Sky Bird | 1976–2026
Celebrating 50 Years of Partnership,
Leadership & Trust
Helping Travel Advisors Show Travelers the Value of Professional Travel Advice
Five decades. One remarkable journey. Sky Bird has grown alongside the travel advisor community, building lasting relationships with travel professionals and airline partners across North America and around the world.
50
Years serving the travel industry
100+
Global airline partner
1976
The year our journey began
2026
A new chapter begins
Our Story
50 Years of Sky Bird
What began in 1976 with the vision of Arvin and Jaya Shah has grown into one of North America’s established airline consolidators, serving generations of travel professionals.
Across five decades, the industry has transformed dramatically. Through every change, one principle has remained constant: Sky Bird’s commitment to the travel advisor.
1976 — Sky Bird is founded
A business built on trust, service and lasting relationships.
Growth Years
Expansion of airline relationships and a growing agency network.
National Expansion
Broader reach and deeper support for travel professionals across North America.
Digital Era
New booking capabilities, advisor tools and WINGS.
2025 — Industry Recognition
Sky Bird earns Travvy Gold recognition.
2026 — 50 Years of Sky Bird
Honoring the legacy while building the next chapter.
Golden Jubilee
An Evening 50 Years in the Making
In July 2026, Sky Bird marked its Golden Jubilee surrounded by the people who have helped shape its journey — airline executives, travel professionals, industry partners, employees, friends and distinguished guests.
State Recognition
Honoring 50 Years of Contribution
Sky Bird’s Golden Jubilee was made even more meaningful with Special Tributes from the State of Michigan, recognizing the company’s 50 years of business excellence, industry contribution and community leadership.
The recognitions were presented by Michigan State Senator Jeremy Moss and Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri.
“When I founded Sky Bird in 1976 alongside my wife, Jaya Shah, our vision was simple — to build a company founded on trust, integrity, exceptional service and lasting relationships. Fifty years later, those same values continue to define everything we do.”
Mr. Arvin Shah, Chairman & Co-Founder, Sky Bird
Leadership
Honoring Our Legacy. Building What's Next.
The next chapter of Sky Bird is about carrying forward the values that built the company while continuing to create meaningful value for travel advisors, airline partners and the wider industry.
Arvin Shah
Chairman & Co-Founder
Chairman & Co-Founder
Akshay Shah
Owner
Owner
Norman Knowles
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer
50 Years Supporting Travel Advisors
Our Anniversary Is About the Future, Too.
Through Sky Bird’s #WhyUseATravelAgent initiative, we’re continuing our commitment to champion the expertise, value and importance of professional travel advisors.
Media & Recognition
Sky Bird at 50: In the News
Our 50th Anniversary has been recognized across travel trade and community media, reflecting the significance of the milestone and Sky Bird’s longstanding contribution to the industry.
Travel Professional NEWS
50th Anniversary coverage and state recognition
50th Anniversary coverage and state recognition
Travel Daily News
Golden Jubilee milestone and Michigan recognition
Golden Jubilee milestone and Michigan recognition
News India Times
Sky Bird marks 50 years with Golden Jubilee celebration
Sky Bird marks 50 years with Golden Jubilee celebration
JAX FAX
September / October advertorial coverage
September / October advertorial coverage
CCRA Connection
September anniversary feature
September anniversary feature
Gujarat Times
Community media coverage of the milestone
Community media coverage of the milestone
The Journey Continues.
50 years behind us. The future ahead.