(Londonderry, NH) August 26, 2025 – Pro Star is excited to announce that Andrew Hixson has been appointed as the company’s new Director of Avionics and Installations at the Manchester, NH location. Andrew will be responsible for leading the team in charge of integrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting aircraft electronic systems.

Andrew’s career in aviation began at the age of 18, when he enlisted in the United States Navy as an Aviation Structural Mechanic. He deployed twice on the USS Harry S. Truman, an aircraft carrier based out of Norfolk, VA. Aboard the Truman, he gained valuable experience working on several military aircraft, including F/A-18 Super Hornets, EA-6B Prowlers, E-2 Hawkeyes, C-2 Greyhounds, and SH-60 Seahawks. After active duty, Andrew transferred to the US Navy Reserves, where he continued his service working on C-130 Greyhounds.

Andrew was hired at Pro Star Aviation in 2018, working as a Structural Technician. In 2021, he was called back to active duty to complete a one-year mobilization as an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Air Vehicle Operator. The following year, Andrew returned to the company and quickly became a lead technician and inspector. With his experience and tenure at Pro Star Aviation, along with his background as a Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, Andrew is a natural fit to lead Pro Star’s Avionics department in Manchester, NH.

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 an Authorized Service Center for Dassault Falcon, 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) August 5, 2025 – It is with heavy hearts that we remember William (Bill) Hanley, a cherished member of the Pro Star family, who sadly passed away on Friday, July 25, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Bill was a cornerstone of our Structures department for more than 18 years. His dedication and professionalism left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.

“His work ethic, precision, and pride in everything he touched were a true reflection of his character. Bill Hanley was more than a technician and employee. He was a mentor, a teammate, family, and a quiet force of goodness in our company,” remembers General Manager Sean Peterson.

Bill’s supervisor, Wayne Nickerson, recalls the day he first met him: “He came in for a job interview. We sat and talked for a while, then Bill said ‘Look, just give me a chance to show you what I can do. In one week, if you don’t like my work, just say so, and I will leave.’ After one day, I welcomed him aboard. It was the best decision I have ever made. He became a great worker and a greater friend. Bill will be truly missed.”

Beyond his many contributions, he will also be remembered for his kindness, his loyalty, and his wit. “After a conversation with Bill, I always walked away either chuckling or with a smile on my face,” Managing Partner Kevin Harriman recalls fondly. Bill built genuine connections with coworkers and friends alike, earning the lasting respect and affection of all who knew him.

 “As a colleague, I had tremendous admiration for Bill. More than this, though, Bill was such a great friend. His character and integrity were without fault in all my dealings with him. And we had fun working together,” teammate John Staugaard reflects. At this time, our thoughts lie with his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing Bill Hanley. He will be deeply missed.

Pro Star Opens New Facility Strengthening Sales and Service Capabilities

(Grand Rapids, MI) June 10, 2025 – Pro Star Aviation recently opened its new Authorized Pilatus Sales & Service Center at Gerald R. Ford International Airport (KGRR) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA. This 37,000-square-foot (3,437.41-square-meter) Pilatus dedicated facility will strengthen the company’s ability to support Pilatus customers with sales, maintenance, and technical services.

The new facility includes a modern multi-bay aircraft maintenance hangar and a two-story, 17,000-square-foot (1,579-square-meter) office building. Designed with both functionality and comfort in mind, it features a pilot lounge, flight planning areas, a cafeteria, and quiet spaces for relaxation. Large windows allow natural light to fill the space, creating a welcoming, open environment for both customers and employees. 

“Completing this expansion into West Michigan is a proud accomplishment for our team, and we are delighted to celebrate such an important milestone,” said Henry Laughlin, CEO of Pro Star Group. “Providing our Pilatus customers in the region with exceptional service and support is of great importance, and this new facility will enable us to elevate that effort to the next level.” 

Enhancing the Customer Journey 

The new Grand Rapids location is dedicated to supporting Pilatus aircraft, including the PC-12 and PC-24 Super Versatile Jet. As an Authorized Pilatus Sales & Service Center, Pro Star Aviation offers a full range of services, including aircraft sales, avionics upgrades, and special mission aircraft modifications. 

“We are delighted to see Pro Star undertake this significant expansion to the Pilatus Authorized Center network,” commented Piotr (Pete) Wolak, Vice President of Customer Support at the Pilatus US subsidiary Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd. “We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products – and our support network is equally important. This new facility in Grand Rapids will allow us to provide even better support to our customers in North America.”

