Oxford: Flightline Support lands £400,000 Burma order

An Oxford manufacturer of aircraft refuelling vehicles and systems has landed an order worth £400,000 in Burma.

Standlake-based Flightline Support has supplied Yangon airport, which is expected to see over 3.8 million passengers a year, with two 20,000 litre refuelling vehicles.

The company, which works closely with government export body UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) to help export over three quarters of its £8 million turnover, is among the first UK companies to clinch orders in the country since the trade sanctions were lifted 12 months ago.

Stephen Myatt, aerospace specialist for UKTI South East, said: “Flightline is a fantastically ambitious company. The fact it is already a well-established global exporter but continues to push to new markets shows its determination.”

Richard Lewis, sales and marketing manager for Flightline Support, said: “When the tender came up in 2013, we worked closely with our local partner company, which provides fuel and fuelling expertise, to secure the deal.

“The fact that our company is renowned globally for high-quality and ultra-reliable equipment gave us a headstart.”

For Flightline, securing the deal in Burma means it is on track with its export strategy. Next, it is focused on other areas in South East Asia, and word has spread regarding its success in Burma resulting in enquiries from Thailand and Papua New Guinea.

Lewis added: “Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea are all very strong growth markets where airport development is on the up.”

With UKTI help Flightline has also just clinched an order worth £350,000 in Pakistan, £200,000 in Morocco and £160,000 in Kenya.

Lewis continued: “UKTI has been a fantastic help to us. We are experienced exporters - we have exported for many years to markets across East and West Africa, the Middle East and even Siberia, but the help UKTI provides us cannot be underestimated. I would advise anyone to give UKTI a call and speak to an adviser – they open so many doors and give so much advice and support.

“We are extremely proud of our business and the fact we make our products in the UK – and we are extremely grateful to UKTI and the support they provide.”

Myatt, added: “We are keen to continue to help the firm on their export journey by offering any international trade support they may need.”

The company is heading to Singapore in September for the International Airport show where it hopes to clinch further deals.