Call it cabin fever. Business jet OEMs are focused on providing passengers with more comfort, convenience and technology, as the interiors of Bombardier’s Global 7000, Gulfstream’s G600 and Embraer’s Phenom 300E—all making their debuts and on static display this week at NBAA 2017—illustrate.
An update of the best-selling Phenom 300, the 300E (for “Enhanced”) features new seats, a slightly roomier interior and improved CMS/IFE system (Cabin Management System/In-flight Entertainment). The light jet’s seats, designed and engineered in house, have extendable headrests, leg rests and retractable armrest among other improvements, and can be customized with a wide choice of leathers and stitching. The table, side ledge, side wall and valence designs are also new.
Embraer (Booth N2632; SD15) said its aisle is three-inches wider than the 300 and there’s an additional inch of headroom. An upper technology, or “tech” panel along the centerline of the cabin ceiling displays inflight information and incorporates an upgraded cabin lighting scheme, with a broad range of ambient mood selections. Bluetooth connectivity allows passengers to view inflight information on their personal devices.
Audio and video on demand (AVOD) is available as an option via two slender seven-inch displays that swing down from the ceiling panel. Also new is Lufthansa Technik’s nice HD CMS/IFE system as standard equipment. The 300E’s base price is $9.45 million and customization options start at an extra $300,000.
Meanwhile, the cabin of Gulfstream’s long-range G600, first shown at NBAA 2014, has been refined, reflecting customer feedback. The flexible interior offers up to four living areas, with options for a fixed bed and divans that convert into beds. Three new mission-focused seating styles are standard, and furniture and interior elements such as bulkheads can be finished and customized with a choice of materials.
The galley, which includes a refrigerator, beverage maker and optional steam oven, can be positioned fore or aft, and lavatories are at both ends of the cabin. Stone, wood, and other flooring options can be chosen for the entry, vestibule, galley and lavatories. The 14 panoramic windows let in an abundance of natural light, according to Gulfstream (Booth N5132, SD21).
More refinements are expected—the G600 on static display will continue to serve as the testbed for the G600 cabin into 2018, when the $56.2 million jet is scheduled to enter service. Wi-Fi connectivity options include high-speed broadband via JetWave Ka-band service.
Also making its NBAA debut, Bombardier’s ultra-long-range Global 7000 boasts a four-zone cabin, in addition to a gourmet galley and dedicated crew rest suite. FTV4 (Flight Test Vehicle 4) on static display is the testbed for the interior furnishings.
Only position holders of the $72.8 million jet are being invited aboard during the NBAA show, but a cabin mockup showcased at previous events has displayed some of the details. Multiple floor plans are available, but the basic four-zone, 17-passenger configuration calls for two forward live/work areas. The first is an intimate zone with double club seating, the second a space featuring a table formed from joining two separate surfaces together, creating a dining table for six or a conference table.
The third zone, intended as a sitting room or private workspace, can host a credenza topped by large-screen monitor and a three-place divan that converts into a bed. Zone four is the stateroom, and the double-size bed and headboard option is popular with customers, according to Bombardier (Booth N6000, SD20), and can be furnished with bookshelves, a dresser and wardrobe.
Alternatively, a queen bed can be accommodated when paired with a smaller dresser. The aft lav can be outfitted with a standup shower, also high on the list of in-demand options. High speed Wi-Fi is available via JetWave.
