Airbus has launched a new VIP cabin concept, initially for the A330-200, offering a faster and more affordable way to the greater capacity, capability and comfort of a widebody for both private and government customers. Called Summit, the concept features a VIP section at the front of the cabin, and airline-style seating at the rear.

“What most customers want in a widebody is the ability to carry more people and to fly them nonstop to the world, “ points out Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers, John Leahy. “The Airbus ACJ330 Summit delivers the greater capacity, comfort, and capability of a widebody, and will do so faster and more affordably than competitors, by using a modern and proven solution.”

The Airbus ACJ330 Summit features a bedroom with ensuite bathroom at the front, followed by an office, a conference and dining room and a working area, and then airline-style first-class and economy seating at the rear.

The airline-style seating would be installed in production, which is faster and more cost-effective, and the concept can be evolved to meet customer needs.

Airbus’ A330 is one of the world’s most successful airliners, and is currently being produced at a rate of ten a month, the highest of any widebody. The A330 and A340 were launched as a joint programme, have won more than 1,700 orders to date, and more of them have been delivered (1497 to end-September) than any other widebody series.

Airbus A330s and A340s have been chosen by more than 160 customers and operators around the world, which means that wherever an ACJ330 Summit customer flies there is likely to be another user nearby.

The A330 achieves a robust reliability of better than 99 per cent, and is in-service as freighter and mult-role tanker transport (MRTT) versions – as well as with airlines and private customers.

Airbus corporate jet operators are also backed by a worldwide support network that serves more than 500 customers and operators, as well as services tailored to their needs.

Airbus has sold over 170 corporate jets to date, and these aircraft are flying on every continent, highlighting their versatility.