aviation arena 20 years later, after a friend sold him a set of hangars at Florida’s Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE).

In 1986, he broke ground on the company’s flagship FBO at Fort Lauderdale International Airport (KFLL), and soon followed that up with a second location, continuing its growth in the Southeast U.S.

During the Covid pandemic, Holland stepped back from the chain’s day-to-day operations and turned over the Sheltair reins to his daughter, Lisa, who has maintained the drive for growth and excellence, based on the values he instilled.

“We are proud of all that Sheltair has accomplished, and much of that success is due to the strong foundation my father established,” said company president and CEO Lisa Holland. “My father always dreamed bigger and was relentless in making those dreams a reality. It’s why we enjoy the success we’re blessed to have today.”

Jerry is survived by Mikki, his wife of 60 years, their two daughters, Lisa and Lori; and three grandchildren, one of whom has joined the company as a third-generation family member. 

“My Grandpa was so much more than the founder of Sheltair,” said Kai Seymour, the company’s growth strategy manager and Jerry’s oldest grandson. “What he created was not just an aviation business; it was a family.”

“In addition to being a dear friend, Jerry was a fellow confidant who will truly be missed,” added AIN co-founder and chairman emeritus Wilson Leach, who described him as an unsung, unheralded pioneer in aviation. "He was a remarkably capable, no-nonsense entrepreneur who worked behind the curtain, not in front of it.  The result is a remarkable, privately-held FBO enterprise of 16 facilities around the country.”

A private funeral service for family members only will be held, with details on a celebration of life ceremony to be announced.