Chester Handling Services, based in north west England, reports it is reaping the benefit of investing in a new purpose-built business aviation centre at Hawarden airfield where it began operations in February 1998.

Hawarden airfield is owned and operated by Airbus UK, and is also the location for the Centre of Excellence for the manufacture of Airbus wings, including A380.

Lisa Clarke, operations manager, says: "The development of the site, under the ownership of Colin Butt and The Aviation Park Group has been immense between 1998 and 2006."

She adds: "Our expectations of the new facility were high, and whilst we expected our clients to be impressed with the new building and facilities, even we have been surprised and delighted by the reaction and compliments that we have received from existing and new clients alike."

Hawarden offers services and facilities including 24 hour CCTV and manned security, crew lounge and facility exclusively for aircrew use including quiet room with reclining leather chairs, computer and desk with free internet access and high definition plasma screen television with full Sky package and DVDs, free wireless internet access, fully fitted self-service kitchen/refreshment area with full range of complementary refreshments and snacks, hot water and ice for all departing aircraft, customs, immigration and Special Branch clearances by arrangement, passenger and baggage screening (in compliance with EU2320) by prior arrangement (additional charge), full met briefings and complementary airside transfers.

A range of additional services includes aircraft valeting and cleaning. There are preferential rates for fuel for frequent users and large uplifts, hangarage and parking.