News Archives

Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation has successfully completed its sixth On-The-Fly Starlink installation. This installation reflects the company’s continued focus on performing complex aircraft modifications at an operator’s home base rather than requiring relocation to a dedicated facility.

An internally coined term, On-The-Fly describes the company’s ability to execute certified installations in the field with the same level of rigor as work performed in a fixed maintenance environment. This approach allows operators to avoid unnecessary aircraft repositioning and better align connectivity upgrades with scheduled maintenance or interior refurbishment. As demand for connectivity grows, this flexibility has become increasingly valuable.

This most recent installation was performed on a Gulfstream G500 at a customer’s facility. The installation expands a growing list of remote completions across a range of platforms, including the Gulfstream G450, Gulfstream G550, and Bombardier Global Express XRS.

“Completing these installations on the road allows customers to keep their aircraft where they operate,” says Jeff Shaw, Pro Star Aviation’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “It minimizes downtime, reduces the need for additional aircraft movement, and gives operators greater flexibility when planning for upgrades.”

High-speed, low-latency connectivity is now a priority across business aviation. Starlink has emerged as a preferred solution for many operators. With scalable offerings designed for a wide range of aircraft, the technology continues to gain traction as demand for reliable in-flight connectivity grows.

Pro Star Aviation remains focused on delivering flexible installation solutions that align with evolving technology and operator needs, whether performed at its facilities or directly in the field.

Pro Star Aviation, headquartered at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (KMHT) in New Hampshire with locations in Grand Rapids, Michigan (KGRR), and Portland, Maine (KPWM), is a recognized leader in maintenance, modernization, engineering, and aircraft sales solutions for business aviation. A factory-authorized service center for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus, Pro Star provides disciplined MRO services and extends its technical capabilities across avionics upgrades, in-flight connectivity solutions, and special mission aircraft modifications. With proven capacity to manage complex projects and provide targeted solutions for unique operational requirements, the company stands apart through its engineering depth, certification expertise, and rapid AOG support. Pro Star is part of the Laughlin Family Aviation Group, founded in 1948, and has additional operations in FBO, airline services, and aircraft de-icing. https://www.prostaraviation.com

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Prostar Aviation LLC
8 Kelly Ave
Londonderry, NH 03053
Tel. 603-627-7827

Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation has completed the first ever installation of the Send Solutions Oasis Moving Map on a Pilatus PC-24, bringing a large-cabin feature to the light jet market in a seamless, purpose-built solution.

As passenger expectations continue to rise in business aviation, demand is growing for cabin technologies that are not only functional, but fully integrated into the aircraft experience. This milestone installation reflects that broader shift toward clean, factory-style integration over standalone or portable solutions.

“Owners today expect cabin technology to feel like it belongs on the aircraft from day one,” says Pro Star’s Director of Sales & Marketing Jeff Shaw. “This installation shows how those expectations can be met on platforms like the PC-24, with a solution that is both highly functional and thoughtfully integrated.”

The system features a bulkhead-mounted display designed to align with the PC-24’s interior, delivering a factory-installed appearance. At its core is an FAA-approved 11-inch iPad mounting solution paired with the Oasis Moving Map platform, with options to support multiple display sizes depending on aircraft configuration.

The moving map provides real-time flight data sourced directly from the flight deck, including position and estimated time of arrival. It also features a customized 3D aircraft model showcasing the aircraft’s paint scheme and registration, bringing a high-end ‘airshow’ experience into a new category of aircraft.

Traditionally reserved for larger cabin aircraft, these capabilities are now increasingly relevant in light jets. This first-of-its-kind installation underscores Pro Star Aviation’s role in delivering integrated cabin solutions that directly align with evolving market expectations.

“We’ve really enjoyed working with Pro Star on this installation,” says Send Solutions Sales Executive Steve Lord. “Their attention to detail and steady execution made for a smooth process, and in the end, everyone was satisfied with the result–most importantly, the owner. It was exactly the kind of collaboration that makes these initiatives successful.”

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Prostar Aviation LLC
8 Kelly Ave
Londonderry, NH 03053
Tel. 603-627-7827

Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation is pleased to announce the appointment of Jesse Laughlin as Vice President, reflecting the continued alignment between Pro Star Aviation and Northeast Air, where Laughlin has served as President since 2024. In this role, Laughlin will work closely with Managing Partner Kevin Harriman to support strategic execution across the organization.

