Quantcast

Boeing's attempt at redefining business travel: The story of the 717 Business Express

Airlines begin canceling flights, offering rebooking ahead of Hurricane Helene
Southwest Airlines to cut service and staffing in Atlanta to slash costs
Explore Japan for free? Japan Airlines offers free domestic flights to foreign travelers
Delta named Official Airline Partner of Birmingham City Football Club
American Airlines to Cut These Routes to Las Vegas, Orlando, and More — Here's Why
Alaska Airlines completes acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, expanding benefits and choice for travelers
Southwest wouldn't really start charging for bags — right?
JD Power ranked this Midwest airport as the best among largest airports in North America
Alaska Airlines Chief Plans More Routes After a Deal With Hawaiian
Air Canada could begin suspending flights soon as strike deadline nears
JetBlue's new ticket policy entitles every passenger to a carry-on bag
Why United Airlines’ CEO makes as few decisions as possible
American invests in the future of aviation maintenance with new jobs, additional work
DOT probe seeks to determine if frequent flyer programs are fair to travelers
American Airlines flight diverted after passenger starts vaping
Russian Airline Wants $100 Million From Canada for Seizing Its Giant Cargo Plane
Here's where American Airlines is adding flights to Europe in summer 2025
Major airline grounds Airbus A350 fleet, citing faulty engine component
Airline CEO wants airports to cap passengers at 2 alcoholic drinks to limit on-board disruptions
Regulator cuts Malaysia Airlines' air operator certificate duration after probe
United Airlines flight attendants are prepared to strike. Here's why it's still unlikely.
2 workers killed, 1 injured in tire explosion at a Delta Air Lines shop in Atlanta
Emirates Will Buy 5 Airbus A380s From Lessor For $200 Million
Delta Air Lines named official airline of the WNBA
Pair Of C-Suite Officials Depart Wheels Up
LAX Receives Final Cars for People Mover Train
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines merger clears Justice Department hurdle, now faces DOT
Alaska Airlines flight attendants reject new contract, union says there's 'more work to do'
Elliott Investment To Push For 10 New Boardroom Directors At Southwest Airlines
Alaska Air Backs JetZero Blended-Wing Design
Boeing's attempt at redefining business travel: The story of the 717 Business Express
Policy
Webp 5r3vc2svdh8ibaxk8gr8iutw0za2
Simple Flying | Simple Flying

In May 2003, Boeing introduced the 717 Business Express at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition in Geneva. This aircraft was a corporate adaptation of the 717-200 airliner, designed to offer companies a dedicated business travel solution focusing on productivity and comfort. Boeing marketed it as an option for firms needing reliable transportation for large groups of employees.

The 717 Business Express aimed to bridge the gap between smaller corporate jets and larger airliners by offering luxury combined with cost-efficiency. Although it did not achieve commercial success, its design remains notable among aviation enthusiasts and analysts.

The aircraft's interior was tailored for corporate use, seating between 40 to 80 passengers in first- and business-class configurations. It featured workspaces, meeting areas, and conference rooms, enabling teams to conduct meetings during flights. A key feature was broadband internet via Boeing's Connexion system, allowing continuous connectivity.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Enhanced performance included an extended range of up to 3,140 nautical miles due to auxiliary fuel tanks. Powered by two Rolls-Royce BR-715A1 engines producing 18,500 pounds of thrust each, there was also an optional upgrade available for more powerful engines.

Despite these features, no orders were placed before production ceased in 2006. The aircraft faced competition from other manufacturers and economic challenges in the early 2000s. Additionally, it competed internally with Boeing's Business Jet (BBJ), which had already gained popularity among high-end clients.

Though commercially unsuccessful, the concept left a lasting impact on corporate aviation. Existing 717-200s can be converted into private jets with modifications like auxiliary fuel tanks for extended range. This adaptability keeps them relevant as cost-effective alternatives in business aviation.

Aviation enthusiasts speculate that the principles behind the Business Express may inspire future designs due to growing demand for corporate travel solutions. The legacy of this aircraft highlights potential opportunities for tailored market-specific solutions in aviation.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Long Beach Airport has announced a new daily nonstop service to Baltimore Washington International (BWI) through Southwest Airlines.

Jun 7, 2025

Lidl workers in Belgium initiated a strike and blockades on June 5, following similar actions in France and Italy.

Jun 6, 2025

Delta Air Lines is expanding its flight offerings for the 2025 pro football season, introducing new routes and increasing capacity to accommodate fans traveling to major games.

Jun 6, 2025

National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) President and CEO Ed Bolen addressed the U.S. House Aviation Subcommittee, emphasizing the urgent need to reform the nation's air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure.

Jun 6, 2025

Last month, over 130 volunteers from Delta Air Lines and several partner organizations collaborated to construct a new playground in College Park, Georgia.

Jun 6, 2025

Walking together on Omaha Beach, 19-year-old college student Caleb Walker and 101-year-old WWII veteran Jack Myers reflected on the sacrifices made during the D-Day invasion.

Jun 6, 2025