Boeing BBJ (737-700)

PassengersRangeCruise SpeedCharter FromBest For
Up to 196,200 nm(7,137 mi)470 ktas(541 mph)$22,000/hrLarge executive groups and diplomatic missions needing intercontinental VIP airliner range with a 79.0-foot customizable cabin

Note: The hourly rate is not the total trip cost. Final pricing includes landing and handling fees, crew, overflight permits, and taxes. Variable costs include repositioning, de-icing, wait time, and overnights. Contact Hogani Jets for an accurate all-in quote.

Charter of a Boeing BBJ (737-700) starts at $22,000 to $35,000 per flight hour. Boeing introduced the BBJ in 1999, built on the 737-700 commercial airframe with auxiliary fuel tanks extending range to 6,200 nautical miles and 541 ktas (mph) cruise speed. It carries up to 19 passengers in a 79.0-foot cabin, 11.7 feet wide and 7.2 feet tall, with a maximum takeoff weight capacity of 171,000 lbs. Cabin pressurization holds a 6,000-foot equivalent altitude at cruise. Hogani Jets coordinates each Boeing BBJ charter through licensed operators.

The Boeing BBJ occupies a category that purpose-built private jets cannot enter. It is not the fastest aircraft at its price point. At $22,000-$35,000/hr, it carries a premium over the largest private jets. But at 79.0 feet and 11.7 feet wide, the BBJ cabin is not comparable to any purpose-built private jet.

It is comparable to a luxury apartment at altitude. For diplomatic missions and large executive groups, the BBJ delivers cabin space no private jet can match.

Boeing introduced the BBJ in 1999 as a VIP conversion of the 737-700 commercial airframe. The same CFM International CFM56-7B engines power both the commercial 737-700 and the BBJ. What Boeing changed is the fuel system, interior, and structural reinforcement.

The Boeing BBJ is a VIP airliner produced from 1999 to present. It carries up to 19 passengers across a 6,200-nautical-mile range at 470 knots. Two CFM International CFM56-7B engines produce combined thrust sufficient for a 41,000-foot service ceiling. MTOW is 171,000 pounds and climb rate is 2,800 feet per minute.

ManufacturerBoeing Business Jets
Aircraft CategoryVIP Airliner
Passenger CapacityUp to 19 (VIP charter); 12 in full private-suite layout
Cabin Length79.0 ft (24.1 m)
Cabin Width11.7 ft (3.57 m)
Cabin Height7.2 ft (2.19 m)
Cabin Pressurization6,000 ft equivalent altitude at cruise
Baggage Capacity850 cu ft (varies with auxiliary fuel tank configuration)
LavatoryMultiple enclosed lavatories; shower standard on VIP completions
Flight AttendantStandard on VIP completions
Max Range6,200 nm (7,137 mi)
Max Cruise Speed470 ktas (541 mph)
Service Ceiling41,000 ft
Max Takeoff Weight171,000 lbs
Typical Takeoff DistanceVaries by weight and fuel configuration
Typical Landing DistanceVaries by weight and fuel configuration
EnginesCFM International CFM56-7B x2
AvionicsBoeing 737 NG six-screen EFIS flight deck with dual FMS
Climb Performance2,800 fpm
Hourly Charter Rate$22,000 to $35,000

The BBJ program launched in 1996 as a joint venture between Boeing and GE Capital Aviation Services. Boeing builds the BBJ on the 737-700 commercial airframe with structural modifications for VIP operations. Three things changed from the commercial platform.

Fuel system: Boeing installs up to 10 auxiliary belly fuel tanks. These extend range from the 737-700's ~3,400 nm to 6,200 nm. The belly fuel tank installation reduces usable baggage volume in the cargo hold.

Structure: The fuselage is reinforced to handle additional fuel weight and extended pressurization cycles. Landing gear is strengthened to accommodate the higher MTOW of 171,000 pounds versus the commercial 737-700.

Interior: Boeing delivers the aircraft as a green interior to third-party completion centers. All commercial passenger seating, galleys, and fittings are removed. Each BBJ completion is unique to the individual owner or operator specification.

