Air Napier Joins PrivatPort's Global Executive Aviation Network

Hawke's Bay aviation company becomes part of Swissport's worldwide executive aviation business.

Air Napier has become the first New Zealand Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to join the PrivatPort global network, marking a significant milestone for both the Hawke's Bay aviation company and New Zealand's executive aviation industry.

Shah Aslam, CEO of SO Capital (left), and Josua Hildbrand, CEO of PrivatPort (right), cut the ribbon to mark Air Napier joining PrivatPort’s global executive aviation network.

Building on more than 25 years of executive aviation expertise under Swissport International AG, Swissport Executive Aviation has evolved into PrivatPort, the company's dedicated global executive aviation division. Air Napier FBO will now operate as PrivatPort, delivering premium executive aviation ground handling and FBO services to private and business aircraft arriving in New Zealand.

The appointment follows the formation of a strategic joint venture between PrivatPort and Auckland-based SO Capital to expand PrivatPort's presence across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

For Hawke's Bay, the announcement represents another major step in Air Napier's evolution from a regional aviation operator into an internationally connected aviation business.

Through PrivatPort, Air Napier gains access to a worldwide executive aviation network that supports thousands of private aircraft movements each year, providing consistent service standards for operators travelling between Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific and beyond.

While executive aviation services will initially be delivered from Auckland Airport, Air Napier's operational expertise, systems and management will underpin the expansion of PrivatPort's presence throughout New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

John Hamilton, Operations Manager of Air Napier, said joining PrivatPort was recognition of the company's commitment to delivering world-class aviation services.

"Air Napier has spent decades building a reputation for exceptional customer service and operational excellence. Becoming part of the PrivatPort network allows us to combine that local knowledge with one of the world's leading executive aviation organisations. It creates exciting opportunities not only for our business, but for New Zealand's growing role in international business aviation."

John Hamilton, Air Napier Operations Manager (left), with Josua Hildbrand, CEO of PrivatPort (centre), and Shah Aslam, CEO of SO Capital (right), outside PrivatPort FBO/Air Napier terminal.

Shah Aslam, CEO of SO Capital, said the partnership demonstrated that world-class aviation businesses could be built from New Zealand.

"This is a proud moment for both Air Napier and New Zealand. Hawke's Bay has always been home to a business with big ambitions, and joining the PrivatPort network shows that companies from our region can operate at the highest international standards. Through this partnership we're connecting New Zealand to a global executive aviation network while showcasing the professionalism, innovation and hospitality our aviation industry is known for."

"Hawke's Bay Airport has been the home of Air Napier for decades and has played a significant role in shaping our aviation expertise. It was only fitting that the next chapter of our journey, joining the PrivatPort global network, was formally signed here. While Auckland is our international gateway, Napier remains the foundation of who we are," said Aslam.   

Josua Hildbrand, CEO of PrivatPort, said Air Napier was the ideal partner to establish PrivatPort's presence in New Zealand.

"Air Napier brings extensive operational expertise, an outstanding reputation and a strong commitment to customer service. PrivatPort currently operates in more than 70 locations across four continents worldwide and welcomes Napier being added to the global network. Together with SO Capital, we look forward to building a premium executive aviation network across New Zealand and the wider Australia-Pacific region."

The appointment strengthens New Zealand's position within the international business aviation market as demand continues to grow across Australia-Pacific. It also provides international aircraft operators with seamless access to PrivatPort's globally recognised service standards when flying to New Zealand.

For Air Napier, the announcement represents another milestone in the company's continued growth from its Hawke's Bay roots into an aviation business with an expanding international presence. Air Napier private jet charters will still operate under the Air Napier brand.

About PrivatPort

PrivatPort is Swissport’s premium executive aviation brand, delivering world-class ground handling services for VIP passengers, flight crews and private jet operators. Operating through nine Fixed Base Operations (FBOs) and more than 70 locations across four continents, PrivatPort combines premium customer service with global operational expertise to provide seamless executive aviation solutions worldwide.

www.privatport.ch

About SO Capital

SO Capital is a New Zealand private investment company focused on investing in and growing businesses with long-term potential. Its portfolio includes Air Napier, a regional aviation operator; Ocean Flyer, advancing next-generation maritime transport; and MediCross, an integrated healthcare provider. Combining strategic capital with operational expertise, SO Capital partners with ambitious businesses to accelerate sustainable growth and create lasting value for investors, customers and the communities they serve.

www.socapital.co.nz