Elite Jets expects a third Hawker 850XP to be delivered in August. Paras Dhamecha, ceo, says: "Elite Jets sold two Hawker 850XPs in 2007. Both have been placed on management with us by the owners. We have a third order for a Hawker 850XP and delivery will be August 2007. This client is looking at utilising our management services."

Elite Jets, a Dubai based business management, charter and jet sales firm, sold its first 850XP to a Kuwaiti logistics company, the second to the UAE Investment Company of Sharjah in the UAE, and the third to a Dubai company.

The Kuwaiti purchasers of the eight seater signed an agreement with Elite, exclusive distributor of Raytheon Hawker and Beechcraft aircraft in the UAE, to manage the aircraft for both private and commercial charter.

Dhamecha says the aircraft's attractions include a range of up to 2,624 nm, offering up to six hours of non-stop flying.

"This puts the major business and leisure centres of the Middle East, western and eastern Europe, the Indian subcontinent, Indian Ocean and Africa within easy reach of Dubai and regional hubs," he adds.

"The 850XP is an outstanding business jet and well suited to the needs of the region. We are expecting strong charter demand for the aircraft both from the corporate and leisure markets. They have a good range and have been

highly customised with the latest fittings and onboard technology, offering very high levels of passenger comfort."

Dhamecha adds: "The market for private air travel is growing stronger within the region and this interest is coming from private individuals and companies who are not only looking to enhance their company image by owning their own aircraft, but to provide management with a highly flexible and convenient means of private, executive air travel. In addition, owners have the bonus of investing in a revenue-generating asset."