Joe Benson took over as president of Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) in March, but he’s a long-time Boeing alumnus—he joined the company in 2010 after nearly 11 years in the U.S. Army. Benson was not unfamiliar with Boeing Business Jets before taking on his latest role, having worked as business director and as deputy to former division president Erika Pearson.
Representing the brand that week at the NBAA-BACE static display is a BBJ 737-700—YG128—which was completed in 2012 and is available to buy or lease. The bizliner’s interior features a suite-aft layout with a shower, queen-size bed, separate guest room, and large open living space, according to the company. Recent upgrades include Aviation Partners Split Scimitar Winglets and Ka-band satcom.
Benson’s new role at Boeing Business Jets, as with all of his jobs at Boeing, presents unique challenges, he told AIN. “However, I can confidently say this is the most rewarding job I’ve had with Boeing. Working with our amazing customers and industry partners on these gorgeous airplanes with the best team in the industry—I love what we do.”
He said his principal goal as Boeing Business Jets president is “to make sure we are always putting our customers at the center of everything we do, and ensuring we continuously deliver the most reliable, technologically advanced jets in the world.”
Although the number of deliveries of new VIP airliners—such as BBJs and Airbus ACJs—is relatively small every year, “We see continued growth and strong demand for our family of jets,” Benson said.
“More efficient, advanced BBJs with improved operating economics and environmental performance are very enticing to our customers as they consider replacing aging or smaller aircraft. While we do cater to a select group, including head of state travel, corporations, and VIPs, our production skyline offers flexibility to meet customer demand over the next decade.”
What makes BBJs attractive, he explained, is the various models’ ability to serve all segments of business aviation, ranging from the BBJ 737 Max and 787 to the BBJ 777X. “It depends on the mission and what our customers are looking for in a business jet. Everyone has different requirements, and we are focused on demonstrating the flexibility of a BBJ to meet their needs. That’s what truly differentiates us from our competitors.”
As for upcoming models, the BBJ 737-7 and 777X are next in line. The 737-7 will be “the longest-range, non-widebody business jet in its class,” Benson said. “We are also seeing interest in the new BBJ 777X, which will be capable of connecting any two cities in the world nonstop. Design improvements, innovative new technologies, and the customized cabin experience strongly position both of these jets in the market."