Story ID: 
King to give airliners VIP treatment
By: James Wynbrandt
Caption: After more than a decade’s experience performing midsize and large-cabin business jet refurbishments, King Aerospace has decided to take a big step up into
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After more than a decade’s experience performing midsize and large-cabin business jet refurbishments, King Aerospace has decided to take a big step up into the expanding market for transport-size VIP completions. The company calls it the “Ultra VVIP Customization Program” and, according to Don Salisbury, director of corporate aviation services, customers can sign up today.“The main thrust of our show presence this year is to let people know about the King Aerospace brand, that we’re operational, working on projects and doing airplanes,” Salisbury said.
Based in Addison, Texas, the company was formed 14 years ago by current chairman Jerry King-Echevarria, who gained experience in large-body aircraft conversions when he headed Associated Air Center and handled projects such as the VIP makeover of a Boeing 757 for the president of Mexico.
The company’s completion and refurbishment capabilities include complete interior design, cabin entertainment systems, cabinetry fabrication and refurbishment, certification-compliant cabinet finishes, upholstery, carpet design and installation, floor coverings, custom galleys and accessories, panel fabrication and refurbishment, and custom window shades fabrication and installation. Its completion center in Ardmore, Okla., boasts a 120,000-sq-ft paint facility.
King has more than 100 employees, and Salisbury noted that two recent hires, Jeff Fink and Monnie Weems, add additional capability to its staff. Fink, King’s planning supervisor, brings more than 20 years of experience to the position, including a strong background in corporate aircraft completions. Weems, recently named to the position of avionics manager, has two decades of corporate and military avionics experience.