BBJ (Boeing Business Jet) VIP transport
Two Boeing 737 BBJ (Boeing Business Jet) special purpose aircraft
are operated by the Royal Australian Air Force's No 34 Squadron, based
at Defence Establishment Fairbairn in Canberra. Both BBJs are
permanently converted to VIP configuration, comprising two conference
tables and seating for 30 passengers.
The BBJ combines the fuselage of the Boeing 737-700 aircraft with a
strengthened aft section, and the centre-section, wing and landing gear
of the 737-800 aircraft. Winglets are standard, affording 5 to 7 per
cent reduction in cruise drag, resulting in 4 to 5 per cent increase in
range. The BBJs joined the VIP fleet in July 2002.
No 34 Squadron operates and crews the special purpose VIP fleet of BBJs and Challengers, with the service and maintenance now contracted to Qantas.
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Boeing 737 BBJ (Boeing Business Jet) technical specifications
| Manufacturer |
Boeing |
| Role |
Special purpose passenger and VIP transport |
| Crew |
Two pilots and up to four crew attendants |
| Engine |
Two CFM International CFM56-7 turbofans (118.4kN (27,300 lbs) each) |
| Airframe |
Length: 33.6m height: 12.5m |
| Wingspan |
35.8m (including winglets) |
| Weight |
77,565kg (max take-off), 60,781kg (max landing) |
| Speed |
630km/h normal operations |
| Range |
11,390km (Canberra direct to Honolulu, Hong Kong or Tokyo) |
| Ceiling |
41,000 feet |
| Accommodation |
30 passengers in VIP configuration |
