Episode 61 – From Politics to Planes: Sean White of Jet Access

In this episode of Destination Aviation, Jeff sits down with Sean White, Executive Vice President of FBO Development at Jet Access, whose career traces an extraordinary arc from the halls of Washington to the heart of general aviation.Before taking on leadership roles in FBO development, Sean spent nearly a decade in federal politics and government service—including positions at the White House, the Small Business Administration, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. From staffing senior officials to coordinating national and international travel logistics, Sean developed a strategic skillset rooted in policy, communication, and high-stakes coordination.That foundation launched him into a second career in aviation. Sean went on to lead the Central Indiana Transit Task Force, oversee public outreach and government relations for Indy Connect, and support major initiatives for the Indianapolis Airport Authority. He also played a key role with AOPA, managing infrastructure and logistics for national fly-in events.Sean then transitioned into hands-on airport leadership—serving nearly seven years as General Manager and VP at First Wing Jet Center, overseeing FBO operations across multiple airports and building teams, systems, and service cultures that helped elevate each facility.Today, he leads FBO development at Jet Access, bringing together his rare mix of political insight, operational experience, and strategic communication to help shape one of the nation’s fastest-growing aviation companies.In this episode, Jeff and Sean dive into:How a career in federal politics unexpectedly prepared him for aviationWhat it takes to manage multi-airport FBO operationsThe behind-the-scenes logistics of national aviation eventsThe future of general aviation, community engagement, and airport developmentWhy the skills that succeed in the West Wing also succeed on the rampThis episode is also special because it’s the first one we recorded on video, and it’s available on YouTube for those who prefer to watch as well as listen. It’s an insightful, wide-ranging conversation with a leader who has lived two full careers—and is still ascending.Connect with us on Instagram:InstagramTikTok: Destination Aviation (@dapodcast85) | TikTokYouTube:Destination Aviation - YouTubeDrop us a line at [email protected] if you have your own plane talesWebsites:Destination Aviation - Destination AviationSupport the show