BizJet To Cut 150 Jobs In Tulsa

BizJet International says it will reduce its Tulsa workforce by 150 jobs.

In a news release the company said the problem is a decline in the VIP jet business due to lack of demand in Russia, China and other key markets.

BizJet is a subsidiary of Lufthansa Technik which has decided to put BizJet's VIP unit in dormant mode once current projects are finished. BizJet will keep its facilities, but will cut 150 out of about 250 jobs. 
 
The company will focus on engine services and invest in the development of a Center of Excellence for the U.S. with the intention to offer new services. The company said it will watch the VIP and Executive market to decide whether to re-open. 
 
BizJet will offer employees a financial package and will try to offer jobs with other Lufthansa Technik companies in North America. The company has more than a dozen locations, subsidiaries and offices in the U.S. with around 2,000 employees.
 
Lufthansa Technik says it's committed to Oklahoma and Tulsa.

10/21/2015: Related Story: Lufthansa Boeing 747 Makes Final Flight, Lands In Tulsa

Its Lufthansa Technik Component Service is located next door to BizJet in Tulsa and is expected to expand its business.

Mike Neal, president and CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, released the following statement on the news:

"Whether small in number or large, layoffs are difficult for any community and the families impacted by them. However, I’m confident BizJet will continue to have a viable presence in Tulsa and will further strengthen the long-term relationship with the business community. Our press conference earlier today is proof that the Tulsa region’s workforce needs are continuing to grow and the Chamber has already convened its workforce partner organizations to begin outlining a plan to help any impacted employee find comparable employment or any skilled training needed."