Title: President
Company: Tropic Air Charters Inc. dba Traffic Air Rescue
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States
Anthony S. Marinello, president at Tropic Air Rescue, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements, and leadership in Transportation and Emergency Management.
Mr. Marinello’s distinguished career spans more than four decades, marked by innovation, leadership and a steadfast commitment to public service. Since 2021, he has served as the president of Tropic Air Charters Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, overseeing a team of six pilots who rotate through critical rescue operations and provide essential services to cruise lines. Under Mr. Marinello’s direction, the company has pioneered a groundbreaking program that he regards as his most significant professional achievement. He is particularly proud that this initiative, unprecedented in its scope, has the potential to save lives that previously could not have been reached. The ripple effects and collaborative opportunities generated by this endeavor continue to inspire him.
Before launching Tropic Air Charters Inc., Mr. Marinello served as the director of safety and security at HeliFlite in the New York City area from 2015 to 2021, overseeing the implementation of rigorous safety protocols and operational security for the organization’s aviation activities. Concurrently, Mr. Marinello served as the chief executive officer of SAS Group LLC in New Jersey from 2007 to 2021, managing the operations of a leading private investigation and security agency.
From 2009 to 2015, Mr. Marinello contributed his expertise as a simulator instructor with Canadian Aviation Electronics Inc. in northern New Jersey, training pilots in advanced flight simulation environments and enhancing overall aviation safety standards. Between 2006 and 2007, Mr. Marinello served as the chief helicopter pilot for the New Jersey State Police in Newark. During this short tenure, he became the first chief pilot of the Newark City Police Department, where he established the department’s aviation program. By effectively deploying helicopters, Mr. Marinello achieved a remarkable 20% reduction in the city’s crime rate within one year.
Mr. Marinello’s earlier career included nearly three decades with the New Jersey State Police, beginning in 1979 as a state trooper and progressing through roles as a captain and helicopter pilot until 2006. During this period, he also operated his own private detective agency for over 10 years until 2006 and worked for several helicopter companies in various capacities, such as simulator instructor and safety director.
Following high school, Mr. Marinello completed coursework toward an associate degree in police science between 1977 and 1979. He also became a certified state trooper in 1979 and received his pilot’s license in 1985.
Mr. Marinello is an active member of several industry and civic organizations, including the Florida Highway Patrol Advisory Council and the Knights of Columbus. His commitment to public service also included serving as a council member in Springfield Township from 2010 to 2014, as deputy mayor between 2015 and 2021, and as mayor from 2021 to 2022.
A recognized expert in security and emergency management, Mr. Marinello has received numerous awards and honors showcasing his expertise. In 2024, he was highlighted in Columbia Magazine for his heroic efforts. That same year, he was named New Jersey State Trooper of the Year, received the Sikorsky Rescue Award from Sikorsky Aircraft, and was honored by the Knights of Columbus for saving lives during humanitarian efforts in Haiti. Mr. Marinello was further recognized in 2025 when he received the Apogee Award from South Florida CEO and was featured in Meet the Disruptors for his innovative work.
Persistence has been central to Mr. Marinello’s success. He credits his unwavering determination and problem-solving approach as key drivers throughout his professional journey. Throughout his life, Mr. Marinello has remained dedicated to service above recognition or personal acclaim. He estimates that during his more than 20 years as a state police rescue helicopter pilot, he personally saved approximately 5,000 lives. Looking ahead, Mr. Marinello is committed to expanding Tropic Air Charters Inc., further supporting emergency services and continuing his lifelong mission to save lives through innovative aviation solutions.
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Tropic Air Charters Inc. dba Traffic Air Rescue
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