IE Business Daily Business news for the Inland Empire.
Twenty twenty-four was an extraordinary year for Threshold Aviation, marked by both unexpected surprises and impressive successes. From assisting in the rescue of a baby owl (owlet) and watching a family of owls take residence in one of their hangars, to flying President-Elect Donald Trump, to setting new records in aircraft sales with affiliate Cielo Blu, the company had an eventful year. Threshold also undertook significant restoration and refurbishment projects on numerous aircraft.
“You never know what’s going to happen in this business, and that’s what makes it so exciting,” said Threshold Owner and CEO, Mark DiLullo. “One moment it’s a normal day, and the next, you’re chartering a plane to fly the President-Elect or restoring a historic aircraft.”
In August, Threshold Aviation received an inquiry from the Trump Campaign to provide charter services for President-Elect Trump (then a candidate) and his entourage. The request was to transport him to rallies in locations where smaller airports were unable to accommodate the size of his Boeing 757. On August 10, DiLullo had the honor of flying President-Elect Trump and his team to those events.
“Flying the President was a great honor,” DiLullo said. “He could not have been kinder or more gracious, and he was a wonderful passenger, as was the rest of his party.”
In addition to the presidential charter, Threshold Charter division flew over one million miles. Cielo Blu, a Threshold affiliate managed by Kayla DiLullo, sold a record breaking number of aircraft for the company. “Increasing sales is always a goal, but with a business-friendly administration coming into Washington, I fully expect things to really take off,” said Kayla.
Throughout 2024, Threshold’s hangars were filled with planes requiring significant refurbishment and maintenance. One notable project involved the restoration of a Lockheed 12A aircraft, a 1930s-era plane similar to the Lockheed 10 flown by Amelia Earhart when she disappeared. The team at Threshold installed a new interior, ensuring the aircraft was both functional and historically preserved.
In addition to refurbishing older planes, Threshold expanded its fleet, acquiring a Citation CJ2 from Switzerland. The aircraft required extensive maintenance. After completing the purchase, a team from Threshold flew to Switzerland, disassembled the plane, and transported it back to their Chino facility. There, the team conducted the necessary repairs, repainted the aircraft, and installed a new interior which is now ready to come on the market for sale. The team also refurbished and sold a Gulfstream GV, including a new interior and entertainment system, which is now managed, maintained, and operated for its new owner.
In the Spring of 2024, Jesus “Chewy” Martin had a surprising encounter when he found an owl perched atop the microwave in the breakroom. This unexpected moment sparked a heartwarming adventure as Threshold staff worked together to nurture an owlet and create a safe space for the owl family in one of the company’s hangars, where they still reside today.
Perhaps the most notable achievement of 2024 was Threshold’s selection by the U.S. Secret Service to provide aviation services. The decision to choose Threshold for such a critical role came after a careful evaluation of the company’s experience and reputation for excellence in aviation. Threshold’s expertise, combined with their history of providing exceptional service, played a key role in their selection. “Being chosen by the Secret Service was a testament to the trust they place in our team,” said DiLullo. “We take great pride in our ability to meet the highest standards of safety and service, and this is an exciting milestone for our company.”
“2024 was a fantastic year for Threshold,” said Mark. “And with the momentum we’ve built, I’m confident that 2025 and beyond will bring even greater success for our company, employees, and their families.”
