VIP jet now a must-have

Aktug Ates via Wikimedia Commons

The aircraft must be able to transport 15 VIPs in comfort for 10,000km non-stop. This distance will cover a trip to Moscow, Sao Paulo or Hong Kong. The tender was put out on Friday and closes on Wednesday.

Last month, an air force VIP aircraft transporting Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa had to make an emergency landing after developing technical difficulties shortly after take-off.

Armscor spokesman Lulu Mzili said the lease was a matter of urgency. But the DA is outraged, saying the defence force's survival is jeopardised by VIP transport swallowing much of its budget.

DA MP Kobus Marais said whether a new aircraft was procured or leased, the issue of poor aircraft maintenance was not being addressed. He said: "Until this happens you will have the same recurring problems. The Inkwazi (the presidential jet) was purchased in 2004, and with it flying roughly 600 hours annually, it can operate for at least another 30 years. "That is, of course, if proper maintenance is continuously done.

"It's mind-boggling that the government is even considering buying or leasing new aircraft, especially as it will be at the expense of our pilots, troops' safety and the protection of South Africa's sovereignty. "Our current economic circumstances don't allow for such lavish purchases."

Mzili told The Times 10 days ago that there was no requirement for VIP aircraft. She said the request for the aircraft had been made since then.

Mzili also stated that the short time that the tender had been put on offer for was not unusual. "We had already put out a request for information so it's known what's available."

Mzili said leasing was considered because the situation was urgent. "It is an interim measure as acquisitions are lengthy processes."

She declined to comment on the budget, stating that this information would influence the proposals that the department got from bidders.

Source: The Times