Check out these Facts you need to know about the Fokker 70 ER (Harambee One)
Kenya’s presidential jet, Fokker 70 ER, christened Harambee One, is the preferred jet for use by Kenya’s heads of state and VVIP’s.
The plane that is managed by the Kenya Air Force was acquired in 1995 due to the need to boost V VIP transport.
It is one of the most expensive Presidential jets in Africa and 22 years down the line, the fuel efficient aircraft is still going strong.
Although not much is known about Harambee One, perhaps for security reasons.
Here are a few quick facts about the plane:
1. The Fokker 70 ER, a medium sized aircraft manufactured in the Netherlands, was acquired from the Netherlands in 1995 through the Kenya Air Force.
2. Former President Daniel Moi used the aircraft for the first time on January 26, 1996 during his journey for an official function in Uganda with Colonel James Gitahi as the first captain of the plane.
3. The F-70 has two, rear mounted, Rolls-Royce Tay power plants each generating approximately 13,000 pounds of thrust.
4. Whilst the Fokker 70 has a seating capacity of between 72 and 85 passengers depending on the configuration of seats, Kenya’s version is said to have a capacity of 26.
5. The plane has only been used by three presidents; Daniel Moi, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta.
6. It is not exactly known for how long it can remain airborne unlike Air Force one that can remain airborne indefinitely. This is because Air Force one can be refueled while airborne.
7. Kenya Air Force technical and cabin crew- that usually handle the plane- are to this day trained in Netherlands.
