Brussels airport-based charter and fixed-base operation Abelag [stand 1158] is looking to reach its 50th anniversary next year in rude health, following a €4 million ($5.14 million) upgrade to its Belgian facility.

It recently completed the project, adding a 400m² (4,300ft²) lounge and an additional 4,000m² maintenance hangar.

"It is a unique place in Brussels," says chief executive Hervé Laitat. "It provides a quiet oasis of comfort."

The company, which has 25 aircraft in its fleet, also hopes to bolster its presence in northern Europe via a merger or acquisition of a smaller operator.

"Another five to 10 aircraft in our fleet would give us much more power and exposure," says Laitat. "But it would need to be within one hour's flight in order to deliver synergies for us."

Source: Flight Daily News