German broker ProAir reports brisk demand for its Learjets as its new charter operation takes off. ProAir Aviation, which is operating a Lear 45 and a Lear 31A at Stuttgart, believes that the aircraft will carve out their own individual business niche.

Elmar Monreal, md, says: "These are the only Learjets that are based at Stuttgart airport. There are plenty of other aircraft such as Citations but we are offering clients something different."

He adds: "Business aviation has the biggest potential for economic growth. The need for individual business air trips is increasing in the charter market. Our new aircraft also allow us to be more independent of the broker business and more attractive for a larger number of inquiries."

Monreal says the Learjet 31A is perfectly suited to meet demand for short and medium distances.

"It is also ideal for combining two or three business meetings at different locations on the same

day," he adds.

ProAir Aviation, represented in the U.K., France, Russia and Switzerland, is spreading the message that private charter is a cost-effective as well as time-saving alternative. It points out that a scheduled flight from Stuttgart to Milan costs about €5,800 for seven employees in business class. "At €4,900 the private jet will make a favourable difference for the same number of people. In addition, we point out that businesses should also consider the time

saving because Milan-Linate is closer to the city centre, and the available flight schedule.

"Additionally, four adjustable single leather seats in club formation enable executives to conduct a business meeting during the flight. A small bar with various drinks ensures necessary refreshment during the flight.

"The recent Lear 45 addition is an exciting development for the Russian market as it will enable non-stop flights between Germany and Russia," says Monreal.

He adds that the attractions of the Lear 31A include its baggage space, its 1,100 n.m. range and cruising speed of 475 knots. Among the Lear 45's additional advantages is the longer range of 2,000 n.m.

ProAir, with offices in Filderstadt that overlook the apron of Stuttgart airport, says it will look at adding further aircraft in due course and that it intends to build a reputation as a one-stop shop for aircraft management, charter and maintenance.