Instead of the typical Fokker 70ER typically utilized by the president, the commander-in-chief chose a chartered Boeing 737-700 for his extended four-day US visit.

President William Ruto’s recent trip to the USA has stirred some online chatter, primarily due to the mode of transport chosen for the lengthy journey.

Departing from the norm of utilizing the Fokker 70ER, the head of state opted for a chartered Boeing 737-700 for his ongoing four-day US visit.

Reportedly, the Abu Dhabi-based airline charges KSh 2.4 million per hour for its charter services. With a total of Ksh 98 million, one could journey from Nairobi to Atlanta in 18 hours aboard a rented Boeing 737-700 from Royal Jet of Dubai, a departure from the typical presidential jet.

Considering a potential flight from Atlanta to Washington, Ruto’s journey could potentially tally up to almost Ksh 200 million.

Ruto decided to forego the 26-seater Fokker 70ER, known as Harambee 1, due to its limited range, restricting it to just five hours of continuous flight.

In contrast, the impressive Boeing 737-700 boasts ultralong distance capabilities, surpassing the performance of many aircraft designed for daily flights lasting 10 to 12 hours.