UK-based Amber Aviation is expecting to expand its management fleet. "We are in discussion with several owners," says Paul Forster, md. "We are also looking at adding a Piaggio P180 to the fleet for dedicated air ambulance flights later this year."

The Biggin Hill-based company, set up in September 2008, manages a G150 that was delivered in May this year for a Middle East client. "We recruited the flight crew and cabin crew who are now full-time employees of Amber," says Forster. "The rationale for choosing the aircraft was that it should have a good sized cabin capable of taking at least six passengers in comfort, have excellent flight characteristics and be quick.

"The G150 is probably the smoothest mid size jet I have ever flown on. The 'state-of-the-art' wing absorbs any turbulence and provides a superbly smooth ride. It is fast, cruising at up to M.85, has an excellent cabin and is priced sensibly."

Forster says the operational costs are good and Gulfstream offers an excellent support service which is paramount to an operator flying worldwide.

He adds: "We also believe you should look at an aircraft from the investment point of view. If you are not going to keep the aircraft forever then you need to consider what the resale will be like. The G150 is becoming very popular and we are confident that by the time the owner decides to upgrade his aircraft, the type will be very much in demand and thus the resale value will be good."

Forster says: "Although on the VP register we have specified the aircraft in accordance with JAR OPS, thus allowing us the choice to move the aircraft onto the AOC if required or should the owner decide to sell it, there will a wider market to appeal to. Our expansion plans include the offering of an EU OPS AOC and hangarage at Biggin Hill. We also intend to become an established FBO operator in the UAE and are already in the final stages of negotiations to do this. We now have a full flight crew complement based in Bahrain."