Norwich International Airport has been sold by majority stakeholders Omniport to the Rigby Group.

The facility will now be managed by Rigby Group’s airport division Regional & City Airports (RCA), which also already owns and operates Coventry and Exeter Airports, which it acquired in 2010 and 2013 respectively.

Chairman and chief executive Sir Peter Rigby said: “We have continually reiterated our belief in the importance of regional airports to local and regional communities and their economies. We are intent on developing our aviation business within the Rigby Group, and have made another significant acquisition here.

“I am delighted to welcome Norwich’s staff to a workforce that now safeguards approximately 650 aviation jobs, and look forward to working with them as we plot out a secure, sustainable and positive future for the facility.”

Andrew Bell, Norwich International Airport chief executive, said: “This is a significant and very positive day for the airport.

“As a highly respected and stable organisation, Rigby Group’s involvement will enable us to build on the many achievements of recent years, safeguarding the future of the business and providing us with a platform from which to build an even more prosperous future for the airport itself and the region.”

George Nobbs, leader of Norfolk County Council, said: “I’ve had a meeting with Sir Peter today and liked what I saw and heard.

“I am confident that he shares our aims and ambitions for the airport in particular and Norfolk and Norwich in general. I are happy to confirm that Norfolk’s shareholding in the airport remain unaffected and we are deeply committed and enthusiastic about working together.”