The Czech Republic has ordered two Airbus Corporate Jetliners (ACJs), joining the growing number of governments and private customers that have chosen the aircraft following an official call for tender. Total sales of the Airbus ACJ Family now stand at some 70 aircraft.

The Czech Republic has selected CFM International CFM56-5 engines to power its Airbus ACJs, which it says will consume much less fuel than the Tupolev Tu-154s that they will replace. It is hoped that the aircraft will deliver savings in operational and maintenance costs to the government's fleet.

The aircraft will be used to transport either troops or government officials, allowing the most efficient use of the aircraft. Cabin outfitting will be carried out by Lufthansa Technik in Hamburg.

The Czech Republic is the third European government to have selected the Airbus ACJ, which is already in service with the Italian and French Air Forces. Other governments that have selected the Airbus ACJ include Azerbaijan, Brazil, Qatar, Thailand and Venezuela, as well as several Middle East states.

The Airbus ACJ family comprises the A318Elite, ACJ and A320 Prestige.