Airbus have released details via a press release of their maiden flight for the new Corporate Jet variant of the Airbus ACJ320neo.
Officially beginning its flight test program the corporate jet took off from Hamburg with flight crew: Captain Francis Chapman, First Officer Guillaume Kreis, Test Flight Engineer Cédric Favrichon, Flight Test Engineer James Fawcett.
Based on the successful aircraft family the A320 series, the new neo variant provides fuel-saving benefits from new-generation engines and Sharklets fitted to the win tips improving aero performance, with the promise of delivering more comfort and space than traditional business jets with similar operating costs.
The corporate jet version also includes features such as extra fuel-tanks in the cargo-hold that will deliver even more intercontinental range, plus greater cabin-pressure for better passenger comfort
It is these features that are being tested, before delivery of the aircraft to launch customer Acropolis Aviation in the coming months. The aircraft will then undergo cabin outfitting by AMAC Completion Center in Basel, Switzerland, and be repainted in customer colors.
Improvements provided mean that the ACJ320 family now comprises the ACJ319neo, flying eight passengers 6,750 nm/12,500 km or more than 15 hours, and the ACJ320neo, flying 25 passengers 6,000 nm/11,100 km or more than 13 hours.
