$160mn spent & 5 years in the making: Netanyahu’s Air Force One malfunctions AHEAD of test flight

Israel’s first-ever Air Force One has suffered a brake malfunction, ahead of its first test flight. The ambitious project, conceived by PM Benjamin Netanyahu five years ago, has repeatedly drawn criticism over its staggering cost.

The Boeing 767-300ER jet, which will be shared by the country’s president and prime minister and used on overseas trips, is expected to make its first test flight on Sunday at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. The eagerly awaited takeoff was somewhat marred on Thursday, when the plane experienced an apparent braking system malfunction.

One of the aircraft’s wheels began emitting smoke during the runway tests, triggering a massive response from the emergency services. Fortunately, their help was not needed and the situation ended with no injuries or damage, according to local media reports.

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The aircraft, destined to become the country's very first Air Force One, was ordered at Netanyahu’s request five years ago and, since then, the construction has repeatedly drawn criticism over its ballooning costs. The project's price tag has more than doubled over the years – it grew from a hefty sum of about $77 million to a truly eye-watering $164 million.

The costs of the plane, which boasts a sophisticated, encrypted communications system, might have been higher: it was expected to be even more luxurious. For instance, it was to be fitted-out with an on-board shower. That idea, however, was ultimately scrapped, due to the complexity of the plumbing involved. According to Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), once operational, the jet will be capable of flying non-stop to China, Japan, the US or Brazil.

Quite ironically, Netanyahu –the one who took all the heat for the luxurious plane project– may not be the first pemier to try it out, since political uncertainty in Israel continues. The country has already had two legislative elections this year. The snap September election resulted in a deadlock, with no party securing a majority or being able to form a coalition. Netanyahu has already failed to form the government, and now his rival, Benny Gantz, has been tasked with trying to actually pull that off.

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