Sukhoi Business Jets (SBJ) have entered service with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). The two aircraft were delivered in July 2016 to provide VIP transportation to Thailand top officials and governmental leaders, as well as to the High Command of Thailand. The SBJs are the first business jets acquired by an overseas customer.
Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha took part in the In-Service Ceremony for two Sukhoi Business Jets (SBJ) held at the Royal Thai Air Force base in Don Mueang, Bangkok. Participation of the Prime Minister makes a huge contribution to the development of the Russian-Thai relations in the sphere of aviation and strengthens the basis for future co-operation.
Sukhoi Civil Aircraft will support RTAF fleet to ensure smooth operation and maintenance of SBJs to the highest benefit of RTAF mission. Aftersales support is now being implemented on a direct basis, as well as through the arrangements made with a Thailand partner company. This includes training, spare parts delivery and maintenance services.
The aircraft were delivered to RTAF in July and August 2016 under a bidding procurement process awarded to SCAC in 2014. The procurement program was successfully managed as planned and the aircraft were delivered on time.
SBJ version for RTAF fleet has three areas forming three levels of comfort compartments: 4-seat VIP area, 6-seat business class area, and passenger compartment accommodating 50 people. The aircraft are equipped with advanced passenger comfort systems, including various communication facilities and Inflight-Entertainment multimedia system.
SBJ flight range is more than 4500 km. The aircraft, including the interior, were produced and assembled in Russia.
Sukhoi Superjet press release