Lufthansa Technik, a subsidiary of the Lufthansa Group, has revealed designs for a private jet concept inspired by explorer superyachts.
The Airbus A330 EXPLORER concept, which was first teased at the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show, is "based on the current trend of wishes by superyacht owners for yachts to take them anywhere at any time,” the company says.
Head of sales and special mission aircraft services at Lufthansa Technik, Wieland Timm says: “In yacht building, exploration vessels have become a class in their own right.” The idea behind the Airbus A330 EXPLORER concept is to offer owners the equivalent in private aviation.
Sales director in Lufthansa Technik’s VIP and special mission aircraft services division, Jan Grube explains: “During the design process, we intensively analysed the visual context and typical elements of the explorer yacht class to transfer the design idea behind it from the water to the air.”
Like explorer yachts that can travel long distances without needing to refuel, the private jet concept is able to carry a maximum 25 passengers for up to 21 hours.
The concept’s retractable veranda that extends to four metres is reminiscent of the folding balconies and terraces found on many superyachts. Other standout design features include a mobility lounge in the aft section of the lower deck viewed through the glass floor of the main deck, alongside a gym room/medical centre at the rear of the plane.
Owners can choose from two configurations with one a layout for 12 guests in VIP cabins or alternatively, room for 47 passengers with a master suite.