Neo news is good news for Airbus Corporate Jets

The interior is split into four compartments and features dining space for 12, a relaxed lounge and an aft shower.

The airframer is upbeat about regional prospects for the VIP variant of its latest ‘neo’ airliner types. Initially available in A319 and A320 variants, the souped-up version of the 319 can fly eight passengers for up to 12,500km, while the 320 goes for a further 1,800km, or up to 11,100nm with 25 passengers on board.

Airbus won’t put a cost on the ACJ versions of new jets but indicates that the list price would be start at around “$87 million, including a typical VIP cabin”. Additional 2.4-metre-tall wingtip sharklets save fuel by reducing drag and are in widespread service on airliner versions of the A320 family.

They are flying on the ACJ320 family as new-build and retrofit options. Both types come with two of the industry’s latest generation engine versions: CFM International’s LEAP-1A and the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G, both of which offer extra flight distances and efficiency.

With almost 100sqm of cabin floor area, there is a vast number of configurations on offer, including separate lounges, a large master bedroom, and a dedicated area for accompanying staff.

The manufacturer has capitalised on customer desire for different interiors and has created three different completion offerings. Along with partner, Lufthansa Technik, it offers a standard ‘Elite’ version, first available on the ACJ318 type (that aircraft is available now only on special request). This version is likely to translate well into the neo types.

Last year it introduced the ‘Elegance’ version, which offers a variety of options, in conjunction with the Airbus Corporate Jet Centre. There is also the option of a completely customised interior. 

Riyadh-based Alpha Star is the ACJ319neo launch customer, with delivery of its first aircraft due in the second quarter of 2019.

Acropolis Aviation has taken the first ACJ320 neo, which is due for delivery at the end of 2018.