THE managing director of Oxford Airport is taking off for a new job in the Middle East.

Steve Jones will take up a new position as general manager of Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi in November.

Mr Jones, who has 36 years’ experience in aviation, said: “It is going to be hard to say goodbye, but this is a golden opportunity to contribute to the creation of a world-class dedicated business and VIP aviation centre.”

He added: “I hope we can pursue some unique marketing initiatives between the two airports.”

During his time at Oxford, Mr Jones has overseen the takeover of the Kidlington airport by the Reuben brothers in 2007, the creation of the Oxford jet facility and its growth to become home to five engineering firms and seven charter companies.

Mr Jones started his aviation career with British Aerospace in 1974 as an apprentice with Hawker Siddeley and rose through the ranks to become a director.

Meanwhile, the latest development at Oxford Airport is taking shape in the form of a new hangar scheduled for completion by December.

The £3m development follows growing demand from operators using the site.

Business development director James Dillon-Godfray estimated about 20 jobs will have been created at the new facility, known as Hangar 14, once it is fully operational.