Qatar Executive, Qatar Airways' business jet division, said yesterday it is targeting corporations and the fast-growing number of high-net-worth individuals in Asia in a bid to expand its global footprint, according to arabianbusiness.com.

Asia, predominantly China, is widely regarded as one of the fastest growing markets for business jet services. Driven by robust economic growth and increasing corporate profits, the use of business jets as a tool to enhance productivity and to support and facilitate corporate international growth is gradually increasing. Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: "We see great potential in Asia for our charter services among business travellers and private individuals alike.

"As Asian corporations continue to expand their businesses, they are looking for the most convenient and efficient means of travel to spur their international corporate growth." To meet the requirements of the new target market, Qatar Executive said it has adjusted its inflight experience to match the taste of the Asian executive and private traveller. For example, customers can request to be served by Mandarin and Cantonese-speaking VIP cabin attendants, who are familiar with local customs and etiquette. It has also added the option of local culinary cuisine for customers.

David Edwards, executive vice president of Qatar Executive, said: "The Asian travelling elite expects nothing less than the best aircraft in terms of range, performance and technology, combined with luxurious cabin design and refined personalised service. At Qatar Executive we offer all of this and the customer response towards our product has been extremely positive since we started operating in the region." Since its inception almost six years ago, Qatar Executive has seen rapid growth and is currently flying a fleet of eight business jets. Recently, Qatar Executive announced the purchase up to 20 Gulfstream aircraft. In addition, Qatar Executive received a 40-seat Airbus A319 All-Premium Class aircraft in February.