Air MP

One of the most mind-boggling proposals suggested by government during 1978 was the intention of adding two Boeing 727-100 aircraft lo the VIP fleet.

I say mind-boggling because these two new air raft are to be primarily used for long-haul overseas operations. In the past, the PM and entourage have travelled on chartered Qantas 707 or flown by regular commercial flight . We do not begrudge the PM flying in style or for having 10 take several dozen aides and advisers on each journey, these people are very necessary when serious negotiation requires immediate and specialised expertise on a variety of diverse subjects. However, we cannot, nor can anyone else canvassed in the aviation industry, see the need to purchase 727 aircraft for this type of role.

Even fully outfitted with long-range underfloor tanks, the 727-100 would be pushing to achieve a range of 4000 miles with reserves. That is hardly what is required on a Canberra to London haul! Furthermore the 727, in this role, would be a relatively uneconomic aeroplane to operate in both domestic and international operations. The domestic requirement can more than ably be handled by the proposed Grumman Gulfstream IIs that the VIP fleet is also considering acquiring.

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