The Royal Australian Air Force operates a number of specialised aircraft to transport the Queen of Australia, other members of the Royal Family, the Governor General of Australia, senior members of the Australian government and other dignitaries. The RAAF's current Special Purpose Aircraft are two leased Boeing Business Jets and three Dassault Falcon 7x which are operated by No. 34 Squadron RAAF and are based at Canberra Airport. The Boeing Business Jets are custom configured Boeing 737-700s fitted with facilities such as conference tables, offices suites, secure satellite and communication capabilities. The two planes have a longer range than is standard for Boeing Business Jets. The Prime Minister regularly makes use of the aircraft for domestic and international travel. Prior to the acquisition of the 737s, passenger-configured RAAF Boeing 707s tanker-transports were used. These aircraft were larger than the 737s currently in use. In August 2014, Defence MinisterDavid Johnston announced the intention to convert a KC-30A multi-role tanker to VIP configuration whilst maintaining its ability to serve as a military tanker and transport aircraft. The new plane has tail number A39-007. The new plane is painted in "air force grey" rather than the current colour scheme. The aircraft can now carry more than 100 passengers, including lower ministers and press on lie flat seats. The PM also has his own private section.
One Communications and Information Systems Controller
One Catering Representative
Five Maintenance consisting of Avionics Technicians and Aircraft Technicians, which can be reduced to four if technicians are cross-trained across both trades.
Airbus KC-30A (Registration A39-007) VIP Configurations
The KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker aircraft incorporates modifications to enable long-range Government transport, including enhanced in-air communications capability to support secure telecommunications. The modifications will enable the business of Government to continue while in the air, with access to unclassified and classified information technology environments and telecommunications. The VIP cabin interior is configured as follows:
VIP accommodation area including two first class seats and seat enclosures
A large meeting room which includes ten taxi, take-off and landing rated seats and a large conference room table
A working area with club style tables, video-telecommunications equipment and twelve taxi, take-off and landing rated seats
Bathroom facilities
The cabin configuration includes a total of 102 seats, comprising:
