Dutch aviation firm Air Alpha has announced plans to set up an aircraft service center at Samara's Kurumoch international airport, in a reported $10m move.

Andrey Usikov, technical director of Air Alpha’s Russian division, refused today to confirm the investment amount but analysts say the $10m rumour is likely to be accurate.

Under plans, the center would service Swiss-built PC-12 Pilatus models of aircraft along with Boeings.

Analysts said today the facilities needed to service Boeing craft too would push the cost of the project up but shorten the likely pay-back period.

No timeframe has been announced regarding construction on the project, which Mr Usikov said would be funded by the firms' own capital.