BAE Systems And Design Q Unveil ABJ Explorer Concept At
EBACE
BAE Systems and UK design consultancy Design Q unveiled two
exciting new concepts for the Avro Business Jet (ABJ) Tuesday, on
the opening day of the European Business Aviation Convention and
Exhibition (EBACE) show in Geneva. And they definitely fall into
the category of "if you have to ask ... "
ABJ Explorer One Artist's Concept
The Avro Business Jet Explorer One and Explorer Four concepts
represent a bold and innovative approach to aircraft interiors and
are the first of five concepts that Design Q has been contracted by
BAE Systems Regional Aircraft to develop for the ABJ. Each of these
will build on elements of the unique features of the aircraft to
deliver a range of exceptional interiors for different VIP aircraft
market segments. The three other interior concepts will be unveiled
over the coming months.
The ABJ Explorer concepts blend the unmatched airfield
performance characteristics of the aircraft, together with the
combination of high-specification interiors and the unique 'Air
Deck' viewing platform, to create a product that is believed to be
a first in aviation history.
On the ground a huge side door powers open to reveal a concealed
platform that extends out from the aircraft. The 'Air Deck'
transforms the rear of the aircraft into the ultimate living space,
providing an elevated outdoor viewing deck combined with a
luxurious indoor space incorporating a state-of-the-art
entertainment system and vast open plan galley.
"These concepts elevate the ABJ to a new level of sophistication
for the discerning customer," said Stewart Cordner, Vice President
Avro Business Jets. "Together with Design Q we have blended the
aircraft's unique performance, fantastic interior space and the
large rear opening door to create possibilities previously
un-thought of."
"These concepts challenge conventional thinking and blend the
proven attributes of the ABJ with customer focused design solutions
providing a unique lifestyle product," said Gary Doy,
Owner/Director of Design Q. "I believe these products will have
enormous appeal to owners and operators who are looking for the
ultimate luxury travel experience."
The ABJ Explorer One is aimed at the high net worth individual
who wants the freedom to travel and explore remote locations in a
stylish and comfortable way. The elegant interior incorporates a
beautifully proportioned lounge with curved sofas wrapping around a
low central Ottoman from which monitors can be deployed. A fully
equipped office workstation is incorporated into the forward
bulkhead with a large display cabinet located on the opposite side
of the aircraft providing a focal point on entry.
ABJ Explorer One Air Deck Artist's Concept
A white marble stone floor adds to the sense of occasion and
space in the entrance vestibule and this material theme is
continued with a bespoke central table situated aft of the lounge
in its own crescent shaped alcove. This "room within a room"
approach gives an open flowing feel to the space with a certain
intimacy in the dining vestibule. A luxurious and spacious lavatory
can be accessed from the offset walkway leading to the stunning
rear entertainment lounge and "Air Deck". Both Explorer concepts
share the same layout in this area which also benefits from a
generously proportioned open plan galley fitted to the highest
specifications and incorporating the latest appliances.
The ABJ Explorer Four is a new totally new luxury charter travel
concept. Although chartering a luxury yacht to explore out of the
way places is well known, this has until now not been developed in
the aircraft sector.
The Explorer Four is designed for customers who are looking for
a unique travel experience and can accommodate four couples or
singles in their own private VIP cabins. The aircraft has the
ability to transport the passengers between exotic and remote
locations whilst providing comfortable and stylish accommodation
overnight.
The fully serviced living and sleeping quarters are thoughtfully
located to provide both private and social areas. The on board
service team act both as hosts and tour guides leaving the
passengers in no doubt that this is a luxury experience. Sleeping
quarters are provided for the crew both in a well appointed cabin
located in the forward lower hold and on site at the individual
destinations.
The four VIP cabins have a generous sofa and chair combination
which can convert to a full size double bed. Each cabin has its own
entertainment system with a 17" high-definition flat screen monitor
and access to a vast number of multimedia files. A full
height wardrobe is provided and there is also direct access to a
large dressing room incorporating a toilet and shower in the mid
section of the aircraft. Glazed bulkheads can be transformed from
obscure to transparent opening up the interior during flight to
create a more social space.
With the rear door open and 'Air Deck' deployed, the passengers
can relax for the evening in secure surroundings and enjoy a cool
drink in the open air as the sun sets for another day. This jewel
of a room will be a talking point for many passengers as they
recall their experience on the ABJ Explorer Four.