An increase in demand for intercontinental travel in business aircraft has prompted UK-based Gold Air International to invest $76 million in two new Bombardier Global 5000 aircraft.

"Wealthy individuals no longer want to travel first class on scheduled airlines, but want to charter their own aircraft for intercontinental journeys. We see this as a strong emerging market for Gold Air," said Will Curtis, managing director of Gold Air International.

"We chose the Global 5000s because they are the most suitable business jets for intercontinental travel and will be a valuable addition to our existing fleet."

The company says that this is a significant investment by a British company, representing the largest ever made by a British-based business jet operator.

Gold Air, which was founded a decade ago by David and Ralph Gold, says it has achieved 10 per cent growth year on year. Curtis anticipates that the arrival of the Global 5000s will spur further growth. "We now have the capability to extend our client base and to continue to offer the very best in safe, reliable and comfortable air travel."

The aircraft will be delivered between late 2008 and early 2009 and will be maintained at Gold Air's primary base at London Biggin Hill Airport.