Riyadh-based Alpha Star has become the first operator to commit to an Airbus ACJ319neo. Delivery of the aircraft is planned for the second quarter of 2019, and the selection of engines and cabin definition will follow.

Airbus' ACJneo family features more efficient engines than its ACJ319 predecessor, wingtip-mounted sharklets, improved cabin comfort and upgraded fuel and baggage capacity.

“Middle East customers already recognise and appreciate the greater comfort, capacity and capability of Airbus Corporate Jets, so new and improved versions are a natural next step when it comes to investing for the future,” says Alpha Star ceo Salem Al Muzaini. “Being first in the region with the Airbus ACJneo family will also help us to maintain our lead in vvip charters.”

Alpha Star owns, manages and operates a fleet of ACJ318s, ACJ319s, ACJ320s, an ACJ330 and an ACJ340. The ACJ319neo can fly eight passengers up to 6,750nm, or more than 15 hours.