Gloucestershire Airport based The Little Jet Group is celebrating a major milestone.

The group, which includes The Little Jet Company and Regency Jet Ltd, has announced being awarded an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). It was granted by the Civil Aviation Authority, the UK's aviation regulator.

The AOC certificate will allow the company to fly its own aircraft for commercial purposes, and shows that Little Jet can ensure the safety of its employees and the general public whilst operating its services.

The Little Jet Company has reached new heights since it was set up six years ago by directors Jason Bishop and Barry Preece, who met a school and share a love of aviation.

"We have high standards and have worked hard to achieve an AOC," said Mr Preece.

"This is an exciting time for us, and we are looking forward to the future."

Services offered by the firm include privately owned jets for passenger charter, and also for cargo, medical and critical flights. Little Jet also manages aircraft and prides itself on being able to fly clients to European destinations, as well as having access to a global jet fleet.

Recent years have seen the group invest in a new office and handling facilities and their team has continued to grow. There are now 20 staff and the company recently expanded to form The Little Jet Group.

Mr Preece added: "We are extremely pleased and honoured to have been awarded an AOC which enables us to take control of our own fleet of aircraft.

"We would like to thank the CAA for their continued support since December and especially throughout the difficult times of COVID-19. Without their commitment this would not have been possible."

Jason Bishop, who still regularly flies the jets as a captain, said: "We would like to thank all our staff for their hard work and dedication during this transition period. They have worked very hard during the last couple of months and we are proud to have been awarded an AOC. We look forward to working with the CAA in the future to ensure our commitment to safe operations."

A spokesperson for Gloucestershire Airport said: "Gloucestershire Airport is delighted with the success of The Little Jet Company. They have gone from strength to strength, which is indicative of their work ethic and customer focus. We are delighted that Little Jet Company have now obtained their own AOC and can continue to offer charter flights from Gloucestershire Airport.

"We are looking forward to working collaboratively with them to support the future growth of their business and wish them every success."