With the decision by the Spanish airport authority to close Torrejon airport to business aviation, Gestair is to provide FBO services at Madrid-Barajas airport where all traffic will now operate.

Affected operators see benefits to the move, as Barajas airport is open 24 hours without any weight restrictions. Universal Aviation Spain, which is also relocating its Madrid headquarters there, points out that it is also closer to the city.

After winning the tender issued by the airport authority, Gestair FBO is in the process of upgrading its facilities located at the remodelled GAT building (the former State Pavilion) and expects it to be ready by the end of March.

Universal Aviation Spain will likewise locate itself in the GAT. "We are fully prepared for the transition of our headquarters, including all employees and equipment, ensuring there will be no disruption to our clients or impact on the quality of service they receive," says Gonzalo Barona, md Universal Aviation Spain. "Although we were headquartered at Torrejon, we have also provided services at Barajas, so we are very familiar with the airport, officials and processes."

"Barajas provides the same benefits as Torrejon and in some ways will be better, as it will have fewer diversions, which were frequent at Torrejon," adds Barona.