Portuguese handling company OMNI Handling has opened a brand new 150 sqm landside FBO at Faro airport in the Algarve. It debuts in time to welcome F1 teams returning to Portugal's Portimao circuit after a 14-year absence.

“Faro is where our activity has been growing most these past two years, and it was only logical to invest here in a luxurious new FBO to the benefit of our trusted clients,” says CEO Ricardo Pereira.

Portugal's Mood 4 Wood project team brought the facility's design to life, despite the obstacles of working under COVID-19 restrictions, with a passenger lounge, a rest area dedicated to crew, a fully equipped kitchen, an en-suite private bedroom and an outdoor terrace.

In addition, Movart Gallery, a specialist in African contemporary art, was selected by OMNI to provide artwork, to give a final touch to the FBO. “The inauguration of the Faro FBO follows the recent opening of our two other lounges in Cascais and Madeira this year, setting new FBO facility standards for our passengers and crew in the region,” comments OMNI director Jerome Franier.

A key feature of the FBO is a virtual golf simulator, powered by Trackman, in a dedicated area allowing passengers to compete on world renowned golf courses. “Visitors play golf year-round here – what better attraction than to offer this experience to our clients when visiting our FBO,” adds Franier. When not used as a golf simulator, the dedicated practice area and giant screen will convert into a movie theatre.