The Spanish Air Force aircraft destined for the use of high-ranking, figures of state have been grounded five times in as many months.

The reliability of these ageing aircraft (two Airbus A-310‘s & nine Falcon 900‘s) has caused huge embarrassment to the Prime Minister, Prince of Asturias and now the King, resulting in these Spanish dignitaries arriving late… or not arriving at all.

The two A-310’s were bought 2nd-hand in 2003 by the then Prime Minister, José María Aznar for 172m euros. According to the Ministery of Defence, they are half way through their flying lifespan.

That might be, but a couple more delays or cancellations caused by these problematic aircraft and Spanish diplomacy will trump limitations imposed by defence cuts.

(News: Spain)