XLR Jet Centres win ACA Handling Agent/FBO of the Year Award 2024
Image courtesy XLR
The award, sponsored by Luxaviation, celebrates outstanding achievement in customer service, operational excellence and dedication within the corporate aviation industry.
XLR triumphed despite a notably strong field of finalists that included JETEX, Harrods Aviation, Signature Flight Service, Inflite and Farnborough Airport, marking a first win after six consecutive years as a semi-finalist.
The accolade was presented during the ACA’s annual industry awards gala, held in Brighton last week, in front of 480 VIP guests from the aviation sector.
The voting process combined 60% public votes from pilots, brokers and operators in the corporate aviation sector, 20% votes from ACA member companies and 20% from the ACA Board selection committee.
XLR Executive Jet Centres offer full-service Fixed Base Operations (FBOs) at strategic locations across the UK. With a steadfast commitment to safety, service and excellence, its facilities cater to private and chartered aviation with tailored solutions for passengers and crew. The group employs 34 staff who share a family-oriented culture, fostering collaboration and innovation across the network.
Accepting the award, Chris Beer (above, centre), Managing Director of XLR, dedicated the win to the company’s exceptional team: "This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence demonstrated by every member of the XLR team across our jet centres. It is their passion for delivering outstanding service and prioritising safety that has earned us this honour. I’m thrilled to share this recognition with them as we celebrate 19 years in the aviation industry under the XLR banner.”
Over the past 12 months, XLR - part of regional airports operator Regional & City Airports (RCA), a subsidiary of Rigby Group plc - has delivered services across its four UK-based locations in Birmingham, Liverpool, Exeter and Bournemouth.
Together, the centres handled more than 5,090 private and chartered jets, serving a diverse clientele, including business executives, leisure travellers, sports teams and government contracts.
Birmingham: Handled 1,800 flights, serving football teams such as the FA and England FC, Wolves and Aston Villa, as well as RAF contracts.
- Liverpool: Managed 1,110 flights, including exclusive handling for Liverpool FC, Everton FC and visiting teams. The facility underwent a major expansion in July 2023, featuring a new lounge and bar area to accommodate growing demand.
- Exeter: Facilitated 1,180 flights, catering to clients from leisure and business customers to rugby and football charters, organ donation flights and RAF training missions including hosting the Red Arrows on their visits to perform in the South West.
- Known for its community spirit, the Exeter team is renowned for going above and beyond, including offering complimentary pizza to RAF crews.
- Bournemouth: Oversaw 1,000 flights, serving a community of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and military movements. This location plays a key role in supporting the rural economy and nearby country estates welcoming visitors from all over the world.
XLR Jet Centres distinguished themselves with exclusive services including private security, pet handling, and premium UK Border Force processing. Operating out of Birmingham, Liverpool, Exeter and Bournemouth, the company’s emphasis on teamwork and collaboration ensures seamless operations across all locations, with staff often supporting each other during peak periods.
