Executive Air Brings Exceptional Aviation Services to Bismarck-Mandan

Executive Air is a private charter and FBO based at Bismarck Airport (BIS). What started as a private aviation company in 1973 has grown into a multi-purpose organization that offers charters, aircraft maintenance, and pilot training. The company’s iconic big blue hangars are easily recognizable to anyone who lands in Bismarck.

“We work and live here, too,” says Kim Sauter, Sales and Marketing Director at Executive Air. “We are proud to be part of the community and one of the first things visitors see, or residents see when they come home.”

Executive Air has bases in Bismarck, Minot, DuPage County in Illinois, San Antonio, and Houston. Collectively, it has around 60 employees. The Bismarck staff elevates corporate aviation in the region while creating career pathways for future pilots. 

Executive Air Has Diverse Service Offerings

Executive Air holds a Part 135 certificate from the FAA that allows it to operate chartered flights through North America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. It also has a Part 145-certified full-service maintenance department, enabling it to perform repairs and assist other aircraft owners.

“We can rapidly respond to the needs of our fleet as well as those of others visiting Bismarck,” says Sauter. “We are an authorized service center for Bell Textron, Beechcraft, Cessna, Cirrus, Robinson Helicopters and Garmin.”  

Executive Air also has an avionics department that supports computerized systems on various aircraft and operates an air medical service in partnership with Trinity Health First Response Air.

Executive Air stands out because it is a Corporate Aircraft Association (CAA) Preferred Location, a status voted on by pilots. This makes it an elite company to work with and speaks to the smooth operations and dedication of the Executive Air staff.  

Bismarck Airport is an Important Hub in North Dakota

Executive Air gives business owners access to all of North Dakota and other parts of the Upper Midwest. It owns 14 planes and all its pilots are local, making it easy for executives to access aircraft when needed.

“We want to remove barriers to booking trips,” says Sauter. “We have full operational control of our aircraft and know where our planes are at all times.”

Traveling across the state, or this part of the country, is faster and easier with Executive Air as a partner. Trips that would otherwise take all day – or require overnight stays – can be completed in a few hours.

Sauter also speaks highly of Bismarck Airport. It offers quality services without the crowding and wait times of bigger facilities.  

“Bismarck is a centralized hub that we are proud to be a part of,” she says. “It benefits from being a smaller airport because it provides the same services as bigger facilities but faster. The airport is also an important fuel stop in the Upper Midwest.”

Executive Air handles a lot of corporate aviation at the airport and supports hobbyist flyers who want to explore the community for the day. The customer service department at Executive Air shares resources from the Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau, but has also created its own itineraries packed with recommendations for a fun day out.

“We try to go above and beyond for our customers,” adds Sauter.

Executive Air Offers Accessible Flight Training 

Bismarck-Mandan residents interested in getting their pilot's license can book a scenic flight or discovery tour to experience what it's like to fly a Cessna Skyhawk. Scenic flights offer sightseeing over Bismarck and are particularly popular in December to view the Christmas lights. The 4th of July is also a fun time to book a scenic flight to see fireworks from above.

The discovery flights are more informative and educational for potential pilots. Participants can learn about the ins and outs of controlling aircraft while asking questions about the licensing process.

Additionally, Executive Air leads school tours that introduce students to the various aspects of airport management and flying. These visits are sometimes the first time a child has been in an airplane.

“We want to inspire the next generation of leaders in aviation,” says Sauter. “Not just pilots, but mechanics, fueling technicians, air traffic controllers, and administrators. There are a lot of opportunities in aviation, and we want to show off all of them.”

Executive Air believes learning to be a pilot is similar to developing the skills to drive a car, and it has a step-by-step process to teach students how to handle its planes. 

Learn More About Infrastructure in Bismarck-Mandan

Executive Air is an essential partner of Bismarck Airport. Both organizations provide access to North Dakota and create opportunities for businesses and residents to thrive here. Learn more about our local infrastructure and location advantages, including our highway and rail access, and how it helps build supply chains.

Companies that move to Bismarck-Mandan have a lasting partner in the Chamber EDC. We can connect you with companies like Executive Air to streamline your operations. Come fly in and see us. We’re happy to show you why this community is the best opportunity for your organization. Contact us and let’s plan your future.