Hawthorne Global Aviation Services reopens FBO at Lakefront Airport (KNEW)

Avfuel-branded Hawthorne Global Aviation Services has reopened its premium FBO facility at Lakefront Airport (KNEW) in New Orleans, following an extensive renovation after Hurricane Isaac caused damage to the airport earlier this fall.

The facility, including a brand-new terminal opened earlier this year, boasts more than 50,000 square feet of hangar space and can accommodate aircraft up to the size of a Global Express. The FBO features the best in private aviation services and amenities including an atrium-style, two-story arrivals lobby, state-of-the-art flight planning, private pilot lounges and sleep rooms. It also features an upscale conference room with stunning views of the airport, a full-service catering kitchen, multiple aircrew bathrooms and showers along with a full portfolio of concierge and hospitality services.

According to Jay Taffet, FBO General Manager, “Our post- Isaac renovation took an already exceptional FBO to an entirely new level. We had the opportunity to make adjustments to every component of our facility and service model – now it is truly an FBO ‘designed by pilots for pilots’ and a destination you don’t want to miss!”

Hawthorne Global Aviation, a South Carolina-based company with an 80-year heritage in aviation, purchased a controlling interest in the AeroPremier facility at New Orleans Lakefront Airport in August 2012, rebranding it as a Hawthorne property. The Lakefront facility is part of the growing network of Hawthorne FBOs throughout the United States. “The newly renovated facility is a first-class private jet gateway to New Orleans located only 15 minutes from the heart of the city,” said Steven Levesque, President and CEO of Hawthorne. “We are thrilled to add such a great facility on a major general aviation airport as our initial presence on the Gulf Coast.”

With the new terminal opening and hurricane repairs behind them, the FBO is now focusing the majority of its attention on the upcoming professional football championship game, scheduled for February 3rd 2013 in New Orleans. Lakefront is the closest airport with the closest proximity to downtown New Orleans and the Superdome. Hawthorne is looking forward to providing attendees with a first-class gateway for this high-profile event.