London

Universal Aviation UK celebrates 40th anniversary

Universal Aviation UK at London-Stansted Airport, one of the oldest Universal Aviation FBO ground services network locations, celebrated its 40th anniversary this month.

Since its humble beginnings in 1984, this location has evolved into a world-class facility, standing out as one of the premier destinations within the expanding Universal Aviation network and consistently earning top marks in business aviation reader polls as one of the world’s best FBOs.

Some of Universal Aviation UK’s major developments include the 2003 opening of the European Operations Centre (EOC), supporting regional trip support services. The EOC makes Universal Aviation UK unique among ground handlers in the UK, as it provides dedicated flight support and slot coordination to Europe, Middle East, and Africa customers in addition to traditional ground handling services.

Other highlights include the location’s support of some of the most high-profile world events of the last 25 years, such as the 2012 London Olympics and numerous Royal and Governmental events spanning numerous decades.

In 2017, Universal Aviation UK earned International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH) accreditation in 2017. In 2021, it earned Stage 2 accreditation.

Also, in 2021, Universal Aviation UK expanded to a prime second London-area location at Royal Air Force Northolt Airport. Universal Aviation UK is the only ground handler at Northolt and has worked with the RAF to expand the airport’s hours to seven days a week, making it the London area’s most attractive airport option for operations to West London, crew changes at Heathrow or sporting events such as Wembley Stadium.

In addition to its two locations at Stansted and Northolt, Universal has expanded its presence in the UK with dedicated VIP agents at other congested UK airports.

“We are all very proud of this 40-year milestone that we have reached together,” said Sean Raftery, Managing Director. “We are especially grateful to our loyal customers who have continually put their faith in us and ranked us highly as one of the leading FBOs. We continually strive to reduce our customers’ risk and stress while looking at innovative ways to ensure we offer market-leading services. It’s been a great 40 years, but there’s lots more to come and an exciting future ahead.”