Luxaviation expands network in New Zealand

Business jet airline Luxaviation has acquired Air Center One at Auckland International Airport in New Zealand, expanding its presence in the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition, via subsidiary ExecuJet, means that Luxaviation now operates four so-called fixed-base operators (FBOs) in the Asia Pacific region. An FBO is permission by an airport to a company to provide services for aircraft, passengers and crew.

“The Asia Pacific region is one of the most dynamic regions in the world. We are excited to be expanding our global FBO network through this acquisition and offering our services at another major destination in the region,” said Luxaviation group CEO Patrick Hansen in a statement.

Other FBOs are located in New Delhi, Melboune, Sydney and Wellington, with other offices in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

“The Air Center One team is highly experienced and is known for providing high-end service. We look forward to welcoming our new colleagues to ExecuJet and continuing the world-class FBO amenity service to all existing and new clients,” said Darren McGoldrick, vice president Asia Pacific at Execujet. “The founder of Air Center One, Robin Leach, will remain with the team to insure the best possible transition.”

Leach, CEO of Air Center One commented: “We understand the needs and requirements of the private traveller and corporate jet aircraft operator – this includes a superior level of security and customer privacy. As our customers benefit from our experience and critical operational information, we achieved an enviable reputation for our ability to provide additional services of value to the corporate jet operator and passengers.”

Luxaviation last year launched on the US market to its network with plans to open a announced in March 2021. It also opened an last summer.

With the acquisition of Air Center One, Luxaviation covers a network of 128 FBOs, with 28 operated by Execujet.

The company is coming out of its pandemic downturn. In an , Hansen said on the lowest day during lockdown in April 2020, the company earned a mere €7,586.

For 2020, Luxaviation filed papers with the Luxembourg business register showing a €7.5m net turnover, down from €12.1m the year before. However, in addition to Luxaviation SA, more than a dozen other business entities affiliated with the company are also registered in Luxembourg.