It’s an honor to work with a bunch of people that share the same interest and passion as what I do.”

Mike Karlen

Mike Karlen of IGL Coatings USA and owner of Fast Lane Detailing traveled to Duchess County, New York to maintain a piece of history from April 28^th to April 30^th at Hudson Valley Regional Airport. Karlen, along with about 24 experienced detailers and sponsors from the United States, Norway, and the Netherlands, arrived to meticulously restore and preserve Falcon One, a former Air Force One jet, previously used by President George H.W. Bush, President Ronald Reagan, and General Norman Schwarzkopf.  The event, hosted by Dutchess Community College at Hudson Valley Regional Airport, joined detailers from around the world to restore the exterior of the Grumman C3-C20 jet and to recondition its interior leather. Pausing for a quick lunch break, Karlen spoke of the once in a lifetime experience, “It’s a big project. It’s a lot to take in. Obviously, it’s humbling to work on.” He continued, “It’s an honor to work with a bunch of people that share the same interest and passion as what I do. We knew coming in it was a challenge.”  Karlen explained that the detailers were working free of charge and the event was funded by donations and sponsors, including Automaxx+, LLC and IGL Coatings USA. “Everyone that is here is here on their own dime. Everybody traveled on their own just to be here. That shows you what kind of people they are and how much they value this and the passion they share.” He adds, “It’s one hundred percent free charity.” The jet will be housed at Dutchess Community College for observation and to support the future learning of students in their aviation maintenance technical program.