The Belgian Air Force is about to sell its fleet of five VIP aircraft. According to Defence Minister Steven Vandeput, an external supplier is being sought to take care of the transport of high-ranking military, politicians and members of the Royal family for the next eight to twelve years.
The Belgian Air Force currently has five VIP aircraft, part of the 21st Squadron of the 15th Wing Air Transport: two Embraer 135, two Embraer 145 and one Dassault Falcon 900B. Two earlier Falcon 20s have already left the fleet.
For the transport of large groups of soldiers and freight, the Air Force has the 20th Squadron of ten Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft, which will eventually be replaced by the Airbus A400M. In addition, the Portuguese airline HiFly flies on a long-term leasing contract with an Airbus A321 (registered CS-TRJ and considered as part of the 21st squadron) for the Belgian Armed Forces.
The Belgian government hopes to save costs by selling the VIP fleet and outsourcing the transport. Interested parties will soon be able to register via a tender. In principle, the contract would be applicable for eight years, with the option to add another four years.
