Royal Jet certifies fleet of Boeing Business Jet with ETOPS-120

His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of Royal Jet, issued a statement saying: "Royal Jet recently celebrated its second anniversary and a major milestone as, within only two years, we have become a regional market leader for luxury air charter services. Another milestone is being marked today and it gives me great pleasure to receive the ETOPS-120 certification for our entire fleet of BBJs (737-700)".

ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operation Performance Standards) is an acronym for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) rule permitting newer twin-engined commercial aircraft to fly routes that, at some points, are further than a distance of 60 minutes flying time from an emergency or diversion airport. This definition allows twin-engined airliners - such as the new generation Boeing B737 Business Jet (BBJ) - to fly long distance routes that were previously off-limits to twin-engined aircraft. This includes flying over water, desert and remote polar areas.

The regulations allow a charter airliner to have an ETOPS-60 minutes rating on its entry into service. Application for an ETOPS-90 is only possible after one year of trouble-free 60-minute ETOPS experience. ETOPS-120 can usually be applied for a year later. Due to Royal Jet's safety records and its high safety & security standards that originate from the association to Amiri Flight, the company has obtained the ETOPS-120 rating without having to apply for the ETOPS-90. "We are very proud of this unique achievement" added His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Chairman of Royal Jet.

The exceptional performance and long range of new executive jets such as the BBJ has made ETOPS flights between city pairs and over remote areas possible. It is an endeavour that no one would have dreamed of a few years ago.

ETOPS rules and procedures provide any operator with stringent guidelines to follow when planning international trips, suitability of a planned ETOPS alternate requires not only an approved runway and decent weather, but also the ability of the airport to handle the aircraft and its passengers.

"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 Sales & Marketing of Royal Jet. "Royal Jet will be able to reach destinations such as the Seychelles, Maldives, fly across Central Africa and even offer trips from Morocco to Brazil."

"Added advantages will include planning alternative flight routes with a more direct approach, by-passing countries that can take more time obtaining flight clearances and possibly even reducing flight times to certain destinations" added Mr Balkar. "Our aim now is to obtain an ETOPS-180 rating within one year".

Royal Jet's exclusive air charter service is unique, providing a personalised premium service to VIP passengers requiring comfort, luxury and flexibility. Royal Jet provides the ultimate, confidential, discreet and secure way to travel with a stand-by time to take off in just two and a half hours after confirmation. The BBJ has been equipped with the best in entertainment and comfort to ensure all passenger needs are met.

The Royal Jet fleet now consists of two Boeing Business Jets and two Gulfstream G300s. Each G300 is capable of seating a maximum of 12 passengers, to meet the needs of businessmen, small groups and families. In addition, Royal Jet expects the delivery of three or more additional aircraft over the quarter.

Now all Royal Jet's aircraft are capable of operating within the 120-minutes ETOPS rules.

Royal Jet's success is reflected in its plans to be the premier provider for private jet charter services throughout the Middle East, Europe and the Indian Sub Continent. Offices in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Kuwait are already fully operational.