Gainjet believes the size and baggage capacity of its new 78-seat corporate B757 gives it an advantage over BBJs and ACJs. Ramsey Shaban, ceo, says an upgrade included the addition of Aviation Partners' winglets and a total refurbishment of the interior, allowing for 78 club class seats with 55 inch pitch.

"The B757 has a good transatlantic capability with Boeing 180 minutes ETOPS certification," Shaban adds. "The 757 size and capacity adds a new dimension to this niche market requirement. We can carry 78 passengers with ample luggage and fly more than 4,000nm. It beats the BBJ and the ACJ in terms of cabin size and baggage capacity.

"Not only that but this corporate 757 can be used as a back-up to dedicated corporate shuttle operators and airlines." Gainjet has expanded its presence in London and in St Petersburg but the company's operations and maintenance are based at the Athens headquarters. Shaban says it is also expanding into providing heavier maintenance capability in Athens.

The company's fleet also includes a BAe146 configured for 34 passengers and a G550. These complement a 40-seat MD83 based in Manston and seven G200s. Gainjet is expecting the delivery of a Phenom in June, a Falcon 2000LX in October and a G650 is on order for 2012.