Number of helicopters and jets registered in State takes off

Ireland's growing wealth has led to a big increase in the number of helicopters and executive jets being registered in the State.

Statistics published by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) yesterday showed that 140 helicopters were on the register last year. This compares with 56 in 2000.

Eamonn Brennan, the IAA's chief executive, said that the number of executive jets had risen by 15 per cent over the past two years. "It's a function of the wealth of the country," Mr Brennan said.

"We also expect to see an increase in the number of light business jets registered, those with up to four seats. That's growing across Europe, and we reckon they'll increase substantially here, too.

"What we're seeing with helicopters is that they are getting heavier and more expensive."

In total, the number of aircraft on the register last year was 1,046, compared with 877 in 2005.

Heavy commercial aircraft numbers rose from 341 to 433 over the same period.

Not surprisingly, Ryanair is the biggest commercial player, with 135 aircraft registered with the IAA. Aer Lingus is next with 36.

CityJet, an Air France subsidiary, has 25, while regional carrier Aer Arann has 14.

Air Contractors, which handles freight and cargo for DHL and other companies, had 20 aircraft registered here in 2006.

A total of 201 aircraft were on lease.