Quintessentially Aviation Handling to launch new Shannon Airport facility at NBAA 2013.

Tuesday 15th October 2013

QA FBO will make its debut appearance at the world's largest business aviation show this month when it launches its new Shannon-based FBO to delegates at the NBAA Convention in Las Vegas.  The new QA FBO (Quintessentially Aviation Fixed Based Operation), which began operations earlier this month, is a joint partnership between Quintessentially Aviation Handling Ltd and award-winning Sky Handling Partners.

QA FBO chose NBAA as the launch platform for its new venture in consideration of the strong links Shannon Airport has with the American market. Custom Clearance Shannon is the only location in the world outside of the Americas that can offer US pre-clearance for business aviation. Turnaround times can be as little as 45 minutes for those passing through the QA FBO making it a popular airport stop off or starting point for passengers needing to access the USA quickly and efficiently.  "We anticipate that 90% of our clientele will be transatlantic clients wishing to maximise the ease of clearance opportunities at the airport. They are also likely to be high net worth individuals originating in Russia or the Middle East, so Shannon's strict security monitoring, is also an attraction" says Brendan McQuaid, Managing Director, confirming why Shannon Airport was selected for the inaugural QA FBO.

As a division of Quintessentially, the global concierge and luxury lifestyle group, the new facility will bring a fresh, contemporary style of service to business aviation crew, passengers and guests passing through the FBO. The relationship gives QA FBO clients the opportunity to leverage the full range of bespoke Quintessentially services available from 60 international concierge offices. "We are in a truly unique position to be able to offer our customers a quick and seamless aviation experience complemented by an international network of tailor-made services before, during and post flight. Quintessentially is renowned for fulfilling the array of demanding requests presented by high net worth individuals and QA FBO aims to fulfil similar expectations. In addition the opportunity to communicate directly with Quintessentially members means we are well positioned to quickly build momentum at our facility," continues McQuaid.

Once completed, towards the end of 2013, the new 1750 sq feet state-of-the-art crew facilities will incorporate a rest area, showers, flight planning capabilities, WiFi, satellite TV, and a stylish lounge for passengers. Local hotel accommodation, transport and knowledge will also be provided to passengers and crew.  McQuaid also hopes to attract new clients by implementing competitive fuel pricing in conjunction with strategic partner World Fuel. QA FBO is already a member of Air Elite, a network of independent FBOs, and ensures that crew using World Fuel are offered quadruple 'FlyBuy' loyalty points.

The company began trading this month with the first aircraft to be handled - a Global Express (Vision) on Private Sky's AOC - passing through the facility.  "This is exactly the type of aircraft that we expect will regularly use our facilities. We anticipate with originating destinations most likely to be Russia, the Middle East and the USA that heavy jets from multi-national corporations will be regulars on our ramp. We intend to provide them with a service that ensures they return to us," says McQuaid.

Plans for more QA FBOs.

It is anticipated that this will be the first FBO in a branded chain of QA FBOs. "Obviously we have to prove that we can provide this unique service, but in essence our strategy is to explore the options for a fully independent network of FBOs at strategic points around the globe," Brendan McQuaid highlighted.  

Despite its location on the west coast of Ireland, Shannon Airport has some of the best clear weather records for remaining open, it has runway of 3,200m (the second longest in Europe) is operational  24/7 all year round, offers full customs and immigrations service and has no slot restrictions.

QA FBO will have a presence on the World Fuel Services Network booth at NBAA C9006

About Quintessentially:

Quintessentially Aviation Handling Ltd is a subsidiary of Quintessentially Aviation Ltd part of the Quintessentially Luxury Lifestyle and Concierge Group which was founded in the UK in 2000 as a private members club and concierge service. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and has offices in 60 cities worldwide.

www.qafbo.com