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.