At NBAA-BACE 2024, Aloft AeroArchitects announced the successful redelivery of a BBJ737-800 (BBJ2). Aloft delivered the aircraft on schedule to a returning Asia-based head-of-state customer.
During the aircraft’s visit, Aloft replaced an obsolete CMS/IFE system with Collins Venue CMS/IFE. This involved removing and replacing all existing LRUs and switch panels with Collins switch panels and modifying the interior to accommodate the new equipment.
The project also involved the integration of lighting solutions stemming from Aloft’s recent collaboration with Spectrum Networks. The newly installed lighting solutions include standard general illumination LED lighting solutions as well as FAR-UVC-enabled options in fixed and directional formats. Aloft said these lighting products are completely customisable to pre-existing previous-generation lighting while delivering optimal illumination with the built-in ability to activate FAR-UVC protection in the future.
The project was certified by Aloft’s internal Organizational Designation Authorization (ODA), which issued the FAA STC for the modifications and was validated in parallel by the customer’s local airworthiness authority. A large maintenance event was also completed during the modification to minimise ground time.
As with all BBJs, this BBJ2 includes the previously installed Aloft Auxiliary Fuel System (AFS). The AFS can be installed in various tank configurations of any 737-800 aircraft with modular installation groups in both the forward and/or aft cargo compartments. This BBJ2 has a six-tank configuration that can hold more than 3,000 gallons of additional fuel, extending its range by more than 1,500 nautical miles.
