ABS Jets, one of the largest business jet operators in the new EU countries, is opening an office in Bratislava as it continues to expand its fleet and its area of operations. Commercial director Jan Vana says: "We take delivery of a fourth Legacy in March 2008, a fifth and sixth in January and February 2009 and a second Learjet 60XR will arrive in August 2009."

Vana says a 60XR brought into service recently is proving popular in the burgeoning Czech and Slovak market, and demand for flights is increasing and originating in Bratislava as well as Prague Ruzyne.

Vana adds: "ABS Jets is one of the first business jet operators in Europe to introduce the 60XR which has only comparatively recently acquired the EASA certificate for commercial air transport."

He says moves to expand charter and FBO services are going well. "Our strategic plan is to build a one stop shop for private jets." ABS Jets is a member of the EBAA and is a Part 145 maintenance and repair organisation, he points out. The company is also an Embraer executive aircraft service centre and, from April 2008, will start providing handling and hangarage at Prague Ruzyne.

ABS Jets operates three Legacies and two Bravos as well as the 60XR. Vana says further jets could join the ABS managed fleet in 2008.