New contract wins with British Airways and Pegasus has convinced bosses at KLM UK Engineering to recruit up to 25 new staff to help free up its existing maintenance teams.

The firm currently employs 375 staff at its base at Norwich International Airport and also takes on up to 80 contracters at peak periods.

But it is now bolstering its workforce to deal with an expected surge in aircraft to deal with clients, which also includes KLM, KLM Cityhopper, and CityJet.

The firm, which last year had a turnover of £27.5m, said that the majority of the jobs on offer will be offered a winter season contract.

This includes removing seats and panels from aircraft in preparation for major overhaul by KLM UK Engineering's team and specialist cleaning of components.

Paul Chun, managing director at KLM UK Engineering said with the firm's busiest period starting at the end of the main holiday season, the roles were particularly suited to those with seasonal jobs in the tourism or agricultural industries.

'Those that work during the summer maintaining boats and farm machinery may have transferable skills which will be ideal,' he said. 'KLM UK Engineering has a very positive future here in Norwich.

'We have had an excellent year, generating a lot of business, and we want people who live nearby to share in our good fortune. In our experience, local people are very loyal and hardworking,' said Mr Chun.

Kerry Flower, KLM UK Engineering's Head of HR, said recruits who show particular aptitude for aviation work may be offered further training, leading to permanent roles within the company.

'It potentially could be a foot on the ladder to a full-time career,' said Mrs Flower.

In March the company opened its doors to prospective apprentices and is set to finalise the appointment of 10 aircraft mechanic apprenticeships announced in the spring.

The company's recruitment drive is additional to the 10 aircraft mechanic apprenticeships announced in the spring – appointments which will soon be finalised.