US aviation giant Boeing's Business Jet division announced this week that it would be launching the BBJ 777X, a new Boeing Business Jet model that can fly more than halfway around the world without stopping, farther than any business jet ever built.
"Our most exclusive customers want to travel with the best space and comfort and fly directly to their destination. The new BBJ 777X will be able to do this like no other aeroplane before it, redefining ultra-long range VIP travel," said Greg Laxton, head of Boeing Business Jets, at the bi-annual Middle East Business Aviation Association Show (MEBAA).
Those ultra-rich customers with deep pockets can choose between two models: the BBJ 777-8 and BBJ 777-9. The BBJ 777-8 offers the longest range of 11,645 nautical miles (21,570 km) and a spacious 3,256 sq. ft. (302.5 sq m) cabin.
Boeing is deliberately pitching the aircraft to clients in the Arabic Gulf region with its publicity photos and literature and the company expects to have 5 customers from the area announced within the next year.
The BBJ 777-9 provides an even larger cabin measuring 3,689 sq. ft. (342.7 sq m), while still offering ultra-long range of 11,000 nautical miles (20,370 km). This model opens up almost unlimited interior design options to ensure ultimate comfort for long distance travel.
To demonstrate the versatility of the aeroplane's spacious cabin, BBJ unveiled interior concepts from three leading design firms: Greenpoint Technologies, Jet Aviation, and Unique Aircraft Design. Each concept shows how the BBJ 777X can be transformed to suit the tastes of any VIP customer.
(Images Boeing Business Jets)
