Germany's Silver Bird Charterflug is acquiring a fourth Learjet, a 45XR, to meet rising international charter demand. Peter Doellner, md and founder, says: "What we would like to achieve first and foremost with the new Learjet 45XR is to further satisfy the needs of our business travellers for a greater cruising range and speed."

The 45XR, he points out, can carry up to eight passengers non-stop on routes such as Moscow to Paris or from Rome or London to Dubai with just one stopover. "But with a maximum non-stop cruising range of 1,970 nm on average or around four flying hours, all destinations within Europe can be reached without a stopover." Doellner says attractions included a maximum speed of 535 mph. "Apart from good dynamics and speed, passengers also enjoy comfort. The 45XR has been completely refitted by the manufacturer. There are generous, cognac-coloured club armchairs arranged in two conference areas, satellite phone, Airshow, CD/DVD and a microwave, as well as a separate washroom amenity to make flights as pleasant and comfortable as possible. An APU ensures pleasant temperatures as passengers board the plane." Silver Bird can also provide an in-flight attendant.

Learjet demand, Doellner says, is rising. "There has been strong demand for the Learjet 45 delivered recently and all the indications are that it will be the same for the 45XR," says Doellner. "There will be further expansion of the fleet this year and next year. The company is expecting the delivery of a Learjet 60 and then a G450 and a G550."

The 45XR joins a 40XR, a 45 and a 55. "The 55 and 45 have been completely refurbished and offer extremely attractive interior designs," says Doellner.

All the aircraft in the expanded fleet will be based at the Bremen headquarters where the company was set up in 1994.