Laughlin brings a combination of leadership experience and practical aviation knowledge to the role. A graduate of Bates College and a commercial pilot, he has held a leadership role at Northeast Air for the past several years. The company serves as the primary fixed base operation at Portland International Jetport, where Laughlin has overseen a complex aviation environment in close coordination with Pro Star Aviation.

“Jesse has already been an integral part of the broader Pro Star Aviation organization through his leadership at Northeast Air,” says Harriman. “This expanded role is a natural progression, and his perspective as both a leader and a pilot positions him well to support continued alignment and execution across the company.”

Moving forward, Laughlin will remain actively involved across all three of Pro Star Aviation’s strategic locations, helping to ensure consistency throughout the organization. His appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in experienced leadership to support long-term growth.

“I’m excited to continue growing with the Pro Star team at a time of such momentum,” says Laughlin. “The company has built a strong reputation for quality and innovation, and I look forward to supporting its continued success and working alongside a talented group of industry professionals.”

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Prostar Aviation LLC
8 Kelly Ave
Londonderry, NH 03053
Tel. 603-627-7827

Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation completed its first Starlink installation on a Falcon 2000 in early January. This marks the first time the aircraft has been modified following the release of Dassault’s OEM-designed Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the platform. The STC is the first OEM-developed Starlink retrofit solution available to independent service centers supporting the Falcon fleet.

Unlike other Starlink retrofit options delivered by third-party providers, the Dassault-designed solution features a streamlined installation that integrates seamlessly with the aircraft’s structure while preserving its aerodynamic profile. The system delivers the same high-speed, low-latency connectivity that operators expect from Starlink while maintaining a design approach consistent with Falcon aircraft.

“The design is sleek and elegant, much like the Falcon aircraft itself,” said Jeff Shaw, Pro Star’s Director of Sales & Marketing. “Because the antenna location and installation architecture are consistent across multiple Falcon platforms, it creates a practical solution for service centers and operators alike.”

Building on the initial Falcon 2000 installation, Pro Star has already completed its first Starlink installation on a Falcon 7X, with a second installation scheduled for completion by the end of the month.

As demand for high-speed connectivity continues to grow, Pro Star Aviation is expanding its Starlink installation capability across multiple Falcon platforms, providing operators with a standardized retrofit path through the authorized service center network.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Londonderry, NH and Grand Rapids, MI – Pro Star Aviation is proud to announce that both its Manchester, New Hampshire and Grand Rapids, Michigan facilities have received the FAA Diamond Award of Excellence (AMT Employer Level) for 2025. This marks the first time both locations have earned the distinction together in the same year.

Presented by the FAA as part of its Aviation Maintenance Technician Awards Program, the Diamond Award represents the highest level of employer recognition under the program. To qualify, 100% of a company’s eligible aviation maintenance technicians must complete FAA-approved recurrent training and receive an individual AMT Certificate of Training within a calendar year.

“This is not the first time our Manchester facility has earned the FAA Diamond Award,” said Jeff Shaw, Pro Star’s Director of Sales & Marketing. “That consistency reflects our long-standing commitment to safety-focused training, regulatory compliance, and investing in our technicians.”

While Manchester has previously received the recognition, 2025 marks the first time the Grand Rapids facility has achieved the honor, marking a significant milestone just over one year after beginning operations.

“Following the celebration of our first anniversary, this recognition confirms that our Grand Rapids team is building on a strong foundation,” said Jeremy Mangum, Director of Maintenance and Operations Manager in Grand Rapids. “It reflects the professionalism and dedication of our technicians and reinforces our commitment to delivering the highest level of quality to business jet owners.”

With 100% technician participation in approved recurrent training in both its New Hampshire and Michigan facilities, Pro Star Aviation demonstrates a consistent, company-wide commitment to workforce development and safety excellence. That unified standard reflects the company’s ongoing effort to meet and exceed FAA maintenance training requirements, supporting the reliability and performance expectations of today’s business aviation operators.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Grand Rapids, MI – Pro Star Pilatus Center, an Authorized Pilatus Sales & Service Center, is proud to have played a key role in the delivery of the first Pilatus PC-12 PRO to a U.S. customer. This milestone reinforces Pro Star’s leadership in supporting Pilatus aircraft and its commitment to bringing next-generation capability to operators across the country.

