Quick Links Starting out Features of the original BBJ BBJs that are no longer produced Variants of the aircraft In production now Aircraft specifications and comparison: What other BBJs do Boeing make? Aircraft specifications and differences: The Boeing Business Jet or BBJ as it is known in its shortened form, is a Boeing airliner that has been converted for the business aviation industry. They are also popular as government or head of state aircraft. How was the Boeing Business Jet developed and what aircraft do they now produce? Let's take a deep dive into the world of the BBJ.
Starting out The first BBJ was designed in 1996 and was a modified Boeing 737 Next Generation aircraft that was to compete in the private jet market. It was requested by the then President of Boeing, Phil Condit and the Chairman and CEO of General Electric, Jack Welch. The first original BBJ was designed by Boris Boeskov.
It was rolled off the assembly line on July 26th, 1998 and first flew on September 4th, the very same year. Features of the original BBJ The first BBJ had stronger wings and landing gear than its commercial counterpart, the 737-700. Extra fuel tanks were added to extend the range above that of the standard 737.
Ultimately, 113 of the aircraft were delivered. The second version of the BBJ was introduced three years later, in 1999. It was slightly longer than the previous type and had more space in the cabin and more room for baggage, but it had slightly less range than the first BBJ.
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