A VIP charter airline which “hit the ground running in the depths of the recession” has taken on new staff as part of its ambitious expansion plans.
Birmingham-based Cello Aviation has strengthened its flight deck and cabin services teams following the addition of a second aircraft to the fleet.
Captain Robin Ferrier and first officer Andreas Strzemicki have joined the flight crew team, taking the complement to six with three captains and three first officers.
New recruits to the cabin services team include Hayley Carter and Lauren Davies, who have joined from Strategic Airlines and bmibaby
“The growth of the business with the acquisition of the second aircraft has created vacancies for flight crew,” said chief pilot Captain Tony Webber.
Cello now has a team of eight cabin crew headed by Dean Hull, head of cabin services, who said: “Our passengers have ranged from the Queen to top footballers, musicians and captains of industry. The people who look after them on board play a key role in making sure that the flying experience is the best that it can be.”
Cello’s turnover is expected to be around £3.5 million this year, a figure which it expects to double in the next 12 months.
The airline, which saw its bookings double in 2012, is currently evaluating new market opportunities as part of its mid and long term plans. It says it has plans to add more aircraft and create additional jobs.
Cello operates a BAE 146 in a 46 all leather seat configuration and an RJ 85 with 82 all leather seats and extended range tanks enabling it to serve destinations throughout Europe and as far as North Africa without needing to refuel.
The airline provides VIP charter services and also supports scheduled carriers on an ad-hoc basis when additional capacity is required.
