18 July 08 – Airtransport News (extract)

Oxfordjet, Oxford Airport’s brand new business aviation centre was yesterday, 16 July, officially handed over to the airport’s management team from the developers. With immediate effect, all business charter passengers and private jet crew traveling through Oxford Airport will now experience the very best that business aviation has to offer.

Building work on the new oxfordjet terminal commenced in April this year, marking the first phase of a major investment by Oxford Airport’s new owners, who purchased the airport from BBA Aviation last summer. The oxfordjet facility boasts triple the space of the old terminal. The modular construction, assembled in Yorkshire, has been designed with a fresh, modern approach that complements the state-of-the-art facilities within.

Steve Jones, Oxford Airport’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted with the new terminal and the speed with which it has taken shape. The oxfordjet facility really puts us on the map as a serious business aviation airport and a viable alternative to other London-centric, costly and slot-restricted airports. This represents an initial £2.5 million investment with further investment pledged.” Five customer service personnel have just been recruited to work at oxfordjet reporting to Customer Services Manager David Surley. “We envisage the creation of up to 20 new jobs over the next six months in administrative and operations positions,” Steve added.

Oxford Airport is well located geographically and demographically within close proximity of the M40, A34, A40 and A44 road networks, providing excellent access from one of the most lucrative catchment areas in the country. And now, for the first time, Oxford is a viable gateway for the most influential business people in the world providing an exceptional asset to the local transportation infrastructure.

Earlier this year Oxford Airport completed the construction of a new larger aircraft apron. The new 3,500m2, high bearing strength apron enables the airport to cater for larger business aircraft up to the size and weight of the Airbus A318 Elite. This capability, together with increased opening hour availability and an upgraded Cat 4 RFFS fire and rescue service will enable Oxford Airport to consider a number of shuttles between city pairs that had previously been untenable.

Steve Jones said: “Oxford Airport will continue to enhance its facilities throughout 2008. Our costs are considerably lower than the usual London airport options and we are very pleased that Oxford now represents a convenient, easy access alternative to the established London airport choices. We can provide facilities with no capacity limitations or slot constraints and the potential to be available from 0600hrs to midnight, seven days a week.”