A luxury Global Express XRS jet has been undergoing a complete interior refit at Nelson Airport – the first time this type of aircraft has been brought to New Zealand for refurbishment.
Nelson-based aircraft interior manufacturer Generation Global has been carrying out the refurbishment of the private aircraft, a Global Express XRS (BD-700-1A10). The jet arrived on 18 April, all work was completed on 16 May, and the jet was due to fly out of Nelson today (Tuesday 17 May 2022).
This type of refurbishment would normally be done in the large completion centres in the United States or Europe.
Generation Global chief engineer Brent Hill said the reason it was brought to the Nelson-based company was due to client satisfaction from several previous projects completed by the company. This industry is largely based on recommendation and referral.
“To have high-value work that would normally be carried out internationally brought here is great for Nelson. It shows the quality of the aviation support industry here is second to none and brings reputational and economic benefits for our region.”
The Global Express XRS (BD-700-1A10) is a large cabin, long range business jet designed and manufactured by Bombardier Aviation (formerly Bombardier Aerospace).
The Global XRS was the third of four business jet aircraft models, built by Bombardier to compete in the new ultra-long range large-cabin market. The Global XRS fills the top-end of the Bombardier product line. Of the four business jets that Bombardier has built, the Global XRS has the longest range at 11,100 km.
The aircraft features three cabin areas with seating for 16 passengers. The forward cabin includes a crew rest armchair, galley, and forward toilet. The main cabin has six large passenger armchairs and three divans which fold out into generous sized beds. The aft cabin includes the main bathroom.
The refurbishment Generation Global has carried out includes new leather upholstery, carpets, curtains, sidewall linings and bulkhead panels. Generation Global manage the total package for the client including certification with the European Aviation Safety Authorities (EASA) and USA Federal Aviation Authorities (FAA).
Generation Global is an EASA approved Part 21G Production Organisation, manufacturing aircraft interiors for clients globally. Clients include major USA and Canadian airlines as well as many private operators globally. In recent years Generation Global has seen a significant increase of the number of private jets enquiries and refurbishments completed.