Queen to spend nine million pounds on private jet

London, July 9 (ANI): The Queen is splashing out on a new private jet and helicopter.

The Sikorsky chopper - for the Royal Family's official business - will be leased for 500,000 pounds a year.

Her Majesty plans to buy a nine million pound jet by March next year.

It is the first time in her 57-year reign that the Queen will have her own aircraft.

According to her aides, the Queen's decision will actually save the taxpayer money.

Until now senior members of the family have had to share planes from 32 Squadron RAF with senior politicians and military top brass.

And the royals have often ended up having to charter expensive flights for official trips.

Last year the royals clocked up 501 flying hours in helicopters, 380 in the Queen's Sikorsky S76, which is being replaced.

According to The Sun, the Department for Transport approved the acquisition of a private jet last year. (ANI)