Gama expects to open new Sharjah FBO by end of 2014

Gama Aviation is on track with its new FBO at Sharjah International Airport.

Gama Aviation expects to open its brand new FBO terminal at Sharjah International Airport later this year. The company has seen strong growth in Sharjah since opening its FBO in 2012, reporting a 70 per cent increase in the number of business aviation movements in 2013 compared with 2012.

During the second quarter, Gama hopes to have completed the new passenger and crew lounges, which will be finished in line with the requirements of Middle Eastern clientele.

“Our aim is to build on the already significant progress we have made these past two years of operating the FBO,” said Richard Lineveldt, general manager MENA for Gama Aviation. “We have had encouraging feedback which we have used to incorporate into the plans for the new facility and are very excited to unveil the end product, especially considering the increased efficiencies it will lend to our FBO team. The new facility will bring huge benefits for crew members, including rest areas, briefing space and convenient ramp access.”

“Clients are increasingly attracted by our friendly and polished service, dedicated business jet parking and generous hangar space, as well as the fact that there are no slot restrictions in place for the airport which operates 24/7 – all being offered at competitive rates,” added Lineveldt. “A number of business jets have already committed to move over to Sharjah during that period and we are working with industry partners and airport stakeholders to prepare for the increased demand. We want the industry to know that we are ready to support fellow operators and flight support agencies.”

Oliver Hewson, Gama Aviation’s MENA commercial manager, said: “After considerable investment in improving the facilities for business jets at Sharjah International, our FBO service offering now includes aircraft maintenance,  gourmet catering, refrigerated storage units, premium lounges and a Royal Majlis, fast fuelling capabilities, an onsite business hotel and a new international newspaper service, which comes on line from 1 March.  Ground transportation is also important and we work closely with a reputable luxury transport supplier to provide limousines for our visiting VIP passengers.”

Gama has operated business jets from Sharjah on its air operator’s certificate since 2006. The Sharjah facility, which was opened in early 2012, is large enough for Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ aircraft, both of which are already part ofthe company’s managed fleet.