Gloucestershire Airport (GLO/EGBJ): The Premier General & Business Aviation Gateway to the Cotswolds
Gloucestershire Airport, affectionately known by its location as Staverton, stands as a strategic cornerstone for general and business aviation in the heart of the UK’s South West. Positioned perfectly between the historic cities of Cheltenham and Gloucester, it serves as the essential aerial gateway to the Cotswolds, one of England’s most cherished areas of natural beauty. Far surpassing many of its peers, GLO is consistently ranked among the UK’s busiest General Aviation (GA) airports, cementing its critical role in regional transport, private travel, and flight training.
General Information and Operations
While not focused on large-scale commercial airline services, Gloucestershire Airport is a dynamic hub for diverse aviation activities, prioritising efficiency and specialised services.
- Location: Staverton, situated approximately 6 km from both Cheltenham and Gloucester city centres, offering excellent road access to the wider region.
- IATA/ICAO Codes: GLO / EGBJ.
- Primary Function: Dedicated to General Aviation (GA), robust Flight Training operations, efficient Business Jet movements, and essential Air Ambulance and Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS).
- Movement Volume: Consistently records a high volume of aircraft movements (e.g., cited 66,106 movements in 2023), highlighting its status as a high-traffic GA centre.
- Connectivity: Offers swift and discreet access for private and charter passengers seeking to visit the M5 corridor, the Cotswolds, and the Midlands.
Strategic Developments and The Future of Regional Aviation
Gloucestershire Airport is focused on securing its long-term future through major infrastructure investments and a commitment to modern aviation standards.
- Horizon Aero Group (HAG) Acquisition: The planned ownership transition to Horizon Aero Group Limited (HAG) signals a major commitment to transforming GLO into a sustainable, digitally-innovative regional aviation hub, prioritising aviation-led growth.
- Infrastructure Investment: The completion of the comprehensive £8.5 million runway upgrade in 2022 provided newly resurfaced main and crosswind runways (09/27 and 04/22). This upgrade included modern lighting and enhanced drainage, significantly boosting all-weather operational capability.
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) Modernisation: A substantial investment, including a £500,000 ATC system upgrade, has improved operational resilience and safety standards, ensuring the airport remains compliant with stringent CAA requirements and supporting future traffic growth.
- Sustainability Focus: The new strategic vision is heavily focused on achieving Net Zero targets, positioning GLO at the forefront of the UK’s efforts toward sustainable aviation practices through digital innovation and efficient operations.
Terminal, Facilities, and Passenger Experience
The airport offers a streamlined and highly personalised experience, tailored specifically to the needs of private and business travellers.
- Terminal: A compact, user-friendly terminal designed for the rapid and discreet processing of private, charter, and flight school traffic.
- Amenities: Standard public services include complimentary Wi-Fi access and a publicly accessible cafe/restaurant, offering a comfortable viewing spot for the airfield.
- Business Traveller Services: Dedicated facilities and discreet service for VIP and business aviation clientele ensure maximum efficiency, privacy, and expedited handling.
- Accommodation: Several highly-rated hotels, such as The Greenway Hotel and Spa and various options near the M5 motorway, are conveniently located within a short drive.
Aviation Ecosystem: Operators, Training, and MRO Services
GLO is a critical nexus for specialised aviation companies, contributing significantly to the local economy and the UK’s aerospace sector.
- Major Operators: The airport facilitates a range of specialised private and charter aviation firms, managing bespoke travel requirements for individuals and businesses.
- MRO Excellence: Home to Gama Aviation’s significant service centre, the airport provides essential Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, particularly for specialist helicopters (e.g., Leonardo AW169/AW139 models), supporting vital HEMS and air ambulance operations across the region.
- Flight Training Hub: Renowned flight schools at GLO provide comprehensive training programs. The site also hosts the Wings For Warriors flight training centre, which is dedicated to training wounded military veterans, highlighting the airport’s role in community and career development.
- Destinations: Primarily connects to various national and European private/charter destinations, supporting flexible business routes and specialist seasonal travel demands.
Transportation, Parking, and Accessibility
The airport’s location provides straightforward transport links to the surrounding region, making travel convenient for all users.
- Road Access: Strategically situated directly off the A40, offering excellent, fast connections to the M5 motorway (Junction 11) for travel north, south, and towards the Midlands.
- Parking: Ample, cost-effective on-site parking is readily available for both long- and short-term stays, situated conveniently close to the terminal entrance.
- Public Transport: Reliable local bus services connect the airport directly to both Gloucester and Cheltenham city centres, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Taxis & Car Rental: A dedicated taxi rank operates from the terminal exit, and local car rental providers offer efficient pre-booked vehicle collection services.
Location and Key Contact Information
The airport serves as an ideal entry point for exploring Gloucestershire’s cultural and natural attractions.
- Address: Staverton, Cheltenham, GL51 6SR, UNITED KINGDOM.
- Official Website: www.gloucestershireairport.co.uk.
- Telephone: +44 1452 857700 (General Enquiries).