DCAF's new ACJ318 Elite+.
DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF) has expanded its charter fleet with the addition of a fully managed Airbus ACJ318 Elite+.
The newly refurbished aircraft is scheduled to enter service by the end of June and will be permanently based at DCAF’s integrated hangar and VIP lounge facility at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai South.
The move comes as business aviation activity continues to rise across the region. According to industry flight data from Jetnet, incorporating WINGX flight activity intelligence, business jet operations in the Middle East increased by 7.7% year-on-year in 2025, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing private aviation markets.
DCAF Managing Director Holger Ostheimer says the addition builds on DC Aviation Group’s long-standing experience operating Airbus corporate jets for more than 25 years.
“The Airbus ACJ318 Elite+ allows us to further enhance our offering for clients seeking long-range, nonstop travel with the highest levels of privacy, comfort and flexibility,” Ostheimer says. “Whether serving royal family members, heads of state or large family groups, this aircraft enables guests to work, dine or relax in a premium environment.”
Ostheimer says customer preferences have shifted significantly over the past 12 to 18 months, with increasing demand for larger-cabin aircraft capable of flying nonstop on intercontinental routes. Family offices, government entities and corporate executives are among the key drivers of this trend, seeking greater time efficiency, privacy and travel flexibility.
Regional demand for long-range and ultra-long-range private aviation missions has risen by an estimated 20% over the past eight years, while more than 60% of private jet customers now prefer nonstop travel whenever operationally possible.
The ACJ318 Elite+ offers direct connections between Dubai and destinations such as London and Singapore. Certified to carry 19 passengers, with up to 21 seating positions, the aircraft features a dining area, lounge, VIP bathroom and a private suite with an en-suite bathroom that can serve as a bedroom or office.
DCAF will manage and maintain the aircraft entirely in-house at its Dubai South maintenance facility.
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