No jet in Mbeki's Xmas sock, yet
Date: 1 January 2002
President Thabo Mbeki's new jet, worth more than R600 million was not ready to be piloted in by Santa this year, but will be delivered late next year. The cabins of the jet will be decorated in a "modern-day African theme" and the aeroplane will be painted similarly on the outside.
Jet Aviation, an aircraft contractor from Basel in Switzerland, recently announced that it had been awarded the contract for the interior decorating of, and finishing touches to, the Boeing business jet (BBJ). Jet Aviation entered into the contract with Armscor as procurer of military equipment for the defence and air force. In a statement, the contractor indicated that they already had started the finishing work on the BBJ - that seats 18 passengers and six crew.
The interior will be divided into four sections that include a lounge with a retractable bed, a luxury office and meeting room as well as a rest room for the crew. A fully stocked storeroom, kitchen and bathroom complete the alterations. The cabin and cockpit will be equipped with the best and latest communications technology, including satellite communications, a telephone and a fax machine. Passengers can expect to be kept up to date with safety information and video of their route during the flight.
According to the vice-president and general manager of Jet Aviation, Rainer Albecker, the company is flattered to be selected for the second time to do work on the presidential jet. The company earlier revamped the Falcon 900 presidential aircraft.
The BBJ is being painted blue and white and will carry the national coat of arms. The plane will be delivered to the air force in September.
Independant Newspapers
