The number of aircraft registered in Bermuda has reached an all-time high, Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown told the House of Assembly yesterday.

Of the 150 aircraft on the Bermuda Register at the end of 2002, most are "new, sopisticated and technically advanced corporate jets," said Dr. Brown.

"(They are) owned by very-high-net-worth individuals, which clearly illustrates the high level of confidence and trust that our register enjoys."

He also mentioned repeat business which, he said: "reflects the owners' satisfaction with the service provided".

"Many large, public transport aircraft are registered here... and this is a valuable adjunct to Bermuda's international business offerings," he added.

"The Department... expects the steady, controlled growth of the aircraft register to continue in the future."