The aircraft was delivered to owners Ravi and Pheroza Arcot at Pilatus’ North American headquarters in Broomfield, Colorado, and will be based in the Northeastern United States. “I’m honored to deliver the first PC-12 PRO to the U.S. market,” said Michael Kenny, Vice President at the Pro Star Pilatus Center. “This amazing airplane is a supreme example of safety, technology, and exceptional operating economics. Pilatus has once again set the bar to a completely new level.”

The PC-12 PRO redefines what operators can expect from the world’s best-selling single-engine turboprop, featuring a redesigned cockpit, advanced Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, and integrated Safety Autoland. Paired with the latest Pratt & Whitney PT6 engine and EPECS technology, the PC-12 PRO delivers improved efficiency, reliability, and simplified operation.

With a growing fleet of PC-12s throughout the United States, Pro Star Pilatus Center continues to provide the expertise, technical support, and customer-focused service that Pilatus owners rely on. This first U.S. delivery marks the beginning of a new era for the PC-12 platform, solidifying its position as the world’s greatest business turboprop.

Pro Star Aviation, headquartered at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in New Hampshire with locations in Grand Rapids, MI, and Portland, ME, is a recognized industry leader in the maintenance and upgrade of business and government aircraft. The company is a factory-authorized service facility for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus. Pro Star has gained national recognition specializing in avionics upgrades, in-flight connectivity solutions, special mission aircraft modifications, and aircraft sales. With proven capacity to manage complex projects and provide targeted solutions for unique operational requirements, Pro Star consistently meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Pro Star is part of the Laughlin Family aviation group of companies, which was founded in 1948 and has additional operations in FBO, airline services, and aircraft de-icing. https://www.prostaraviation.com

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation is once again proud to highlight three recent additions to our organization: Danielle Vezina, Learta Kalemi, and Matthew Vogel. Their diverse experience, technical talent, and personal commitment align closely with the company’s mission and values.

Danielle Vezina, who has been an A&P/IA Technician for the last 3 years at Pro Star, brings a remarkable breadth of hands-on aviation experience to her new position as Production Planner / Scheduler. Her enthusiasm for aviation began at the age of 14 during her first ever general aviation flight with her godfather. This newfound passion eventually led her to join Army Aviation as a helicopter repairer. Following an honorable discharge, she balanced full-time work and raising a family while completing her A.S. in Aviation Technology. Over the course of her career, Danielle has worked across the Eastern U.S. on helicopters, commercial platforms, military aircraft, corporate jets, and general aviation fleets. Away from the office, Danielle enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending car shows, tinkering with sports cars, and traveling with her husband and their dog, Yogi.

Staff Accountant Learta Kalemi joins Pro Star with a strong academic foundation and a rapidly advancing early-career trajectory. Originally from Albania, Learta has lived in the U.S. for six years, gaining valuable experience across several manufacturing and accounting roles. She first began in Accounts Payable before advancing into her current position, where she applies her fast-learning mindset and meticulous approach to financial operations. Learta holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Albania and an Associate of Science in Accounting from Manchester Community College. She was excited to join Pro Star for the opportunity to further grow her expertise within a supportive and dynamic organization. Outside of work, Learta devotes most of her time to her baby boy, who recently turned one in October—a source of constant joy that fills her life with love and fulfillment.

Airframe & Powerplant Technician Matthew Vogel adds 15 years of aviation experience to the maintenance team, beginning with a decade of service as a Naval Aircrewman on C-130s. Born in Michigan, Matthew returned home after the Navy, where he worked maintenance on a wide range of business aircraft including Citations, Learjets, Beechjets, Hawkers, King Airs, and PC-12s. His longstanding appreciation for Pilatus Aircraft, particularly the PC-12, made Pro Star a natural next step in his career. Matthew was drawn to the chance to work on both the PC-12 and the PC-24, as well as the excitement surrounding the company’s new facility in Grand Rapids. When he’s not in the hangar, Matthew spends much of his time fishing throughout the state, especially on the big waters of Lake Michigan.

Together, these three team members bring valuable perspectives, technical capability, and genuine passion for their craft, strengthening Pro Star’s operations and contributing to ongoing company growth.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

November 21, 2025 – Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation is expanding its in-flight connectivity expertise with the addition of the Challenger 300 Series and Falcon 2000 Series to its growing list of Starlink installation accomplishments. This month, the company is completing its second Challenger installation, following the delivery of a Challenger 350 earlier in the year. The STC is OEM-approved by Bombardier, covering the full Challenger 3 Series with models: 300, 350, and 3500.

