The market for light economical aircraft in Italy may be showing signs of recovery. Trevor Esling, the UK-based vp of international sales for Cessna Aircraft Company, said that Mustangs were popular but the most recent order was for an Encore Plus that would be delivered in the first quarter of 2007.

Sales of jets and turboprops in Europe have been rising but the Italian country market has been flat with a troubled economy and decision-makers waiting to see the detail of the new government's policies.

Esling believes the time is ripe for the marketing of smaller jets. And Riccardo Marano, chief pilot of broker and pilot-provider Aviomar which has just sold a Citation 525 to a private client, said this year had seen an increase in enquiries from potential purchasers that he hoped would translate into business.

He said: "Citations are popular because they can easily reach all the major destinations in Italy and the European capitals."