Aero Club gets ready to take off again

Friday 05 February 2021

The covid-hit Jersey Aero Club is getting ready to take off once again, after redecorating, applying for nearly £30,000 in Government support, and signing a new deal to provide flight training in the island.

The 71-year-old club, which went into administration last May as a result of the virus crisis, is currently restructuring and hopes that flight training will be able to resume in April.

Synergy Aviation is a private aircraft charter and management company based at Fairoaks Airport near Woking in Surrey. It also owns Fairoaks Flight Centre, which has a fleet of training aircraft.

Glen Heavens, Chairman of Synergy Aviation, said: “Our aim is to transform the Jersey facilities into a world-class training facility to encourage and support our customers. In line with our flight centre at Fairoaks, we will provide a modern, friendly, professional and safe environment.

“Aside from being part of the ‘Synergy’ family in Jersey, Aero Club members will also have access to our knowledgeable ground staff, instructors and facilities at Blackbushe and Fairoaks.”

Pictured: The Jersey Aero Club is halfway through a 40-year lease on its home along the Airport Road.

The club, which is one of the oldest in the British Isles, is currently redecorating and refurbishing its clubhouse in preparation for the reopening of the bar when the covid restrictions are lifted.

Chairman Derek Fage said: “We are full of New Year optimism having done a lot of work behind the scenes on restructuring the club.

“We have been talking to Synergy, as well as the Ports and our aviation regulator for some time, not only about setting up the training centre but also about handling visiting aircraft and once again making Jersey a tourist destination for private aircraft."

Still plenty to do to get ready for relaunch. Cleaning up and appropriately disposing of 70 years of administrative records today ready redecoration of the admin office. We do have office space available to rent in St Peter for a small biz / charity etc ideally aviation related. pic.twitter.com/dqH5CWb3R4

— Jersey Aero Club (@Jerseyaeroclub) February 3, 2021

He continued: “Synergy obviously has all the certification and resources to run the centre but I expect that there will be a mix of their own and existing local instructors.

“We really want to focus on the sustainability of the club by making sure that every decision we make is properly stress-tested. Administration obviously brings reputational and well as financial damage but we have over 400 members, a fantastic clubhouse and a great spirit.”

The club’s latest newsletter also reveals that its executive committee has applied to the Government’s Fiscal Stimulus Fund.

We’re using our #lockdown time wisely to redecorate the building and prepare for reopening of our cafe/bar and flying facilities for #JerseyCI locals and visitors. Doesn’t the new paint look great! pic.twitter.com/87GPH12LGg

— Jersey Aero Club (@Jerseyaeroclub) February 2, 2021

It is asking for £27,000 to improve its heating and insulation, and boost club membership through advertising and marketing.

The club's car park is currently home to the Government's mobile covid testing laboratory.