Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ; Booth 2234) introduced at NBAA a new cabin concept for its ACJ320neo family–called Melody–and announced an order for one of the next-generation narrowbody bizliners, bringing its firm order book to seven.

The new cabin, done in white and light tones, features flowing lines “inspired by curves of nature,” and interior elements devoid of edges, providing a soft, cosseted experience for passengers, according to ACJ. In keeping with the concept’s name, the cabin has been acoustically tuned with the help of French audio engineering company Focal, incorporating rectangular-panel speakers blended into the ceiling to provide optimum sound from the entertainment system. The cabin has three curved, retractable 65-inch monitor screens, larger than any screen in an ACJ today.

Sylvain Mariat, ACJ’s head of creative design and concepts, provided AIN with additional interior details. The cabin zones, which include an extended lounge area, are separated by extra-wide openings, and can be closed off for privacy. Additionally, Melody features “a real kitchen more than a galley, where a chef can cook,” Mariat said. The expansive bathroom incorporates storage monuments and “magic glass” mirrors that can go from opaque to translucent at the push of a button. Attendees can view renderings and take an “inside tour” of the interior via a wearable, 3-D virtual reality viewing device at the company’s display.

ACJneos, based on the Airbus A319/320neo single-aisle airliners, can be powered with CFM International’s LEAP-1A or Pratt & Whitney’s PurePower PW1100G-JM, both delivering enhanced efficiency and providing additional range and lower emissions and engine noise. Neo models also feature sharklet wingtips, further boosting efficiency.

Green neo deliveries begin at the end of 2018 for the A320neo, and Q2 of 2019 for the A319neo, according to Chadi Saade, Airbus vice-president commercial. Riyadh-based Alpha Star is the ACJ319neo launch customer; other buyers are undisclosed.

Price for the Melody interior hasn’t been set. ACJ can work with a completion center to create the interior, or it can handle the entire completion itself. The neo order announced here in Orlando is the first “turnkey” order for the aircraft, turning all completion responsibility onto ACJ. The design is being finalized, and will incorporate elements of the Melody interior. ACJ president Benoit Defforge noted that the ACJneo’s promised performance depends on a completion that meets all weight and center of gravity requirements, and as the OEM, ACJ can guarantee delivering an aircraft that meets all such requirements.