Dubai-based DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF) has attained an AOC from the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority, enabling it to manage and operate third-party aircraft commercially. The company already provides FBO and handling services as well as maintenance from its facility at Al Maktoum International airport. DCAF is a joint venture between DC Aviation in Stuttgart, and Al Futtaim.

“The receipt of the AOC is an important milestone for us,” says general manager Holger Ostheimer. “We can now extend the geographic footprint of the DC Aviation Group, which has over 15 years' experience operating private and business jet aircraft.”

DCAF will commence operations with a Global XRS and is looking to add to its fleet in the course of 2015.

Ostheimer is delighted to be part of the highly accredited A6 registry: “Local stakeholders appreciate us flying the flag. As a UAE-based member of the DC Aviation Group it was a natural decision to operate aircraft under A6.

“The receipt of the certification culminates a year's work and I would like to congratulate and thank the entire team for their efforts.

“Al Maktoum was chosen as the base for DCAF as it has no slot restrictions for arriving and departing aircraft, and allows the most convenient access to aircraft, which can be parked immediately in front of the vip passenger lounge, a few steps away from screening and clearing facilities,” Ostheimer concludes.