Brazil Expands VIP Fleet for Ministerial Use
Brazil is moving forward with plans to expand its VIP fleet for ministerial travel, aiming to bolster the Brazilian Air Force’s (Força Aérea Brasileira – FAB) aircraft resources. This decision comes as President Inácio ‘Lula’ da Silva’s administration seeks a replacement for the presidential jet after a mechanical issue on October 1 raised concerns over the fleet’s reliability. Lula’s government is committed to enhancing transport options to ensure that ministers can travel efficiently throughout the country, alongside acquiring a new presidential jet.
In an interview with Fortaleza’s O Povo/CBN radio, Lula emphasized the necessity of a reliable and versatile fleet. “We can’t afford to be caught off guard,” he remarked. “We’re going to buy not just one plane, but several, so that Brazil can be prepared.” Lula tasked Defence Minister José Múcio Monteiro with developing a proposal for both a new presidential aircraft and additional planes dedicated to ministerial transport. “We’ll never govern Brazil with ministers just sitting around in Brasília,” he added, underscoring the importance of mobility for government officials.
The Ministry of Defence has already begun exploring options for expanding the fleet, initiating discussions with Airbus. However, Airbus indicated that a new jet could take around two years for delivery, potentially extending into 2027. To meet the immediate need for a replacement during Lula’s term, a second-hand aircraft that can be adapted to presidential requirements may be considered, though Lula reportedly prefers a new model. The president envisions a jet with specific features, including long-range capability to reduce refuelling stops, a conference room, high-speed internet (a key improvement over the current aircraft), in-flight refuelling capability, and a private sleeping area.
Currently, Brazil’s ministerial fleet includes the presidential ACJ319-100, known as “AeroLula,” which Lula acquired in 2005 for USD56.7 million, alongside four Embraer Legacy 600s and two Embraer Lineage 1000s. These aircraft support government travel but do not serve exclusively for presidential use. Other assets utilized for official travel include four EMB-135LRs, seven EMB-145ERs, and an EMB-145LR. Additionally, Brazil acquired two A330-200s under former President Jair Bolsonaro’s administration, initially intended for conversion into Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) configurations. These aircraft have also been repurposed for official duties.
The goal of expanding the ministerial fleet reflects Brazil’s emphasis on efficient, reliable travel for government officials. Upgrading to a larger, modern fleet will address logistical needs and ensure that Brazil’s leaders have secure and accessible transportation across the country. Lula’s vision includes a more versatile fleet, with jets equipped to handle extended trips and facilitate onboard meetings, strengthening the operational capacity of his administration.
Brazil’s Ministry of Defence previously considered an Airbus ACJ330-200 as a replacement for the current presidential jet at an estimated cost of USD70-80 million. However, high expenses ultimately led to the shelving of this idea. Lula’s recent push for fleet renewal demonstrates a renewed focus on balancing immediate requirements with Brazil’s financial considerations, ultimately securing a robust and adaptable VIP fleet for future administrations.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com