Durand joins SaxonAir as new CEO

Norwich-based SaxonAir has announced the appointment of Alex Durand as the new CEO of the company. Durand takes up his new position in early January 2013.

Durand brings over 20 years of experience in the business aviation sector, most recently as UK representative for the ProAir Group, accountable manager of Finesse Executive and prior to that, group managing director for Gregg Air.

“I am delighted to be joining SaxonAir having watched their development with interest,” says Durand. “I am also excited about the new opportunities that I can bring through my own established network of industry relationships and experience.”

The new appointment will enable the existing managing director, Christopher Mace to take up a new role within SaxonAir’s parent company, Klyne Aviation as group commercial director.

Chris Mace said “We are delighted to welcome Alex Durand into the SaxonAir team. His experience will be of great benefit to the company as it continues to excel in the business aviation market. I look forward to working with him in my new role within the group to generate further growth within the sector.”

Despite recent economic conditions, SaxonAir has experienced a 12.5% increase in charter flights flown and a 65% increase in handled flights at Norwich Airport since moving into their new multi-million pound facility at Norwich Airport in May 2011.

This purpose built business aviation centre and hangar facility was completed in May 2011 and is now home to many other aviation companies who collectively cover a wide aspect of aviation expertise and services.

Early in 2010, SaxonAir commenced a 10 year contract as the preferred handling agent to supply ground handling services at Norwich Airport for all non-scheduled business, private and general aviation aircraft.

The current charter fleet now consists of five private jet aircraft, from light to midsize jets and two helicopters.

Photograph: Chris Mace (left) shakes hands with Alex Durand (right)