Further information about Pro Star is available at pilatus-aircraft.com/prostar

Authorized Pilatus Centers 

Over 60 independent Authorized Pilatus Sales and Service Centers around the world are part of the Pilatus network and guarantee comprehensive product support – throughout the entire lifecycle of a Pilatus aircraft. That is our promise to customers. A complete list is available on the Pilatus website at pilatus-aircraft.com/sales-centers.

Experienced Leadership to Help with Company Growth

(Londonderry, NH) May 6, 2025 – Pro Star Aviation is pleased to announce Wayne Tibbetts as the company’s new Director of Operations. Wayne will lead operational initiatives to optimize service delivery, support strategic growth, and enhance the customer experience across Pro Star’s maintenance and avionics service offerings.

Wayne brings a wealth of aviation experience to the Pro Star team, having previously served as Operations Manager at Bombardier and spending a decade with Airbus Helicopters in Grand Prairie, Texas. He is an East Coast Aero Tech graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics with a concentration in management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. His aviation journey began with eight years of service in the U.S. Navy as an Aircraft Mechanic.

“Wayne brings exceptional hands-on experience, proven management skills, and an extensive background in aircraft maintenance to this position,” said Sean Peterson, General Manager at Pro Star Aviation. “We’re excited to have him join our team as we expand our capabilities and support the growth of our organization.”

(Grand Rapids, MI) April 30, 2025 – Pro Star Aviation is proud to announce the official opening of its new Authorized Pilatus Center at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This state-of-the-art facility is now fully operational, offering aircraft sales, service, and technical support from this convenient location.

The extensive 37,000 sq.ft. development features a modern hangar facility as well as a two-story office structure including glass tower sections enhancing the flow of natural light into the building. The space also offers customer and staff amenities such as a pilot lounge, planning, cafeteria and relaxation areas.

Henry Laughlin, Pro Star Group CEO stated “Completing this expansion into West Michigan is a proud accomplishment for our team and we are delighted to celebrate such an important milestone. Providing our Pilatus customers in the region with exceptional service and support is of great importance and this new facility will enable us to elevate that effort to the next level.”

Piotr Wolak, Vice President of Customer Support for Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd, commented “We are delighted to see Pro Star undertake this significant expansion to the authorized service network. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products, however, of equal importance is our support network across the country. This new facility further bolsters that capability and commitment to the Pilatus community.”

Pro Star Aviation is headquartered at the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in New Hampshire. Pro Star is an Authorized Factory Sales & Service Center for Pilatus Aircraft including the PC-12 Turboprop and PC-24 Super Vesatile Jet. Company services include avionics upgrades, business aviation connectivity, special mission aircraft modifications and aircraft sales. Pro Star is part of the Laughlin Family aviation group of companies which was founded in 1948. Group activities also include FBO, airline services and aircraft de-icing. https://www.prostaraviation.com

For additional information, please contact:
Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing
603-547-9010
jeff@prostaraviation.com

Collins Venue Cabin Management System on a Gulfstream G550 Aircraft

(Londonderry, NH) March 27, 2025 – Pro Star Aviation, an innovative aerospace modification center, proudly announces the successful installation of the Collins Venue™ Cabin Management System (CMS) with the new Venus Smart Monitors in a Gulfstream G550. Replacing the legacy Collins ACMS system which is no longer supported. This milestone positions Pro Star Aviation as one of the first facilities to integrate this cutting-edge technology, enhancing cabin functionality and passenger experience.

The Collins Venue system is recognized for its customizable features and seamless integration with the latest technologies, delivering control over cabin lighting, entertainment, and environmental settings. Designed with passengers in mind, Venue provides a user-friendly interface and reliable performance, ensuring an improved in-flight experience.

“Pro Star Aviation is committed to delivering innovative solutions that enhance the comfort and functionality of our customers’ aircraft,” said Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales & Marketing at Pro Star Aviation. “Being one of the first to install the Collins Venue with Venue Smart Monitors in a Gulfstream G550 aircraft demonstrates our team’s technical expertise and dedication to staying at the forefront of business aviation advancements.”

About Pro Star Aviation

Located at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in NH, Pro Star is an Authorized Service Center for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus. Pro Star Aviation’s comprehensive services include avionics upgrades, business aviation connectivity, special missions aircraft modifications, aircraft maintenance, and certification. Pro Star’s technicians are Airframe & Powerplant certified, and factory trained to stay on the leading edge of developments in avionics technology.  https://www.prostaraviation.com/

Director of Maintenance/ Operations Manager in Grand Rapids, MI

(Londonderry, NH) August 13, 2024 – Pro Star Aviation is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeremy Mangum as the new Director of Maintenance/Operations Manager at our Grand Rapids, MI location. Jeremy brings extensive experience and a distinguished career in aviation, from his military service to his tenure in the general and business aviation sectors.

