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Royal Jet, Air Seychelles launch new FBO facility

Service to showcase Abu Dhabi jet operator’s luxury capabilities

Royal Jet, in association with Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, has launched a new fixed-base operation, or FBO, facility in the Seychelles Islands to cater to rising number of private aviation tourists from the Middle East, Europe and CIS countries.

The newly-inaugurated FBO facility of Royal Jet and Air Seychelles. — Wam

This is the Abu Dhabi-based international luxury executive flight services company’s first FBO operation outside of the region, and also the first FBO facility in Seychelles, ushering in a new era for the private jet operator’s FBO expertise, which showcases the demand for the high level of luxury and business aviation services beyond the UAE borders.

Air Seychelles has also taken over the commercial and operational management of the VIP lounge located at the Seychelles International Airport. The lounge and the new FBO will be named “Air Seychelles VIP”.

Royal Jet president and chief executive officer Shane O’Hare said Air Seychelles VIP will provide year-round world-class bespoke luxury services to private aviation operators, VIP, corporate and leisure travellers to the end-destination.

“Working closely with Air Seychelles, Royal Jet will manage the FBO in line with what we currently offer to royalty, heads of state and VIP guests at our current FBO at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Our best practices over the years serving royalty will be replicated on the Islands but providing the local touch that makes Seychelles hospitality distinctive,” O’Hare said.

“Seychelles is increasingly becoming a year-long destination of choice by elite honeymooners, holiday seekers and leisure travellers, besides business travellers and our FBO will provide them a service that will be unparalleled on the Islands.”

With tourism growth from the Middle East expected at an average six per cent this year and growing numbers from Europe, the Far East, South Africa and Russia, Seychelles is fast becoming known as a high-end tourist destination.

Cramer Ball, Air Seychelles chief executive officer, said: “Air Seychelles VIP is the logical next step for our business, as we seek to diversify our business and attract new high yielding tourism segments to our archipelago. Seychelles is fast becoming known as a high-end destination to a rising number of private aviation enthusiasts. Now in partnership with Royal Jet, we have the capability to place our new FBO on the global map and market the Seychelles internationally in a new dimension.

“We look forward to creating a memorable travel experience for our VIP guests, with our Creole warmth and hospitality for which we are known.”

The Air Seychelles VIP will go beyond being just the lounge facilities; it will include ground-handling facilities to private jets and fast-track services whilst offering an increase in the level of service of world class standards to guests who use this VIP facility.

— business@khaleejtimes.com