It has been a great start to the year for The Little Jet Company's ground operations manager Arran Watkins. Business has been booming at the Gloucestershire airport-based private jet company, and 26 year-old Watkins has been shortlisted for the BBGA's Excellence in Aviation - The Next Generation award.

"I was delighted to be recognised by the BBGA," says Watkins. "I love my job. I like organising, and I like planning the schedules; we go to so many different airports. Every day is different, every flight is different, every person is different. I like the constantly changing environment; it keeps you on your toes and keeps you busy.

'We are a small team, and everyone works very well together. It's a good company to work for. Clients like dealing with us. It's important to us that we keep them happy and we provide a very personal service. The Little Jet Company goes above and beyond to look after its customers."

Director Barry Preece adds: "Arran has been with us for five of the seven and a half years we have been in operation. His enthusiasm for aviation was apparent from the outset. He is a tenacious young man and a joy to have on board."

The Little Jet Company has had a busy start to 2022, flying to Germany, Switzerland, France, Austria and Sicily, and has taken bookings for the summer.

"Our pilots are busy," says Watkins. "I think people are feeling more confident now about leisure travel. We've been busy since the start of the year."

The Little Jet Company has a continuing commitment to Gloucestershire airport but recent growth has also seen it open bases in Brighton and Bournemouth.