SPECIALIST facilities to train new pilots have been opened at Bristol Airport.

The Lulsgate site’s new Bristol Flying School project was formally unveiled by airport chief exeutive Robert Sinclair this week, and will become home to the Bristol And Wessex Aeroplane Club and Aeros Flight Training.

Offices, training rooms, bar and restaurant facilities have all been built south of the runway, and will be used to train student and commercial pilots.

Barry Bailey, of Bristol Flying School and Bristol And Wessex Aeroplane Club said: “We have been working hard with Bristol Airport to identify the right investment opportunity and we are proud that we are now making this a reality.

“The club has an unmatched history in the Bristol area dating back to 1927 and with the construction of The Bristol Flying School the future remains set to meet the original club aim; to promote civil general aviation flying in Bristol and the surrounding area.”

And Mr Sinclair added: “This new facility will assist pilots across the South West by providing the latest facilities for students learning to fly or looking to further develop their careers in the aviation industry.

“Not only is Bristol Airport proud to be home to one of the oldest flying clubs in the UK, we are delighted this is now coupled with a leading edge commercial pilot training facility.”