Following the recent announcement by Airbus that it is adding a smaller aircraft to its corporate jet family, Zurich-based Comlux Aviation has placed an order for three of the 4,000nm A318 Elites.

The first aircraft, which will feature a private bedroom, executive lounge and seating for 19 passengers, is scheduled for delivery in 2007. Comlux will also take delivery of an ACJ - the corporate version of the larger A319 - in June next year.

Said Comlux president and ceo Ettore Rodaro: "The comfort and satisfaction of our customers, both in the air and on the ground, drives our day-to-day business, and the Airbus ACJ family's more spacious cabin, with its wider seats and aisles, plus its modern technology, strongly influenced our choice."

Comlux also operates a Challenger 604 and Falcon 2000EX EASy, and is soon to add a Legacy, Global Express XRS and an additional CL604. "We believe with this fleet we are covering the full range."

Airbus vp of executive and private aviation Richard Gaona added: "Comlux's selection of the Airbus ACJ and A318 Elite crowns a very successful year for us, in which we have made important inroads into executive charter, airline, corporate and government markets."