Zurich-based aviation service provider, ExecuJet Africa, has opened a world-class fixed-based operations (FBO) facility at Mohammed Murtala Airport in Lagos this month, in another move to strengthen presence in the emerging African market.
ExecuJet Africa which already has bases in Lanseria, and Cape Town, both in South Africa, now offers FBO and aircraft maintenance services from the company’s state-of-the-art facility, which comprises a 4,700-square-metre hangar capable of accommodating a Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), a 25,500-square-metre concrete apron and a VIP lounge.
ExecuJet Group FBO director, Mark Abbott, says the Nigerian move is a “direct response to the vibrant growth taking place in the business gateway in Africa.”
The growth of Africa’s second largest economy has birthed more prosperous businessmen, triggering an increase in the number of private jet purchase from the country. In September, a report revealed only 20 private planes sat in its hangars in 2007. Presently, records indicate an additional 130 private planes, valued at 1.02 trillion naira ($6.5 billion), accommodated in the country.
ExecuJet Africa’s MD, Ettore Poggi, commenting on the development said: “We have sourced the best engineers from around the world, and are thus also able to communicate in various languages. We have also sent some of these engineers for additional training at the manufacturers to obtain updates on the very latest aircraft. We have also sourced local engineers and staff and are committed to the transfer of skills and the training of local aspiring engineers.”
ExecuJet’s Lagos FBO offers authorised line maintenance support for Bombardier, Dassault Falcon and Hawker Beechcraft aircrafts. An expected approval from local aviation authorities will enable the Swiss group to expand the maintenance services offered and aircraft types supported.
The ExecuJet Aviation Group is a leading global business aviation organisation offering a diverse range of services including pre-owned and new aircraft sales, aircraft management for private and commercial registered aircraft, aircraft charter, aircraft maintenance, aircraft completions management and fixed base operations.
ExecuJet has operations in six regions – Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, embracing a workforce of over 830 experienced staff.
