Smart Aviation is celebrating two decades of success with a glittering 20th anniversary extravaganza at Cucumber Bar, Sea Containers, on London's South Bank.

More than 140 guests from across Europe joined the UK charter brokerage's exclusive event at the spectacular riverside venue, which boasts panoramic views of the River Thames and London's iconic skyline. Attendees included long-standing partners such as private jet operators, airlines and fixed-base operators (FBOs). Guests enjoyed a bubbling champagne reception followed by a fun-filled evening of live music, magic and a specially curated menu of fine food and drinks.

Founded in October 2005 by managing director Mark Hawkins, Crawley-based Smart Aviation has grown from a small, rented office on Crawley High Street into one of the most respected global charter brokers in the aviation industry. Over the past 20 years, the company has: flown hundreds of thousands of passengers to every major European football final; transported more than 40,000 passengers annually on charter flights to Lourdes; brokered substantial ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) leasing agreements; and flown thousands of business and leisure travellers on private jets and helicopters worldwide.

Reflecting on the milestone, Mark Hawkins says: “On behalf of myself and the team, we would like to thank everyone who joined us last night. It was a poignant evening for me personally, celebrating with the suppliers and partners that have been such an important part of our journey, many since the very beginning. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together over the past 20 years and excited for the next 20.”