Guj govt purchases Rs 191-cr new aircraft for CM, VIP travel

The BJP government in Gujarat has finally purchased a new aircraft worth Rs 191 crore for use by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani and other dignitaries like governor and deputy CM, formally wrapping up the delayed procurement process launched five years ago.

The swanky two-engine 'Bombardier Challenger 650' would be delivered in the next two weeks, officials said on Wednesday.

The new aircraft can carry 12 passengers and has a flying range of around 7,000 kilometres, much higher than the present 'Beechcraft Super King' aircraft that has been used to ferry the CM and other dignitaries since the last 20 years. It can fly with a speed of around 870 kilometres per hour.

"The Bombardier-make Challenger 650 aircraft worth around Rs 191 crore will be delivered to us (Gujarat government) in the third week of this month. All formalities related to its procurement have been completed," another official said.

Director of Civil Aviation, Gujarat, Captain Ajay Chauhan said it would take another two months before the new jet can become airborne, "as we need to take various approvals and clearances from the Customs, DGCA and other authorities."