Aircraft manufacturer Airbus has launched a new business jet entitled the ACJ TwoTwenty amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
While it may seem like the worst time to put a new aircraft out to market, Airbus has identified that growth in the private jet sector remains strong. Those who can afford to fly privately and in their own bubble are choosing to do so on a regular basis.
The ACJ TwoTwenty, which Airbus is referring to as an 'Xtra Large Bizjet', is largely a redesign of the manufacturer's commuter aircraft the A220.
The Airbus A220 airliner is relatively unknown to travellers, despite hundreds of them being ordered by airlines such as jetBlue, Air France and Delta Airlines. Newshub was given exclusive access to airBaltic's A220 when it visited Auckland in November last year.
Benoit Defforge, president of Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ), said the new business jet combines intercontinental range, "unmatched" personal space and comfort for all passengers.
"This latest technology platform offers unbeatable economics and unrivalled reliability," Defforge said.
"Based on its compelling market appeal, we see promising demand for this aircraft in the growing business jet market."
The ACJ TwoTwenty's compact size means it will easily be able to park amongst other private jets, usually away from airport terminals, without the need for an airbridge.
According to Airbus, the ACJ TwoTwenty has three times more cabin space than its rivals, yet its operating costs are a third less.
According to Airbus documents, the A220 Family is the quietest, cleanest and most eco-friendly aircraft in its category, featuring a 50 percent reduced noise footprint compared to previous generation aircraft and up to 25 percent lower fuel burn.
Internally, all aircraft will have fast internet connectivity and Wi-Fi systems, as well as electro-chromatic windows and LED lighting.
The ACJ TwoTwenty will have a maximum flight distance of 10,500 km, connecting cities such as Los Angeles and London with one single flight.
The cabin design will allow up to 18 passengers to work, share, dine and relax, with customisable cabins offered to all Airbus customers under the tagline: "Reimagine your place in the sky."
ACJ is backing its cabin design work, claiming on the company's website that they've designed interiors for the "most demanding clients all around the world".
Currently, more than 200 Airbus corporate jets are in service on every continent, including Antarctica.
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