BBJ PROGRAM REFERENCE

The Boeing BBJ entered service in 1999 on the 737-700 commercial airframe. Boeing installs up to 10 auxiliary belly fuel tanks to extend range to 6,200 nautical miles. The aircraft is delivered green to specialist completion centers, which install VIP interiors to individual specification. Each completed BBJ interior is unique.

The BBJ family grew across three base platforms. The original BBJ uses the 737-700 fuselage. The BBJ 2 uses the stretched 737-800, adding 18 feet of cabin length at the same hourly rate. The BBJ MAX 8, introduced in 2018, succeeds the BBJ 2 with CFM LEAP-1B engines and improved fuel efficiency.

SpecsBBJ(737-700)BBJ 2(737-800)BBJ 3(737-900ER)BBJ MAX 7BBJ MAX 8
Production1999-present2001-present2010-present2021-present2020-present
Cabin Length79.0 ft97.0 ft114.0 ft79.0 ft97.0 ft
Range6,200 nm5,900 nm5,600 nm6,625 nm6,255 nm
Cruise Speed470 kt460 kt458 kt472 kt468 kt
Baggage850 cu ft1,000 cu ft1,120 cu ft850 cu ft1,000 cu ft
MTOW171,000 lbs174,200 lbs187,700 lbs177,000 lbs181,200 lbs
Climb Rate2,800 fpm2,700 fpm2,600 fpm3,000 fpm2,900 fpm
Cabin Noise63 dBa63 dBa64 dBa60 dBa60 dBa
EnginesCFM56-7B x2CFM56-7B x2CFM56-7B x2LEAP-1B x2LEAP-1B x2
Hourly Rate$22,000-$35,000$22,000-$35,000$22,000-$35,000$22,000-$35,000$22,000-$35,000

Across the BBJ family, range and cabin length trade off. The BBJ MAX 7 delivers the longest range at 6,625 nm with the same 79.0-foot cabin as the original BBJ. The BBJ 3 delivers the longest cabin at 114.0 feet with the shortest range at 5,600 nm. The BBJ MAX 7 and MAX 8 use CFM LEAP-1B engines, more efficient than the CFM56-7B on older variants. All five share the same $22,000-$35,000/hr rate and 12-to-19 passenger VIP configuration.

The BBJ cabin spans 79.0 feet across a fully configurable layout. Every BBJ interior is completed to individual operator specification by third-party completion centers. Standard VIP configurations include a master suite, conference zone, lounge, dedicated office, and multiple enclosed lavatories. No two BBJ interiors are identical.

  • Master suite: Private bedroom with full-size bed and wardrobe; configured for long-haul rest on intercontinental missions.
  • Executive conference zone: Boardroom seating with full-width worksurfaces; designed for in-flight meetings and document review.
  • Lounge area: Club seating with entertainment system; converts between work and relaxation configurations.
  • Dedicated office: Workstation with satellite communications system; supports remote operations throughout the flight.
  • Enclosed lavatories: Multiple lavatory configurations available; shower standard on full VIP completions.
  • Galley: Full-service galley with refrigeration, convection oven, and catering storage; supports gourmet service on long-haul flights.
  • 850 cubic feet of baggage: Pressurized cargo hold capacity; varies by number of auxiliary fuel tanks installed.

The BBJ cabin is 79.0 feet long, 11.7 feet wide, and 7.2 feet tall. Cabin pressurization holds a 6,000-foot equivalent altitude at cruise. The aircraft carries up to 19 passengers in VIP charter configuration with 850 cubic feet of baggage. Every BBJ interior is completed to individual operator specification -- no two aircraft are identical.

For groups needing the BBJ platform on intercontinental routes, the 79.0-foot cabin delivers a level of space unmatched in private aviation. The 11.7-foot width supports dining-table seating across the full cabin width, a capability not available in any purpose-built business jet

The 6,200-nautical-mile range puts New York to London (3,450 nm), New York to Paris (3,625 nm), and Los Angeles to London (5,380 nm) comfortably within nonstop reach.

