Royal plane firm defies headwinds

Air Partner, the Queen’s official chartered aircraft supplier, yesterday said it continued to trade profitably despite the difficult conditions in the travel sector.

Revenues from its largest division of commercial jet broking were lower than last year but in line with expectations, the Gatwick-based firm added.

In a trading update, chief executive Mark Briffa said: “Planned investment is continuing, bringing into the team experienced professionals with a strong sales focus and industry-wide connections.”