The Belgian Airport and Amsterdam-based EASP Air BV have signed a letter of intent for the development of two hangars, including an office complex. The new facility will be centrally located on Apron 2 of OST. It will replace the existing, outdated buildings. The total surface area of the new site will amount to 4,900+ square meters. Each of the two hangars will be equipped with a three-story office complex.
The hangars are designed with ample capacity to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Bombardier Global 7500, during scheduled maintenance operations. Furthermore, the site will feature bonded warehousing, secure storage areas, and a dedicated shipments department to support logistical operations.
“With this project, we are taking an important step in the renewal and modernization of our airport,” said Nathan De Valck, CEO of Ostend-Bruges Airport. “We are striving for sustainable growth by investing in multiple strategic pillars.” His new partner, EASP AIR, specializes in aerial maritime surveillance, Coast Guard support, and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. In addition, beyond surveillance and patrol missions the company delivers airborne support for firefighting operations and special mission charters, including passenger and cargo transport, parachute drops, air mobility, and support for Special Operations Forces.
Thanks to its strategic location close to the North Sea and excellent facilities, Ostend-Bruges Airport offers an ideal base for such operations. For EASP AIR, the development marks a major milestone. “Our choice for Ostend is a deliberate one,” explained Pieter Voeten, CEO of EASP AIR. “We recognize the strong ambitions of Ostend-Bruges Airport, which align perfectly with our own growth strategy. Its strategic location and infrastructure make it the ideal base for our Special Mission Expertise Center.” The arrival of EASP AIR strengthens the airport’s position. “By investing not only in passenger and cargo flights but also in MRO activities (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul), we are creating additional employment opportunities in West Flanders and enhancing the innovative and specialized character of our airport,” De Valck added. “Moreover, synergies are emerging with other airport partners, such as VIVES, in the context of technical training programs.”
