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PBIA private jet businesses prepare for presidential visits

Posted at 5:27 PM, Nov 21, 2017
and last updated 2017-11-22 04:40:13-05

The private jet industry is big business at Palm Beach International Airport.

Like many others, they can take a hit when President Trump visits his Winter White House.

Suran Wijayawardana with Alerion Aviation says he can only operate between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. with required pre-screenings when Trump is in town.

He says 20 percent to 30 percent of their business is after 5 p.m.

"Selling fuel is limited," said Wijayawardana.

The good news is businesses and the U.S. Secret Service now know what to expect so they can have a better plan in place.

"We've had to make accommodations as a business by mitigating operating hours and mitigating the impact on our clients," said Wijayawardana.

Suran is also the chairman of the National Air Transport Association. He's working to keep pre-screenings until 10 p.m. when the president in town.

"Do a little bit more business and it would help fuel companies and maintenance companies," said Wijayawardana.

He plans to have those discussions with Secret Service soon.