Airbus Corporate Jets has had a strong presence in the Middle East, reaching back to the mid-1980s. To help cement that presence the company is displaying an ACJ319 at MEBA. Illustrating the ability to provide various zones within its capacious cabin, the 19-passenger aircraft operated by MJet is configured with a full-service galley and several different lounge areas, including berthable seating, and a bedroom with en suite shower/bathroom facilities at the rear of the cabin. Austria-based MJet added the ACJ319 to its charter fleet in February this year.

“Business jets are widely used in the Middle East by companies, individuals and governments, most of which want to carry larger groups and all of which want to give wings to their lifestyles, which is why Airbus corporate jets have done so well in the region,” said Airbus COO Customers, John Leahy. “Our wider and taller cabins deliver something that you just cannot get in traditional business jets, and that’s a better travel experience.”

Being based on the globally successful Airbus single-aisle airliner, the ACJ family offers very high levels of reliability, and access to a comprehensive worldwide support network. The ACJ offers fly-by-wire controls, a feature that is only just being adopted by traditional business jets, as well as Cat 3B full autoland capability.

Meanwhile, the Toulouse, France-based Airbus Corporate Jet Centre has appointed Vincent Tchengang as its new head of services sales. Having previously served with ACJC as customer support director, Tchengang then became Africa/Indian Ocean regional sales director for parent company Airbus. Now he heads a team of sales directors covering cabins, airframes and engines for ACJC, as well as taking personal responsibility for Africa, Australia, eastern Europe and south Asia.