As the normal business jet evolves to fill ever smaller niches in the market, it’s no surprise to see more airliner-derived VIP jets offered to an ever wealthier clientele. Airbus happily announced it has reached the 100 mark in Airbus Corporate Jetliner sales and Boeing has tallied firm orders for 151 BBJs and VIP jets since launching the BBJ division 11 years ago. Some buyers just want the ultimate in airborne space
and amenities. Now with airplanes like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 selling in VIP versions, buyers can have not only loads of space but also range that allows flights almost anywhere in the world on a single tank of gas.
Airbus A318 Elite
Launched in November 2005, the corporate version of the Airbus A318 made its first public appearance at September’s NBAA Convention. The A318 Elite on display there belongs to Swiss charter operator Comlux, which began operating the airplane in May and had logged about 450 hours in charter service by the time of the convention. Comlux’s A318 Elite completion was done by Lufthansa Technik and includes four cabin zones and seats for up to 18 passengers. The zones are separated into
a lounge, dining area/workspace, private office/bedroom and entourage/crew area.
More In Aircraft
