Dubai Airshow: Fresh faces on the static as new types debut in the Middle East

Dassault’s 2000LX is on display for the first time. NetJets Middle East arm, Saudi-based National Air Services has just taken delivery of the type. Vadim Feldzer, who heads up communications for Dassault says: “The Middle East is an important market for us. The rest of the world is challenging today, but we are seeing a great deal of interest from this region and from India.”

The first Comlux ACJ is also making its regional debut. The ACJ is proving popular in the region, with an announcement today that Al Jaber Group's new aviation division, Al Jaber Aviation, has placed a new firm order for two Airbus Corporate Jetliners and revealed a previously undisclosed order for two A318 Elites, adding to a previous deal for two A318 Elites. Product marketing director executive and private aviation David Velupillai says: “This is an important market for us and we are seeing a great deal of interest in our VIP aircraft.”

Fresh from its success at NBAA with the announcement of the Legacy 650, Embraer has brought the Lineage 1000 and the Phenom 100 to the show for the first time. Claudio Galdo Camelier vice president market intelligence executive jets said: “The Lineage has the largest baggage capacity of any aircraft in its category, which is important to people here.

Many of them like to fly to Europe and shop, so hold space is key.” Abu Dhabi’s Prestige Jet took delivery of the first Lineage in the region and the second is due to enter service in 2010. The first Phenom jets will also enter service in the Middle East over the next few months, although Camelier admitted that the market is weaker here for smaller jets. As yet there is no announced regional customer for the Legacy 650 announced at NBAA last month.

Meanwhile, what do you do when a major order collapses?  Bombardier was well prepared when a huge sale of 110 Learjet 60XRs fell through with the demise of Jet Republic this year. It is debuting its Signature Series Red interior for the Learjet 60XR, which it unveiled at NBAA in October along with Signature Series Black.

Both include new options such as swift broadband capability and an espresso machine. “Bombardier is committed to investing in both its new and current product platforms to ensure that our business aircraft portfolio reflects the evolving needs of our customers,” said Steven Ridolfi, president, Bombardier Business Aircraft.  “The Learjet 60 XR now combines unparalleled performance and low operating costs with exciting new cabin configurations.”

Series Red offers seating for six passengers. The stand-up cabin includes redesigned cabin seats with berthing capability, removable armrest caps and panels, as well as larger storage drawers.

Streamlined side ledges allow for better ergonomics and a harmonious design throughout the cabin. The private aft lavatory includes an unveiled window for increased natural light, as well as a larger and more functional vanity cabinet. According to Ridolfi, the new interiors are partly a response to the collapse of Jet Republic. He said that the OEM had prepared for such an eventuality.

Conversions are also an important market. 328 Support Services is introducing its latest $9m Dornier 328 jet variant, which has just obtained FAA approval. Distributed by Action Aviation and operated by DC Aviation in Germany, the aircraft features a new galley, Swift Broadband internet, all electric blinds, full high definition IFE and a new noise reduction kit. 

The company holds the type certificate for the Dornier 328Jet and 328 turboprop and provides worldwide support to the 200-strong fleet from its Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany base. It has developed several VIP interiors, which are in service worldwide. 328 Support Services head of sales Ray Mosses says: “We are constantly developing our thinking and our next interior will have two bulkhead monitors and Air Cell phone access.

“We see a good market for the jet in this region.”