A factory new Embraer Legacy 600 is due to come onto UK operator Rangemile's AOC in late September or early October.

Peter Jones, md and chief pilot of the Coventry based company, says: "We've got some corporate use of the aeroplane for around 200 hours, and the rest of it will be for public transport.

"We anticipate it doing around 900 hours a year in charter flights."

Rangemile has some contacts with customers in Russia and this, Jones says, means the aircraft will be doing some Moscow based work too.

Flights to the former Soviet Union are an increasing part of the Rangemile business.

"We have a partner now in the business, called Planet Aviation, who has taken a share in Rangemile," explains Jones. "They're brokers and will actually be selling some time in Russia on the aeroplane for us."

The Legacy is being bought by Planet Aviation's customer who is contracted with Rangemile. Jones

says the Legacy was chosen for its purchase price, ease of maintenance and reliability.

"What you've also got is years of airline experience so all of the systems are extremely well proven, and the price, parts and support is exceptionally good. Their product support is absolutely second to none."

A second Legacy 600 may be added in the next six months.