possibly opening up a large new market for the Island.

The aircraft -- two Boeing 767s -- were registered in Bermuda by Uzbekistan Airways.

Bermuda was recommended for registration by the Boeing Company and the US-based Export-Import Bank above other jurisdictions and the deal could be an important breakthrough.

"This is important for us as a jurisdiction in that similar registrations are likely to follow,'' said Herman Tucker, director of Civil Aviation.

He and other staff from the Department of Civil Aviation met with Boeing and the Bank last year to discuss the registrations.

"Bermuda was chosen by the Bank and Boeing as the off-shore destination of their choice, which is a reflection on our standards,'' added Mr. Tucker.

"We are hoping that other aircraft will be registered in Bermuda because of this.'' The two registrations bring the total number of aircraft registered in Bermuda to 114.

Business filters down into the economy from the Bermuda Government which receives a fee, to local banks and law firms which help handle the registrations.

Aircraft registered in Bermuda can be recognised by the letters VR-B on the tail.

BERMUDA REGISTERED -- One of the Uzbekistan Airways aircraft registered in Bermuda.