Airbus

The Airbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ) Family won a record 20 sales in 2006, surpassing the previous year's record of 15 orders and securing its position at the top of the corporate aviation market.

The ACJ Family comprises the A318 Elite, A320 Prestige and ACJ, which is based on the A319. Airbus has now sold a total of almost 80 ACJ Family aircraft.

"For the third year in a row we have outsold the nearest competitor in the large, top-of-the-line corporate jet market and the ACJ Family won almost two-thirds of sales in this sector in 2006," said Richard Gaona, vice president executive and private aviation. "With the widest, most comfortable cabin available in the corporate market and a thoroughly modern, reliable design, the ACJ Family is the aircraft of choice for discerning customers."

Airbus also delivered a record 10 ACJ Family aircraft in 2006 along with the first A340-600 VIP, which was handed over to the SAAD Group in December. The ACJ is also venturing into new territory with the Australian Government Antarctic Division.

All ACJ Family aircraft feature customisable corporate cabins, built in airstairs that eliminate the need for jetways or mobile steps and can be fitted with extra fuel tanks for greater range. The ACJ and A318 Elite also have a higher cruise altitude of 41,000 ft.