Aircraft painting specialist Airbourne Colours, is powering into 2024 by unveiling a brand-new hangar at Teesside International Airport, marking a pivotal phase in the company’s expansion across the UK.
Teesside-born entrepreneur Steve Darbyshire, founder and Chief Executive of Airbourne Colours, is steering the company back to its roots by investing £6.5 million in establishing a base on Teesside, with plans to generate 40 new jobs in the region.
With an annual turnover exceeding £10 million, Airbourne Colours holds a prominent position in the aviation industry, providing aircraft painting services for major European airlines, including Jet2, easyJet, Loganair, Smartlynx, Lufthansa, Aegean and Brussels Airlines to name a few.
Commenting on the company’s expansion, Steve Darbyshire said: “Little did I know that after 14 years since Airbourne Colours’ inception in a location over 300 miles from Teesside Airport, I would get the opportunity to return to my roots. It fills me with great pride to be part of this journey, contribute to the airport’s regeneration, and provide well-paid jobs in Teesside. This is a personal childhood dream come true.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen welcomed the exciting development, stating: “This is more great news for our airport which is making its mark on the aviation scene. To have another world-renowned firm set up a base at Teesside is another big vote of confidence in our airport. It’s also good to see a successful Teessider leading the charge. This base will mean more high-quality jobs at our airport and bringing more income to fuel our turnaround plan.”
Construction of the 27,000-ft² hangar is currently underway, following conditional planning approval granted by Darlington Borough Council in October 2023. Barnard Castle-based S&A Fabrications is the main contractor for the development, with completion expected in Q3 2024, and British Steel playing a crucial role in the construction process.
