ExecuJet's confidence shows no sign of abating following news that it plans to acquire three more aircraft in the coming months.

As well as the Global Express and Challenger 604 aeroplanes that it took on in recent months, the company intends to add a Challenger 300, Falcon 900 and another Challenger 604 to the fleet, bringing to 13 the number of aircraft added to ExecuJet's European managed fleet in the past nine months.

Said Peter Smales, executive director of marketing at Executive Aviation Group, parent company of ExecuJet: "We've been inundated with interest over the past few months. We haven't had to go looking for aircraft; people have come to us."

Smales attributed much of the activity to its relationship with Bombardier. ExecuJet represents the aircraft manufacturer within 32 countries. Last November, it also acquired a 20 per cent stake in Lufthansa Bombardier Aviation Services (LBAS).

ExecuJet has also been appointed worldwide Grob SPn Utility Jet provider, a deal scheduled to run well into 2007. It is also the designated service and maintenance support provider for the SPn.

"The Grob deal will launch us into a greater global playing field. This year will be all about the launch of the Grob aircraft and about developing a strong sales focus in North America."

Smales insisted however that the deal would have no effect on its relationship with Bombardier. "We have been very open with Bombardier about this and it will not conflict with our relationship with them whatsoever. If anything, it will have a positive impact," he stated.

"We are not looking to grow that side of the business. The Grob deal is more a way of developing the aircraft sales aspect of the business."

The company also hopes to build the fleet further, consolidate its relationship with Bombardier

and expand its presence in Germany, he added.