737 Boeing Business Jet

Air Force has a fleet of two Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) aircraft, which were introduced in 2002. They are part of the Special Purpose Aircraft fleet, operated by No. 34 Squadron from Defence Establishment Fairbairn in the Australian Capital Territory.

The BBJs provide an agile transport capability that can carry Government and staff within Australia and overseas. The aircraft has seating, a meeting room, working space, and communications facilities.

The use of Air Force Special Purpose Aircraft allows Government to attend international forums and conduct state visits easily, thus ensuring Australia is represented on the world's stage.

The BBJ complement the smaller CL604 Challengers also operated by No. 34 Squadron.

About the Aircraft

The BBJ has a crew of up to six (pilot, co-pilot, and up to four crew attendants) and is capable of carrying up to 30 passengers.

It has a range of 11,390 km which enables it to fly directly from Canberra to Hong Kong or Tokyo.

The BBJ combines the fuselage of the Boeing 737-700 commercial airliner, with a strengthened rear section. It has the centre-section, wing and landing gear of a 737-800. Winglets are standard, affording a 5 to 7 per cent reduction in cruise drag, and a 4 to 5 per cent increase in range.