Wisconsin

Contrail Aviation Support is based in Verona, Wisconsin. Joe Kuhn established Contrail Aviation Support in 2000 after several years as a top salesperson for Mitchell Aircraft in Cary, Illinois. Contrail is a supplier of after-market and surplus commercial jet engine components to major maintenance repair and overhaul facilities worldwide. The business flourished with its focus on the Pratt & Whitney JT8D engine, which powers Boeing 727, 737, and McDonnell Douglas DC-9 aircraft.

In 2008, as companies began to retire their older aircraft, Contrail’s market began to contract. CFM56 engines, which power all Boeing 737 aircraft built since 1983, would be its next product line. However, these engines were much more expensive than the JT8D, increasing Contrail’s need for capital. Wisconsin Bank & Trust was able to provide a $1 million SBA Export Line of Credit. The firm was able to access additional working capital to purchase more inventory. Contrail doubled its sales from $6 million in 2009 to $12 million in 2010, with sales soaring to $29 million in 2011. Joe continues to grow the business by travelling the world to keep and develop relationships with both buyers and sellers.