Our Story

A Multi-Generational Aviation Legacy in the Heart of Indiana

At Air Marion Inc., aviation isn’t just our business—it’s our family heritage, spanning generations and rooted deeply in Indiana’s general aviation history.

Our story begins in the early days of flight on our great-grandmother’s farm, which became the site of Anderson Municipal Airport (now Darlington Field). Managed by our grandfather Art Darlington and great-uncles, the airport thrived under family stewardship, with uncles and our father, Richard Darlington, carrying the torch through decades of passionate service to pilots and the community.

In 1979, the Darlington family brought that same dedication to Marion Municipal Airport (KMZZ), where we’ve proudly operated as a full-service Fixed Base Operator (FBO) ever since. What started as a new chapter has grown into over 45 years of welcoming pilots, fueling adventures, and training the next generation of aviators.

Today, Andy Darlington—second-generation airport manager, Certified Flight Instructor, and proud steward of this legacy—leads the team. Growing up on the field (starting with odd jobs like mowing and fueling as a kid), Andy returned to his roots after college to continue building a welcoming hub for the GA community.

We’re more than an FBO: We’re a family-owned operation offering expert aircraft maintenance, competitive fuel services, modern hangars and tie-downs, flight training through our partnership with Indiana Wesleyan University, and unique touches like Sky High Scoops ice cream for those post-flight treats.

Whether you’re a transient pilot stopping for fuel, a student earning your wings, or a local aircraft owner needing top-notch care, you’ll experience the personal service that only a true family-run FBO can provide. We honor our past while investing in the future—growing flight training, hosting community events like our annual Fly/In Cruise/In, and mentoring young aviators.

Come visit us at Marion Municipal Airport. We’d love to share our story—and help write the next chapter of yours.

Ready to fly? Contact us today for flight training, maintenance, or hangar info.