New jobs at West Bromwich aviation firm

Bosses at a West Bromwich aviation firm already running a luxury aircraft from Birmingham Airport have announced they are to buy a second plane and create 20 new jobs.

Cello Aviation, based In Holyhead Road, opposite the Hawthorns ground, currently owns a BAE 146, which flies exclusive clients around Europe.

Chairman of the company Raj Gill has now announced he is in the final stages of buying a second similar aircraft, which will also run from the airport. Mr Gill spent £2.3 million on his first plane in 2008.

He gave the Avro Business Jet an £800,000 refurb, and swapped the 90 standard seats for 47 leather luxury seats.

He offers bespoke service for its clients and has a chef who will cook to order.

Mr Gill said: "We launched Cello Aviation in September 2009 and it has been difficult but also very successful. We have built up a reputation now, and our clients are very pleased with the service we offer. We are now going to buy a second plane.

"The advantage of this plane is that it can operate into runways which are as short as 3,800ft.

"It means we can pick up and take customers from some of the most challenging airports in the world. We can get our clients to where they want to be."

In preparation for the new plane, and because of the extra staff he will hire, Mr Gill plans to move the staff who are currently based at Birmingham Airport to the head office West Bromwich. He currently employs 32 people in Cello Aviation, but says he also contracts out a great deal of work to local suppliers and businesses.

He said: "We are in the process of organising for the staff to come over to West Bromwich, it will just make things easier for everyone, and of course improve communication and make everyone feel part of the one company."

By Naomi Dunning