The hangar was the venue for our first ever Open Evening which attracted potential business customers, airport executives, leading politicians and friends.
The red carpet was rolled out for the star attractions – the magnificent Beechcraft King Air 250 and the stunning Cessna Citation M2.
The event was held in conjunction with Textron Aviation and was the first major event of its kind to be hosted in the 33,000 sq ft hangar.
Textron’s Ashley Namihas, Steve McKenna and Stuart Valentine, Woodgate’s John Keen and David Shaw, were on hand to deal with the myriad of questions from guests including questions on aircraft management and purchasing. They were also able to get up close, inspect the aircraft and savour the luxurious and comfortable interiors.
Woodgate had its full team present for the gala evening to explain the full range of services it provides including competitively priced fuel, hangarage, maintenance, aircraft charter, sales and leasing.
Away from the glitz of the evening, it was a case of business as usual. The Embraer charter that transported superstar Sir Elton John for his sell-out concert in Belfast was re-fuelled using Woodgate’s new 18,000-litre tanker in front of the hydraulic hangar doors.
Elsewhere, the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance operated by Woodgate was readied for a flight to Doncaster to bring home a patient.
The evening was well supported by politicians, MPs Danny Kinahan and Ian Paisley, and MLAs Paul Girvan and Steve Aiken.
Afterwards, Woodgate General Manager, David Shaw, said the evening had been a resounding success.
David added: “It exceeded our most optimistic expectations. The turnout was great and we deeply appreciated the strong backing we got from the politicians and friends.
“There was a touch of festive cheer in the foyer and VIP Lounge with our tall, beautifully decorated Christmas trees and, of course, the usual accompaniments you’d expect at a Christmas party.
“In the hangar, people milled about freely to the strains of the Ulster Youth Orchestra who provided musical entertainment.
“We were delighted with the way things went and we know from feedback that our guests thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”
“Thanks must go to Textron for choosing us to showcase their aircraft, Avfuel for their contribution to the evening and our Staff for ensuring the facility showcased what we have to offer.
