A BUSINESS-class transatlantic airline operating out of Stansted has taken on a third aircraft to allow it to increase the frequency of its flights and develop more services.

A BUSINESS-class transatlantic airline operating out of Stansted has taken on a third aircraft to allow it to increase the frequency of its flights and develop more services.

Maxjet is now negotiating deals for its fourth and fifth aircraft as the popularity of its flights to New York and Washington continue to grow.

In May, the airline carried nearly 4,000 passengers to New York, with average load factors of 72% on flights. The company offers all business class flights at relatively low cost.

Almost $100million US dollars have been invested in the firm to date.

“With the delivery of our fourth aircraft this year, we are planning to add a new London to US route, which will be announced in the near future,” said the Maxjet's chief executive Gary Rogliano.

In addition to scheduled flights, the company's VIP charter business continues to grow, with private trips for sports teams, major corporations, government bodies and high-end travel groups. It has also signed more than 30 sales contracts with UK and US bodies.

Due to increasing demand, it is set to increase its Washington service to five weekly flights with the addition of a Thursday service.