The Boeing 747 version of the Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) is the world’s largest private jet. With only a handful of examples worldwide, it’s a rare bird. The 747-8I (Intercontinental) is already the second-largest passenger jet, with a maximum capacity of over 600 passengers, after the Airbus A380. The private-jet examples of the 747-8 are not only massive, but their interiors are also designed in the most luxurious ways.
One such example is the BBJ 747 interior designed by Alberto Pinto, a lavish labour of love that took the designers four years to complete. This article [originally published by Simpleflying.com] explores the interior of this massive aircraft and includes some jaw-dropping images.
Alberto Pinto’s 747 BBJ
Parisian design house Alberto Pinto is well known for crafting truly breathtaking business jet concepts. From Global 6000s to Gulfstreams and even 737s, the company is well-versed in creating luxurious designs and compliant with the many rules and regulations governing the aviation workspace.
In 2015, the firm completed its biggest and arguably most challenging project to date: designing the interior of the gigantic Boeing 747-8 business jet. Commissioned by an undisclosed client, the team took no less than four years to design and build the breathtaking interior.
According to Boeing:
“The Boeing widebody business jet product line includes the BBJ 747-8, representing a new benchmark in fuel efficiency and noise reduction, allowing customers to lower fuel costs and fly into more airports at more times of day. The BBJ 747-8 is 16 percent more fuel-efficient than the Boeing 747-400, and 11 percent more fuel-efficient than the Airbus A380. The BBJ version of the 747-8 Intercontinental provides a cabin with 4,786 square feet (444.6 square metres) of space.”
It’s one of the world’s largest private aircraft in existence, and for the designers, it was a dream come true. Speaking to Altitudes Magazine, Yves Pickardt, project lead, commented that,
“The owner gave us carte blanche. He wasn’t looking for anything outrageously luxurious, with gold and diamonds. On the contrary he called for some simplicity, which in the end is indeed the true luxury.
“Such a project is a dream come true that happens only once or twice in a designer’s lifetime. In a way, this is a landmark in aviation history.”
With a focus on natural materials and a soft, modern style, the company produced a truly awesome result. Pickardt noted that when Boeing’s team visited the aircraft, they said that it was one of the most beautiful they’d ever seen. Let’s take a look around.
A nose-to-tail tour
Starting at the nose of the jet, underneath the cockpit sits the master bedroom. This location, well away from the hum of the engines, makes for a tranquil and relaxing space.
Naturally, there’s a full-sized luxury bed, as well as an en suite bathroom. The bed is trimmed in embossed leather with saddle stitch detailing. The bathroom has a large walk-in shower as well as a vanity with a mirror and sink.
Also within the suite is a lounge area, complete with a sofa for two.
Aft of the master suite is the main entrance foyer, a grand affair with stunning detailing and a sparkling staircase to the upper deck. According to Pickardt,
“We decided to go with a soft modern style, which is somehow quite classical. One can easily recognise a strong French touch, a tribute to French Art deco and to our most famous saddle makers. We used only noble materials, all of the best quality available of course, such as wood, (African Wakapou and Sycamore), stone, wool and silk fabrics, [and] natural leathers.”
Upstairs, in the ‘hump’ is a cosy living room with a large screen TV. Everything is luxuriously appointed, with plenty of wood veneer and tasteful décor. Designed as a ‘salon for children,’ there must be some very lucky children to have access to such a stunning play space.
Downstairs and aft from the entrance foyer is what could be taken as the jewel in the crown of this luxurious aircraft. The main lounge has multiple seating areas, bespoke designer pieces, and a wacapou wood table with a goatskin top.
Within the main lounge, pairs of seats offer a choice of a more intimate conversation or a suitable place for business discussions and work.
Further aft, a private office doubles as a formal dining area for up to four guests. Look carefully, and you might spot a couple of Joan Miro artworks on the walls.
Another meeting room serves as a more formal boardroom for business activities.
Additional guest suites offer comfort and privacy for longer trips.
The owner can accommodate plenty of extra staff and entourage in the business class-style cabin at the rear of the plane.
Overall, the jet feels more like a luxury yacht than an aeroplane, but somehow, it strikes a wonderful balance between luxurious transport and a family home in the sky. The owner must be delighted by the result.
