By ASHOK SOMAN

Hong Kong-based Asia Jet, in partnership with Bombardier Aerospace, introduces the Bombardier Challenger 605 jet into charter service in Asia, according to a statement from Asia Jet.

The large-cabin, mid-range jet will be based at Hong Kong's Chep Lap Kok International Airport, where it will be operated and maintained by exclusive operating partner Metrojet.

The versatility, cost-efficiency and reliability of this platform from Bombardier are well known to users of corporate jets so the Challenger 605 is likely not to face any challenge it cannot overcome.

Asia Jet says the Challenger 605 will become available to its cardmembers starting from the third quarter of 2010.

"This remarkable business jet aircraft, with its impressive performance and large-cabin comfort features, will allow our Asia Jet Cardmembers to experience how effectively and efficiently the Challenger 605 can serve the requirements of this region," said Justin Lee Firestone, Founder and CEO of Asia Jet.

Asia Jet