Boeing has disclosed the sale of five VIP versions of its yet to fly 787 aircraft. Naturally the customers have not been revealed but its impressive presence at the Middle East Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition in Dubai gives a strong indication of where it might gain more sales.
Boeing does not actually design or install interiors into these aircraft, they being test flown in Seattle, and then delivered in a so-called "green" condition. Customers then work with certified designers and interior completion centres to develop personalized interiors.
"A Boeing 787 VIP affords its owner complete accommodation," said Boeing Business Jets president Steven Hill. "The spacious cabin and the technology of the 787 enable an owner to design a beautiful environment that exactly meets preferences and needs. Whether you are looking for a flying palace or a business office in the sky ” or both, the possibilities are endless."
"Aboard a 787 VIP owners can fly anywhere in the world non-stop, and on those long-distance flights, it is critical to have amenities and a cabin environment that allow passengers to be completely comfortable and productive," Hill added.
Boeing Business Jets has commissioned several design firms to develop preliminary concepts for 787 VIP interiors. The VIP-configured 787-8 offers 2,404 sq feet (223.3 sq m) of cabin space and a range of 9,590 nautical miles (17,760 km) while the VIP-configured 787-9 offers 2,762 sq feet (256.6 sq m) of cabin space and a range of 9,950 nautical miles (18,425 km). London to Sydney in your own private jet. Easy. 20 hours in the air, and you can even have a bath.