The Punjab government is expected to face higher expenses following the acquisition of a new VIP aircraft, the Gulfstream G500, reports quoted sources.
Sources have said that a summary seeking an additional Rs 861.5 million for VIP flight operations has been prepared.
The supplementary grant could cover operational and maintenance costs of the Gulfstream G500, including mandatory training in the United States (US) for pilots and engineers.
Additional subscriptions and programs may cost around Rs 497.8 million, while insurance for the aircraft is expected to rise significantly compared to previous arrangements.
To meet operational requirements, the Punjab government is reportedly planning to hire more chief mechanics and aircraft technicians.
Maintenance, cleaning, and other related costs for the Gulfstream G500 have also increased. On February 22, a newscaster on a private news channel presented a report on the preparation and purchase of the aircraft, highlighting the associated costs and operational requirements.
Aviation sources said the government purchased a seven-year-old Gulfstream G500 with US registration N144S, valued at approximately Rs 1 billion.
Flight records indicate the aircraft arrived in Lahore on December 28 via North America and Egypt and remained grounded at Allama Iqbal Airport for about 40 days for refurbishment. Its first flight in Pakistan took place on February 6 from Lahore to Multan.
The Gulfstream G500, built in 2019, is a long-range aircraft designed for heads of state and business executives. It can cover 8,334 kilometers in a single flight at speeds of 1,000 kilometers per hour and accommodates 13 passengers, according to the Gulfstream Aerospace website.
Local flights began on February 6, mostly under its registered call sign. Between February 10 and 12, it operated as “Punjab Two” from Lahore to Quetta and Lahore to Mianwali, and again on February 16 for a Lahore to Sialkot round trip.