This December, Pro Star will begin one of the very first Falcon 2000 Starlink installations, with delivery expected by early 2026. This installation is part of an OEM-developed Service Bulletin solution from Dassault that includes the Falcon 7X, 8X, 2000, and soon, the 900 Series.

Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network delivers high-speed connectivity across the globe. This type of in-flight connectivity is rapidly becoming the new standard for business aviation. With these additional aircraft models, Pro Star Aviation continues to strengthen its role as a trusted provider of advanced, OEM-supported connectivity solutions for operators seeking modern in-flight performance.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

October 24, 2025 – Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation is proud to acknowledge three outstanding team members whose experience, leadership, and dedication exemplify the company’s values and continued growth: Alec Kindred, Chloe Roe, and Lisa Fernandez.

Pilatus Technical Sales Manager at Northeast Air, Alec Kindred, brings over a decade of experience in aircraft maintenance and leadership to the Pro Star team. A Maine native, Alec graduated from Nashua Community College in 2013 with an Associate Degree in Aviation Technology and an Airframe and Powerplant Certificate. While in college, Alec worked weekends as a de-icer at Northeast Air, soon transitioning onto the maintenance floor as a technician and lead. After a brief time away, Alec returned to NEA in 2019 as Assistant Director of Maintenance, becoming Director of Maintenance three years later, developing a proficiency across both fixed-wing and rotorcraft platforms. In 2024, Alec was nationally recognized as one of the top ‘40 Under 40’ aircraft mechanics in the country. Alec was appointed to his current role in February 2025, also serving as Interim Chief Inspector within the last 6 months. Known for his technical acumen and steady leadership, Alec continues to support the Pilatus program he has worked with since the very start of his career. Outside of work, Alec enjoys flying, coaching Little League, and spending time outdoors in his home state.

Pro Star Financial Controller, Chloe Roe, carries over 15 years of experience in finance, including six years in manufacturing. Originally from New Hampshire, Chloe’s career has taken her from coast to coast, and even overseas during her time as an Army wife, before ultimately bringing her back home to tackle a new professional challenge. Chloe was drawn to Pro Star’s collaborative culture and dynamic leadership, joining the company earlier this year. Known for her precision and practical problem-solving, Chloe coordinates financial operations with a focus on efficiency and long-term growth. Beyond her career, Chloe channels her creativity into home renovation projects with her husband and caring for her large family of rescue animals.

Office Manager at Pro Star Precision Machine, Lisa Fernandez, joined the company with more than two decades of experience at GEX Inc., where she managed everything from accounting and HR to event planning and project coordination. After working remotely for several years, Lisa sought a return to a hands-on, team-oriented environment, promptly finding it at Pro Star in 2025. With her extensive background in office operations, she plays a key role in streamlining processes and supporting staff across departments. Outside the office, Lisa enjoys visiting her son in Boston, MA, taking road trips with her German Shepherd, and exploring new restaurants as an avid foodie and home cook.

Two of these employees are recent additions to the Pro Star team, while one has recently stepped into a new leadership role. Together, they bring unique skillsets and backgrounds that strengthen Pro Star’s operations and capabilities. Regardless of tenure, each is an integral part of the Pro Star family, contributing to the company’s ongoing success.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com

October 10, 2025 – Londonderry, NH – Pro Star Aviation has officially unveiled a new brand identity, marking the first major rebrand in the company’s history. Centered around an updated logo, this relaunch represents an important step in the company’s continued commitment to growth and innovation. The announcement arrives at a pivotal time for Pro Star, coinciding with significant expansion, including the opening of its new Grand Rapids, Michigan facility in April of this year.

Pro Star’s Director of Sales & Marketing, Jeff Shaw, commented on the change, stating, “The relaunch isn’t just about a new design; it is also a reflection of our trajectory as a company. As our capabilities and reach continue to grow, it’s important that our brand evolves along with us.”

The refreshed identity reflects Pro Star’s development from a respected regional service provider into a multi-location enterprise with a growing national footprint. The new branding will roll out across all company touchpoints in the coming months, including major locations and digital platforms.

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-627-7827
jeff@prostaraviation.com