President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered the sale of nine VIP transport aircraft under the presidential fleet as a way of reducing Federal Government expenses.
It was learnt that the presidential fleet, which are registered as Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft, is one of the largest in Africa and the third largest in Nigeria after Arik Air and Aero contractors.
“Nine aircrafts which still have market value, are to be sold immediately to reduce maintece costs,” an aviation source stated.
It was also gathered that over the years, the federal government has spent over N12 billion annually for the maintece of the presidential fleet, comprising of 16 aircraft, chief of which is the Boeing 738 BBJ, NAF 001 or Eagle One, with inbuilt luxury configuration comprising a master bedroom, washrooms and showers, a conference and dinning area, and a living area; the plane seats 25 to 50 passengers and would cost at least $100 million to replace today.
“Eagle One can spend 12 hours in the air, covering 11,489 kilomtres or 6,200 nautical miles”, the source stated.
In addition to the Boeing 733 reserved for the president, the fleet boasts two Gulfstream 550 jets. The Gulfstream 550 can seat eight to 18 passengers, depending on the configuration, and has a cruiser range of 12,501 kilometres or 6,750 nautical miles. A new luxury Gulfstream 550 would cost an estimated $53.5 million.