Switzerland-based charter sales specialist Vertis Aviation is to add a Bombardier Global 6000 to its marketed aircraft portfolio, starting this month. The ultra-long range aircraft will be positioned primarily in Johannesburg, South Africa, in a move designed to satisfy the growing demand for business jet travel in and around the African continent.

The Global 6000 forms part of an international network strategy for Vertis and will be the company's first jet actively marketed from an African location. A local flight department will operate the jet and it will be deployed on both inter- and intra-continental missions in order to serve an African client base which is increasingly seeking ultra-long range aircraft.

“We are very excited about the possibilities that this immaculate Global 6000 offers for our inter-national charter clients. With its ultra-long range and short-field capabilities it is ideal for work on the African continent which requires aircraft that can cover vast distances,” comments Erica Da Veiga, a partner at Vertis.

“This addition marks the beginning of our expansion strategy in Africa which we believe offers great potential for further development. We're already seeing a high demand for charters between Brazil and Angola, Lagos and Johannesburg, London and Johannesburg, and anticipate the route map will just become more complex as the continent's requirements expand.”

The Global 6000 is configured with 14 seats and the company says it features a contemporary interior and spacious galley, along with a dedicated crew rest area. An on-board communications suite features internet access and Wi-Fi connectivity along with a full IFE system. The aircraft has a range of 6,000nm and a cruise speed of 488kts. Vertis believes that these attributes will lead to bookings from heads of state and government officials.

This news follows reports that a Moscow-based Airbus A319 and a Bombardier Global XRS will be added to Vertis' books from next month as well. The three new aircraft will join the long range charter fleet which Vertis markets on behalf of its operating partners.