Farnborough, UK-based BookaJet is strengthening its presence in the long-range market by adding another aircraft with transatlantic capability to its fleet. The addition is a Gulfstream IV, featuring 13 executive seats and a rear bedroom, and it will be flown on the operator's UK AOC. The aircraft is currently operating privately and it is anticipated that it will become available for charter later this year.

The latest acquisition comes on the back of a string of deliveries for BookaJet in recent months: the operator has already added a Global Express XRS based in Moscow, a Citation Sovereign at London Stansted, a Citation Excel and two further Beechcraft Premier 1 light jets. With the addition of another Global, a 6000, due in the months ahead, BookaJet's UK managed fleet is now set to reach double figures.

“We are pleased to say we are starting to come out of what has been a very flat and challenging time in Europe,” says director Jonathan Clements. “Charter demand is also picking up – from both the leisure and business markets. And with the arrival of these additional managed aircraft we have added more personnel.”

The firm was established in 2003, introduced AOC operations in 2006, and is now employing almost 50 staff, including flight and cabin crew at various bases in Europe. In addition to its UK bases, BookaJet is present in Italy, France, Russia and the Netherlands. It says it is now the sole commercial operator of the Beechcraft Premier 1 in the UK, and has found that this aircraft works well in a niche market. “We have seen some consolidation among the smaller players which has provided some interesting opportunities,” says Clements. “Our success in significantly increasing our managed fleet over the past 12 months has been down to offering a professional and fully transparent service, delivered by an outstanding team of people.”

In addition, BookaJet has just promoted Captain Alex Young to director of flight operations.