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.

FMI: www.baesystems.com, www.designq.co.uk