The Versace/TAG Aviation team has won its first contract for a luxury interior, to be installed in an A319-based Airbus Corporate Jet (ACJ) that will enter service with a European private individual in the fourth quarter of next year.
Announcing the deal here yesterday, the partners also described their first catalogue of aircraft interiors and their signature piece – a flightworthy armchair inspired by the Italian design giant’s Home Couture collection.
The companies joined forces in April last year to create TAG Aviation Interiors (TAG AI). “We are aiming to create the most exclusive and luxurious interiors in the world,” TAG AI managing director Bijan Khezri said. “Our joint venture is now fully operational and we are talking to potential cusomers about several deals in addition to the ACJ.”
Versace, which has already created helicopter interiors for Agusta, is responsible for content, design and style, while TAG AI handles the sales, marketing, logistical and technical aspects, including selection of a completion centre to carry out the physical work on the aircraft. “Versace composes the symphony and we conduct the orchestra,” said Khezri. “Each of our interiors will be a unique, numbered work of art and technology.”
Khezri would not be drawn on the identity of the completion centre chosen for the ACJ project. But he said a slot had been firmly booked and declared: “We will work only with the best centres in the world.”
Nor would he give any indication of cost, except to point out that a typical ACJ completion runs to $22-24 million and observe: “Versace is Versace – a globally recognised brand commanding a premium for everything it sells. These are going to be more expensive than regular interiors, but then they are something that the customers want, not something they need.”
The ACJ will accommodate up to 16 passengers in a four-compartment arrangement comprising salon, galley, office and stateroom with bathroom. Distinctive features will include armchairs embossed with Versace’s signature Greek fret motif.
Khezri said that the partners would introduce two more design catalogues, covering the Bombardier Global XRS, Gulfstream 550, Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ, at next month’s Paris air show. “One will be for general distribution, the other will be a limited-issue collector’s item – a magnificent silk-covered product that will be presented only to prospective clients and VIPs.”
Source: Flight Daily News
