Raytheon yesterday sold five Premier IA jets in two separate deals announced here at the EBACE show.

First, fast-growing UK executive charter operator Club328 agreed to acquire four more of the light jets from Raytheon Aircraft. The buyer has been operating two Premier Is since January and says the aircraft have been booked solid for leisure and business purposes.

Then, businessman Bjorn Haid signed for the Premier IA that is on display here in Geneva this week. He is now the owner of the 25th Premier IA in Europe, which will be the fourth example to be registered in Switzerland.

Raytheon has been using the machine as a demonstrator throughout Europe during the past few weeks. Haid will use the Premier IA for transporting himself and close colleagues on business trips.

Club328 CEO Mike Farge said there has been a rise in the number of charter requests from both individuals and aircraft brokers for smaller aircraft to transport an average of four people.

“The Premier is perfect for short hops all around Europe, and we are confident the enhanced Premier IAs will play a key role in helping to grow our business,” he said.

All four Premier IAs should be in service before the end of the year, and Club328 is looking for pilots to captain them.

The operator intends to base the third aircraft in the south of France in time for the peak summer season after experiencing a 50-percent increase in bookings by clients traveling for pleasure.