Luxaviation UK Marks 30 Years of Business Aviation Excellence

A Milestone for the UK Operation

In 2026, Luxaviation UK celebrates 30 years of excellence in business aviation. Originally founded as London Executive Aviation in 1996, the company has grown from a small charter operation based at Stapleford Aerodrome into one of the United Kingdom’s leading private jet operators.

Over three decades, Luxaviation UK has built a reputation for professionalism, operational reliability and personalised client service. Today, as part of the global Luxaviation Group, the company continues to deliver bespoke charter and aircraft management solutions while maintaining a strong presence within the European business aviation community.

From Stapleford to the Luxaviation Network

Luxaviation UK was founded by Patrick Margetson-Rushmore, George Galanopoulos and Amanda Galanopoulos with the ambition of creating a charter operation built on safety, professionalism and close client relationships.

The business initially operated small aircraft from Stapleford, serving specialised charter markets including corporate travel and the horse racing community travelling between racecourses across the United Kingdom and Europe.

As demand grew, the company expanded from piston aircraft into turboprops and business jets, becoming one of the largest private jet operators in the UK and Europe within its first decade.

A defining milestone came in 2014 when London Executive Aviation joined the Luxaviation Group. The integration strengthened the group’s European network while allowing the UK operation to retain its strong operational identity.

The Vision Behind the Journey

The growth of Luxaviation UK is closely linked to the entrepreneurial journey of its CEO and co-founder, George Galanopoulos.

Originally from Greece, he moved to the United Kingdom in the 1980s intending to study computer science. A chance encounter with a commercial pilot and a flight on an empty leg aircraft sparked a passion for aviation that would shape his career.

After obtaining his commercial pilot licence in 1990 and working as a flight instructor, he helped establish charter operations at Stapleford before founding London Executive Aviation in 1996.

CEO Reflection

“Reaching thirty years is a proud moment for us. What began as a small operation with a single aircraft has grown into a respected part of the global Luxaviation network.

Our journey has always been shaped by people, innovation and our strong commitment to the aviation community. As we look ahead, we remain focused on investing in our fleet, supporting the industry and delivering the highest standards of service and safety for our clients.”

George Galanopoulos
CEO, Luxaviation UK

“Luxaviation UK has been an important part of the Luxaviation Group since 2014, bringing strong operational expertise and a respected reputation within the European charter market.

Celebrating thirty years of success reflects the dedication of the team and their continued contribution to the growth of the Luxaviation network.”

Patrick Hansen
CEO, Luxaviation Group

Fleet Evolution and Aircraft Expertise

Throughout its history, Luxaviation UK has demonstrated its ability to evolve its fleet in response to changing market requirements.

The company was the first operator in Europe to introduce the Cessna Citation Mustang into charter service and later became the largest non-fractional operator worldwide of the Embraer Legacy 600 and Legacy 650 aircraft family.

By April 2026, Luxaviation UK will welcome a Bombardier Challenger 650, a Challenger 604 and a third Embraer Praetor 600 to its managed fleet.

A Strong Presence Across the United Kingdom

Luxaviation UK operates from several key business aviation locations across the United Kingdom, including London Luton, Farnborough, London Biggin Hill and London Stansted.

These strategic bases allow the company to serve both domestic and international clients while supporting a growing portfolio of aircraft management and charter operations across Europe.

Supporting the Business Aviation Community

Luxaviation UK is a committed supporter of the British Business and General Aviation Association and the Air Charter Association, contributing to industry initiatives, events and advocacy.

The Aviation Polo Cup

A distinctive contribution to the aviation community is the Aviation Polo Cup, founded eighteen years ago by George Galanopoulos together with Philip Amadeus.

Welcoming more than eight hundred guests each year, the event has become one of the largest private aviation charity gatherings globally.

Safety at the Core of Operations

Safety remains the foundation of Luxaviation UK’s operations, supported by robust safety management systems, continuous training and operational oversight.

Looking Ahead

As Luxaviation UK celebrates this milestone, the company continues to invest in fleet, people and innovation, ensuring its position as a leading force in European business aviation.