CitationShares, the recently formed fractional ownership venture between Cessna and TAG Aviation, USA has placed orders for 50 aircraft. While the US scheme is looking for six used Bravos, to form the core of the Citationshares fleet prior to new aircraft delivery, there are no plans for a European wing as of yet.

Marilyn Richwine, Cessna's vp of corporate communications, told EBAN: "It will be at least five years before this option is considered."

The CitationShares' US fleet will initially consist of the recently certified CJ1 and the Citation Bravo. A company spokesman said: "Future CitationShares product offerings of other Citation models will be considered in response to market demand."

Said Gary Hay, Cessna's ceo: "Fractional ownership continues to emerge as the fastest growing segment of business aviation, and the Cessna Citation is the business jet of choice for fractional ownership customers. "We have studied this market and believe that the ideal opportunity has presented itself as we join forces with another outstanding company."