Best Private Jets

AIRBUS ACJ319

A319

As an über-VIP derivative of the commercial A319 jet, the ACJ319 goes a long way in redefining executive comfort.

This “flying palace” offers a compelling mixture of opulence and impressive performance.

As of last report, total orders for Airbus Corporate Jets stand at more than 170 aircraft, comprising more than 110 sales of the ACJ318, ACJ319 and ACJ320 family, plus over 60 VIP and government wide-body aircraft. As the proud “middle child” in that family, a corporate version of the ACJ319 is typically designed for just eight passengers (the commercial A319 usually seats 124) and a corporate-use ACJ319 was one of the company’s first VIP-configured aircraft delivered to clients, back in 1999.

While the large canvas of a commercial airframe provides for nearly any kind of configuration a client might want—from a flying presidential suite to a customized multi-zone “team plane” for a sports franchise—one of the more attractive flexibilities is the addition of fuel capacity in the cargo hold. This can vastly extend the range of the A319 (to a globe-spanning 6,000 NM) during VIP use. The tanks can be removed at resale to conform to standard airline cargo requirements.

“With a hugely better cabin than traditional business aircraft, Airbus corporate jets can carry larger groups, as well as delivering a better environment for work and relaxation, which is why they are the new top of the line in bizjet travel,” points out Airbus COO John Leahy. “So whether you’re a company executive, a high net-worth individual, or a senior government official, you’ll always have a better ride in an Airbus corporate jet.”