Overview
The Airbus ACJ320neo (Airbus Corporate Jet, new engine option) represents the latest generation of Airbus's VIP narrowbody programme. Based on the A320neo — the world's best-selling single-aisle airliner — the ACJ320neo combines proven airframe reliability with new-generation CFM LEAP-1A engines that reduce fuel consumption by 20% compared to the previous ACJ320.
The ACJ320neo's defining advantage is its cabin width: at 3.70 m, it is the widest cabin of any single-aisle VIP aircraft. This 16 cm advantage over the Boeing BBJ translates into noticeably wider seats, wider aisles, more spacious bathrooms, and greater interior design freedom. For completion centres, the extra width opens possibilities that are simply impossible in a narrower fuselage.
Airbus has delivered ACJ aircraft to over 200 customers in more than 50 countries. The ACJ320neo serves heads of state, royal families, and corporations that require the ultimate in flying space and prestige. Each aircraft is a bespoke project, with completion typically taking 18-30 months at specialised facilities in Hamburg, Basel, Indianapolis, or the Middle East.
Specifications
| Passengers | 25-50 (VIP), up to 180 (airline config) |
| Range | 11,100 km (6,000 nm) |
| Max Speed | 871 km/h (Mach 0.82) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 840 km/h (Mach 0.78) |
| Max Altitude | 41,000 ft |
| Takeoff Distance | 1,900 m |
| Landing Distance | 1,300 m |
| Engines | 2x CFM International LEAP-1A (27,120 lbf each) |
| Cabin Length | 27.51 m |
| Cabin Width | 3.70 m |
| Cabin Height | 2.25 m |
| Cabin Volume | ~230 m3 |
| Additional Fuel Tanks | Up to 5 ACTs in cargo hold |
| Avionics | Airbus Cockpit with fly-by-wire |
Performance
The ACJ320neo's LEAP-1A engines represent a generational leap in engine technology. Each delivers 27,120 lbf of thrust while consuming 20% less fuel than the previous CFM56 generation. This efficiency gain translates into lower operating costs, reduced carbon emissions, and the ability to achieve 11,100 km of range with fewer additional centre tanks (ACTs) — leaving more space in the cargo hold for luggage.
The range of 11,100 km enables nonstop flights from London to Los Angeles, Dubai to New York (with favourable winds), or Singapore to London. For most head-of-state and VIP missions, this range covers the vast majority of required city pairs without refuelling stops.
The ACJ320neo inherits Airbus's fly-by-wire flight control system, providing flight envelope protection, automatic trim, and handling that pilots transitioning from airline A320s find immediately familiar. This commonality with the world's most widely flown aircraft family ensures that qualified pilots are always available.
Total fuel burn at long-range cruise is approximately 2,400 kg/h — roughly 15% less than the BBJ 737 on equivalent missions.
Cabin Layout
The ACJ320neo cabin provides approximately 230 m3 of usable volume — more than any other single-aisle VIP aircraft. The 3.70 m width and 2.25 m height allow interior designers to create truly residential spaces: master suites with king-size beds, walk-in showers, executive offices with full-size desks, conference rooms for 10+ people, and entertainment lounges with large-screen displays.
Airbus partners with leading VIP completion centres to offer turnkey interiors. Popular configurations include the Melody cabin concept by Airbus Corporate Jets, which features a master suite, VIP lounge, office, dining area, and staff section. Custom designs can include anything from private cinemas to prayer rooms, medical facilities, or secure communications centres.
The extra cabin width compared to the BBJ is most noticeable in the bathroom and bedroom areas, where the additional 16 cm allows for more comfortable fixtures and furnishings. In the lounge areas, the wider cabin enables side-by-side seating with a true aisle in between — a configuration that feels more like a first-class train carriage than an aircraft.
Pricing
Charter
Hourly rate: from €20,000
Sample routes:
- London — Dubai: ~€130,000
- Paris — New York: ~€160,000
- Riyadh — London: ~€140,000
Very limited charter availability. Most ACJs are privately operated.
Purchase
New (green + completion): from $110M+
Pre-owned (2018+): from $55M
Completion cost: $25-60M additional
Annual budget: ~$9M (400 hrs)
Fuel burn: ~2,400 kg/h
Competitors
The ACJ320neo competes directly with the Boeing BBJ 737. The ACJ's advantages include the wider cabin, newer-generation engines with lower fuel burn, and Airbus's fly-by-wire system. The BBJ counters with Boeing's extensive global support network, a slightly longer cabin, and a larger installed base that can mean easier pilot recruitment.
Both VIP narrowbodies also compete against widebody VIP conversions (ACJ330, BBJ 777) for customers who need even more space, and against ultra-long-range business jets like the Gulfstream G700 and Global 7500 for those who prioritise lower operating costs over cabin volume. The ACJ320neo occupies the sweet spot for operators who want residential cabin space without the complexity and cost of a widebody aircraft.
