FedEx uses big and small planesFedEx launched the guaranteed overnight delivery business in 1971. Since then, Americans have become addicted to overnight shipping.

Whether it’s a new cardigan sweater from Lands’ End that arrives just in time for Christmas or urgent business documents needed for a meeting the next day, companies like FedEx, DHL, and UPS can guarantee the overnight delivery of your package or letter.

Small Airplanes, Big Jobs

Express shipping companies use huge cargo airplanes. But they also use a much greater number of smaller General Aviation (GA) airplanes.

These small airplanes bring packages and letters from hundreds of outlying cities and towns to the express shipper’s hub, where the packages can catch a ride on the big birds if needed.

Dual Use

Caravan cargo planeMost of these small cargo airplanes are not owned by the big shipping companies. Small, private firms own and operate single- or twin-engine General Aviation (GA) airplanes on regional routes.

When they’re not carrying packages at the beginning and end of each day, many are used as charter airplanes to carry local business people.

Your Personal Use of GA

So the next time you ask for your purchase to be shipped overnight, pause to think about the General Aviation (GA) pilots, airplanes, and local community airports that will be used to help deliver your package.