Charter operator Myjet Aviation officially opened their new $1.5 million headquarters at Bendigo Airport last Friday.
The state-of-the-art aviation facility was officially opened by Premier and Minister for Regional Cities Denis Napthine and Minister for Aviation Gordon Rich-Phillips.
The new facilities include hangar accommodation for five aircraft, private passenger lounge and a pilot planning and administration centre. The facility is serviced by aprons and a taxiway capable of handling commercial aircraft.
“This purpose-built facility can house up to five aircraft, including three turbo-prop or jet aircraft," Premier Napthine said. “Myjet is a rapidly growing business and this development will allow the company to stable its aircraft in Bendigo rather than Essendon – keeping jobs in central Victoria."
Myjet's project is the largest private investment in Bendigo airport in more than 40 years, and is expected to give a major boost to the proposed redevelopment of the airport. The Victorian government has kicked-in $5 million to assist with building a new runway.
Myjet Managing Director Chris Richards praised the local government for getting behind the project.
“We were determined to realise this passion in spite of challenges including a lack of essential services," he said. "The commitment from City Councillors and State Government to fund the future airport development and runway construction to a level equivalent with other regional centres, provided invaluable support and impetus for us.
“Bendigo is a proud city; proud of its history and heritage, proud of its people, and proud of businesses that help it prosper. Myjet is a proud Bendigo company trying to make its contribution.”
Myjet operates a Cessna Citation II SP, a Piper Chieftain and a Piper Aztec running charters out of primarily Bendigo and Essendon.