London operator to place $160 million deal for 25 entry-level Hawker 400XPs
NetJets Europe will this week place its first business jet order, as demand for its fractional ownership and private/corporate jet card block-charter programmes soars. Previous orders have been placed by the London-based operator's US parent to cover its programmes in Europe, the Middle East and North America.
The $160 million deal from NetJets Europe for 25 Hawker 400XPs will boost the company's popular entry-level offering, now represented by the Cessna Citation Bravo. "Offering the right entry product is key to our business," says NetJets Europe business development manager Robert Dranitzke, "as it provides the introduction to business aviation for many of our customers".
The first aircraft, which will be used for pilot training, is scheduled for delivery by the end of the year. Ten aircraft are expected to follow in 2005, together with the four remaining Bravos earmarked for the European fleet.
"We expect to have 60 aircraft in the European fleet by year end," Dranitzke says. NetJets Europe is finalising its delivery schedule for next year, he continues, when the fleet is likely to be boosted by around 50%.
KATE SARSFIELD / LONDON
Source: Flight International
