Metro Aviation’s London Luton-based FBO has told EBAN of its plans to develop a brand new FBO facility at the airport. “The new development will be situated at the bottom of the Delta link at the airport, where the cargo buildings and apron are currently situated. In effect we will be at the end of a cul-de-sac, which will be for our sole use, so we won’t be interfered with by any other air traffic or ground movements,” said Kerry Besgrove, operations manager.

The company hopes to have the facility completed by February 2003. “The big benefit for Metro at Luton is that the engineering and hangar facilities will all be adjoined to the FBO, so Metro will become situated in one central position for all the services which may be required.

“The development will include all the facilities you would expect – a large passenger lounge, a vvip lounge, full crew and pilot restrooms, which will go as far as bunk rooms as well. Parking facilities will also be available, along with all the usual operational assistance,” added Besgrove.

Metro confirmed that as a whole, the company also has plans to expand as future growth continues. “Specifically with regard to Luton, this is a big gain for us and something that we’re certainly looking forward to,” said Besgrove.

Meanwhile, Metro has revealed that Air Traffic Control and NATS have been visiting all the operators based at Luton, including those involved in general aviation, FBO operators and the civil market.

This has been to advise them of the strict requirements regarding the specific arrival and departure procedures into and out of Luton Airport.

“They have told all of us that there are certain operators who aren’t adhering to these guidelines and are basically breaking levels. Their advice is quite simply to ensure that details and notes are available prior to arrival and departure at Luton, and that the correct plates are used. More importantly than that though, is the need to follow the guidance and advice from Air Traffic,” he added.