Germany's fast expanding AERO Business Charter (ABC) is acquiring a Citation XLS+ in 2008. Flight operations manager Peter Becker says that the recently placed order is to meet an anticipated continued rising demand dominated by business from western Europe.

The XLS+ will join four aircraft being delivered in 2007; one CJ2+, two CJ3s and one XLS. This represents an investment, Becker says, of nearly US$50 million in new jets. "The big difference compared to other operators is that we are the owner of all aircraft," he adds.

ABC, launched in 1999 with two Super King Airs, says it has seen a big increase in business since deciding to focus on jets rather than turboprops.

German operators are reporting rising demand from eastern Europe and Russia but ABC says this represents less than five per cent of its expanding business base.

"The big growth area is the rest of Europe with the U.K., France and Italy prominent," says Becker.

He estimates that demand is

60 per cent business, 30 per cent private individual and the

remainder celebrity.

The private bookings include leisure trips, such as ski parties, for vips and celebrities.

Becker says: "The aircraft have been chosen because our clients prefer luxury and comfort and these aircraft provide that as well as the required range."

ABC ensures that the aircraft also offer the latest electronics, telephone, Airshow and DVD players.

"We do everything we can to make sure the flights are enjoyable," Becker says.

ABC enjoyed a 40 per cent rise in total flight time since it began operating a CJ1 and that business has continued to be buoyant. In the first 14 weeks of operation the CJ3 logged 300 flight hours, Becker adds.