The Middle East is continuing its trend in the growth of new aircraft deliveries, according to data released this week at MEBA 2012 by Hawker Beechcraft, which says it is picking up a good proportion of new orders for turboprops.

“We are well positioned to benefit from an increase in demand in the Middle East and lead the turboprop category in the region, with a market share of more than 70 percent for our King Airs,” said Scott Plumb, Hawker Beechcraft vice president of sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Overall business aircraft deliveries in the region increased more than 130 percent between the 2002-2006 and 2007-2011 periods, according to data from the Wichita-based aircraft manufacturer. In the latter period, 246 turbine aircraft were delivered to customers in the Middle East, versus 106 deliveries in the preceding five years.

A total of 626 turbine business aircraft are currently based in the region, according to the airframer. Saudi Arabia accounts for 21 percent of the fleet, followed by the UAE with 17 percent. Aircraft deliveries to these countries increased, respectively, by 146 percent and 250 percent in the periods analyzed.