About Us
Perry Flying Center opened for business on July 1st, 1983, founded by Ken Perry, his father, M.C. Perry and step-mother, Joycelyn Perry. It began as a full-service fixed-base operation (FBO) servicing all types of fixed-wing aircraft, seaplanes and corporate turbo-prop and jet aircraft.
Shortly after opening, the oil related local economy began to falter and the airplane traffic began to slow. The energy exploration and production industry also began to go further offshore and the helicopter transportation business began to increase. PFC management targeted the independent helicopter operators and constructed bunkrooms, offices and other infrastructure to attract and support this market.
A full-service restaurant, the Eagle’s Nest, was built and opened in 1985 to attract both fly-in customers as well as to service the pilots and crews going offshore. It quickly became a favorite destination for local people who liked to watch flight operations with their breakfast and lunch.
As the energy economy continued to decline, PFC sought various, innovative ways to entice business to the Patterson Airport. Air shows, parachute “jump fests,” car shows, etc. were held in order to keep the airport in the public eye.
The economy had begun to turn around when Perry Flying Center was substantially damaged by hurricane “Andrew” in 1992. The rebuild of the facility took more than a year.
In 1993 PFC welcomed Patterson Avionics as a tenant and partner in business. This full-service avionics installation and repair facility bolstered an already established aircraft maintenance department at PFC and made the operation truly one-stop for pilots: fuel, maintenance, radio repair and food!
PFC continued its service and expansion of facilities and services throughout the 90’s and into the 21st century. The completion of highway 90 and the expansion of the local restaurant industry brought an end to the “Eagle’s Nest.” It may be gone, but is still fondly remembered and missed by both the local and aviation communities.
M.C. Perry, otherwise known as “The Chief,” passed away in 1999. It was a hard blow to everyone at PFC, but Ken Perry vowed to continue the excellent service and reputation of Perry Flying Center for many years to come.
In January of 2004, PFC was honored to host the Vice-President of the United States aircraft, “Air Force 2,” along with the support aircraft and helicopters. The visit was when the country was at “orange alert” for terrorism and the aircraft were crewed at all times and security was extremely tight. PFC remains justifiably proud of having the capability to perform under such intense circumstances.
In September, 2005, after hurricanes “Katrina” and “Rita” devastated virtually the entire southern part of Louisiana, Perry Flying Center played a vital role in rescue and recovery operations. PFC became a staging point for Coast Guard and other military rescue aircraft during the massive rescue operation in the New Orleans area. After “Rita” passed, PFC served as a hub for Navy and Marine rescue aircraft for many days. PFC housed and fed literally hundreds of flight crews over a 2-month period and was proud and humbled to play an important role in rescue operations.
PFC became home to dozens of helicopters and airplanes that were displaced by the two storms. The activity at the Patterson Airport has tripled since the storms and Perry Flying Center has responded by building new parking lots, added trailers, buildings and other infrastructure to service the increased demand for services. With the expected long-term growth of the energy industry, Perry Flying Center expects to continue to grow and diversify in order to meet the challenges of the next few years.
In the past few years Perry Flying Center has had to react to several hurricanes and their aftermath. With standby generators on both the hangar/office complex and the fuel farm, PFC has been able to maintain true 24/7-365 full capability.
Ken Perry is especially proud of his staff and their professionalism. Office Manager Val Blanchard retired after 31 years in 2016. Ground Services Manager Scott LeBlanc begins his 20th year in 2017. The maintenance staff has over 50 years of combined service at PFC. The stability of the staff is a primary reason that Perry Flying Center begins its 34th year of operation in 2017.
Ken Perry and his staff invite all pilots of all types of aircraft to visit their unique and diverse facility and experience the warm atmosphere and professional service.