Bosses at a Norwich-based private air charter company are hoping to attract an offshore oil and gas operator to take up residence at a new purpose-built hangar, as a new �6.5m centre gets off the ground.

SaxonAir has moved into its new Klyne Business Aviation Centre at Norwich International Airport.

The new state of the art facility comprises a three-storey administration and passenger handling facility sited between the two large aircraft hangars.

SaxonAir's fleet of private jets and VIP helicopters now occupy one of the hangars with staff located in its associated offices. The ground floor facilities include the main reception desk, VIP lounge, flight crew rest room, training facilities, conference room and offshore passenger handling facilities. Several of the first floor offices have been leased to other aviation related companies and there is considerable interest in the available remaining space on the second floor.

SaxonAir has experienced continued growth since it was established in 2007 and the company believes that provision of the new business aviation centre provides the ideal platform from which to further develop and improve operating efficiencies, further increasing their competitiveness in the business aviation market.

They also feel that it is the ideal handling facility for visiting aircraft and provides business travellers with an enviable first class facility to meet the growing demands of the local business aviation market.

Colin Hancy, project manager for the new Klyne Business Aviation Centre said discussions are taking place with several offshore helicopter and oil and gas operators regarding the lease of the purpose built second hangar and offshore passenger handling facilities.

This includes four check-in desks, x-ray machines, seating for more than 50 passengers and four briefing rooms. Outside, there are five dedicated AW139 size helicopter stands although larger helicopters can also be handled.

'Norwich Airport is an ideal central location for offshore operations and logistic support,' Mr Hancy said. 'With a mix of international and domestic routes and dedicated offshore helicopter operations, the airport is ideally placed for the expanding renewable energy sector as well as supporting the existing oil and gas infrastructure vital to our local economy. In my opinion the facilities are the very best available in the UK and will secure the business for both Norwich and the Airport for many years to come.'

Chris Mace, managing director of SaxonAir, said: 'The demand for business aviation has grown in popularity as a new generation of business executives prefer private aircraft charter as the fastest, easiest way to travel enabling business schedules to be performed to maximize individual time efficiency and overall company productivity. Our new Business Aviation Centre is a strong and visible expression of SaxonAir's confidence in the local economy.'