World Fuel Services has added two locations to its Air Elite Network thus far in 2018. XLR Executive Jet Centre in Birmingham, UK, and Silverhawk Aviation in Lincoln, Nebraska bring the fuel provider’s sponsored network of FBOs to 78 locations since it was formed six years ago from the remnants of the former Exxon Avitat network.
“These two new locations expand the options for operators that desire the regional flair and distinctive service offered by independent FBOs,” noted Steve Drzymalla, World’s senior v-p of business aviation bulk fuel. “The demand for Air Elite’s unique, high-value offer continues to grow in the U.S. and worldwide.”
Located at Birmingham Airport near England’s second-largest city, XLR features a modern, glass-sheathed 44,000-sq-ft terminal with direct tarmac access that offers comprehensive amenities, including VIP and passenger lounges accommodating up to 60 passengers, dedicated crew facilities, flight-planning rooms, in-facility security screening, visitor or residential crew offices, prayer room, conference and training room, and a 27,000-sq-ft heated hangar.
Silverhawk, one of two service providers at Nebraska’s Lincoln Airport, specializes in quick turns and offers Part 145 maintenance and Part 135 aircraft charter. A major renovation to its lobby is under way, which will allow it to offer new amenities. Construction has also begun on a new $2.5 million, 28,300-sq-ft hangar, capable of sheltering aircraft up to a Challenger 604. When completed this summer, it will bring the location to more than 50,000 sq ft of hangar space.
Last year, the Air Elite network added 17 locations in Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, and the U.S. Each location must meet certain airport, facility, and service quality standards to qualify for membership.
Over the past year, World Fuel also welcomed more than 50 locations to its worldwide fuel-distribution network, which comprises more than 550 FBOs. The Miami-based company expanded its European on-the-ground operations in 2017, with an additional 80 locations, and is now operating at more than 100 airports worldwide.