Story ID: 
Paragon Network Adds to Roster
By: Curt Epstein
Caption: Nebraska's Silverhawk Aviation and Washington D.C.-area ProJet Aviation are the latest to join the group of independent FBOs.
Word Count: 255
The Paragon Network of independent FBOs has increased its roster with the addition of two new members, bringing it to 28 locations throughout the U.S, Caribbean and Europe.

Silverhawk Aviation, one of two service providers at Nebraska’s Lincoln Airport, started out nearly three decades ago as a small charter provider with one airplane and one pilot. Since then it has grown into a full-service, 14-acre FBO with an 18,000-sq-ft terminal with a private passenger lounge, business center, crew lounge with showers, conference room and heated hangars. “This is a huge opportunity for our business,” noted Will Zimdars, the company’s director of FBO services. “I am looking forward to using the resources the network provides to help us grow and gain national exposure.”

The second addition, ProJet Aviation, is the lone provider at Washington, D.C.-area Leesburg Executive Airport, the closest general aviation airport to the capital. It provides private aviation customers with a less congested option than nearby Dulles. The FBO offers planeside access and 75,000 sq ft of hangar and office space.

“ProJet is pleased to join this distinguished network of preferred FBOs,” said Julie O’Brien, the company’s general manager. “There is added value when independent FBOs can unite and support one another with industry best practices.”

Founded in 2011, the Paragon Network requires members to pass an extensive audit of their facilities and services before acceptance and to comply with a set of core standards to remain in the group.