Saraya Private Aviation, backed by a financial consortium, will launch in 2008 with a fleet of six P180 Avanti IIs, targeting charter business across the Middle East and Northern Africa - the MENA region.

Partners in the venture are Saudi Oger, the Arab Bank Ltd., the Mediterranean and Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance Company (MEDGULF), Dubai International Capital (DIC), investment specialist Mubadala and the Near East Group.

Saraya Private Aviation, a subsidiary of a real estate and tourism company, will take delivery of its aircraft during 2008 and 2009.

Marwan Atalla, acting ceo Saraya Private Aviation, says: "We carried out a careful analysis of current and future needs, and took the decision that the P180 Avanti II is well suited for our purpose after examining operational flexibility, cost efficiency and performance."

He adds: "It offers the speed of a light jet aircraft, the comfort of a large, quiet, midsize and real stand-up cabin, with great fuel efficiencies."

Other factors in the choice were the fully digital, automatic flight control and "Pro Line 21" avionics system. "The maximum take-off weight of 12,100 lbs. gives the Avanti II greater payload range, and the introduction of the updated engines (P&WC PT6A-66B) provides higher performance, faster cruise speeds and more efficient operation."

Atalla says Saraya will service its expanding stakeholders and offer "competitive" executive flights. "We will service individuals as well as large corporations, banks and government officials in addition to visitors, tourists and businessmen." Charters will be from destinations throughout the Middle East, North African and Europe.