London Executive Aviation (LEA) says it is to become the first charter operator in Europe to offer in-flight beauty therapies and massages routinely to its customers.

"Our new in-flight spa service, which is to be offered at no extra charge, really makes the experience of private air travel even more relaxing and refreshing," says md George Galanopoulos.

The company says highly experienced clinicians will be available on its Challenger 300 and Legacy 600 aircraft to provide treatments designed to relieve stress, boost circulation, recharge the immune system and fight any effects of dehydration.

"Customers will be able to choose from a range of treatments designed for men and women alike, such as a head and shoulder massage to recover from a hectic day of meetings, or a facial and manicure to set the tone for a wedding anniversary trip or other special occasion. All beauty products to be used by LEA beauticians contain only naturally coloured vegan organic ingredients."

LEA has added a further Citation Excel to its AOC. "We sourced the new aircraft from another operator, acting on behalf of a long-standing charter customer who has made the step up to full aircraft ownership," says Galanopoulos. LEA is to provide full aircraft management services for the jet which is being chartered from the company's new base at Stansted. It is configured to carry up to nine passengers, has a maximum range of 1,800 nm and a top speed of 480 mph.

The Excel joins three others presently operated by LEA. "The Excel is an excellent choice for an owner because it is so well regarded in the charter market," says Galanopoulos. "The Excel's success owes much to its versatility. Groups who need something larger than a Mustang are excellently served in an Excel, but at a price that still represents very good value. Meanwhile, customers who typically use large cabin aircraft are also very much at home should they want to downsize for a particular journey."

He advises: "This is an excellent time to purchase a used private aircraft, as prices have softened significantly in recent months. We would advise anyone contemplating a purchase to act now, because the savings you make on a lower purchase price will materially reduce your total ownership costs in subsequent years."

LEA has added non-stop transatlantic range to its capabilities with the addition of a Dassault Falcon 900EX to its fast growing fleet. It has entered service based at London Luton.