While the 737-derived Boeing Business Jet (BBJ) isn’t the best choice for every operator, one thing it does offer, in large quantities, is reliability. So it should come as no surprise that Royal Jet, the United Arab Emirates-based charter operator, announced last week it had obtained ETOPS-120 certification of its two BBJs. The extended-range twin-engine operation performance standard references International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) rules permitting newer twin-engine aircraft to operate over water, desert and remote polar routes that place them more than an hour from a suitable emergency or diversion airport. The UAE’s rules allow charter operators to use ETOPS-60 standards upon placing a new type into service, with an “upgrade to ETOPS-90 only possible after one year of trouble-free experience.” The ETOPS-120 can usually be applied for after another year but, according to the company, Royal Jet’s safety record helped convince UAE authorities to grant the ETOPS-120 certification. “With the ETOPS-120 certificate, Royal Jet can offer a more direct and unique service to our clients who will be using the BBJ for isolated and Cross Atlantic destinations,” said Ammar Balkar, vice president of sales & marketing of Royal Jet. Royal Jet was launched in May 2003 and is a 100% UAE-owned private charter aircraft company.
