The Colombian air force is preparing to issue a request for proposals to replace its Fokker F28 Mk 1000C presidential transport aircraft. The tender has been repeatedly postponed over the last five years, but numerous in-flight incidents, including a loss of pressurisation during a presidential flight to Bogotá, has hastened the move.
Sources say the Colombian government has allotted around $32 million to speed acquisition of the aircraft. The Colombian air force originally listed as prime contenders Bombardier's Global Express, Embraer's Legacy and Gulfstream's G400 and G500. However, the presidential office has altered the requirements, specifying a 30-seat, VIP-configured aircraft. Leading contenders include the Embraer 170 regional jet under development and a pre-owned Airbus A319 or Boeing 737-500.
Preference is believed to be being given to the 170 as the aircraft offers significantly better field performance under hot and high conditions, enabling it to operate from a greater number of local airports. Final selection rests with Colombia's president and is expected before the end of the year.
Source: Flight International
