Friday, August 15, 2014

Japan chooses 777-300ER to replace VIP 747s

The government of Japan has decided to replace two Boeing 747-400 VIP aircraft by two Boeing 777-300ERs as government and VIP aircraft (Very Important Persons). That is reported by Japanese media.


The current Japanese Air Force One 747's are operated by the Japanese Self Defense Force. They have 150 seats installed and are in use for the transport of the Emperor and Imperial Family and for the Prime Minister for visits to other countries. The aircraft are also used for the evacuation of Japanese nationals in cases of emergency.

The two Japanese VIP aircraft are often seen together on trips around the world. The second aircraft is used as backup in case of malfunctioning of the other aircraft and to accommodate accompanying maintenance personnel.

The maintenance of the 777-aircraft will be performed by All Nippon Airways (ANA). This work is currently done by Japan Airlines (JAL) on the 747s. JAL has also bid for the maintenance contract for the 777s, but the government chose ANA over JAL. Both Japanese carriers fly the 777-300ER.

The intention is to put the 777s in service in 2019. The two 747-400s are flying for Japan since 1991. (Photo: Ministry of Defense, Japan)

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