Venezuela set to order Russian aircraft

By Jackson Flores Jr

The Venezuelan government is expected this month to order two Ilyushin Il-96-300 airliners to be used for commercial airline and government VIP transport.

The widebodies - each valued at around $98 million according to local government sources - are scheduled for delivery in the first and fourth quarter of next year. Sources in Venezuela indicate that one of the airframes will be fitted out as a presidential transport aircraft in a configuration similar to that used by the Russian government.

The second aircraft is expected to join state-owned airline Conviasa's fleet to fly on its long-haul routes.

Sources also disclose that the government has placed an additional order with Russia's Kazan Helicopters for two VIP-configured Mi-17V helicopters, which will be used exclusively by President Hugo Chavez.

© Reed Business Information 2009