Global Airlift Solutions is launching a new cargo service at Gloucestershire airport in response to the search for an alternative airport for urgent automotive and just in time (JIT) logistics. A PC-12NG will perform the flights, and visiting cargo aircraft will be handled by Weston Aviation at its FBO facility and private ramp area.

Sven Sroka, VP sales for Global Airlift Solutions sees the airport as providing a great opportunity. “We are delighted to be the first cargo aircraft into Gloucestershire Airport which is a perfect partner for the capability and uniqueness of the PC12 cargo aircraft. We look forward to working closely with both Weston Aviation and our cargo brokers and clients through the airport.”

Nick Weston, CEO of Weston Aviation, adds: “I have been involved in urgent automotive logistics and handling for 30 years and understand the fine balance between the on-time delivery of cargo and where possible cost savings. As soon as we opened our new FBO facility at Gloucestershire airport in 2019, we saw the potential for developing cargo handling for JIT operations. Being slightly more southerly in the UK than traditional automotive hubs such as Birmingham airport, with less flying, lower costs and just 50 minutes drive away from the final destination, we would be off-loaded and on the road before an aircraft arrives at Birmingham.”

The Weston Aviation FBO and ramp is located immediately adjacent to the airport entrance gate, and the main north to south west M5 motorway can be accessed within five minutes of departing the airport. As a pure business airport, Gloucestershire Airport has no scheduled commercial traffic to cause any delays, and fuel is delivered immediately on request. From the airport, it is also possible to reach Bristol in 40 minutes, Cardiff and Oxford in an hour and Derby in an hour and 30 minutes.

Karen Taylor, the airport's commercial finance director was equally enthusiastic. “This is a great new opportunity for us and demonstrates perfectly the great future and potential of Gloucestershire airport as well as working with Weston Aviation.”