Abu Dhabi-based Al Jaber Aviation (AJA) is bringing its first Lineage 1000 into charter operation in April. The company reports "enormous interest" from the marketplace. "It very much supports our decision to be the largest Lineage 1000 operator with a fleet of five of the aircraft," says Dr Mark Pierotti, the company's coo who points out that the company's A318 will also soon be brought into service.

AJA operates two Legacy 600 jets and, as well as firm orders for four additional Lineage 1000s, plans to add four Legacy 450s and four Legacy 500s.

"This is a very exciting time for our company, and the delivery of our first Lineage 1000 is an important milestone for our growing business," says Dr Pierotti. "AJA is pushing strongly into the top end of the market and will be able to offer its elite guests a superior level of service."

AJA is part of the Abu Dhabi-based Al Jaber Group and launched charter services from Dubai and Abu Dhabi in June 2009 with two new Legacy 600s. Dr Pierotti says: "With a fleet of 21 aircraft on order, AJA is positioning to be a global leader in the Middle East vip charter market."

"These aircraft were selected for their superior cabin space, reliability and advanced technology," says AJA ceo Mohammed Obaeid Al Jaber. "AJA's plans to serve clients from the Middle East, Russia, Asia, Europe and Africa are going well."

Al Jaber Group is one of the largest private sector employers in the UAE with 55,000 employees and interests in construction, oil and gas pipelines building, oil rig refurbishment, industrial fabrication, heavy lifting and heavy transport.

AJA has signed a joint venture agreement with Avisa Aviation Systems setting up Avisa Gulf which provides locally sourced expert services and training to airlines, fleet and individual operators and maintenance repair organisations.

Dr Pierotti points out that the Lineage 1000 is Embraer's biggest executive jet and can carry 19 passengers in five cabin zones. Its range of 4,400 nm with eight passengers, or 4,500 nm with four passengers, both with NBAA IFR fuel reserves, means that it is able to fly nonstop from London to Dubai; from Dubai to Johannesburg; from New York to Moscow; or from Singapore to Sydney (Australia).

"The interior design gives priority to comfort and refinement, and was designed in conjunction with Priestman Goode from the UK," he adds. "Configurations meet all passenger requirements with enough space to work, rest and hold meetings."