Lufthansa Technik has received Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) approval for Airbus A319 maintenance. The approval expands the German company’s service offerings for Chinese B-registered A319 bizliners, including line and heavy maintenance service.

“This approval is a milestone for us as the A319 is a popular aircraft type in Greater China,” said Thomas Decher, vice president of VIP maintenance and modifications for Lufthansa Technik (Booth H316). “It helps us to further extend our MRO services for VIP customers from that region. I am sure that we will create significant additional business thanks to the approval.”

The company already has begun a six-year check of a B-registered ACJ319 at its facility in Hamburg, Germany. Lufthansa Technik Group had originally outfitted the aircraft with a VIP cabin for a Chinese customer. Along with the heavy maintenance check, the aircraft is undergoing a cabin refurbishment. The maintenance event requires removal of the VIP outfitting and reinstallation.

In addition to the A319, Lufthansa Technik holds CAAC approvals to perform heavy maintenance on other Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including the A340, A318 and B747. Lufthansa Technik further has outfitted more than 30 VIP aircraft for customers in Greater China.

At ABACE this year, Lufthansa Technik and designer Mercedes-Benz Style are showcasing the final version of VIP cabin design for the first time to a broader Asian audience. Lufthansa Technik’s VIP and Special Mission Aircraft Services engineering firm worked with Mercedes-Benz Style to refine the initial design concept to meet airworthiness and certification requirements.

A virtual 3D presentation and scaled physical 3D model, along with material samples, are on display this week at the show. The cabin features a modern design that incorporates the latest communications and other interior technologies. A unique helix structure providing a dynamic spiral layout is the central them of the design and extends from the entrance to the bedroom.

This approach provides new independent spatial zones without the typical arrangement of lining and wall elements. The design includes an open entrance area, a kitchen and VIP lavatory. The aft cabin includes an entertainment zone and en suite private area with open design.