Airshare — one of the nation’s largest private aviation companies — celebrates its 25th anniversary this week, marking a quarter century of innovation, best-in-class service and industry leadership.
Founded in 2000, Airshare has evolved from a regional operator to a nationwide provider of aircraft management, fractional ownership, jet cards and charter services. Over the past 25 years, the company has expanded its fleet, grown its employee base and consistently delivered value to its customers through its diverse service offerings and commitment to safety.
“Reaching our 25th anniversary is a testament to the hard work of our employees, the loyalty of our customers and the strength of our vision for private aviation,” said John Owen, CEO of Airshare. “From our founding in Wichita to becoming a nationwide operator across all of our services, we’ve remained focused on delivering exceptional experiences when flying with us. While today we celebrate our previous accomplishments, we’re even more excited about what’s ahead and grateful to all who have been part of our journey.”
A Timeline of Growth
Airshare’s journey over the past 25 years has been marked by bold decisions and steady growth. Founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 2000, the company quickly gained traction by offering a fresh approach to fractional ownership through its revolutionary days-based model. Just four years later, Airshare relocated its corporate headquarters to Kansas City, positioning the company to expand its growing base of customers throughout the Midwest.
Through a strategic acquisition in 2008, Airshare began offering whole aircraft management, complementing their fractional program and charter services. Over the next 15 years, Airshare continued its rapid expansion, entering into new markets within South Florida and the Upper Midwest. This momentum accelerated in 2023 with the acquisition of Wheels Up’s Aircraft Management Business, significantly increasing the size of the fleet they operate and doubling the number of employees.
In 2024, Kompass Kapital acquired controlling ownership of Airshare, with its strategic investment leading to nationwide expansion of the company’s fractional program. Airshare is now the 8th-largest private jet operator in the country.
This year, Airshare celebrates not only its 25th anniversary but also a marquee partnership with the PGA of America, featuring its designation as the Official Private Aviation Provider of the Ryder Cup. The partnership underscores its elevated position in both aviation and the world of premier sporting events.
Airshare will mark this milestone with an employee celebration at its Kansas City headquarters on Sept. 19, as well as events taking place throughout the country at its other locations.