Bought for civilian use,Boeing 777s go to VVIPs

The Prime Minister’s Office was also involved in the decision making as a meeting was held at his residence to finalise the internal layout. But the Rashtrapati Bhawan did not give any additional input and okayed suggestions by other agencies.

However,the SPG fears that the spruce up might invite audit objections mainly because revenue earning machines meant for civilian use were being converted into VVIP toys,leading to cost escalation. Officials documents,accessed by The Indian Express,reveal SPG Director Durga Prasad’s anxiety over possible audit objections.

The SPG has also asked for CBRN (chemical,biological,radiological and nuclear) defence and mid-air refuelling facilities for Transatlantic flights.

Apparently,an overzealous SPG has also insisted on new location for lavatories with showers and seats for security officials. The other demands include cross aisle for emergency evacuation,audio-video input,good quality microphone,public address system and so on.

Earlier,on January 11,the Inter-Ministerial Group had decided on the type of aircraft to be acquired for VVIP travel after scrutinising details of Airbus 380,Boeing 747-400 and Boeing 777-300ER. The three aircraft are likely to be operational in six months. For domestic travels,the VVIPs will use Boeing Business Jets.

“Efforts are on to procure the aircraft on top priority,in five-six months,maybe earlier. Some changes suggested by the SPG have been agreed by Boeing,said a ministry official. Civil Aviation Secretary K N Srivastava refused to divulge any details.

“This is a secret matter and I can’t comment on this,” he said.

But a senior ministry official,who requested anonymity,said,“By this change in layout no additional expense will be incurred as it is part of the total project cost already paid to Boeing. One or two aircraft might be used for commercial operations but no final decision has been taken.” Official sources revealed that Srivastava is keen on using the three aircraft for VVIP travel.

A senior ministry official said the aircraft currently being used for VVIP travel needs replacement. “Instead of buying new aircraft,it makes sense to convert Boeing 777s,for which orders have already been placed,” the official said.

Meanwhile,Air India is exploring if aircraft could be configured in passenger version with provision for VVIP modification kits so that one or two aircraft can be put to commercial use.