Horizon Aero Group Limited (HAG), the incoming owner of Gloucestershire Airport Limited (GAL), today unveiled its comprehensive Social Value Charter,
setting out a bold vision to transform the airport into a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive regional hub.
As Horizon Aero Group progresses towards acquiring GAL from Gloucester City Council and Cheltenham Borough Council, the company says it is committed to safeguarding the airport’s long-term future through aviation-led growth, innovation, and sustainability. At the heart of this transformation is a deep-rooted commitment to delivering measurable social, economic, and environmental value for Gloucestershire and the wider region.
A vision for inclusive growth
HAG’s approach is guided by six core social value principles:
- Skills and employment – Creating new training, apprenticeship, and career opportunities for local residents.
- Regional growth – Supporting local businesses and positioning the airport as a hub for innovation.
- Community and culture – Strengthening community ties and contributing to Gloucestershire’s vibrant social fabric.
- Health, safety and well-being – Ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all.
- Environmental stewardship – Advancing biodiversity and low-carbon operations.
- Responsible procurement – Embedding ethical and sustainable practices across the supply chain.
Commitments from the beginning
Horizon Aero Group has pledged a series of baseline commitments to ensure immediate and lasting impact:
- Transparency – A full review of jobs, suppliers, emissions, and accessibility in year one, with public reporting.
- Local engagement – Quarterly stakeholder forums to co-design social value priorities with councils, businesses, and communities.
- Responsible procurement – A full review and update of procurement policies and supplier standards.
- Early skills and jobs – Launch of an apprenticeship and internship programme within 12 months.
- Environmental action – 30% of electricity to be sourced from renewables by the end of year three.
Leadership transition
GAL’s current managing director, Jason Ivey, will be stepping down in January for personal reasons. Jason has played a pivotal role in the airport’s development and says he is fully committed to supporting a smooth transition to Horizon Aero Group’s ownership.
He said: “It has been a genuine privilege to lead Gloucestershire Airport, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my time here. I believe the Horizon Aero Group is exceptionally well positioned to take the airport forward, developing it into a thriving aviation hub that will continue to serve and benefit the region for generations to come. Their Social Value Charter reflects a bold, responsible, and forward-thinking approach to growth, and I’m proud to support its implementation during the transition. I wish Horizon, and my successor, every success in the exciting journey ahead.”
Mr Ivey will remain actively involved in the handover period. The recruitment process for a new Managing Director will begin shortly.
A charter for the future
“This is more than an investment in infrastructure – it’s an investment in people, place, and planet,” said Soma Pemmireddy CEO, Horizon Aero Group. “We are committed to ensuring Gloucestershire Airport becomes a beacon of responsible growth, innovation, and community value. Through this Social Value Charter, Horizon Aero Group and GAL pledge to embed social value into every aspect of the airport’s operations, procurement, and development. The framework will evolve in line with community needs and industry innovation, ensuring GAL’s growth is responsible, transparent, and sustainable.”
Councillor Rowena Hay, leader at Cheltenham Borough Council added: ‘’The social value promise from the soon-to-be owners of Gloucestershire Airport, will ensure positive and long-lasting impact and sustainable growth for the airport, its local communities and for businesses across the region. I’d like to extend my thanks to Jason Ivey for all that he has contributed during these past few years in his role as managing director and his support towards a seamless transition.’’
The leader of Gloucester City Council, Councillor Jeremy Hilton said: “Horizon’s enthusiasm and belief in the airport’s future role in driving regional growth is clear. Their shared vision for modernisation and business development marks an exciting step forward for Gloucestershire Airport. Thanks also to Jason Ivey for his leadership—his work has laid strong foundations for this next chapter.”
Media Contact:
Horizon Aero Group Ltd
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.horizonaerogroup.co.uk
Gloucester City Council
Email: [email protected]
Cheltenham Borough Council
Email: [email protected]
