Fixed-base operator Avflight has opened a new multimillion-dollar aviation complex at Coleman A. Young International Airport in Detroit, Michigan, marking the first new facility to be built at the airport in 60 years.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new fixed-base operator (FBO) complex at the airport, designated KDET, took place on June 3, 2026. Detroit mayor Mary Sheffield, airport director Jason Watt and Avflight senior vice president of operations Joe Meszaros addressed attendees at the event.
Planned, designed and built by Avflight, the complex features a 5,000 square foot FBO terminal and a 20,000 square foot heated hangar capable of accommodating aircraft up to a Gulfstream G700. An attached, heated indoor parking garage provides covered space for four passenger vehicles.
The 24/7 facility also includes an open-concept lobby, a pilot’s lounge, two private crew sleep rooms, a conference room with full audiovisual equipment and seating for six, and private tenant offices. The complex is designed to serve general aviation aircraft with fuel and ground handling services.
“Avflight’s significant investment and long-term commitment to Coleman Young International Airport is an indication of the bright future our airport has ahead of it,” said Sheffield. “The services and amenities Avflight will provide at this new facility will help make City Airport an increasingly popular destination for private aircraft, bringing visitors and investment to Detroit.
“When we broke ground on this project at the end of last June, we saw tremendous potential in Detroit and in this airport,” said Meszaros.”Today, that vision is a reality. This new facility provides the modern services and amenities operators expect while reinforcing our long-term commitment to Detroit’s growth and future.”
The FBO opening builds on wider city-led improvements at KDET, including a US$3.5 million runway renovation, LED taxi lighting upgrades, ramp pavement improvements, a new engineered material arresting system and a new control tower. The city has also invested in expanded educational partnerships aimed at fostering aviation careers among Detroit youth.
Avflight has operated at KDET since 2011, expanding its capabilities and investing in modern infrastructure during that time. The company is part of the Avfuel-branded network of more than 720 FBO locations worldwide.
