Rigby Group’s executive jet facilities at Coventry and Exeter have been re-branded ahead of an ambitious move to increase the group’s share of the growing corporate aviation market. Following 18 months of investment and development at both airports, the upgraded facilities are to be known under a single banner – XLR Executive Jet Centres – as the company prepares to expand its operations across the UK.

Rigby Group Founder & Chairman Sir Peter Rigby said: “Our strategy for private executive aviation at our airports matches the approach we have taken as a group to every commercial sector: to use a blend of expertise, excellence and judicious investment to create sustainable, long-term businesses wherever market shifts or lack of supply creates opportunity.“ Now, after investing significantly in upgrading the facilities at Exeter and fitting out a new, purpose built suite at Coventry, we are well positioned to meet the opportunity for growth in corporate aviation under the banner of XLR Executive Jet Centres.”

The XLR centres at both Airports offer extensive Lounge facilities and complimentary snacks and beverages for visiting passengers and crew. There are meeting rooms and bathrooms with shower facilities as well as quiet rooms if rest and relaxation are required. With the market for private executive flights holding strong despite economic challenges, the new XLR Executive Jet Centres at Coventry and Exeter are delivering impressive growth.

XLR already services an extensive client list of brokers and operators, individual clients and aircraft owners through its facilities. The Coventry centre has built a growing reputation as a major alternative to London for transiting private flights, while Exeter’s access to the South West has seen the volume of private jets arriving grow steadily, particularly during the field sports season. As the business continues to grow, the XLR Executive Jet Centres management team are also committed to investigating the possibility of expansion to additional UK regional airports, with several potential locations currently under discussion.

Chris Beer, Head of Corporate Aviation at Rigby Group’s airports division Regional & City Airports (RCA), said: “We see multiple opportunities for the growth and expansion of the new brand. By capitalising on the opportunity presented by lack of space on the major London runways and harnessing the depth of experience in private aviation from across the group, we believe that our track record of performing above expectations will see XLR become a significant player in corporate aviation over the coming years.”

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