RouteICAO CodesEst. Flight TimeNotes
New York to LondonKTEB to EGLF~7h 00m3,450 nm; within 6,200 nm range
New York to ParisKTEB to LFPB~7h 15m3,625 nm; within range with standard reserves
Los Angeles to LondonKVNY to EGLF~10h 30m5,380 nm; nonstop achievable
Los Angeles to New YorkKVNY to KTEB~5h 30m2,450 nm; transcontinental nonstop

The cost to charter a Boeing BBJ is typically $22,000 to $35,000 per flight hour. New York to London one-way charter runs approximately $230,000 to $330,000. New York to Paris one-way charter price is approximately $245,000 to $345,500. Final all-in cost depends on operator, routing, positioning, and season. Fuel, crew, and maintenance are included in the hourly rate; landing fees, taxes, and repositioning are billed separately.

Contact Hogani Jets at charter@hoganijets.com or +1-855-660-0573 for a current quote.

RouteEst. One-Way PriceNotes
New York to London$230,000 to $330,000+Transatlantic nonstop
New York to Paris$245,000 to $345,500+Transatlantic nonstop
Los Angeles to London$330,000 to $430,500+Nonstop within range
Los Angeles to New York$140,000 to $200,500+Transcontinental nonstop

The hourly rate covers core operational costs. Additional fees are quoted separately.

  • Aircraft operation: fuel, crew, and maintenance are included in the hourly rate.
  • Two certificated pilots: standard for BBJ-class large-aircraft operations.
  • Flight attendant: included as standard on VIP-completed BBJ aircraft.
  • Federal excise tax and segment fees: federally mandated, quoted separately.
  • Positioning costs: charged if the aircraft repositions to the departure airport.
  • International handling fees: apply on transatlantic, Caribbean, and international routes.
  • Completion-specific amenities: catering, ground transport, and concierge services quoted separately.

Contact Hogani Jets for current pricing and details.

At $22,000-$35,000/hr, the BBJ is priced above its nearest Airbus counterparts. The ACJ319/neo runs $14,000-$21,000/hr with more range. The ACJ320/neo runs $16,000-$24,000/hr with a longer cabin. The BBJ's case rests on its Boeing platform, global maintenance network, and specific completion configurations Boeing Business Jets supports.

SpecificationBoeing BBJ(737-700)Airbus ACJ319/neoAirbus ACJ320/neo
ManufacturerBoeingAirbus Corporate JetsAirbus Corporate Jets
Production1999-present1998-present2018-present
Max PassengersUp to 19Up to 50Up to 50
Published Range6,200 nm6,750 nm6,000 nm
Cabin Length79.0 ft72.1 ft98.0 ft
Cabin Width11.7 ft11.4 ft11.6 ft
Cabin Height7.2 ft7.3 ft7.3 ft
Pressurization6,000 ft6,000 ft6,000 ft
MTOW171,000 lbs172,401 lbs174,165 lbs
Climb Rate2,800 fpm2,600 fpm2,700 fpm
Hourly Rate$22,000-$35,000$14,000-$21,000$16,000-$24,000
Best Use CaseBoeing platform;79.0 ft cabin;6,200 nm rangeMore range (6,750 nm); lower rate;Airbus platformLongest cabin (98.0 ft);lower rate;6,000 nm range

The ACJ319/neo's 550 nm range advantage and lower rate make it the value choice for transatlantic routes. The ACJ320/neo's 98.0-foot cabin is 19 feet longer than the BBJ at a lower rate. For buyers with a Boeing platform preference or existing compatibility, the BBJ commands the premium.

Every Boeing BBJ charter coordinated by Hogani Jets is operated by an FAA Part 135 certificated direct air carrier holding full operational control of the flight. Each operator's certificate, insurance coverage, and safety record is independently reviewed before Hogani Jets coordinates a booking. Hogani Jets is an air charter broker and does not own or operate aircraft.

The BBJ carries Boeing 737 NG avionics with integrated weather radar and terrain awareness. Two independent CFM56-7B engines and fuel systems provide commercial-grade reliability. The Boeing 737 platform has accumulated over 400 million flight hours across its commercial and business aviation variants.

