Windy City Welcomes Avolar

Avolar, the fractional business aircraft ownership subsidiary of United Airlines parent UAL Corp., has announced that Chicago will be its permanent headquarters. According to Avolar president and CEO Stuart I. Oran, the firm picked Chicago because the Windy City offered the firm high growth potential, operational convenience and business-friendly state and local governments. A number of potential downtown Chicago office sites are under review, but a final decision has not been reached. The offices will house Avolar's executive, financial, human resources, supply chain management and administrative functions, as well as the company's operations and Owner Experience Center. Governor George Ryan and Mayor Richard M. Daley welcomed Avolar’s decision. They cited the decision as a sign of the state and city’s continuing economic vibrancy. Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce President also welcomed the decision, arguing that Avolar will bring new jobs and increase tax revenues. Instrumental in attracting Avolar to the city and state was the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA). Pam McDonough, DCCA director, suggested that the Avolar move could help convince other aviation firms to consider moving to Illinois.