UK specialist aviation services provider RVL Group has appointed seasoned aviation specialist David Lacy as its new head of business development.

Lacy joined the East Midlands airport-based operator in late May. He is tasked with bringing a fresh focus to existing client relationships, as well as generating new business for the company's core capabilities; its flexible cargo operation, passenger charter, aerial survey, aircraft management and maintenance, and specialist operations.

“I shall look to see how RVL can expand our existing client relationships; see what opportunities there are to be of greater assistance to customers. I am also going out to find contracts with new clients and develop those relationships,” he says. “RVL's key strength is its versatility. It is a flexible business with an adaptable fleet, and it has for its size a very professional and impressive platform: its own hangar facilities and own maintenance operation. It can turn its hand to anything. That versatility will help us expand our customer base and in turn that will lead to an increase in the size of the fleet.”

Last month RVL boosted its freight and passenger-carrying capacity with the addition of a fourth Beechcraft King Air B200 aircraft, adding versatility to its roster.

Lacy's 30-year career in aviation started in airline operations including Heavylift Cargo Airlines and Air 2000. He took on tour company charter manager roles with Crystal Ski and TUI before a seven-year stint with Satellite Travel, which saw him rise to MD. After five years as commercial director for Charter Flight Centre and then Cello Aviation, he became a freelance consultant to Sunvil Holidays Group.

“I have been an aviation enthusiast all my life, and I am delighted to be joining RVL, a company whose progress I have been following for well over a year,” he enthuses. “I have worked for tour operators, airlines and air charter brokers, and have a good overview of the entire industry from passenger to freight. This new role offers me the opportunity to bring my skills from those areas to RVL, as well as the opportunity to learn about aspects of the business which are new to me, like aerial survey.”

RVL Group MD Dave Connor comments: “We have been in talks with David for a long time and are delighted to be able to welcome him on board at what is an exciting time for the airline. His vision is going to be invaluable to the company and will, I am certain, lead to some great opportunities for us.”