Bombardier's decision to introduce an option for increased range for the Learjet 40XR enhanced the aircraft's appeal to European operators. The 268 nm range extension option was achieved through providing a 687lb increase to the fuel tank capacity.

Operators say the 40XR, which can be configured for six or seven passengers, has a good size cabin and the benefit of full aft lavatory.

But Germany's DC Aviation decided to add a Learjet 45XR to fill what it perceived as a gap in the charter market between the Learjet 40 and the Learjet 60. The company says: "With a maximum cruising range of 1,833 nm, the 45XR can carry up to eight passengers non-stop from Moscow to Milan in just 3:10 hours or three passengers from London Luton to Istanbul in 3:20 hours."

The 40 and the 40XR have found favour in operator fleets in Denmark, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and the UK as well as Germany.