ExecuJet has established a permanent presence in New Zealand with the acquisition of Air Center One FBO based at Auckland International Airport (AKL). The announcement, which follows ExecuJet’s expansion into the European market last year, anticipates the recovery of the business and tourism sectors in the region. Auckland is New Zealand’s busiest airport with over 2,000 business aircraft movements per year.

Patrick Hansen, CEO of Luxaviation Group, parent of ExecuJet, said: “The Asia Pacific Region is one of the most dynamic regions in the world. Air Center One has been for a long time our preferred handling agent in Auckland, which is a major destination for New Zealand and complements our partnership at the Wellington FBO.”

With this latest acquisition, Luxaviation Group now covers a network of 128 FBOs – of which 24 are directly operated by ExecuJet. The group’s presence in the Asia Pacific region includes offices and FBOs in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Hong Kong.

Robin Leach, CEO, Air Center One, who established it as the first FBO and corporate jet operator in NZ back in 1964, said: “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. It was important for us to provide the same.”

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