Lufthansa Technik recently received an order from an unnamed private customer for the VIP interior of a new ACJ320neo. The aircraft is expected to arrive at the company’s cabin completion centre in Hamburg, Germany, in late summer 2023, where it will receive its new interior by spring 2024.
With customised fittings for private travel as well as for charter operations, the aircraft is designed to meet the highest demands. This will also be valid for the VIP jet’s IFEC outfitting, which will be based on a latest-generation satellite communications system.
The design of the cabin was developed in close cooperation with the customer. The conceptual renderings originate from Lufthansa Technik’s in-house design centre in Hamburg. The layout is linear and strictly oriented towards the need for privacy: from the deliberately open entrance behind the cockpit through various lounge and office areas to the spacious and very private master bedroom.
A special feature of the cabin is its flexible design for various purposes, from regular private trips to charter to individual travel groups. This flexibility is reflected not only in the choice of luxurious yet durable interior materials, but also in the certification of the aircraft, for which Lufthansa Technik will obtain STC for private and commercial flight operations.
To enhance passenger comfort even further, Lufthansa Technik will integrate a cabin air humidification system into the aircraft. In terms of IFE and connectivity, by customer request a clear focus is laid on integrating passengers’ personal digital devices. Only a few large screens, some of them retractable, will be installed in the cabin. Similar to a smart home, passengers will be able to individually and effortlessly transfer their personal content to the built-in displays at any time.
“With its flexible interior and a top-notch entertainment system, this aircraft will set completely new standards for narrow-body VIP cabins,” said Michael von Puttkamer, vice president, Special Aircraft Services at Lufthansa Technik. “But what pleases me even more is that we were able to convince the customer not only with our world-leading design, engineering and cabin completion expertise, but with a complete package of tailor-made services. We are the only company in the world that can offer such a comprehensive package for VIP aircraft from a single source.”
In addition to the completion of the VIP cabin, Lufthansa Technik will also provide an Aircraft Production Inspection Program (APIP), the Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization (CAMO) and, after delivery, aircraft maintenance and component support for the customer for an initial period of five years as part of the contract.
Despite the extensive functionalities and a capacity of up to 19 passengers, Lufthansa Technik said its specialists have also succeeded in keeping the weight of the cabin interior within particularly narrow limits. As a result, this ACJ320neo – with its four auxiliary fuel tanks and PW1100 geared turbofans from Pratt&Whitney – will achieve the full range specified by Airbus Corporate Jets for this type.
Renderings: Lufthansa Technik AG
