The Presidency of the Republic plane that had a problem after taking off was produced in Germany and has the range to fly 11 thousand kilometers.
This Tuesday (1st), the aircraft, which would bring President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) back to Brazil after a three-day trip to Mexico, presented technical problems with the engine shortly after taking off from Mexico City, at 5:30 pm (Brasília time).
The plane carrying the president is the VC-1 presidential aircraft. The aircraft model is the Airbus A319CJ and was assembled in Hamburg, Germany.
Costing R$500 million, the aircraft holds up to 45 passengers and has a range of 11 thousand kilometers.
The aircraft weighs around 50 tons and, according to the manufacturer, can reach a speed of approximately 828 km/h.
Internal part
Near the dispatch office inside the aircraft is the presidential couple’s suite. They are located near the wings.
The bed is attached to one of the sides. There is also a dining table, which is tucked away in a space on the floor.
The space has two leather reclining armchairs. There is a television on site.
The cabinet doors can also be turned into an ironing board.
Defense
The aircraft has defense resources from the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) to prevent tracking or eavesdropping on its communications, in addition to being able to emit signals designed to confuse potential attackers.
A communication system connected to Palácio do Planalto with telephones and computers is also available.
History
The model has been used since 2005 by the Brazilian government.
In 1999, after an incident during an official trip by then vice-president Marco Maciel to China, it was decided to replace the old Boeing 707s, opting for aircraft charter.
In 2003, with the justification that charter costs were high, the Brazilian government chose to acquire a more modern, economical and safe aircraft, intended exclusively for official travel, both national and international.
