Jet Aviation has completed the extension and renovation of a new 8,000 sq-m production centre at its maintenance and completion facility in Basel.

The centre brings the cabinet shop, interiors and finishing shops, and sheet metal shops together in one location.

The new space comprises 5,000 sq m of renovated space, and an additional 3,000 sq m extension. Architectural design and planning for the new production centre commenced in mid-2019, with construction beginning later that year. Phase I was dedicated to moving the sheet metal, interior and finishing shops, and was completed in November 2020. Phase II focused on moving the cabinet shop and completing the extension and renovation project.

“This investment is a testament to our promise of being easy to do business with,” says Jeremie Caillet, Jet Aviation’s vice president of VIP completions. “Customers trust us with one of their most valuable assets, and we take pride in bringing their vision to life. This Center consolidates all production activities, bringing cabinetry, interior finishing, and sheet metal under one roof. It further creates significant efficiencies and makes it easier for our customers to visit and experience first-hand the craftsmanship that makes their aircraft so unique.”

“The concept and development of such a large project adjacent to our existing hangars was a long and complex program, which took almost ten years from initial concept to opening,” says Sylvain Von Hof, Vice President real estate, facility management & logistics EMEA. “It is a fantastic achievement and we thank everyone who took part, from the teams here at Jet Aviation, to our local partners, including the Euro Airport, who played a significant role throughout the entire process.”

In line with Jet Aviation’s commitment to employee well-being and sustainability, the centre is designed with LED dimmable lighting, a high-pressure vacuum system, dust collector systems, 2 separate paint cabins, and ventilation units. The centre also features 600 sq m of leveled assembly and pre-assembly platforms to foster optimal performance.

Cyril Martiniere, Vice President MRO Europe & General Manager Basel, adds: “After more than 20 years, we are delighted to see our production teams of some 150 employees together in one location. This new, spacious, and light-filled center represents the latest innovations in infrastructure and equipment for a safe and enjoyable work environment and will allow the teams to collaborate even more efficiently and effectively with one another and with our customers.”

Jet Aviation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of General Dynamics with some 4,000 employees and 50 locations worldwide. Jet Aviation’s offerings include aircraft management, aircraft sales, charter, completions, defence, FBO, maintenance and staffing.