Jet Aviation has announced that it will invest between $8 and $10 million to build an FBO at Viracopos Airport in Campinas, about 62 miles from São Paulo. The operation will be Jet Aviation’s first in Latin America and will offer aircraft maintenance and ground services.

“Having operations in Latin America is an important strategic step for Jet Aviation,” said Patrick Enz, vice president in charge of business development and special projects for Jet Aviation. The company is also considering opening an FBO in Mexico in the near future.

Jet Aviation decided to set up shop at Viracopos because the airport operates 24 hours a day, has optimal weather and excellent landing facilities, including one runway that can accommodate large aircraft, Enz said. A second runway should be completed during the second half of 2007. The airport offers business aviation customs clearance and full facilities that are not available at either São Paulo airport.

Additionally, airport management company Infraero has invested $32 million in the infrastructure at Viracopos in recent years, so the airport is one of the most modern in Brazil.

In addition to its proximity to São Paulo, Campinas also headquarters several important multinational corporations and is the gateway to western São Paulo, one of Brazil’s most important agricultural centers.

“We hope to be the first international FBO in the São Paulo region,” said Enz.

The company plans to begin construction on the facilities later this year and expects to be operational by the second half of next year.

Jet Aviation has hired two local executives to run the new facility: Marcio Oiticica de Souza, formerly with Líder Aviação; and Rogério Marques, formerly with Embraer.