Tenant Spotlight: San Juan Aviation

October 10, 2024 | News

Anacortes Regional Airport has been home to a variety of businesses since it was established in 1968. From the aviation industry to technology manufacturing and tourism, the airport has been an economic driver fostering resilience for our region for nearly 60 years.

One of the newest businesses to call the airport home is San Juan Aviation, a small company specializing in helicopter parts, sales, and leasing. Founded in Friday Harbor in 2001 by Dane Armstrong, the company initially focused on leasing and selling aircraft across the Pacific Northwest. Armstrong, a pilot who saw a growing need for helicopter services, built the business to cater to customers needing parts and aircrafts. Today, San Juan Aviation has expanded to serve the global helicopter industry in sales, leasing, and parts.

San Juan Aviation quickly outgrew its Friday Harbor location and relocated to Arlington, Washington, where it expanded services to include helicopter scenic tours, aerial surveys, and wildlife services throughout the state. In January 2021, San Juan Aviation moved to Anacortes Regional Airport, drawn by its space, convenience, and amenities.

“With most of our staff based in Anacortes and the surrounding area, the move to the Anacortes Airport was a natural fit for us,” says Director of Operations Ryan Gerth. This relocation has been a great advantage for their small but dedicated team of three employees and their trusted hangar security, B.K. the cat.

San Juan Aviation continues to serve regional and global customers of all sizes from its location in Anacortes. “We aim to meet the needs of everyone we can,” says Gerth. “It’s something we strive for—helping our customers with their diverse needs.” Their commitment ranges from welcoming customers in Anacortes to traveling to Japan to conduct inspections for aircraft purchases. “We love working with operators and customers, supporting their projects,” Gerth adds.

For San Juan Aviation, the benefits of being at the Anacortes Airport extend beyond the location and amenities—it’s also about the connection of being a tenant of the Port of Anacortes.

“The Port has done a fantastic job in supporting the business,” shares Gerth. “In everything from including our name and logo on the business sign to their communication and maintenance around the airport, the Port has been incredibly supportive.”

The Port of Anacortes is proud to host San Juan Aviation and help them serve local and global customers from their strong foundation in our community. Learn more about San Juan Aviation and their services at www.sanjuanaviation.net.

Photos courtesy of San Juan Aviation