Conrad Kalitta

Conrad (Connie) Kalitta has a lifetime of experience in the airline industry that goes back to 1967 when he began transporting parts for the automotive business with a twin engine Cessna 310 that he piloted himself. Over the years, Kalitta grew from a one-airplane operation into a substantial airline conglomerate, American International Airways, Inc. (AIA), that used B747, L1011, DC8, B727, Twin Beech and Learjet aircraft in worldwide airfreight, air ambulance and charter passenger operations. AIA supported the Desert Shield/Desert Storm operations with award winning efforts. AIA was one of the world's 25 largest airlines with revenues in excess of $400 million derived from both scheduled and on-demand air charters as well as third party engine and airframe maintenance service.

In 1997, Conrad Kalitta sold AIA and in April 2000 formed Kalitta Air, a Michigan Limited Liability Company. Conrad Kalitta is its sole owner. Kalitta Air began service in November 2000 with three Boeing 747 aircraft, and the fleet has grown to a present total of 15 Boeing 747 aircraft and 2 Boeing 767 aircraft. Capable of air express delivery of virtually any type of freight, the company provides scheduled and on-demand charter service for customers in the United States and around the world, including the Unites States Postal Service and Air Mobility Command. In addition, Kalitta Air maintains an engine repair facility and an FAA approved 145 repair station in Oscoda, Michigan where it performs engine overhaul and maintenance on aircraft.

Kalitta is also renowned as a professional drag racer in the Top Fuel class of the NHRA. In fact, it was his winnings in drag racing that enabled him to purchase the Cessna 310 that started him in the airline business. Kalitta was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame in June of 1992 for his tremendous contribution to the sport. Kalitta won five world championships and set the world's speed record on more than one occasion. Although not currently in the driver’s seat, he is the team owner and crew chief of four Top Fuel teams.