Two senior captains of Abu Dhabi's Prestige Jet are putting the world's first Lineage 1000 into service after completing specialised training in Switzerland. "Our crew is pleased to make Lineage 1000 history by carrying the first passengers," says md Faris Deeb.

Capt. Gerald Dolan, director of flight operations and one of the first two pilots to fly the aircraft, says: "Fitted with a highly intuitive avionics suite, the Lineage 1000 comprises state-of-the-art platforms that simplify procedures and improve safety in all weather conditions."

The Lineage 1000 is considered the largest designated business jet aside from the BBJ and ACJ and accommodates 19 passengers, Deeb says. "It has five distinct privacy zones which can be designed in a variety of different configurations of comfort and luxury, affording plentiful room for work, rest and meetings."

The aircraft, which is being managed by Prestige Jet, was fitted out in the US. "The configuration will give great versatility for passengers and will include a private meeting room and divans with berthing capacity," Deeb adds. "Another important aspect of the aircraft is its huge baggage capacity of some 615 cubic feet. The large, pressurised aft walk-in baggage area is conveniently accessible during flight and is more than twice the size of baggage compartments in competitive jets." Amenities aboard include Wi-Fi technology, internet access, ethernet and other features.

Deeb says: "Prestige Jet expects the greatest demand to come from customers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Russia, the latter being a market of growing potential for the company."