RelationshipAircraftWhen to Consider
BBJ FamilyBoeing BBJ 2 (737-800)97.0 ft cabin; 5,900 nm range; same $22,000-$35,000/hr rate; suits larger groups
BBJ FamilyBoeing BBJ 3 (737-900ER)114.0 ft cabin -- longest in family; 5,600 nm range; same rate; maximum cabin space
BBJ FamilyBoeing BBJ MAX 76,625 nm range -- longest in family; same 79.0 ft cabin; LEAP-1B engines; same rate
BBJ FamilyBoeing BBJ MAX 86,255 nm range; 97.0 ft cabin; LEAP-1B engines; succeeds BBJ 2; same rate
Airbus AlternativeAirbus ACJ319/neo6,750 nm range (550 nm more); 72.1 ft cabin; $14,000-$21,000/hr
Airbus AlternativeAirbus ACJ320/neo98.0 ft cabin (19 ft longer); 6,000 nm range; $16,000-$24,000/hr

Ready to book a Boeing BBJ charter or check Boeing BBJ availability? Contact Hogani Jets for a tailored quote. Call +1-855-660-0573 or email charter@hoganijets.com.

Reviewed by Matt Hogan — Founder, Hogani Jets & Aviation Specialist.

How much does it cost to charter a Boeing BBJ?

Boeing BBJ charter rates typically run $22,000 to $35,000 per flight hour. New York to London one-way runs approximately $230,000 to $330,000. Final cost depends on route, operator, positioning, and season.

What is the Boeing BBJ and how is it different from a regular 737?

The BBJ is a Boeing 737-700 modified for VIP private charter. Boeing adds up to 10 auxiliary belly fuel tanks, reinforces the structure, and delivers the interior as a blank shell to completion centers. The commercial 737-700 seats up to 149 passengers. The BBJ seats up to 19 in a bespoke VIP cabin.

How many passengers can the Boeing BBJ carry?

The Boeing BBJ carries up to 19 passengers in VIP charter configuration. Full private-suite layouts typically accommodate 12 passengers with maximum space per person. Capacity depends on the specific completion installed on each aircraft.

What is the real range of the Boeing BBJ?

Published range is 6,200 nautical miles with a full auxiliary fuel tank configuration. Practical range with a full passenger load runs somewhat lower depending on routing and reserves. New York to London (3,450 nm) is comfortably within range.

What engines does the Boeing BBJ use?

Two CFM International CFM56-7B turbofan engines. These are the same engine family used across the Boeing 737 Next Generation commercial aircraft, providing proven reliability and global maintenance and parts support.

Can the Boeing BBJ fly New York to London nonstop?

Yes. New York to London (3,450 nm) is well within the 6,200 nm range. New York to Paris (3,625 nm) and Los Angeles to London (5,380 nm) are also nonstop achievable. Confirm fuel planning with Hogani Jets before booking any transatlantic sector.

Are empty leg flights available on the Boeing BBJ?

Yes. The aircraft's intercontinental positioning creates empty-leg opportunities on transatlantic and transcontinental routes. Availability is short-notice and date-fixed; Hogani Jets recommends flexibility when pursuing empty-leg pricing.

Is Hogani Jets a direct air carrier?

No. Hogani Jets is an air charter broker and does not own or operate aircraft. All Boeing BBJ charters are facilitated through licensed direct air carriers holding full operational and regulatory control.

How does the Boeing BBJ compare to the Gulfstream G650ER?

The G650ER costs $11,000-$16,000/hr, flies farther (7,500 vs 6,200 nm), and seats up to 19 passengers. The BBJ costs $22,000-$35,000/hr but delivers a 79.0-foot cabin twice the size of the G650ER, suited to larger groups and diplomatic missions.

Is the Boeing BBJ worth chartering vs the BBJ 2 (737-800)?

Yes, for groups up to 19 on routes under 6,200 nm. The BBJ 2 adds 18 feet of cabin length at the same $22,000-$35,000/hr rate. For smaller groups or missions prioritizing range, the BBJ delivers equivalent value.

Last Updated: 21 Sep 2026, 02:40 PM

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