Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet is diversifying its charter fleet with a firm order for three Airbus ACJ320neo VVIP jets plus options for six additional aircraft. The deal is worth anywhere from $330 million to nearly $1 billion, depending on how many options Royal Jet exercises. 

The company has long operated Boeing aircraft but the ACJ order is the culmination of 10 years of negotiation with Airbus Corporate Jets, according to Royal Jet CEO Shafiul Syed.

Delivery of the three ACJs is planned in 2026, and outfitting should take 10 to 14 months, Chadi Saade, president of Airbus Corporate Jets said on Wednesday at MEBAA 2024. Royal Jet is seeking bids for both the design and completion of the three jets. “We will go to a tender process,” Syed added.

The choice of the ACJ320neo was due to the aircraft’s capability, Airbus’ reputation, and “many, many other factors,” he said, including having a more diverse fleet. “It’s good to play in both fields. We've built a strong foundation in the Middle East. We have a global recognition, but we want to extend our footprint geographically so you can expect to hear a lot more over the next months and years ahead.”

“With this first significant agreement for the ACJ320neo,” Saade said, “Royal Jet will become the latest Airbus Corporate Jets family customer. The ACJ320neo, with its unmatched cabin space, superior comfort, and cutting-edge technology, will enable Royal Jet to provide exceptional travel experiences for its customers, at the lowest fuel burn of any aircraft in its class.

“It is the perfect choice for connecting business leaders where it matters, when it matters—fostering trade, collaboration, and innovation across global business communities. We will support Royal Jet’s introduction of this new aircraft type into its fleet and look forward to supporting its continued success.”