Plans for new private-jet hangar at Jersey Airport

PLANS have been lodged to build a new hangar for private jets at Jersey Airport.

Business jet operator and handling agent Gama Aviation, which acquired Aviation Beauport in 2016, has submitted a planning application to construct a hangar and ‘fixed base operation’ on the site of the now-demolished cargo centre on the Airport’s south-eastern perimeter.

The cleared area was the site of the drive-through Covid testing centre during the pandemic.

The company announced its plans to build a 60,000 sq ft hangar in June, which was followed by public consultation. Subject to planning permission, Ports of Jersey and Gama Aviation will enter into a 25-year lease agreement, with construction taking around two years.

A planning statement accompanying the application states: ‘This is a significant investment in quality new hangarage to deliver improved facilities for private passengers, aligning with the operational activity already occurring at Jersey Airport.

‘This facility will support existing aviation business and Gama will provide job opportunities through on-Island servicing and apprenticeships.

‘The availability of high-quality hangarage on-Island will reduce the number of empty positioning flights for local customers and prolong the operational life of aircraft which can be stored out of the elements.’

It adds: ‘It will reduce noise impacts and will include a comprehensive package of landscape improvements. The design is innovative, thoughtful and contextual, taking its references from key elements of the local built environment. It will all be delivered on brownfield land to a BREEAM [Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method] ‘‘Very good’’ standard.’