Bombardier chalked up half a dozen aircraft orders at the show yesterday following the $277 million purchase by one of its largest customers VistaJet for four ultra-long-range Global Express XRS and two large cabin Challenger 605s.

The aircraft - which are scheduled for delivery in 2011 and 2012 - will be used by the Switzerland-headquartered VIP operator to expand its footprint within the burgeoning African, Middle Eastern and Russian markets. Once in service the aircraft will boost VistaJet's all-Bombardier fleet to over 30 business jets.

VistaJet founder and chairman Thomas Flohr said at the show: "The order, which places a greater emphasis on large, longer-range aircraft, will significantly increase VistaJet's long-haul capability at a time when the company is successfully winning new customers in markets such as the Middle East, West Africa and Russia/CIS who typically fly sectors of over six to eight hours."

Source: Flight Daily News