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Business Air News Bulletin
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Centreline AV

Bristol Airport

Press Release

Issued by Centreline AV.

July 18, 2013

Bristol Flying Centre gains DFT approval to extend handling capabilities

Recently expanded Bristol Airport based FBO, Bristol Flying Centre (BFC), has been awarded approval by the UK Department for Transport (DFT) to handle all charter flights directly from its new facility, removing the previous restriction of not being able to handle charter flights over 10 tonnes unless privately owned or derogated flights. This approval opens up the potential for significant growth in movements for the business.

The BFC FBO, which underwent a huge redevelopment earlier this year, handled its first flight under the enhanced capabilities this week, with the departure of a Hawker aircraft belonging to a leading charter operator. BFC now has the flexibility to adapt its capability to handle both private and charter flights of all sizes though its two lounges dedicated to both screened and non-screened passengers, which has CAA and UKBA approval to cater for up to 50 people.

The in-facility UK Border Force check-point, which is available whenever required, means customers never have to leave the FBO at any part of their journey and enhances the efficiency and customer service levels for all arriving passengers. The FBO can also provide its customers with services to manage the temporary importation for VAT and duty as well as APD fiscal representation.

The management of BFC Group worked closely with Bristol Airport to win the DFT approvals which provide the appropriate level of security for all executive aviation movements away from the commercial airport. BFC Group ceo, Phil Brockwell said “It has been our plan to create a world leading business aviation site at Bristol Airport and the airport management team have been instrumental in helping to make this happen. Our FBO is only a short taxi to the runway and 10 yards from our ramp. This, combined with a dedicated security gate to enable direct access for vehicles to the aircraft, ensures that our continued development of the BFC FBO makes perfect sense for passengers, operators and the airport”.

The closure of Filton Airport at the end of 2012 has already resulted in business growth at BFC of 170% percent as the company became the only FBO in the south west of England. Increases have been seen in the handling and engineering divisions leading to increases in staff across the group. The BFC Group incorporates FBO handling, engineering and the Centreline Air Charter operator.