UK’s JOTA Aviation retires B146-200, opens Biggin Hill base

JOTA Aviation (ENZ, London Southend) retired its last BAe 146-200, G-SMLA (msn E2047), on October 22, 2020 The last BAe 146-200 operated in Europe, the 34.9-year-old quadjet was ferried from London Southend to Cranfield, Flightradar24 ADS-B data shows. Its last revenue flight was on August 9, 2020. Following the type’s retirement, JOTA Aviation’s fleet now consists of three BAe 146-300(QT)s, one ARJ-85, and one ARJ-100. The UK ACMI/charter specialist has also announced that it will launch a new base at London Biggin Hill, complimenting its existing sole base at Southend. “With its proximity to the Capital, London Biggin Hill is the ideal location from which to continue the growth in our operation. This is a very positive move for us, and we look forward to offering all our customers the quick reaction dispatches we are known for. I am excited to soon be providing outbound and inbound flights from our new base,” Chief Executive Andrew Green said. JOTA Aviation will be the first commercial operator based out of Biggin Hill, which caters primarily to the business charter market.