Falcon Aviation Services (FAS) has brought a Lineage 1000 into service as it builds its capacity to serve the top end of the private charter market.

Khaled Al Mansour, the Abu Dhabi-based company's chairman, says: "This is the first of two Lineage 1000 jets ordered by FAS in November 2007 along with commitments for more Embraer executive jets."

He adds: "FAS is embarking on an aggressive growth strategy in the helicopter and corporate jet charter market in response to the unprecedented growth in the Arabian Gulf region."

Al Mansour says the Lineage 1000 is certified for up to 19 passengers, offers comfort and privacy with its five distinct cabin zones and is configured with a full-size luggage compartment of 323 cubic feet.

"The range and comfort is excellent. It can travel 4,400 nm with eight passengers or 4,500 nm with four passengers, which allows it to fly non-stop from Abu Dhabi to London or Johannesburg or Tokyo."

He says the large cabin allows passengers to travel in great comfort with options such as a queen-sized bed and in-flight shower.

Al Mansour adds: "The UAE market expects excellence and with this aircraft we are sure to meet our clients' expectations."

FAS, which provides helicopter and corporate jet charter services from its Al Bateen base, says clients appreciate the space to work, rest and hold meetings on long journeys.