The Hindu Business Line : Embraer announces delivery of special aircraft to Govt

THE Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, Embraer, today announced the delivery of three specially configured Legacy Executive aircraft to the Government. The aircraft, which were delivered in Brazil, are expected to reach India by the end of the month.

In a statement, the aircraft manufacturer said that two of the aircraft delivered today would serve the Indian Air Force. The two aircraft are expected to join the VVIP squadron that is specially maintained to fly the President, the Vice-President, and the Prime Minister, among others.

Currently, VVIPs use Boeing 737 for domestic flights, while aircraft are sourced from either Air India or Indian Airlines for international travel by these dignitaries.

The third aircraft delivered today will be with the Border Security Force (BSF). The Indian authorities had signed a deal for delivery of five such aircraft and the manufacturer will deliver the last two aircraft in October this year.

The aircraft, priced at $22.45 million each, can fly non-stop between London and New York and provides premium comfort and privacy for up to 16 passengers in three distinct seating areas.

Interior standard features include first-class leather seats, a plush divan, an elegant credenza, and spacious tables for dining or meetings, the manufacturer said in a statement.

The aircraft also has a full-size galley for hot and cold meals, a full-breadth aft lavatory, wardrobe and storage cabinet, and an entertainment system with DVD players and satellite telecommunications. The Legacy's high-speed data and wireless fidelity capability allow passengers to browse the Internet, access e-mail, and transfer files.

The induction of the aircraft takes place even as the two State-owned airlines await Government permission to induct new aircraft that they urgently require to further business interests.

While IA has been waiting since March 2002 when the 43-Airbus aircraft fleet acquisition proposal was cleared by its board, the AI proposal to acquire 50 Boeing aircraft was cleared earlier this year.

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