This website uses cookies
More information
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.
Related information from the Handbook...
The bimonthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Request your printed copy

Universal takes the long term view with Northolt opening
Northolt is said to be an excellent option for operators with business in central London, so Universal Aviation is very pleased to have opened a base there. MD Sean Raftery is determined, despite the COVID limitations.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at a social distance, and operations at Universal Northolt are now under way. Sean Raftery is pictured on the left, and on the right is Universal Aviation UK general manager Rue Ahmed.

Universal Aviation, the worldwide ground support division of Universal Weather and Aviation, is now fully operational and supporting business aviation missions at London’s RAF Northolt airport.

Universal Aviation UK – London Northolt is Universal’s second London-area ground handling location, joining the network’s London Stansted FBO.

“The addition of Northolt gives our customers even more operating flexibility when visiting the London area, especially in the age of COVID where many operators are making quick trips for essential business,” comments MD for the UK and Ireland Sean Raftery. “Northolt is an excellent option for operators with business in central London. It offers convenience to the city centre, a high level of security as a military airport and less congestion than other airports in the region.”

Universal Aviation UK – London Northolt is 35 minutes by car from Hyde Park. Universal is working closely with the Royal Air Force, which operates the airport, to continue easing accessibility to the airport. “COVID and the recent restrictions put in place by the UK government are currently limiting traffic,” adds Raftery. “We’re taking a long-term view of Northolt’s potential. As restrictions lighten and we move past the pandemic, we anticipate Northolt to become an increasingly popular airport option in London.”

Other News
 
Affinity Aviation launches as Evans family business sheds Universal name
October 19, 2026
Universal Aviation, the FBO and ground-handling network, relaunched as Affinity Aviation at NBAA-BACE, with a phased transition across 75-plus locations throughout 2027.
Gama takes over Northolt FBO duties for business jets
September 21, 2026
Client lounges and crew facilities at RAF Northolt will be refurbished under an operating agreement that gives Gama Aviation sole handling rights at the base.
Universal Aviation secures hangar at San José airport
September 21, 2026
A roughly 10,000‑square‑foot hangar has been secured through a competitive process run by airport operator Aeris, adding general aviation capacity at Juan Santamaría International Airport.