AIRCRAFT · GLOSSARY
VIP Airliner
Also known as: BBJ, ACJ, head-of-state aircraft
Commercial airliner — typically a Boeing BBJ or Airbus ACJ — converted to a private cabin for heads of state, royal families, sports teams and large corporate groups.
Other names for VIP Airliner
In the private aviation industry, VIP Airliner is also commonly referred to as BBJ, ACJ and head-of-state aircraft. These terms are used interchangeably by operators, brokers and crews.
IN PRACTICE
VIP airliners are operated under the same certification as scheduled commercial aircraft but with cabin completion by specialist shops in Basel, Hamburg or Wichita. Common interiors include private bedrooms, full-size showers, conference rooms and dedicated staff quarters.
Operating costs are an order of magnitude higher than large-cabin business jets, but for groups of 15-50 they are often the only sensible option.
ON LIMITLESS SKY
GO DEEPER ON LIMITLESS SKY
Frequently asked
What does VIP Airliner mean in private aviation?
Also called BBJ, ACJ, head-of-state aircraft. Commercial airliner — typically a Boeing BBJ or Airbus ACJ — converted to a private cabin for heads of state, royal families, sports teams and large corporate groups.
How much does it cost to charter a vip airliner?
Charter pricing for a vip airliner depends on flight time, fuel, segment fees and federal excise tax. Our quote engine prices every vip airliner mission transparently, including all surcharges before you commit. Get a live estimate on the fleet page below.
What is the typical range and seating of a vip airliner?
VIP airliners are operated under the same certification as scheduled commercial aircraft but with cabin completion by specialist shops in Basel, Hamburg or Wichita. Common interiors include private bedrooms, full-size showers, conference rooms and dedicated staff quarters.
How does a vip airliner compare to other jet categories?
See the related terms below for adjacent categories — light, midsize, super-midsize, heavy and ultra-long-range — and our aircraft comparison guides for side-by-side range, cabin and operating-cost data.
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