If You Have To Ask, You Can't Afford It

The gang at Boeing Business Jets are eagerly awaiting the VIP-version of the 787 Dreamliner... and they're having quite a time considering how such a plane will be outfitted. The group unveiled concepts of custom interior designs for the advanced-technology widebody VIP jet Wednesday, at the Middle East Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition in Dubai.

"A Boeing 787 VIP affords its owner complete accommodation," said Steven Hill, president of Boeing Business Jets. "The spacious cabin and the technology of the 787 enable an owner to design a beautiful environment that exactly meets preferences and needs. Whether you are looking for a flying palace or a business office in the sky -- or both, the possibilities are endless."

(Hill's use of the term "flying palace" was likely not by accident... as that is also what Airbus calls its full-lux A380 variant -- Ed.)

"Aboard a 787 VIP owners can fly anywhere in the world nonstop, and on those long-distance flights, it is critical to have amenities and a cabin environment that allow passengers to be completely comfortable and productive," Hill added.

Boeing Business Jets has commissioned several design firms to develop preliminary concepts for 787 VIP interiors. A number of other airplane interior design firms and completion centers have developed a variety of innovative interior design concepts for the 787 VIP as well.

Boeing does not design or install interiors in VIP airplanes. Instead, Boeing delivers VIP airplanes in so-called "green" condition, meaning the airplane does not have interior furnishings or exterior paint. Customers then work with certified designers and interior completion centers to develop personalized interiors.

The VIP-configured 787-8 offers 2,404 square feet of cabin space and a range of 9,590 nautical miles (17,760 km) while the VIP-configured 787-9 offers 2,762 square feet of cabin space and a range of 9,950 nautical miles (18,425 km).

To date, undisclosed customers have ordered five 787 VIP airplanes -- two 787-8s and three 787-9s -- direct from Boeing. Two additional 787-8s are being provided to VIP customers through leasing companies. The first commercial version of the 787 is scheduled to make its first flight later this year.

FMI: www.boeing.com/commercial/bbj/index.html