Jeremy’s aviation journey began in the military, where he served as an Avionics and Armament Technician on the Apache Helicopter for almost nine years. His dedication and expertise in this role laid the foundation for a successful aviation maintenance and operations career.

After his military service, Jeremy joined MD Helicopters as an Avionics Technician. Over his 12 years there, he quickly advanced through various positions, including Avionics Manager, Experimental Flight Test Manager, and ultimately Repair Station Manager. His leadership and technical skills have consistently driven operational excellence and innovation.

Jeremy’s academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, complementing his extensive hands-on experience. He also holds an Airframe and Powerplant License. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jeremy has been married for nearly 23 years and is a proud father of four children. His family shares a passion for the outdoors, enjoying activities such as camping, hunting, and fishing. This love for adventure and the outdoors aligns seamlessly with Pro Star Aviation’s commitment to excellence and passion for the aviation industry.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy Mangum to our team,” said Sean Peterson, General Manager at Pro Star Aviation. “His extensive experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to aviation make him an invaluable addition to our Grand Rapids location. We are confident that Jeremy will drive continued quality and performance in our maintenance and operations.”

About Pro Star Aviation

Located at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in NH, Pro Star is an Authorized Service Center for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus. Pro Star Aviation’s comprehensive services include avionics upgrades, business aviation connectivity, special missions aircraft modifications, aircraft maintenance, and aircraft certification. Pro Star’s technicians are Airframe & Powerplant certified, and factory trained to stay on the leading edge of developments in avionics technology.  https://www.prostaraviation.com/

(Londonderry, NH) August 8, 2024 – Pro Star Aviation, an innovative aerospace modification center, is pleased to announce the completion of its tenth Starlink installation. They have completed installations on the following aircraft. Bombardier Global Express XRS, Global Express 6000, Gulfstream G5, G450 and G550 models. 

The installations leverage Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, providing unparalleled connectivity for pilots and passengers. Customers have expressed great satisfaction with the enhanced responsiveness and seamless internet experience in flight.

Jeff Shaw, Director of Sales and Marketing at Pro Star Aviation, remarked on the achievement, “Thanks to our dedicated team’s expertise, each installation was performed with precision and delivered on time. Our extensive experience working on business aircraft allows us to navigate the complexities of antenna installation, ensuring optimal connection for our clients.” Pro Star Aviation continues to set the standard in avionics installations, committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. The successful integration of Starlink technology marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance in-flight connectivity for business aircraft.

About Pro Star Aviation

Located at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in NH, Pro Star is an Authorized Service Center for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus. Pro Star Aviation’s comprehensive services include avionics upgrades, business aviation connectivity, special missions aircraft modifications, aircraft maintenance, and aircraft certification. Pro Star’s technicians are Airframe & Powerplant certified, and factory trained to stay on the leading edge of developments in avionics technology.  https://www.prostaraviation.com/

Dedicated to Pilatus Aircraft Sales & Service at Grand Rapids Airport

(Londonderry, NH) May 2, 2024 – Pro Star Aviation, an innovative aerospace modification center, is pleased to announce it broke ground on a new $12.4 million, 37,000 square-foot hangar and office facility at the Grand Rapids Gerald R. Ford International Airport. The project includes a multi-bay aircraft maintenance hangar with a support mezzanine in addition to a 17,000-square-foot steel-framed office structure. The hangar will serve as a dedicated Pilatus Aircraft sales & service center. The project also includes a new 56,000-square-foot ramp and a new taxiway connector. Pioneer Construction is serving as the project general contractor with Bowers and Associates serving as architects.

The extensive two-story office facility features large, all-glass clerestory sections to enhance natural light flowing into the building. The space features modern amenities including a pilot lounge and customer relaxation areas. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2024 with occupancy in early 2025. Henry Laughlin, Group CEO stated “Our company has experienced tremendous growth over the last decade and this further expansion into the West Michigan area is a proud accomplishment. We look forward to supporting our Pilatus customers in the region from exceptional new facilities.”

About Pro Star Aviation

Located at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in NH, Pro Star is an Authorized Service Center for Dassault Falcon Jet, Embraer, and Pilatus. Pro Star Aviation’s comprehensive services include avionics upgrades, business aviation connectivity, special missions aircraft modifications, aircraft maintenance, and aircraft certification. Pro Star’s technicians are Airframe & Powerplant certified, and factory trained to stay on the leading edge of developments in avionics technology.  https://www.prostaraviation.com/