Orders in the Middle East represent the largest total for Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) and VIP airplanes at 33 per cent, and this region is the principal hub for 747s used by governments, charters and private individuals, said a Boeing statement.

All of the current orders for 747-8 VIPs and 70 per cent of orders for the larger, longer range BBJ 2s and BBJ 3s represent Middle East buyers. This trend continues with nearly half of orders for 787 VIPs placed in the region.

BBJ has a long-standing presence in the Middle East and is a founding member of Meba (Middle East Business Aviation). The company will promote its BBJ and VIP business jets at the Airport Expo in Dubai, being held from November 16 to 18. Up to five BBJs will be in the static display.

Since launching BBJ in 1996, sales have reached 197 airplanes. One-hundred twenty-two are in service, and 17 more have been delivered to completion centers for interiors installations service. The BBJ backlog includes 58 airplanes worth $8.2 billion.

Earlier this year, Boeing Business Jets completed the first two BBJ 3s and delivered them to DeCrane Aircraft. Delaware-based DeCrane is certifying the auxiliary fuel systems and Head-up Displays. Both airplanes will receive custom interiors and enter service in 2009.

BBJ owners may soon place orders for new, lighter-weight carbon brakes for their production airplanes. Deliveries will occur after BBJ certification by regulatory agencies, excepted to take place in 2009.

Boeing also expects to have its retrofit program certified and available in 2009. The weight reduction will allow additional interior design flexibility and more payload and range capability.-TradeArabia News Service