Airlines

Uncovering the History of Kalitta Charters: A Look at One of the Most Experienced Aviation Companies in the United States





Kalitta Charters, LLC is an aviation company based out of Ypsilanti, Michigan. Founded in 1967, it is one of the oldest and most experienced charter flight operators in the United States. With a long and rich history, the company has gone through many changes to become the aviation service it is today.

Uncovering the History of Kalitta Charters: A Look at One of the Most Experienced Aviation Companies in the United States
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Kalitta Charters was established by Connie Kalitta, a legendary drag racer and aviation enthusiast. Originally known as Kalitta Flying Service, the company began operating as a charter service in 1967, offering small planes to transport customers to wherever they needed to go. Over the years, Kalitta Flying Service expanded its fleet to include larger and more modern aircraft, providing customers with a variety of options to meet their travel needs.

The company’s first major milestone came in 1978 when Kalitta Flying Service transitioned from a charter service to a full-service aviation provider. The change allowed the company to offer a range of services including cargo transportation, air ambulance flights, and other services.

In the early 2000s, Kalitta Flying Service changed its name to Kalitta Charters. The name change was designed to better reflect the company’s broader range of services. In addition to operating a fleet of aircraft, the company also offers maintenance, training, and consulting services.





Over the years, the company has continued to expand its fleet and services. Today, Kalitta Charters operates a fleet of over 70 aircraft, including Boeing 767 and 747 freighters, passenger aircraft, and corporate jets. The company’s fleet also includes a variety of turboprop, jet, and piston-engine aircraft.

In addition to its fleet, Kalitta Charters also provides a variety of services including cargo transportation, air ambulance flights, and aircraft maintenance. The company has also developed a reputation for its commitment to safety, with a strong focus on quality and customer service.

Throughout its history, Kalitta Charters has been involved in a few notable incidents. In 2008, a Kalitta Charters plane crashed while taking off from a small airport in Michigan, resulting in all four passengers onboard being killed. Following an investigation, the National Transportation Safety Board determined that the crash was caused by a failure of the aircraft’s flaps. In 2017, the company also received a warning from the Federal Aviation Administration after a plane was found to have violated several safety regulations.

Over the years, Kalitta Charters has evolved from a small charter service to a full-service aviation provider. With a fleet of over 70 aircraft and a commitment to safety and quality, the company has become an industry leader in the aviation industry.