Boeing

Boeing [NYSE: BA] Business Jets today unveiled luxurious and forward-thinking design concepts for the 747-8 VIP airplane, which is based on the new, technologically advanced Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental.

Concept renderings, which debuted at the European Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition in Geneva, include opulent features such as vaulted ceilings, spiral staircases and video wall displays.

"With more than 5,000 square feet of cabin space, the new 747-8 VIP jet epitomizes incomparable luxury and operational flexibility," said Steven Hill, president of Boeing Business Jets. "The 747-8 VIP builds on the proud legacy of the 747 and incorporates the advanced technology of the 787 Dreamliner. It is a proven design with the operational flexibility to fly into most airports throughout the world."

The VIP version of the 747-8 Intercontinental provides a cabin with 444.6 square meters (4,786 square feet). The new SkyLoft area, which is located above the main cabin between the upper deck and tail of the 747-8 VIP, provides a potential of 81.8 additional square meters (881 square feet) of cabin space and gives owners the opportunity to create unique personal suites, private offices and recreational spaces.

With SkyLoft, the VIP-configured 747-8 offers a total of 526.5 square meters (5,667 square feet) of cabin space and can carry 100 passengers and fly up to 9,260 nautical miles (17,150 km). The airplane also is the fastest large-cabin business jet, capable of cruising at Mach 0.86.

Boeing does not design or install interiors in VIP airplanes. Boeing delivers VIP airplanes "green," meaning the airplane does not have interior furnishings or exterior paint. Customers then work with certified designers and interior completion centers to develop personalized interiors.

Earlier this year, Boeing Business Jets unveiled interior concepts for the new 787 VIP jet, which is based on the most successfully launched commercial airplane, the 787 Dreamliner.

The 747-8 VIP jet is the only large airplane in its class that fits today's airport infrastructure, giving its owners the flexibility to fly to more destinations. Building on the current 747's capability to fly into most airports worldwide, the 747-8 VIP uses the same pilot type ratings, services and most ground support equipment.

There are currently 22 747s in VIP use today.

To date, undisclosed customers have ordered four 747-8 VIP airplanes. The first commercial version of the 747-8 is scheduled to enter service in 2010.