Athens-based K2 SmartJets has chosen a Legacy 600 to spearhead its launch to meet growing charter demand in Greece. "One of the decisive factors in the choice of the Legacy 600 was the range," says commercial director Theodora Tsinonis.

The Legacy 600 is based on the ERJ 135 model but enjoys increased range with extra fuel tanks and added winglets, similar to those on the ERJ 145XR. K2 SmartJets says it is capable of carrying eight passengers in comfort for 3,250 nm.

"Our Legacy 600, to be delivered in June, will be configured for 13 passengers which is, we believe, the ideal balance of comfort, performance and cost, meeting the demand of corporations," says Tsinonis.

K2 SmartJets, which has taken a strategic decision to buy new aircraft, will be expanding its fleet next year with additional aircraft including LJs and VLJs.

"Our 2008 fleet expansion is being finalised but we are initially focusing on meeting growing corporate and private charter demand with our Legacy 600. By creating relationships with strategic partners, it is our objective to offer the best service and enhance the essence of business travel," says Tsinonis. "The Legacy 600 puts us in a very good position to perform mid and long range flights from Athens to various destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America."

She says other factors in the K2 SmartJets launch decision included the Legacy 600's spacious cabin, forward and aft lavatories, full in-flight entertainment suite, satcom, high speed internet, Wi-Fi and Airshow 4000.

Capt. Andreas Karotsieris, ceo and accountable manager, says "The Legacy 600 will enable us to offer premium flight services to our member clients and third party charter operators. Its large cabin is undoubtedly an unbeatable asset for the operations we are considering from our Athens base."