Eccelsa Aviation: Best Private Aviation Terminal Operator Europe 2023

While some companies might adopt “the customer is king” as a motto, Eccelsa Aviation counts ruling royalty and heads of state among regular clientele. Eccelsa Aviation, one of only four Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) in Italy, runs a dedicated private and business aviation terminal at Sardinia’s Olbia Airport, near the world-renowned beaches, resorts and attractions of Costa Smeralda. Eccelsa Aviation pampers passengers with luggage porters, valet parking and shuttle services. Travellers are tempted with premium shopping experiences and personalised concierge services. Eccelsa Aviation encourages visitors to explore the region’s hidden treasures by renting sportscars, chartering yachts or island-hopping by helicopter. Passengers interested in purchasing a private jet — sales of which are expected to reach $34.6bn in 2023 — can peruse personalisation options at the terminal’s Bombardier boutique. Private and corporate air traffic has surged since the pandemic hit, and Eccelsa Aviation operates at full capacity throughout the balmy summer season. The FBO ranks among the busiest European terminals every summer, outpacing all commercial flight activity at Olbia Airport. Eccelsa Aviation was established as a separate business unit in 2003 and moved into its new spacious and elegantly designed terminal in 2009. It’s been managed by Italy’s biggest infrastructure investment fund since 2021. Eccelsa Aviation and its red-carpet amenities first caught the attention of the CFI.co judging panel in 2019, and the jury continues to find cause to justify the company’s winning streak — most recently the 2023 Best Private Aviation Terminal Operator (Europe) award.