Newly Renovated General Aviation Federal Inspection Station Officially Opens at Sheltair’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International FBO Complex

Opening ceremonies for the nearly $2 million renovation of the 10,000 square foot general aviation U.S. Customs entryway to the United States at Broward County’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, were held on Thursday, February 11. Attending were officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Broward County Aviation Department, Sheltair, elected officials and many of the region’s business leaders. 

The original facility constructed in 1988, has been totally modernized to meet the demands of today’s international general aviation traveler arriving at Broward County’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. It includes a new ramp access location, expanded processing areas, state-of-the-art security technology and an improved interior layout to allow for an efficient flow of passenger traffic. Its ribbon cutting comes not a moment too soon as last year the airport welcomed 53,754 general aviation passengers and crew and over 13,000 aircraft requiring Customs clearance.

Sheltair began closely coordinating plans for renovation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Broward County Aviation Department (BCAD) several years prior to the new facility’s renovation. It also teamed with Singer Architects to facilitate the design and GSD Contracting, LLC for the construction of the project.

Sheltair’s Chairman, CEO and founder Jerry Holland stated, “This is an extraordinary example of how a public–private partnership can benefit the general aviation community, the regional economy and the reputation of FLL as a passenger friendly destination. Credit should be given to our colleagues at the Broward County Aviation Department and CBP for their leadership and cooperation as we cut the ribbon to open this installation.”

“As the primary agency charged with the safeguarding of our nation’s Borders, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, is very pleased to be inaugurating this wonderful new facility to better serve the general aviation community at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport,” commented Jorge L. Roig, Port Director, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport & Port Everglades, Miami Field Office of Customs and Border Protection.

Broward County Aviation Director Kent George said, “To fulfill its potential as an economic gateway for our region Broward County’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport will continue to work with its partners to ensure it can meet current and future needs of the aviation community. This ribbon cutting reflects that commitment and we are pleased by the speed, efficiency and professionalism that allowed this project to be completed on time and on budget.”