Politics
Government plans to spend €45m on new ministerial aeroplane to replace LearJet
Move comes after problems faced by state over recent times due to breakdowns of existing aircraft
The government plans to spend €45 million on a new plane to replace the struggling LearJet after nearly 20 years.
Documents published by the Department of Defence show it is seeking a new jet, with 10 seats, to be operated by the Irish Air Corps. The estimated value of the contract is €45.4 million.
It comes after prolonged issues with the LearJet, which broke down again last week – prompting the government to charter a €7,000-per-hour business aircraft to bring Tánaiste Micheál Martin to the Middle East for a diplomatic visit.