Aviation

Mukesh Ambani is buying an aircraft worth Rs 1,000 crore

India’s wealthiest businessman, Mukesh Ambani, has once again made headlines with his latest acquisition—the country’s first Boeing BBJ 737 MAX 9. Valued at an astounding Rs 1,000 crore, this ultra-long-range business jet sets a new standard in luxury and is now the most expensive private aircraft owned by an Indian.

Delivered in August 2024, the addition marks a milestone in Ambani’s impressive fleet, which now totals 10 aircraft. This move highlights his growing emphasis on luxury travel and seamless business mobility, aligning with his stature as a global business magnate.

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The Boeing BBJ 737 MAX 9 boasts two powerful CFMI LEAP-1B engines, allowing it to cover an impressive distance of 11,770 kilometers—perfect for Ambani’s extensive international business engagements. Before making its way to India, the aircraft underwent extensive modifications and testing at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg in Switzerland.

Although the interiors remain undisclosed, it is anticipated that the cabin’s design will be in line with Ambani’s signature luxury standards, creating a world-class experience in the skies. To ensure peak performance, the jet completed six test flights across prominent airports in Basel, Geneva, and London Luton before taking its final journey to India.

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On August 27, 2024, the Boeing BBJ 737 MAX 9 flew from Basel to Delhi, covering 6,234 kilometers over a nine-hour flight. It is currently stationed at Delhi Airport’s maintenance apron near the cargo terminal and is expected to reach its new home in Mumbai shortly.

This acquisition adds to an already impressive collection of private jets under the Reliance Industries banner, including an Airbus A319 ACJ and a Bombardier Global 6000. Alongside these, Ambani’s fleet features two helicopters—a Dauphin Helicopter and a Sikorsky S76—used for quick commutes between business locations, emphasizing the billionaire’s focus on efficiency and flexibility in business travel.

With this Rs 1,000 crore investment, Mukesh Ambani continues to elevate his status not just as a business tycoon but also as a pioneer in luxury travel solutions.

Aviation

China Eastern Receives Its Ninth C919 Aircraft, Marking a New Milestone

China Eastern Airlines (CEA) has reached a significant milestone with the delivery of its ninth COMAC C919 aircraft, continuing its lead as the launch customer for China’s domestic narrow-body airliner.

On Thursday, the airline received the latest addition to its fleet, registered as B-657T, marking another step in China’s ambitious efforts to establish itself as a key player in the global aerospace market.

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This delivery is part of a major achievement for COMAC (Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China), which has now delivered a total of 10 comac c919 in 2024 alone, a remarkable increase from just three jets delivered by the end of 2023.

The C919 program represents China’s entry into the competitive market for commercial aircraft, aiming to rival the dominance of manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing in the narrow-body sector.

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One standout feature of the c919 is its innovative in-flight technology, particularly its Wi-Fi system. Developed by the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), this system allows passengers to connect to the “CEAIR-WIFI” wireless hotspot, providing seamless access to in-flight entertainment.

Through the website www.muflyer.com, travelers can enjoy a range of features including “Air Cinema” and “Air Games,” which enhance the flying experience.

Looking ahead, COMAC’s ambitions are not limited to narrow-body aircraft. At the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, c919 aircraft price made waves with the announcement of over 100 new aircraft orders.

A significant highlight was a high-profile agreement with Air China for the development of the C929, a widebody aircraft set to compete c919 vs a320 and c919 vs 737 with these models.