Salina Airport Authority
The Salina Airport Authority is proud to welcome Tricrest Aviation Insurance as the newest tenant based at the Salina Airport Industrial Center. Officially opening its doors in 2024, Tricrest Insurance Agency LLC brings a fresh, data-driven approach to aviation insurance, now backed by a physical presence in one of the Midwest’s most dynamic aviation hubs.
Founded by licensed pilot and aerospace engineer Kyri Barton, who also serves as President, and Chief Operating Officer, Tricrest was built on the belief that pilots and aviation professionals deserve insurance solutions grounded in technical expertise and a deep understanding of risk. “Flying is part of my identity,” said Barton. “After years in systems engineering and advanced risk modeling—ranging from satellite navigation to aircraft systems and predictive maintenance—it became clear that my technical experience could directly improve how aviation insurance is done. I wanted to create a firm where pilots feel understood and supported—not just quoted.”
From its new location at Building 412, 2804 Arnold Avenue, Room 116, Tricrest offers a full suite of aviation insurance products tailored to the needs of pilots, aircraft owners, charter operations, flight schools, and maintenance facilities. Services include hull and liability coverage, hangar keepers’ liability, workers’ compensation, commercial aviation policies, and more. The agency also provides face-to-face consultations, policy reviews, and claims support—all just steps from the hangars.
Tricrest’s decision to locate in Salina was no coincidence. “Salina offers unmatched access to agricultural aviation, flight training, and aerospace innovation,” said Barton. “Being based at the airport allows us to work side-by-side with our clients, building trust and providing real-time risk support that goes far beyond a phone call.”
Kyri Barton also shared why bringing Tricrest home to Salina was personal as well as professional:
“I’m proud to be a Salina native. I’ve lived in this town, across the country, and even overseas—but there’s nothing quite like your hometown. Salina has a sense of community, character, and groundedness that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s where my love of aviation first took root, and where I learned the value of hard work, trust, and showing up for your neighbors.
Coming back wasn’t just about launching a business—it was about coming home. With so much growth happening at the airport and in the broader aviation community, it felt like the right time to bring everything I’ve learned back to the place that shaped me. I’m excited to grow Tricrest here and to give back to a town that’s always been part of my story.”
Initially staffed by two full-time team members, Tricrest plans to grow its Salina operation thoughtfully, with future expansions in client services and aviation risk management. The team is actively developing partnerships with local aviation businesses and programs at K-State Salina to support education, training, and safety across the region.
“We’re thrilled to add Tricrest Aviation Insurance to our community of forward-looking aviation businesses,” said Pieter Miller, Executive Director for the Salina Airport Authority. “Their technical knowledge, client-first approach, and passion for aviation make them a natural fit for the Salina Regional Airport.”
To learn more about Tricrest Aviation Insurance or schedule a consultation, visit www.tricrestinsurance.com or contact their Salina office (785) 333-4590, open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with 24/7 customer service available for urgent needs.