Second aircraft painting facility opens in region

A SECOND multi-million pound aircraft painting facility has opened at Teesside Airport as part of a expansion by a leading aviation firm, creating up to 40 new jobs.

- By SUE KIRBY

Airbourne Colours' second Teesside facility is now operational after construction of the 27,000sq ft unit was completed in October.

The facility based on the airport's northside has been developed to manage the company’s growing order book from global airlines. It will be capable of accommodating narrow-body aircraft, including the Airbus A321 and Boeing 737 MAX 10 and the new base coincides with the 15-year anniversary of Airbourne Colours.

Airbourne Colours Founder and Chief Executive Steve Darbyshire said: "It is outstanding to see the completion of our fantastic new facility at Teesside Airport which is essential in helping us meet the demand from our clients across the global aircraft industry.

"As a born and bred Teessider, it’s been brilliant to grow our business so quickly here and bring even more high-quality job opportunities which will benefit local people. It's also great to mark our 15th anniversary with this further expansion of our operations."