Aircraft painting firm Airbourne Colours is investing £6.5 million in building a brand-new hangar at Teesside International Airport.

Construction of the 27,000sqft hangar is currently underway and marks a pivotal phase in the company’s expansion across the UK.

With an annual turnover exceeding £10 million, Airbourne Colours provides aircraft painting services for major European airlines, including Jet2, easyJet, Loganair, Smartlynx, Lufthansa, Aegean, and Brussels Airlines to name a few.

Steve Darbyshire, Teesside-born entrepreneur and founder and chief executive of Airbourne Colours, 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, said: “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.”

Airbourne Colours was granted conditional planning approval for the new hangar by Darlington Borough Council in October 2023.

Barnard Castle-based S&A Fabrications is the main contractor for the development, with British Steel also playing a crucial role in the construction process.

Completion of the facility is expected in Q3 2024 and aims to generate 40 new jobs in the region.

Airbourne Colours already has facilities at Bournemouth International Airport and East Midlands Airport, both of which can provide painting services for aircraft up to Airbus A321/B737-900.

READ MORE NEWS: MAAS Aviation celebrates 40 years of aircraft painting