Page 10 - Volume 11 Number 9

With its two King Airs, Woodgate Aviation says its able to respond to any emergency request within approximately one hour and are available 24/7.
also be offered for outbound travelers from Northern Ireland or the Irish border counties.
Woodgate Aviation’s engineering facility (maintenance) holds a full Part 145 Approval, Part M Approval including airworthiness review and has also been upgraded to provide in-house maintenance for the King Airs, with the ability to give full Phase 1-4 maintenance over the standard two-year cycle. Six licensed engineers have been trained, receiving the necessary type rating for engines and airframe, with one given further training in wing spar inspection. The hangar area is planned to be doubled in size to allow more room, not only for maintenance, but also to secure accommodations for visiting and managed business jets.
At the beginning of December 2016, Woodgate Aviation had the opportunity to showcase their new facility by hosting an Open Evening (Open House), in association with Textron Aviation. This was a great opportunity for Textron to meet potential customers with the stunning King Air 250 on static display for all guests to view.
Currently Woodgate Aviation has 10 pilots, supported by administration and engineering staff, bringing the total work staff count to 35, including the Managing Director, John Keen. “I’ve had a long association with the King Air having undergone type training in 2007. The proven reliability and cabin space is ideal for our multi-role operation. The cabin interior is more than suitable for Medevac sorties, while also having the ability to operate private charters in comfort with a capacity of up to eight passengers.”
The arrival of the King Airs is turning a new page in the history of an old-established company, which has survived and prospered due to its adaptability to the
8 • KING AIR MAGAZINE
Although Woodgate Aviation is Ireland’s longest running general aviation business, a new FBO and hangar complex was opened in 2016 and offers a modern lobby and departure lounge, among other amenities.
needs of the market. Accordingly, Woodgate Aviation would welcome enquiries from King Air pilots interested in working for the company. KA
The author would like to express his grateful thanks to John, David and Keith for their help with this article.
Guy Warner is a historian and author living in Northern Ireland. He has written some 30 books and several hundred articles on aviation past and present. He also gives talks, reviews books, contributes to television and radio programs and performs consultancy work for museums and universities. He is currently working on a history of the war at sea 1914-18 from bases in Ireland, which will include the vital role played by the USN and USNAS in 1917-18.
SEPTEMBER 2017