The U.K.'s NEA is rapidly expanding its managed charter fleet with five Learjets scheduled to be operational by March.

"The company has developed dramatically since it came under new ownership in 2005," says md Mike Foley. "The maintenance facility has been extended to cater for wide-bodied jets and the charter fleet is growing fast."

NEA began 2007 with two Learjet 45s and a 40 under management. Two more 45s come into operation in the next few weeks.

NEA, formerly Northern Executive Aviation, has offered hangarage and charter services from its Manchester Airport base since 1963 and maintenance since 1970.

It was voted best FBO in the EBAN survey of 2003 and was runner up in 2006. Founded with just one single engine aircraft and a secretary, NEA now employs around 60 people.