The new plane could either be exclusively designated for VIP transport; or a commercial plane which can be made available for state use at a moment's notice
Israeli finance ministry issued a tender asking commercial airlines to design an advanced airplane having features similar to the Air Force One, the Boeing aircraft used to fly the US President.
The new plane could either be exclusively designated for VIP transport; or a commercial plane which can be made available for state use at a moment's notice; or a long-term lease with an airline that will configure one of its aircraft for state use within 72 hours.
Experts believe that the Israeli Prime Minister's Office will choose to sign a contract for a Boeing 767 that will continue to fly regular commercial flights and be converted for state use on short notice.
It will also have to offer high availability over the next 15 years and be able to fly at least 10,000 km without having to land for refuelling.
The Israeli Air Force One will have rooms built into modular platforms, connectable in segments for easy reconfiguration and sporting amenities.
Additional features will include a business suite for senior officials, a multi-media conference room, encrypted satellite communication gear, space for aides and body guards and countermeasures against shoulder-fired missiles.
The plane will be divided into different sections: A VIP section at the front for the Prime Minister, a section similar to the first class section of a commercial jet with 20 reclining seats for the entourage, and a third section with some 80 economy-class seats for security personnel, junior assistants, and the like. The plane will have secure partitions between sections in order to ensure privacy for the Prime Minister
Israel's Prime Minister to have own 'Air Force One'
The new plane could either be exclusively designated for VIP transport; or a commercial plane which can be made available for state use at a moment's notice
13.09.10 / 00:00
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