Boeing Business Jets has announced that it has outperformed its competition in the widebody market segment for private business jets, with widebody aircraft orders now accounting for more than one-third of Boeing’s total VIP orders.
Boeing announced at the European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (EBACE) that since the 787 and 747-8 became available for BBJ conversion in 2006, the response to Boeing’s VIP widebody product line has been strong. According to the company, business leaders and heads of state customers choose widebody Boeing VIP aircraft over the competition.
“Over the past eight years, Boeing Business Jets has distinguished itself in the VIP widebody market. We saw an opportunity in the business jet market for widebody airplanes and now we are seeing it pay off,” said Steve Taylor, president of Boeing Business Jets. “Our airplanes have the biggest cabins, allowing our customers to customise the airplane to meet their specific needs and provide unmatched comfort on long-haul routes.”
In 2014, further Boeing VIP widebody aircraft will enter the market. One BBJ 787 delivered in 2013 has already entered into service. Additionally in 2014, the first BBJ 747-8 will enter into service and be operated by an undisclosed customer.
At EBACE, Taylor also announced the updated range of the BBJ MAX. The BBJ MAX will enable customers to have greater flexibility by allowing them to fly farther, carry more cargo and improve their overall flying experience with a larger cabin. The extended range for the BBJ MAX of 6,435 nautical miles will allow customers to connect to more cities worldwide. The BBJ MAX launched in early 2014 and the first delivery will be in 2018.
