The boss of Swaffham-based STG Aerospace said the firm was looking at new opportunities in China and India as the business continues to enjoy global growth.

The firm, which also has bases in Miami and Wales, produces on-board lighting systems for aeroplanes and recently won a contract to retrofit aircraft for holiday operator Thomson as well as securing US regulatory approval for the next wave of its emergency lighting systems.

In the past year it has enjoyed a rate of growth between 10pc and 15pc, and revenues of around $15m (£9.76m).

Staff numbers have also increased from 30 to 42, with most based in Norfolk.

And now the firm has created a Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise in China as part of a strategy to develop the business, and also so that it can be closer to its customers. It is also eyeing opportunities in India.

Nigel Duncan, chief executive, said: 'We are looking at huge growth in India and China over the next 20 years, something like 25,000 to 30,000 new aircraft are going to be required, and you can see that particularly in Asia when you look at the burgeoning middle class. They have got more income and they want to travel.'

The firm had also launched a number of product innovations around LED lighting systems to cater for a demand from airlines to improve inflight lighting to enhance the passenger flight experience.

'What's happening right now is that there is a shift to improve the cabin environment,' added Mr Duncan. 'We have innovated and created a niche for ourselves. We haven't sat on our laurels.

'We are concentrating on the 94pc of the public that doesn't get to fly first class. We believe they deserve an improvement in their flying environment as well. We are not just talking about bulbs, but a complete removal and replacement of the system.

'It brings a lot of benefits. If you compare a 737 before and after, it saves 30kg, and 40kg on a 757. That's very significant because it equates to a lot of fuel. The other major saving is that it saves a lot of power. There are also some benefits to the passengers themselves.

'Life is getting more hectic. The airlines are doing what they can to grow revenues and everything like this makes a difference.

'We want to make it a great passenger experience and the airlines are looking to improve their profitability as well. We believe we are achieving those objectives.'