Jet Aviation has completed work on a new 8,000m² (86,111ft²) production centre at its maintenance and completion facility in Basel, Switzerland. The project involved renovation and an extension, and it brings together the cabinetry, interiors and finishing and sheet metal shops in one location.
The new space is comprised of 5,000m² (53,820ft²) of renovated space, and an additional 3,000m² (32,292ft²) extension. Architectural design and planning commenced in mid-2019, with construction beginning later that year. Phase I was dedicated to moving the sheet metal, interior and finishing shops, and was completed in November 2020. Phase II focused on moving the cabinet shop and completing the extension and renovation project.
“This investment is a testament to our promise of being easy to do business with,” said Jeremie Caillet, Jet Aviation’s vice president of VIP completions. “Customers trust us with one of their most valuable assets, and we take pride in bringing their vision to life. This centre consolidates all production activities, bringing cabinetry, interior finishing and sheet metal under one roof. It further creates significant efficiencies and makes it easier for our customers to visit and experience first-hand the craftsmanship that makes their aircraft so unique.”
“The concept and development of such a large project adjacent to our existing hangars was a long and complex programme, which took almost 10 years from initial concept to opening,” said Sylvain Von Hof, vice president of real estate, facility management and logistics, EMEA. “It is a fantastic achievement and we thank everyone who took part, from the teams here at Jet Aviation, to our local partners, including the Euro Airport, which played a significant role throughout the entire process.”
In line with Jet Aviation’s commitment to employee wellbeing and sustainability, the centre is designed with LED dimmable lighting, a high-pressure vacuum system, dust collector systems, two separate paint cabins, and ventilation units. The centre also features 600m² (6,458ft²) of levelled assembly and pre-assembly platforms to foster optimal performance.
“After more than 20 years, we are delighted to see our production teams of some 150 employees together in one location,” said Cyril Martiniere, vice president, MRO Europe and general manager at Basel. “This new, spacious and light-filled centre represents the latest innovations in infrastructure and equipment for a safe and enjoyable work environment and will allow the teams to collaborate even more efficiently and effectively with one another and with our customers.”
